About Simlipal

Located in the Mayurbhanj District of Orissa, Simlipal Sanctuary is spread over 2750 sq. kms of the Chotanagpur plateau and is one of the UNESCO recognized biosphere reserve of India. The Simlipal tiger reserve is one of the 18 reserves selected to protect the endangered national animal of India. The erstwhile hunting grounds of the Mayurbhanj royal family, it was initially in 1956 developed as a tiger reserve and got the status of ‘National Park’ in 1979.

Beautiful orchids of 87 varieties bloom in the green grasslands and Sal dominated forest of Simlipal. 501 species of plants are found in Simlipal Sanctuary of which many of them are of immense medicinal and aromatic significance. The red simul trees found in the sanctuary have given the sanctuary its name ‘Simlipal’. The forest of the Simlipal sanctuary is of moist deciduous variety. The nearby santhali villagers get their source of livelihood from these forests.

Apart from being the homeland for 99 tigers, this ecosystem of the Mahandi-biogeographic region also houses 230 different varieties of birds including red jungle fowl, Peafowl, grey hornbill, alexandrine parakeet, crested serpent eagle, Hill mynah and Grey Hornbill. The population of the crocodiles has improved in the sanctuary since from the induction of ‘mugger crocodile campaign’ in 1973. There are 42 species of mammals and 30 varieties of reptiles flourishing in the protected areas of the sanctuary. Apart from 432 wild Asiatic elephants, Sambar, Cheetal, four horned antelopes, panthers, gaurs, pangolin, giant squirrels are the important members of the animal kingdom present in the sanctuary.

Simlipal national park sightseeing leaves the tourists with a mesmerizing experience as the nature has bestowed the sanctuary with exquisite natural beauty. The falls of Joranda, Barehipani and Newani make it an ideal location for camping and picnic while the mountain range further beautifies its picturesque. The sanctuary is crisscrossed by twelve rivers of which the significant ones being Deo, Palapala Bandan, Kahairi and Burhabalanga. The animals frequently visit the Chahala salt pit for licking the salts present in the rocks which is required for the smooth metabolism of their system.

Even though the Tourism in Simlipal has been affected by the naxalite issue the overcrowding of the adventure place during the peak seasons reflects the popularity amongst the tourists for this wildlife sanctuary.

Recommended period to visit Simlipal is from 1st November to 15th June, the sanctuary remains closed for rest of the year. Carry a map of Simlipal during your visit which will assist you in notifying the important landmarks.