Simlipal Wildlife Sanctuary

Area : 2,750 sq. km
Established : Simlipal Wildlife Sanctuary Established in 1979.

Description :
In the centre of Mayurbhanj district of Orissa, is Simlipal-one of the 18 tiger reserves of India. 2,750 sq. kms of lush grassland and Sal forests, this reserved forest was declared a sanctuary in 1979. It has an awesome beauty: the water falls, tribal settlements and mountain peaks add grace to the park.

Flora :
The Simlipal national park is a treasure house of 501 species of plants belonging to 102 families. 82 species of orchids have also been identified here. It has a mixed type of vegetation with Northern tropical semi-evergreen trees and Northern tropical moist deciduous trees. Plus, dry deciduous hill forest and high level Sal forests. The grasslands and the savannas provide grazing grounds for the herbivores and hiding place to the carnivores. The forest boasts of innumerable medicinal and aromatic plants, which provide a source of earnings for the tribals.

Fauna :
Project Tiger also concerned itself with the care of other animals. After the project was launched, the park saw an increase in population of not only Tigers but Leopards, Sambars, Langurs, Barking and Spotted Deer, Gaur, Elephant and the 'Four-horned' antelope. The protected environment of the park has provided shelter to a number of other mammals. 231 species of birds nest in these forests. Red Jungle Fowl, Hill Mynah, Peafowl, Alexandrine Parakeet, Crested Serpent Eagle are common. The Grey Hornbill, Indian Pied Hornbill, Malabar Pied Hornbill and Indian Trogon are also found in the reserve. Apart from the large number of mammals and bird species, the park has a sizeable population of reptiles which includes snakes and turtles. The Mugger management programme has helped the Mugger crocodile to survive and flourish on the banks of river Khairi.

Barheipani :
It has the log cabins, beautiful waterfalls, variety of orchids. And it offers panoramic view of the park.

Chahala :
This place has forest reserve houses and the Eucalyptus villa for tourists.

Newana :
This place offers good opportunity for bird watching.

Jashipur :
This is the second entry point for the park and is also the nearest market place. 95 Kms from Baripada.

Baripada :
Here one has to collect the entry permit for the park. The stone lodges provide good lodging facility. The food served here is of good quality and best part of the place is that every thing is solar powered.

Waterfalls in :
Barheipani - 399meters (1308ft)
Joranda - 150 meters (493ft)

Season :
The Simlipal Wildlife Sanctuary or national park is open for visitors from November to June.

Accommodation & Facilities:
Since the tourist facilities are not well developed, there are a very few options for accommodation. The entrances to the park are on the western side at Jashipur or more conveniently at Baripada. There is a Forest Rest house at Baripada. Advance booking is officially required for all the forest lodges/ rest houses through the Field Director of Project Tiger - Baripada, Mayurbhunj district. About 10 km inside the park (35 km from the Baripada) is the Aranya Niwas Tourist Lodge at Lulung