Simlipal a safe haven for many species in Odisha, whose extensive grassy lands are attractive nature lovers to come and visit the most natural gift of world.
Simlipal National Park is situated amidst Mayurbhanj district in the North-Eastern part of Odisha. This roaring land of tigers is situated at a distance of 250 km from Kolkata and 320 km from Bhubaneswar. Surrounded by deciduous trees and Sal forests, Simlipal National Park has 12 rivers running across it. Characterized by thick wooden slopes, ridges, luxuriant grassland and beautiful waterfalls; the park is nestled amidst picturesque hills. A wide array of plants as many as 501 species are housed at the park, out of which 82 species are of Orchids. The Park is a viable source for countless medicinal and aromatic plants also.
Floral and faunal compositions have some similarities with elements from Western ghats and North east India. Simlipal National Park holds 7% flowering plants, 8% orchids, 7% reptiles, 20% birds and 11% mammals found in India.
Semi-evergreen and moist natures of the tropical forest have resulted in luxuriant vegetation offering ideal shelter for wild animals. Among the important waterfalls of Simlipal are the Joranda (150m) and Barehipani (400m).
Simlipal derives its name from the magnificent Simul which means silk cotton tree. The Simlipal Tiger reserve was created in the year 1973 and then the government of Orissa declared the Simlipal sanctuary within an area of 2200 sq.km in 1979. Later the government also proposed the Simlipal National Park in the year 1980 with an area of 845 sq. km. Simlipal was acknowledged as a tiger reserve in 1973 and a sanctuary in 1979. One of the 18 tiger reserves of India. There are options available for travelers to take Jeep safari, or go for trekking and hiking under guidance of designated guides. Meghasani and Khairiburu are two of the majestic peaks here that provide amazing natural view to trekkers and hikers.
A must visit tourist attraction of Simlipal National Park are the Joranda and Barehipani waterfalls that provides stunning view to visitors. Another must visit place is the holy place of Ramatirtha, located at the confluence of Khairi and Bhandan Rivers. There is also a Gharial research center here. Simlipal national park opens from October to June and is closed during the monsoons.
Sonari Airport Jamshedpur is the nearest domestic airport to Simlipal located at a distance of 140 kms. Biju Pattnaik Airport Bhubaneswar is 187 kms away from Simlipal. Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata is the nearest international airport to Simlipal National Park . It is at a distance of 251 kms from the sanctuary.
This place is 149 km away from Baripada is famous for the shrine of Kichakeswari and Stone Crafts made of different colour stones.
It is a panoromic place on the lap of Nilagiri hills with a perennial stream flowing over five Lingams. It is situated at a distance of 85 km from Baripada.
It is an enchanting place with a series of waterfalls and a shakti shrine set against the outer periphery of Similipal. It is situated at a distance of 65 kms from Baripada.