Pench is more fondly known as the Mowgli Land, made famous by Rudyard Kipling’s world-famous Jungle Book! Of course, it’s not only Mowgli or his stories that make the land attractive to tourists; it’s the presence of the predator, tiger that enchants all. The park’s unusual terrain with sloping hills and steep valleys makes it even more appealing just as its numerous streams and rivulets add to its charm. Other sightings here include leopards, wild dogs and wolves. Tour the park as many times as you wish - for no matter how much you travel, Pench always has more in store! You simply cannot afford to miss the jungle trail here…

• Alikatta: The Alikatta area lies in the heart of the park and forms the hub of all wildlife. It is a major stretch of rich grasslands and almost all the animals can be spotted here. The lesser creatures come here in search of pastures while the predators arrive here to prey on them. Be careful while looking out for grazing deer here, since they run off at the slightest sign of danger. Other animals that can be spotted here are chinkara, barking deer, jackal, fox, hyena and porcupine.

• Bodhanala Range: A bird-watcher’s paradise, this region has a lovely lake, which attracts quite a number of birds. A large number of migratory birds have also made this their second home. Popularly seen here are Malabar pied hornbills, Indian pitta and fishing eagle. Winter sees the advent of brahmini duck, barheaded geese and more. The area with sloping hills, bamboo forests and a huge pond has a unique charm of its own. Spend some lazy time here watching water-birds bring the lake to life!

• Raiyakassa Watchtower: A watchtower has been built by the Park authorities at Raiyakassa that provides great views of the Pench River. In fact, we recommend that you visit the watchtower at night to get a glimpse of beasts that arrive on the river to drink water. Tigers and bison can be easily spotted from here.

• Jeep Safari: Hire a jeep and the services of a guide from the jungle entrance. One of the best areas to spot wildlife is the Doob Road, where herds of deer and bison can be spotted as well as an occasional glimpse of leopard. The Chhindimatta Road is more popular as a bird haunt, with buzzards, eagles and hawks frequenting this place.

• Boating: Boating is allowed within the park in the Pench Reservoir, which has a number of tiny islands. Motorboats, paddleboats and rowboats can be hired from the park authorities.

• River Rafting: Rafting is another exciting activity that can be taken up when at Pench. The rocky stretches of the Pench River make good spots for an adventurous river rafting session.

If you are staying at the Park the best eating option would definitely be the in-house restaurant in your resort or hotel. One of the best places to dine in Pench is Kipling’s Court. The restaurant serves excellent vegetarian and non-vegetarian Chinese and Indian meals. Mowgli’s Den is yet another fine dining option. If a true local flavor is on your mind, drive along the Khwasa Highway where a number of dhabas or roadside restaurants can be found – try their masal dal and tandoori roti. A rather spacious eating option would be at the Pench Jungle Camp, whose kitchen serves up a range of Chinese, Indian and continental specialties.