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About Simlipal Tiger Reserve
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 provi ded
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
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