This Diwali, wildlife enthusiasts look to spend their festive break exploring Pench Tiger Reserve (PTR) and experiencing its rich biodiversity. Around 1,100 bookings have already been recorded for November 6 to 14, with nearly 90% of safari slots across Pench and Kumbhpani-Tekadi (UPK) gate on Madhya Pradesh side booked in advance. The trend points to a busy holiday period. The booking trend comes as families and wildlife enthusiasts plan visits during the festive break. Main gates for safari are Sillari, Khursapar, Chorbahuli and Kolitmara, along with Nagalwadi, Saleghat and Khubala.

 

Availability of multiple entry points allows tourists to access different parts of the landscape, although booking availability varies according to demand and the selected safari zone. Akshay Gajbhiye, Deputy Director, PTR, attributed the reserve’s success in maintaining tiger numbers to conservation efforts and contribution of frontline staff and local communities. He also urged visitors to follow wildlife park regulations and cooperate with authorities to ensure responsible eco-tourism. “Our conservation efforts have yielded good tiger numbers, a success we owe to our field staff and local communities.

 

I appeal to visitors to kindly follow park discipline and, above all, enjoy safaris while aiding authorities in better regulating ecotourism and wildlife conservation,” Gajbhiye added. With bookings already nearing 90% for the Diwali Week, tourists planning a visit may need to check slot availability in advance. The strong response also highlights importance of balancing visitor interest with the reserve’s conservation priorities. Around 180 gypsies operate daily across Pench’s seven safari gates, taking more than 2,000 tourists into the forest each day. Sillari and Khursapar have around 50 gypsies each, while Chorbahuli operates 24. Nagalwadi has 14, and Saleghat and Khubala have around 10 each.