Baripada (Mayurbhanj): After remaining out of bounds for visitors for the last four months, the Similipal Tiger Reserve in Mayurbhanj district has reopened for tourists, offering a unique opportunity to explore one of India’s largest biodiverse national parks.
Similipal, home to Bengal tigers, elephants, leopards, and over 200 bird species, is a perfect destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Tourists were welcomed at Baripada’s Pithabata gate and Kuliani in Jashipur by Similipal Tiger Reserve officials. Between 6 am and 9 am, 35 four-wheelers will enter the forest through Jashipur’s Kuliani gate, and 25 vehicles will enter through Baripada’s Pithabata Gate. Entry permits are available at the booking counter at the two gates. An entry fee of Rs 100 per tourist has been fixed.
To keep the sanctuary clean, restrictions have been imposed on plastic items, drugs, non-vegetarian foods, and flammable materials. Tourists can make advance bookings on the website (www.ecotourism.com) for overnight stays at Similipal’s guest houses.
Although Similipal usually closes on June 15 due to the rainy season and reopens in the first week of November, it opened for tourists on October 10 this year. This timing allows tourists to enjoy the natural beauty during the Durga Puja holiday. The beauty of Similipal is particularly breathtaking at this time, with abundant water in the waterfalls and streams.
