Two solar boats to ply Pench reservoir from October 1 as new vessel arrives from Kerala
A new solar-powered boat from Kerala has reached Pench Tiger Reserve, and tourists can take water safaris on two solar boats from October 1.
There is good news for wildlife lovers in Nagpur and nearby areas. A new solar boat has arrived from Kerala at the Pench Tiger Reserve to add to the jungle safari experience. From October 1, tourists will be able to take water safaris on the Pench reservoir on two solar boats.
The boat runs entirely on solar energy. Besides being good for the environment, it is very quiet. It makes no engine noise, so birds and wildlife living around the reservoir will not be disturbed. Passing through the water in a calm setting and watching the forest and animals up close will be a special attraction for tourists.
The new solar boat can seat 24 tourists at a time. With two boats now, there will be more safari options depending on the number of tourists, and long waits for a boat are expected to reduce.
The safari will run on two routes. The first is from Kolitmara to Nandpur and back. It covers about 10 km for the round trip and takes about 1 hour 30 minutes. The main attractions on this route are the remains of the ancient Vakataka empire at Nandpur and the Nandpur Kuti. Safaris on this route will run from 6 to 8 am, 8.30 to 10.30 am, 11 am to 1 pm, 1.30 to 3.30 pm and 4 to 6 pm.
The second route is from Kolitmara to Kuwara Bhivsen and back. It covers about 28 km for the round trip and takes about 3 hours. It passes through the dense forests of Pench to the ancient Kuwara Bhivsen temple. Safaris on this route will run from 6 to 9 am, 10 am to 1 pm and 2 to 5 pm.
The safari will give tourists a different experience of nature, history and wildlife. In the Nandpur area they can see the remains of the ancient Vakataka empire. Bird lovers may spot birds such as the painted stork, black stork, darter, grey heron, fish eagle and kingfisher. Tigers, gaur (bison), chital, sambar and other animals that come to drink water around the reservoir will also draw tourists.
The solar boat is also an important step towards making tourism in Pench's sensitive forest area eco-friendly. Without loud engine noise, tourists moving around the reservoir will be able to feel nature closely. With the second solar boat starting on October 1, the thrill of Pench's water safari will grow.
