Simlipal National Park is a national park and tiger reserve in the Mayurbhanj district in the Indian state of Odisha, covering 2,750 km². The park is known for the tiger, elephant and hill mynah. It holds the highest tiger population in the state of Orissa. 55 species of mammals, 304 species of birds, 60 species of reptiles, 21 species of frogs, 38 species of fish and 164 species of butterflies have been recorded from the Park. Simlipal National Park derives its name from the abundance of red silk cotton trees growing in the area. This protected area has been part of the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves since 2009.
About Simlipal National Park
Image Credit: Toni Wöhrl for wikimedia commons
Located in Mayurbhanj, Northern Odisha, Similipal Tiger Reserve is where Nature binds you with its awe-inspiring beauty, grace, power and calmness. The Similipal Tiger Reserve, which covers an area of 2750 Sq KM, is Odisha’s foremost wildlife sanctuary. Similipal is named after red silk cotton semul trees, abundantly found in the region. Similipal is among the first nine designated tiger reserves established in 1973. Recently, probably for the first time, a rare Melanistic Tiger or Black Tiger was discovered in Similipal.
Simlipal elephant reserve originated mainly as a hunting ground for royalty. It was formally designated a tiger reserve in 1956 and under Project Tiger in May 1973. “Mugger Crocodile Scheme” was started in 1979 at Ramatirtha, Jashipur. The park is a treasure house of 1,076 species of plants belonging to 102 families. 96 species of orchids have been identified here. It lies in the Eastern Highlands moist deciduous forests ecoregion, with tropical moist broadleaf forests, tropical moist deciduous forests, dry deciduous hill forests and high-level Sal forests.
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Things To Do In Simlipal National Park
Simlipal National Park has many flora and fauna you can witness while visiting Odisha. Here is a curated list of Things to do in and around the Park:
1.Visit Devkund Waterfall
Debakunda, or Devkund, is a naturally created pond in the Mayurbhanj district of Odisha, India, part of the Simlipal National Park. It is a ‘plunge’ waterfall pouring massive amounts of water on the rocky surface underneath. It is a popular spot for one-day picnics. This waterfall falls from a height of 50m and forms a lake known as Devkund. Devkund is the combination of two Odia words, “Deba” (deity) and “Kunda” (a small pond or tub].
Best Time To Visit: November to February (Winter season)
Location: Mayurbhanj district, Odisha, India
2. Visit Barehipani Waterfall
Barehipani waterfall is the highest waterfall in Odisha and is located within the contour of Similipal Tiger Reserve. Barehipani originates from the Local name ‘Barehi’, which is how it looks. It is one of the highest waterfalls in India. Barehipani Falls is the second-highest waterfall in India after Kunchikal Falls. The total height of the Brehipanii waterfall is 399 meters (1309 ft). It is located in the Mayurbhanj district of Odisha. Its watercourse is the Budhabalanga River. The tallest single drop is 259 meters (850 ft).
Best Time To Visit: October to February (Post-monsoon to winter season)
Location: Simlipal National Park, Mayurbhanj district, Odisha, India
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3. Explore Simlipal Tiger Reserve
Image Credit: Byomakesh07 for wikimedia commons
The park is known for the tiger, elephant and hill mynah. It holds the highest tiger population in the state of Orissa. 55 species of mammals, 304 species of birds, 60 species of reptiles, 21 species of frogs, 38 species of fish and 164 species of butterflies have been recorded from the Park. The Similipal tiger reserve (STR)’s share in the tiger population is 27. It also holds 13 melanistic tigers, according to the latest report. The tiger reserve is spread over 2750 sq km and has some beautiful waterfalls like Joranda and Barehipani.
Best Time To Visit: November to June (Winter and early summer season)
Location: Mayurbhanj district, Odisha, India
4. Explore Flora and Fauna
Image Credit: Government of Odisha for wikimedia commons
Similipal comes under the Deccan Peninsula Biogeographic Zone, Chhotanagpur Province and Mahanadian Region. The forest is predominantly moist mixed deciduous with tropical semi-evergreen forest in areas with suitable microclimatic conditions and sporadic patches of dry deciduous forests and grasslands. Some patches of old plantations of tropical pines and Eucalyptus are also present. The rich habitat diversity and mosaic of landscapes with wide altitudinal and climatic variation in Similipal supports a fascinating faunal composition. There are 55 species of mammals, 361 species of birds, 62 species of reptiles, 21 species of amphibians, 38 species of fishes, 164 species of butterflies and many species of insects and microfauna.
Best Time to Visit: October to February (Post-monsoon to winter season)
Location: Simlipal National Park, Mayurbhanj district, Odisha, India
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5. Visit Joranda Falls
Image Credit: Nihar.race for wikimedia commons
The Joranda Falls is a waterfall located in the core area of Simlipal National Park in the Mayurbhanj district in the Indian state of Odisha. It is the 19th-highest waterfall in India and has a total height of 150 meters. The water plunges over a lofty cliff in a single drop, spreading out slightly as it falls. Joranda Falls is approximately 100 kilometres from Baripada, the nearest central town in Odisha. The waters of the Budhabalanga River feed the fall.
Best Time to Visit: November to February (Winter season)
Location: Simlipal, Mayurbhanj district, Odisha, India
6. Stay In Nature Camps
Image Credit:Subhrasingh for wikimedia commons
Tourists can halt at night in 5 Nature Camps in Similipal, i.e. Barehipani, Jamuani, Kumari, Gurguria & Ramtirth. The nature camps have well-furnished Suites, Dining halls & many other facilities. Provision of Adventure & sports have also been made at the Camps. On special request, cultural programmes, bonfires, etc., are arranged in the evening by paying extra charges. Amani Nature Camp is just in the contour line of Similipal, very close to the picturesque valley & verdant forest of Similipal Forest. Kumari Nature Camp is amid the beauty of the wilderness, and Gurguria Nature Camp is close to Pine Forest, one of our country’s most beautiful orchidariums. Ramatirtha Nature Camp is located close to Similipal Tiger Reserve at Jashipur.
Best Time to Visit: October to February (Post-monsoon to winter season)
Location: Within Simlipal National Park in 5 different places: Barehipani, Jamuani, Kumari, Gurguria & Ramtirth.
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7. Visit Uski Waterfall
Situated in Simlipal Tiger Reserve, the river Bhandan, when it drops, creates this beautiful waterfall called Uski. Uski waterfall has the essence of the memory of the princess tigress Khairi. The waterfall flows into a river-like stream, in the banks of the river Khairi the tigress was found. Uski Falls is approximately 250 kilometres from Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha. The nearest town is Baripada. The best time to visit Uski Falls is during the post-monsoon season, from October to February.
Best Time To Visit: October to February (Post-monsoon to winter season)
Location: Simlipal, Mayurbhanj district, Odisha, India
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Now that you have a list of things to remember for your next adventure to Simlipal National Park make sure you plan your trip to Odisha to explore these incredible spots for an unforgettable experience. From majestic waterfalls to diverse wildlife, there’s something for every nature enthusiast. Don’t miss out on these opportunities, and book your tickets now!
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Frequently Asked Questions About The Simlipal National Park
What is the best time to visit Simlipal National Park?
The best time to visit Simlipal National Park is from November to June when the weather is pleasant and suitable for wildlife spotting.
How do I reach Simlipal National Park?
- By Air: The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, about 250 km away.
- By Train: The closest railway station is Balasore, around 76 km away.
- By Road: Simlipal is well connected to major cities in Odisha.
What activities can I do in Simlipal National Park?
Visitors can enjoy activities like wildlife safaris, bird watching, nature walks, trekking, and visiting waterfalls.
Is there a safari available in Simlipal National Park?
Yes, jeep safaris are available for visitors to explore the park and spot wildlife.
Are there any guided tours available in Simlipal National Park?
Yes, guided tours are available, and it is highly recommended to take a guided tour to get the most out of your visit. Guides can provide valuable information about flora and fauna and ensure your safety.
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