Nestled like a verdant crown in Odisha’s Mayurbhanj hills, Simlipal National Park stands as India’s seventh-largest wildlife sanctuary and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, a 2,750-sq-km expanse where 55 Royal Bengal Tigers prowl through sal forests, 300+ waterfalls cascade, and 1,000+ plant species thrive. Located at 900m average elevation, this tiger reserve—named after the red silk cotton (simul) tree—hosts Barehipani (India’s second-highest waterfall) and Joranda Falls, alongside 12 tribal villages. A biodiversity haven akin to Chilika Lake’s aquatic splendor, Simlipal enchants with its jeep safaris and tribal homestays. For visitors to indiatourisminfo.com, it offers a thrilling wilderness odyssey, from spotting melanistic tigers to trekking Meghasani Peak. With 2025 eco-safaris and the Simlipal Mahotsav, this “Tiger’s Abode” is an unmissable destination for wildlife lovers, trekkers, and travelers seeking Odisha’s jungle soul.
Key Attractions
Barehipani Waterfall: 399m plunge, India’s second-highest, accessible via trek.
Joranda Waterfall: 150m cascade with a scenic viewpoint.
Meghasani Peak: 1,158m summit, Odisha’s second-highest, for sunrise views.
Chahala Zone: Core tiger habitat with jeep safaris and watchtowers.
Uski Waterfall & Devkund: Sacred falls with natural pools.
Simlipal Tribal Museum: Exhibits on Santhal, Ho, and Munda cultures.
Ram Tirtha Crocodile Rearing Centre: Conservation site for mugger crocodiles.
Things to Do
Jeep Safari in Core Zone: Spot tigers, leopards, and elephants (Nov–Jun, ~₹2500–4000, 3–4 hours).
Trek to Barehipani: 4-km jungle hike with guides (~₹500–1000).
Birdwatching at Nawana: Identify 250+ species like hornbills (Nov–Feb).
Visit Tribal Villages: Experience Santhal dance and handia rice beer (~₹300–600).
Camp at Jamuani: Overnight in eco-tents with bonfires (Nov–Mar).
Attend Simlipal Mahotsav: Celebrate tribal culture and wildlife (Feb 14–16, 2026, tentative).
Photography at Joranda: Capture mist-shrouded falls at golden hour.
Savor Tribal Cuisine: Relish bamboo chicken, mudhi ghanto at Lulung.
Local Culture and History
Simlipal, declared a tiger reserve in 1973, was a princely hunting ground of Mayurbhanj kings until 1956. Home to 12 tribes—Santhal, Ho, Munda, and Khadia—it preserves akhand shikar traditions and soharai harvest dances. The park’s 1,076 plant species include medicinal orchids used by tribal healers. The 2025 eco-safari initiative, noted by Odisha Forest Dept and X posts, uses electric jeeps and drone monitoring. Simlipal’s blend of biodiversity, tribal wisdom, and conservation offers a living biosphere narrative.
Best Time to Visit
Simlipal is open Nov 1–Jun 15, with November to February (winter, 10–25°C) ideal for safaris, birdwatching, and Simlipal Mahotsav (Feb 14–16, 2026). March to May (summer, 20–35°C) suits waterfall treks. June 16–Oct 31 closed for monsoon breeding. Book safaris 2–3 months ahead.
How to Reach
By Air: Biju Patnaik Airport (Bhubaneswar, 270 km, ~6-hour drive). Taxis ~₹5000–8000.
By Train: Balasore (60 km from Baripada) or Baripada (50 km from Jashipur). Taxis ~₹1500–3000.
By Road: Via NH18 to Jashipur (250 km from Bhubaneswar). Buses (~₹300–500), taxis (~₹6000–9000). Entry at Jashipur/Lulung (~₹100/vehicle).
Local Transport: Forest Dept jeeps (~₹2500–4000); no private vehicles in core.
Travel Tips
Booking: Safari via simlipal.org (~₹2500–4000); book entry permits early.
Cost: Food ~₹150–400; taxi from Bhubaneswar ~₹5000–8000; eco-lodges ~₹2000–5000/night.
Dress: Earth tones; sturdy shoes; raincoats for monsoon fringe.
Safety: Follow guides; no night walks; carry first-aid.
Respect Local Culture: Seek permission for village photos; no alcohol in core.
Connectivity: Mobile patchy; Wi-Fi at lodges; carry cash.
Environment: Biosphere Reserve; no plastic; use bins.
Accessibility: Rough terrain; inform for assistance.
Nearby Attractions
Baripada (50 km): Mayurbhanj royal palace and markets.
Khiching (80 km): 10th-century Maa Kichakeswari Temple.
Deokund Waterfall (60 km): Scenic cascade near Baripada.
Similipal Khairi Nature Camp (entry): Eco-lodges and birdwatching.
Joshipur (40 km): Tribal village and entry gate.
Explore More
Discover other Odisha treasures like the divine Chilika Lake or majestic Konark Sun Temple on our Odisha destinations page. Plan your jungle journey with indiatourisminfo.com today!
