Mayurbhanj, Oct 16: Wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers can once again explore Odisha’s rich biodiversity as Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR) in Mayurbhanj district is set to reopen to tourists from November 1, following its annual monsoon closure that began on June 29.
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The reopening arrangements have been outlined in an official notification, with restrictions on the number of vehicles, entry timings and movement within the reserve to ensure visitor safety and protect its fragile ecosystem.
Daily Entry Limited to 60 Vehicles
As per the guidelines, a maximum of 60 vehicles will be permitted to enter the tiger reserve each day. Vehicles must have a minimum ground clearance of 180 millimetres to navigate the forest terrain.
Tourist entry will be regulated through two designated gates. The Jashipur gate will remain open for entry from 5 am to 9 am, while entry through the Pithabata gate will be permitted between 8 am and 9 am.
Visitors will also have to follow strict timing restrictions while exploring the reserve. Tourists visiting Joranda and Barehipani waterfalls must leave these destinations by 4 pm, while all vehicles must exit the tiger reserve by 6 pm.
Guide Mandatory for Every Vehicle
To strengthen visitor safety and ensure better monitoring of tourist movement, every vehicle entering Similipal must be accompanied by a designated guide.
Tourists can obtain entry permits and book wildlife safari experiences through the official websites, www.similipal.org and www.ecotourodisha.com, respectively.
Visitors are advised to plan their trips in advance, secure the necessary permits and comply with all entry and exit timings prescribed by the authorities.
A Wildlife Haven in Northern Odisha
Spread across approximately 2,750 square kilometres, Similipal Tiger Reserve is one of Odisha’s most important wildlife habitats and a major destination for nature-based tourism.
The reserve is home to Royal Bengal tigers, rare melanistic tigers, elephants, leopards and numerous other wild animals. Its rich biodiversity also includes 242 bird species and 96 varieties of orchids, making it an important destination for wildlife enthusiasts, birdwatchers and researchers.
With the reserve reopening ahead of the winter tourism season, visitors will once again have an opportunity to experience its dense forests, scenic waterfalls and remarkable wildlife.
The regulated entry system and mandatory guide requirement are intended to facilitate a safe and organised tourism experience while supporting the conservation of Similipal’s unique natural heritage.
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