Frequently Asked Questions - The Riverwood Forest Retreat, Pench

The Riverwood Forest Retreat Pench is located near Khawasa, on the Madhya Pradesh–Maharashtra border, within the buffer forests of Pench Tiger Reserve. The resort enjoys easy access to both Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra safari zones, including Turia Gate, Khawasa Buffer Gate and Khursapar Gate.

Nestled amidst natural forest surroundings, The Riverwood Forest Retreat Pench offers a blend of wildlife, sustainability, wellness and authentic local experiences. Guests can enjoy safaris, birdwatching, village experiences, nature trails, spa treatments and immersive forest stays while contributing to responsible tourism practices.

Pench Tiger Reserve is open from October to June.

• October to February: Pleasant weather, lush landscapes and excellent birdwatching.
• March to June: Peak wildlife season with excellent tiger and predator sightings around water sources.
• July to September: Core tourism zones remain closed during the monsoon.

We recommend a minimum stay of 3 nights and 4 days to enjoy multiple safaris, local experiences, birdwatching and leisure time at the resort.

Check-in: 2:00 PM

Check-out: 11:00 AM

Early check-in and late check-out are subject to availability and may attract additional charges.

Yes.

All Indian guests, including children, must carry a valid government-issued photo ID such as Aadhaar Card, Passport, Driving Licence or Voter ID.

Foreign nationals must carry their original passport and a valid visa.

Please note that a PAN Card is not accepted as a valid identity document for hotel check-in or safari bookings.

No. Tiger sightings can never be guaranteed in any wildlife destination. However, Pench Tiger Reserve is one of India's premier tiger habitats and offers excellent opportunities for sightings of tigers and other wildlife throughout the season.

Pench is home to an incredible diversity of wildlife including:

• Royal Bengal Tiger
• Leopard
• Indian Wolf
• Wild Dog (Dhole)
• Sloth Bear
• Hyena
• Jungle Cat
• Gaur (Indian Bison)
• Sambar Deer
• Chital
• Barking Deer
• Nilgai

The reserve also supports over 300 species of birds including Hornbills, Kingfishers, Eagles, Barbets, Minivets, Woodpeckers, Owls and numerous migratory species.

The resort offers convenient access to multiple safari gates:

• Turia Gate (Madhya Pradesh)
• Khawasa Buffer Gate (Madhya Pradesh)
• Khursapar Gate (Maharashtra)

Khursapar Gate is particularly popular among wildlife enthusiasts due to its excellent wildlife sightings and varied habitat.

Each gate offers unique wildlife experiences and sightings vary daily. Our reservations team can advise the best gate based on seasonal wildlife movement, safari availability and guest preferences.

Our reservations team can assist with safari bookings. We strongly recommend booking safaris well in advance, especially during weekends, holidays and peak wildlife seasons.

Yes. Subject to vehicle availability, we can arrange transfers between the resort and safari gates.

For the best wildlife experience, we recommend:

• 2 Nights Stay: Minimum 2 safaris
• 3 Nights Stay: 3–4 safaris
• 4 Nights or Longer: 4–6 safaris

Guests can enjoy:

• Pottery Experience at Panchdhara Village
• Sunset Excursion to Kohka Dam
• Birdwatching
• Butterfly Watching
• Nature Walks
• Village Visits
• Stargazing
• Wellness Treatments at Vankasa Spa
• Forest Interpretation Sessions

Yes. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in guest rooms and common areas.

As the resort is located in a remote forest region, connectivity depends on weather conditions and telecommunications infrastructure. Wi-Fi may occasionally be affected during heavy rains, storms or lightning activity.

Yes, mobile connectivity is available at the resort.

Among all service providers, Jio offers the most reliable network coverage in the area. Airtel and Vodafone/Vi networks may work intermittently depending on location, weather conditions and network congestion.

Guests seeking uninterrupted connectivity are advised to carry a Jio SIM card as a backup.

Guests can comfortably manage emails, messaging and basic online work. However, due to the forest location, occasional interruptions in internet and mobile connectivity may occur.

The resort is best suited for guests looking to combine productivity with a meaningful nature and wildlife experience.

Yes.

Our swimming pool consists of:

• Adult Pool: 4.5 feet deep
• Children's Pool: 2 feet deep

Children must always be supervised by an adult. There is no lifeguard on duty.

Swimming costumes are not available for rent. Guests may purchase swimwear and related essentials from the Tiger Shop at the resort.

Yes. Guests can enjoy:

• Table Tennis
• Carrom
• Chess
• Board Games

No. However, we offer several other indoor recreational activities and games.

Cycling is permitted within designated resort areas only.

As the resort is located within the buffer zone of Pench Tiger Reserve and wildlife movement occurs around the property, cycling outside the resort is permitted only as part of a guided cycling experience accompanied by an escort.

Yes.

Vankasa Spa offers a range of wellness therapies and massages designed to help guests relax and rejuvenate amidst nature.

We currently have trained female spa therapists.

Yes.

The Tiger Shop offers wildlife souvenirs, books, local handicrafts, apparel, swimwear and travel essentials.

Yes. We offer both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options for lunch and dinner.

Yes. With prior notice, we can accommodate:

• Jain Meals
• Vegan Meals
• Gluten-sensitive Diets
• Children's Meals
• Special Dietary Requirements

Yes. Vegetarian food is prepared using separate utensils and dedicated preparation practices.

Yes. Purified drinking water is provided throughout the resort.

Wherever possible, we source fresh seasonal ingredients locally and support regional farmers and producers.

As part of our sustainability commitment, we avoid providing single-use disposable slippers which typically contribute to landfill waste after a single use.

Our responsible tourism initiatives include:

• Local employment and community engagement
• Waste segregation and recycling
• Rainwater harvesting
• Plastic reduction initiatives
• Native tree plantation
• Support for local artisans
• Environmentally conscious resort operations

Alcohol may only be consumed within guest rooms.

Please Note:

• Madhya Pradesh excise regulations prohibit possession of liquor purchased outside the state.
• Alcohol consumption in public spaces, gardens, restaurants and poolside areas is not permitted without appropriate licensing.
• Guests are advised to purchase alcohol from authorised liquor stores in Khawasa.

Yes. Transfers can be arranged at an additional charge.

Nearest airports:

• Nagpur Airport – Approximately 95 km
• Jabalpur Airport – Approximately 200 km

Nearest railway stations:

• Nagpur Railway Station
• Seoni Railway Station

Driver accommodation is not available within the resort.

Accommodation options are available in Khawasa, approximately 3 km away. Driver meals can be arranged at designated meal timings for a nominal charge.

No.

Yes. The resort offers a safe and enriching environment with nature-based activities, open spaces, wildlife experiences and family-friendly facilities.

Yes. Children are permitted on safaris in accordance with forest department regulations.

Child policies vary based on age and room category. Please contact our reservations team for details.

Yes. Many of our rooms and public spaces are accessible for senior citizens. Our team is happy to provide assistance where required.

Yes. Certain rooms can accommodate differently-abled guests with assistance. Please inform us of any specific requirements before arrival.

Yes. A basic first-aid facility is available on-site.

Yes. Medical assistance can be arranged in case of emergencies.

Smoking is permitted only in designated outdoor areas such as balconies and open spaces.

Smoking inside guest rooms is strictly prohibited.

We recommend carrying:

• Neutral-coloured clothing for safaris
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Hat or Cap
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Binoculars
• Camera Equipment
• Personal Medications
• Insect Repellent
• Light Woollens (Winter)
• Rain Jacket (Shoulder Seasons)

We Accept:

• Credit Cards
• Debit Cards
• UPI
• Bank Transfers
• Cash (subject to applicable regulations)

No. All applicable charges are communicated transparently at the time of booking.

Bonfires can be arranged on request and are chargeable.

Yes. The Riverwood Forest Retreat Pench is an ideal venue for intimate destination weddings, milestone celebrations, family gatherings, corporate retreats and special events. Please contact our events team for customised proposals.

Located amidst the forests of Pench Tiger Reserve with access to both Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra safari zones, The Riverwood Forest Retreat Pench offers a unique blend of wildlife, wellness, sustainability and authentic local experiences.

Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast, photographer, family traveller, birder or simply seeking a peaceful nature retreat, our resort provides the perfect base to explore one of India's most celebrated tiger landscapes.