Baripada: The Similipal Tiger Reserve is set to reopen for tourists on October 18, marking the beginning of the tourist season 2025-26. According to Similipal Field Director Prakash Chand Gogineni, the reserve will be open for day tourism with certain guidelines in place.
The Similipal Tiger Reserve will allow a maximum of 60 four-wheelers per day, with 35 vehicles entering through Jashipur and 25 through Pithabata Check Gate in Baripada. Vehicles must have a ground clearance of 180mm or more. Private vehicles can enter between 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM at Pithabata gate and between 5:00 AM to 9:00 AM through Jashipur. Tourists must exit the reserve by 6:00 PM.
Tourists can obtain an entry permit through the website www.similipal.org, and ID proof is required at the entry gate. Tourists must comply with existing norms and rules, and any violations will be punishable by law.
All vehicles, passengers, and luggage will be checked at entry and exit points. Visitors must leave Joranda and Barehipani waterfalls before 4:00 PM. A guide is mandatory for every vehicle in the reserve.
The Open Jeep Wildlife Safari will be managed by local Eco Development Committees (EDCs), and bookings can be made through the website www.ecotourodisha.com. Safaris will start from Gudugudia, Pithabata Check Gate, Jamuani Check Gate, Talabandha Check Gate, and Barehipani. Morning safaris will be from 5:30 AM to 10:30 AM, and evening safaris will be from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
The authorities reserve the right to close the reserve in case of inclement weather conditions.
