Kolitmara Safari Zone

When most people plan a Pench National Park safari, they head straight to the popular Sillari or Turia gates. But if you are someone who loves untouched forests, peaceful river backwaters, rich birdlife, and a truly raw jungle experience, then Kolitmara Safari Zone in Pench National Park is the place you must explore.

Located on the western bank of the Pench River, Kolitmara is one of the most scenic and least crowded safari zones in Pench Tiger Reserve, Maharashtra. It offers a perfect combination of jungle safari, boat ride on the Pench dam backwaters, ecotourism activities, and a deep connection with tribal village culture. Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast, a birdwatcher, a nature photographer, or a family looking for a weekend escape from Nagpur, Kolitmara has something special waiting for you.

Where is the Kolitmara Safari Zone Located?

Kolitmara Safari Zone is located on the Maharashtra side of Pench Tiger Reserve. It lies on the western bank of the Pench River and falls under the Nagalwadi Core Range of Pench Tiger Reserve Maharashtra.

The entry gate for Kolitmara Zone is situated at Khursapar village.Distance from major cities:

• Kolitmara from Nagpur: Approximately 70 to 80 km (around 2 hours drive via National Highway 47)
• Kolitmara from Khawasa: Approximately 88 km
• Kolitmara from Turia Gate MP: Approximately 100 km

About Kolitmara Safari Zone — What Makes It Special?

Kolitmara Safari Zone is not just another jungle safari gate. It is a complete wildlife and ecotourism destination that stands apart from all other safari zones in Pench National Park for several important reasons.

The forest inside Kolitmara Zone is denser and thicker compared to Sillari and Khursapar zones. The zone harbors the backwaters of the Pench Reservoir, which attract a large number of bird species and wild animals throughout the year. The combination of dense forest, river backwaters, and open grasslands makes wildlife sightings here diverse and exciting.

Kolitmara is also home to one of the oldest forest rest houses in Pench Tiger Reserve, giving it a historic and heritage feel that adds to its overall charm. The zone is also one of the few places in Pench where you can enjoy a boat ride on the Pench Dam backwaters as part of your wildlife experience, a unique activity not available at most other safari gates.

Wildlife Found in Kolitmara Safari Zone

Kolitmara Safari Zone offers an excellent opportunity to spot a wide variety of wildlife in their natural habitat. The dense forests, river backwaters, and open areas within the zone support a rich and diverse ecosystem.

During your Kolitmara zone jeep safari in Pench, you may encounter:

The river backwaters and forest edge combination at Kolitmara make it one of the best birdwatching spots in Pench Tiger Reserve Maharashtra.

Kolitmara Safari Timings

The Kolitmara jeep safari operates in two shifts daily from October to June every year. The park remains closed during monsoon months.

• Morning Safari Timing: 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM
• Evening Safari Timing: 2:30 PM to 6:00 PM

Important Notes on Kolitmara Safari Timings:

• Safari timings may shift slightly with the change of seasons
• Afternoon safari is closed every Wednesday
• Afternoon safari is also closed on 26th January and 1st May every year
• The park is completely closed during the monsoon season (July to September)
• Visitors are advised to arrive at the gate at least 30 to 45 minutes before safari start time for document verification and entry formalities

Best Time to Visit Kolitmara Safari Zone Pench

The Kolitmara safari zone is open from October to June every year.

• October to February: This is a great time to visit for birdwatching and comfortable cool weather. The forests are green and lush after the monsoon and wildlife is active.
• March to May: This is the peak season for tiger and big cat sightings. As the temperature rises and water sources dry up, animals concentrate near the Pench River backwaters and open areas, making wildlife sightings more frequent and exciting.
• June: The park remains open in early June but starts winding down before the monsoon closure.
• July to September: The park is closed during monsoon months. This is when the forest rejuvenates and rivers fill up.
• Best Time Overall: February to May is considered the best time to visit Kolitmara Safari Zone for wildlife sightings, especially for those hoping to spot tigers, leopards, and large herds of deer near water bodies.

How to Reach Kolitmara Gate Pench National Park

By Road from Nagpur:

Kolitmara Gate is located approximately 70 to 80 km from Nagpur via National Highway 47. The drive takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. It is the most convenient safari zone to visit from Nagpur as a day trip or weekend getaway.

By Train:

The nearest railway station is Nagpur Junction, which is well-connected to all major cities across India. From Nagpur, you can hire a cab or take a bus toward Ramtek and then proceed to Kolitmara.

By Air:

The nearest airport is Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport, Nagpur. From the airport, Kolitmara Gate is approximately 85 to 90 km by road.

Kolitmara vs Other Pench Safari Zones — Why Choose Kolitmara?

Many visitors ask whether they should choose Kolitmara or Sillari or Khursapar for their Pench safari. Here is a simple comparison:

Kolitmara has denser forest compared to Sillari and Khursapar. It offers the unique boat ride experience on Pench Dam backwaters which is not available at most other gates. It is less crowded and gives a more personal and peaceful safari experience. It combines wildlife safari with rich ecotourism activities like agro-tourism, cycling, paramotoring, and nature trails. The birdwatching experience at Kolitmara near the reservoir backwaters is exceptional.

If you want a unique, less touristy, and all-round nature experience that goes beyond just a tiger sighting, Kolitmara Safari Zone is the right choice for you.