Simlipal Tiger Reserve or Similipal National Park as it is popularly known has reopened after the rains.
Tourists desirous of visiting the national park can enter either through Pithabata near Baripada or through Kaliani near Jashipur . They can also book tickets from there between 6 am to 9 am.
Accommodation facilities like tents, cottages and dormitories are also available for those wishing to stay overnight at the park. Kumari, Jamuanu, Gudugudia and Ramatirtha are some of the places where guest can seek accommodation.
This protected Tiger Reserve is the second largest National Park of India and is home to around 55 species of mammals, 304 species of birds, 20 species of amphibians, 62 species of reptiles and 37 species of fishes. Spread over 2750 sq km, the park is surrounded by high plateaus and beautiful rolling hills, the highest peak being the twin peaks of Khairiburu and Meghashini (1515m above mean sea level). Twelve rivers meandering through these plateaus and beautiful waterfalls at Joranda , Barehipani and Chahala including an orchidarium bank at Gurguria makes Simplipal a nature lovers delight!
Do note that:
- Picnics are strictly prohibited inside the park premises. Tourist can take dry and cooked food with them in containers other than plastics bags.
- Non vegetarian food and alcohol are not allowed as also the use of plastics
- Tourists visiting Joranda and Barehipani are advised to leave by 3 PM while those returning from Chahala should return by 4 PM.
- All tourists are directed to leave the check posts by 5 PM.