Kolitmara safari gate in the core area of Pench Tiger Reserve (PTR) reopened for tourists on November 8 after remaining closed for several months due to internal rearrangements of tourism gates. The reopening has restored access to one of the reserve’s oldest safari routes. The reopening followed demands from local gypsy owners and guides, who cited the area’s tourism potential and livelihood opportunities. Kolitmara, along with Sillari, is among the oldest gates in Pench and is known for its landscape along Pench river. Kolitmara has a carrying capacity of 12 gypsy vehicles, while seven are currently operating.

 

The reopening is expected to increase visitor movement in the western part of the reserve and support tourism-related activities in nearby villages. Akshay Gajbhiye, Deputy Director PTR, said, “Kolitmara landscape has a rich wildlife habitat, with tigers, leopards, gaurs, spotted deer and sambar found in the area. The gate’s reopening would create opportunities for residents through guiding, safari operations, food services and hospitality.” The Forest Department expects local communities to benefit from nature-based tourism. Pench has eight safari gates, including five in core area and three in buffer zone.