Similipal Tiger Reserve which spreads over 2750 Sq.Kms is a part of Central Indian Landscape. Not only a Tiger Reserve, Similipal is also a National Park, Wildlife Sanctuary, Biosphere Reserve and also a part of Mayurbhanj Elephant Reserve. Similipal derives its name from the abundance of Semul or Red Silk Cotton trees that bloom vividly in its forest. The vast stretches of forest of Similipal is a unique composition of deciduous, semi-ever green, high level Sal, grass land & savannahs. It is the abode of more than 1253 species of flowering plants, 99 species of non-flowering plants, 21 species of amphibians, 62 species of reptiles, 361 species of birds, 55 species of mammals and many species of flora and fauna yet to be identified. Similipal Tiger Reserve located in the northern side of the state is also blessed with majestic waterfalls like Barehipani, Joranda & Uski, Sitakund-Deokund-Bhimkund waterfalls in its periphery, rocky cliffs and green valleys dotted in sylvan Sal forests. It bears 94 species of orchids, many of them are endemic and endangered and 72 are Himalayan species. There are many species of rare, endangered, threatened and vulnerable plants and animals. Mahaseer, hornbill, Chowsingha, Mouse deer, Giant Squirrel, Flying squirrel, Ruddy mongoose, mugger crocodile and Rufus tailed hare are examples of this unique biodiversity.
Similipal is famous for Tigers and Elephants. It is the only Tiger Reserve in the country to boast of Melanistic Tigers. It alone is the home of 75% Tiger and 25% Elephants of Odisha. The other wildlife in Similipal are Bison, Sambar, Chital, Porcupine, Pangolin, Pythons, Wild boar, Leopard, Barking Deer, Jungle Cat, Giant Squirrel, Common Languor etc. Most commonly found birds are Peafowl, Jungle fowl, Hill Myna, Parakeets, variety of Eagles etc beside Hornbills & Trogons. The park has a sizeable population of reptiles including Snakes,Crocodiles and Turtles.
Places of tourist interest inside the
Similipal National Park
Gurguria
On the bank of River Khairi with planned landscaping and surrounded by wooded hillocks, Gurguria gives the feeling of a hill station. The orchidarium with 63 indigenous orchids in pots is very attractive during summer when it flowers. The main attraction is elephant ride and hill trekking. Accommodation with catering facility and conference hall are available.
Chahala
The site was chosen by his Majesty the Maharaja of Mayurbhanj state in olden days where a forest resort was constructed, now converted to a Forest Rest House. Amidst the Sal forest, resounded by the voice of birds, like hill myna, frequented by herbivores like Elephants, Deer and Sambar in the meadow.
Barehipani
Barehipani resembles the shape of a rope locally known as Barehi. The rolling waterfall with a height of 217 mtrs presents a majestic view with reverberating sound in the gorge from where the River Budhabalanga runs to the plain land.
Joranda
The waterfall from a height of 181 mtrs touches the ground on the gorge perpendicularly. Tourist cottage with cooking provision is available. Elephants, Deer and Sambars frequent the saltlick near the campus as the sun sets in the nature unfolds the beauty through vast stage of green lush vegetation.
Nawana
A green valley with crop lands, Nawana thrills the heart during the winter. The lifestyle of the tribals residing in the valley is also a point of attraction.
Ramatirtha
Situated on the confluence of Khairi and Bhandan Rivers emerging from Similipal, Ramtirtha is a place of worship attached to the sentiment of Hindus due to its mythological importance. It is a place of picnic with an Astral garden and Gharial Research Centre. Accommodations for the tourists in cottages with catering facilities are available throughout the year.
Sitakund
A place of religious importance of Hindus, is a site of attraction for picnickers due to the picturesque beauty of a small waterfall and a gorge filled with water.
Lulung
Lulung is situated at the entrance of the park on the bank of a tributary to River Palpala with perennial water flow. The crystal clear water with pebbles of different sizes on the River bed and dense forest on both sides of the River wins the heart of the people to assemble for picnic. A tourist lodge, run by Orissa Tourism Development Corporation, caters the needs of the tourists.
Deokund
Deokund is located on the bank of River Deo, while meandering on the hills, place of worship by the Hindus. The temple of Goddess Ambika was built up by the Royal Dynasty of Mayurbhanj in ancient period. The cascade touching the base of the temple falls on a gorge where the River rests awhile and further follows its course. It is the most lovable picnic spot.
Khiching
A place of pilgrimage for the Hindus, famous for granite carving temple of Goddess Kichkeswari built by the Maharaja of Mayurbhanj. Granite carvings are available in temple premises for sale.
Bhimkund
River Baitarani pierces through a hill rock. A picnic spot and place of congregation during Makar Sankranti. Famous for scenic beauty.
Things To Do
- Birding
- Jungle Trekking
- Hill Trekking
- Star Gazing
- Farm Visits
- Cultural Tours