Pench Signature Shot

[Sudhir Shivaram]

Apologies for the delay – but still wanted to provide the inouts:

Pench doesn’t really have a single, well-known “signature shot” location like the palace ruins of Ranthambhore or the fort backdrop of Bandhavgarh. The park’s character is defined more by its beautiful forest aesthetics and light rather than a landmark background.

That said, there are a few frames that are considered Pench signatures among regular photographers:

1. Tigers on the Sillari or Karmajhiri Roads – The long, teak-lined roads where tigers often walk head-on make for classic Pench compositions — these straight forest corridors with golden light are instantly recognizable.

2. Tigers near the Jetwani or Junewani waterholes – Reflection shots here, with the dense green forest backdrop, are among the most photographed scenes of Pench.

3. The Pyorthadi Grassland Look-throughs – Open grassland with scattered trees often provides a clean, habitat-rich background that defines Pench’s landscape style.

4. Occasional Leopard or Tiger sightings on tree trunks – Pench’s mixed forest and light conditions have given rise to some iconic images of leopards resting on tree forks with soft forest bokeh — a look distinct to this park.

So while Pench may not have a single man-made landmark or “signature spot,” its signature style lies in those classic teak-forest frames, misty morning dust roads, and golden backlight filtering through the canopy — something every photographer visiting Pench aims to capture.

[Ankit Agarwal]

Thanks for the detailed info! Would try to capture some of these next time.