Simlipal National Park
Simlipal National Park is famous for its national parks and tiger reserves. It is situated in the Mayurbhanj district in the state of Orissa.
The name Similipal comes from the “Simul”(Red Silk Cotton) tree. This tree is growing in the area.
In India, It is becoming the 7th largest wildlife sanctuary.
Mayurbhanj Elephant Reserve is a part of Simlipal National Park. This area also has three protected parts, Similipal Tiger Reserve, Hadgarh Wildlife Sanctuary, and Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary.
The area is being submitted to India’s largest wildlife sanctuary today and is considered to be one of the major tiger projects in India
The Odisha government declared Simlipal as a wildlife sanctuary in 1979 with a land measure of 650 square miles. In 1986 the field of the national park was increased to 326 square miles.
In 1994, the Government of India declared Simipal as a wildlife reserve. UNESCO added the park to its list of biosphere reserves in May 2009.
Flora of Simlipal National Park
The park is a repository of 1076 plant species belonging to 102 families. Here 90 species of orchids have been identified.
Sal is the main species of tree here. The forests have medicinal plants and fragrant plants that provide a source of income for the tribal people.
Fauna of Simlipal National Park
Simlipal Park has a total of 242 species of birds, 50 species of mammals, and 40 species of reptiles recorded. The park is known for tigers and elephants.
In addition to tigers, the main mammals are cheetahs, common langurs, barking deer, four-horned deer, jungle cats, wild boars, and giant squirrels.
The park has a large population of reptiles, including the longest venomous snake, the king cobra, Gharial, and Saltwater crocodile.
Simlipal National Park visiting time
There is no time for day visitors but recommended that you arrive at the park between 8 am and 5 pm. You can visit Simlipal National Park throughout the year.
1.Summer (March to June)-During the summer season, the daytime temperatures are very high. However, this time is called the best season to visit in this place. Because visitors allow seeing most of the animals during this time. You can also enjoy river rafting at this time.
2.Monsoon (July to mid-September)-It is not advisable to visit Simlipal National Park during the monsoon season. This season, however, most crowds are down, so if you do not like crowds, this is the best time for you.
But Landslides and soil erosion can be somewhat risky at this time. However, the beauty of the forest in the rainy season is incredible and green all around.
3.winter ( mid-September to February)- During the winter season or during the period from October to February you will see unseen birds, in addition to birds, you can see the Bengal Tiger.
Things to do in Simlipal National Park
#1.Simlipal National Park jeep safari
Jeep safari is one of the best ways to explore the Simlipal Forest and wild animals. Jeep safari is available in the morning shift and the evening shift. The maximum time of both shifts is three and a half hours.
You will need to show the forest officials the residence permit and your identity card. Jeep safaris are not available for day visitors. The jeep can carry a maximum of 6 adults and 2 children (under 12 years) without a driver and guide.
#2. Trekking
For adventure lovers, this is a great place for trekking. The most popular trek is from Sitakunda to Mashkanda which is 7 kilometers and one sort of distance between Uski Village and Uski Falls.
It is advisable to consult a travel guide for the route before you start your adventure.
#3. Bird Watching
A total of 242 species of rare birds are found here. This is an ideal place for those who love birds. In the winter season, the park also witnesses the arrival of migratory birds.
#4.Tribal Village Tour
Tribal village trips are another activity that visitors love. Along with the small tribal villages bordering forest conservation, Simlipal also offers an interesting opportunity to visit the nearby tribal villages. Simlipal is the ideal place to explore the culture of the tribal society of Orissa.
#5.Simlipal National Park Waterfalls
There are some very famous waterfalls here.
- Uski waterfalls
- Barehipani Falls
- Devkunda waterfalls
- Joranda Falls
- Sitakund waterfalls
How to Reach Simlipal National Park
There are many entrances to get into the national park. Baripada is well connected with all the routes and it is situated only 108 kilometers from Simlipal. The park is easily accessible through air, rail, and roads.
By Air-The nearest airport is Bhubaneswar which is only 192 kilometers, Kolkata is only 329 kilometers to reach Simlipal. From both airports, you can book cabs and drive to Simlipal.
By Rail– The nearest Railway station is Balasore and Baripada. Both places are located around 105 kilometers from Simlipal and well connected with Kolkata, Hyderabad, Rourkela, etc. From both of the stations, you can easily get cabs to reach Simlipal.
By Road– The better way to reach Simlipal is by road. Baripada is the nearest place to Simlipal. And this place is well connected with NH5 And NH6.
Simlipal Weather
The monsoon season brings moderate to heavy rainfall. Temperatures are around 40 degrees Celsius during the summer but about 10 degrees Celsius in the winter.
Simlipal National Park entry cost
| 1. Indian Citizens | INR.100 / person |
| INR.50 / person |
| 2. Foreign nationals | INR.100 / person |
| INR.50 / person |
| 3. Students | INR.30 / student |
| INR.20 / student |
| 4. For scientific research : | |
| INR.30 / Person INR.40 / Person |
| 5. Children below five years | Free |
| 6. Physical Disability | Free |
| 7. Vehicles | INR.100 / Vehicle / Day |
| 8. Heavy vehicles & Two-wheelers | Not allowed |
The following documents are required for the issue of the Entry Permit
- Photo ID Card or PAN card
- Driving License of vehicle
- Passport ( Foreigners only)
Only Pithabata and Jashipur booking counters will be allowed to enter this place.
How to book Simlipal forest bungalow
Ecotourists can take a night halt at 5 nature camps in Similipal like Kumari, Gurguria, Barehipani, Ramtirtha & Jamuani & Ramtirtha Nature Camp. These places are located close to 20 to 30 kilometers from each other.
The best way to book your accommodation is through Odisha Forest Development Corporation (OFDC).
Accommodation in Simlipal National Park
Lulung Aranya Nivas Resort
Similipal Forest Resort, Lulung, Kochilaghaty Post, Shyamakhunta Block, Baripada, Mayurbhanj District, Odisha – 757049
Contact- +91 82 8012 2835 & +91 80 1877 5316
SIMILIPAL KHAIRI RESORT
Simlipal Khairi resort, Bangiriposi, Mayurbhanj, Odisha- 757049
Contact- +91 8249002656 , +91 9437877730 & +91 8908751468
Barehipani Guest House
Barehipani Guest House,Mayurbhanj District Odisha 757034
Contact- +91 94378 55578 & +91 993 817 2292