Simlipal National Park or Simlipal Tiger Reserve
Simlipal with its astounding flora and fauna is located in the District of Mayurbhanja of Orissa and known as haven for the nature lovers. Simlipal has won the distinction of being a Tiger Reserve, a National Park, a Wildlife Sanctuary, an Elephant Reserve and a Bio-sphere Reserve due to its thick green foliage, rugged hilly tracts, riverine system, valleys, grasslands and rich bio-diversity.
Spread over an area of 2750 Sq. KM, Simlipal 
is home to many unique varieties of wildlife. The semi-evergreen to dry deciduous forests of Simlipal boast of 1076 species of plants including 94 varieties of orchids. These forests echo with a variety of fauna comprising of 42 species of mammals, 231 species of birds, and 29 species of reptiles. As per the 2004 Census, 101 tigers out of state’s total tiger population of 192 are found in Simlipal giving it the fame of a Tiger Reserve. Besides, other rare wildlife like elephants more than 565, leopard, sambar, spotted deer, barking deer, mouse deer gaur, hill myna, hornbills, peacock, python, cobra, lizards, etc., add to the rich bio-diversity of Simlipal.
Standing at an average altitude of 900 M, Simlipal has emerald green mountains with vegetation covered peaks smiling at visitors in warm reception. The peaks of Khairiburu (1178 M), Meghasani (1158 M) and several others have a breath-taking beauty. Several rivers like Budhabalanga, Khairi, Salandi, Palpala, etc., originate from these hills and flow through the thick jungles of Simlipal serving as an excellent habitat for many wonderful creatures. The Barehipani (400 M) and Joranda (150 M) waterfalls present a delightful sight. The tall Sal trees found in large numbers add to the natural charm of the place. One could also spot the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger relaxing under the cool shade of trees. The Crocodile Rearing Center at Ramatirtha is an additional attraction.
Entry permit and Timings:
Simlipal remains open from 1st November to 15th July only.
Entry permits can be obtained from the Range Officer, Pithabhata Check Gate or the Assistant Conservator of Forests (Tel.: 06797-252240) at Jashipur on payment prescribed fee.
Day visitors can enter between 6 AM and 12 Noon and visitors with reservation between 6 AM & 2 PM.
Fees for operating different type of cameras inside the Sanctuary:
Still Camera:
- Amateur Photographer – India Citizen: Rs. 20/- per camera for 1st 3 days & Rs. 10/- for each additional day. Foreign National: Rs. 100/- per camera for the 1st 3 days and Rs. 40/- for each additional day.
- Professional Photographer – Indian: Rs. 200/- per camera/day. Foreigner: Rs. 1000/- per camera/day.
Cine Camera smaller than 35mm:
- Amateur Photographer- Indian: Rs. 200/- per camera/day. Foreign National: Rs. 1000/- per camera/day.
- Professional Umatic/ 16 mm feature – Indian Citizen: Rs. 1,000/- per camera/day. Foreign National: Rs. 10,000 per camera/day.
35mm & above (feature):
Indian Citizen: Rs. 2,000/- per camera/day. Foreign National: Rs. 10,000 per camera/day.
Documentary / Wildlife:
Indian Citizen: Rs. 5,000/- per camera/day. Foreign National: Rs. 20,000 per camera/day.
Besides the splendid attraction that Simlipal offers, a few other places of tourist interest can be visited around Simlipal.
Khiching: (149 KM from Baripada and 55 KM from Jashipur) 
It famous for the shrine of Kichakeswari and stone crafts.
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Last Updated on Monday, 20 September 2010 00:26
