Pench National Park is a prominent wildlife sanctuary located in the Seoni and Chhindwara districts of Madhya Pradesh, and partly in Maharashtra. It derives its name from the Pench River that flows through the park, dividing it almost equally. Declared a National Park in 1983 and a Tiger Reserve under Project Tiger in 1992, Pench National Park is known for its rich biodiversity and connection with Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book. The park plays an important role in preserving central India’s ecosystem and is a major destination for wildlife tourism and research.
Pench National Park
Pench National Park is part of the Satpura Range and is famous for being the inspiration behind Kipling’s classic. It covers approximately 758 sq.km, of which 299 sq.km forms the core area. The park is managed jointly by Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra Forest Departments. It is home to tigers, leopards, Indian bison (gaur), and a wide variety of bird species. The park is also a designated Important Bird Area (IBA) by BirdLife International. It remains a vital corridor for tiger movement between Kanha and Melghat.
Geographical Features of Pench National Park
The Geographical Features of Pench National Park is characterized by hills, seasonal streams, teak forests, and open grasslands. The Pench River, which originates from the Satpura Hills, flows north to south through the park, serving as a lifeline to its ecosystem. Altitude ranges from 425 to 620 meters above sea level. The area experiences a tropical dry deciduous climate with distinct summer, monsoon, and winter seasons. The region is also dotted with small lakes and reservoirs that support the needs of Pench National Park during dry periods.
Also Read: Satpura National Park
Pench National Park Flora
Pench National Park Flora showcases tropical dry deciduous forests, predominantly consisting of teak (Tectona grandis) trees. Other important tree species include mahua, saja, bija, tendu, and karaya gum. The vegetation also supports the park’s avian population and plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance.
| Pench National Park Flora | |
| Category | Details |
| Forest Type | Tropical dry deciduous forest |
| Dominant Tree Species | Teak (Tectona grandis) |
| Other Tree Species | Mahua, Saja, Bija, Tendu, Karaya Gum |
| Ground Layer Vegetation | Rich in grasses and shrubs, especially during the monsoon |
| Ecological Importance |
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Pench National Park Fauna
The Pench National Park Fauna hosts a rich variety of animals, including Royal Bengal Tigers, Indian leopards, sloth bears, wild dogs (dholes), jackals, and Indian wolves. Herbivores such as chital, sambar, nilgai, gaur, and wild boar are commonly seen.
| Pench National Park Fauna | |
| Category | Species |
| Carnivores | Royal Bengal Tiger, Indian Leopard, Sloth Bear, Wild Dog (Dhole), Jackal, Indian Wolf |
| Herbivores | Chital, Sambar, Nilgai, Gaur, Wild Boar |
| Birds (300+ species) | Indian Pitta, Hornbills, Vultures, Crested Serpent Eagle |
| Reptiles | Python, Cobra, Various Lizard Species |
| Ecological Note | High biodiversity supports complex food chains and plays a vital role in maintaining ecological balance |
Pench National Park FAQs
Q1. In which states is Pench National Park located?+
Q2. What is Pench National Park famous for?+
Q3. When was Pench declared a tiger reserve?+
Q4. Which river flows through Pench National Park?+
Q5. What kind of forest is found in Pench?+
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