Simlipal which got its name from the ‘Simul’ or Silk Cotton tree is a national park and Tiger Reserve located in the northern part of Orissa’s Mayurbhanj district. It is known as one of the nine tiger reserves present in India and has earned distinction for both its national park and Tiger Reserve designations. Simlipal boasts the title of being India’s largest wildlife sanctuary, and in 1973, it gained importance by becoming an integral part of the Tiger Project.Â
See also: Places To Visit In Odisha
Key factsÂ
- Area: 2,750 sq km
- Established: 1980
- Governing Body: Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India
- State: Odisha
- Terrain: Thick and green forests, rivers,Â
- Average elevation: 816 m
- Major rivers –Â Lakshman tirtha, Nagar Hole, Sarati Hole, Kabini River, Balle Halla
- Wildlife: Bengal tiger, Asian elephant, chausingha, gaur, and many more.
- Birdlife: Red junglefowl, peafowl, hill mynah, Alexandrine parakeet, crested serpent eagle, and many more.
- Best time to visit: February to December
- Open timing: 6 AM – 9 PM
- Entry fee: Rs 100Â
- Nearest railway station: Balasort Junction (76 km)
- Nearest airport: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (240 km)
Location of Simlipal National Park
Simlipal boasts a population of 99 royal Bengal tigers and 432 wild elephants. The Simlipal Elephant Reserve forms a comprehensive ecosystem, encompassing forest vegetation primarily composed of sal trees, diverse fauna, and the neighboring Ho/Santhal tribal settlements. The park is encircled by elevated plateaus and hills, with the highest peaks being the paired summits of Khairiburu and Meghashini. Across the plain area, a minimum of twelve rivers traverse the landscape, all ultimately flowing into the Bay of Bengal. Notable among these waterways are Burhabalanga, Palpala Bandan, Salandi, Kahairi, and Deo.
Address: Bhanjpur, Baripada, Odisha-757002
How to reach Simlipal National Park?
By train
The nearest railway station is Balasore Junction located 114 km away from the park is connected with all the important cities and from there take any taxi, bus, or car to reach the park.Â
By air
The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport whose distance is about 195km, there is a lot of public transportation available to reach the park.Â
By road
The place is easily accessible by major roads and highways, NH5 and NH6 are the nearest major highways that are joined at Baripada located 60 km away from Simlipal Park.
Things to explore in Simlipal National Park
Devakunda Waterfall
Best season: Monsoon season
Devakunda Waterfall seems to be ‘the bathing spot of gods.’ This waterfall has a height of 51 foot is a beauty of nature, and is known for its crystal-clear water coming down from the hills.
Barehipani Falls
Opening : November 1 to June 15
The Barehipani Falls is one of the highest waterfalls in India located in the Simlipal National Park, and presents a two-tiered structure. It originates from the highest point of the reserve, the Meghasani Peak, and it shows a breathtaking view located 400m from the ground. The surrounding area of Barehipani Waterfall is regarded as the most scenic part of the reserve, covered by the lush green backdrop of the dense forest. Tourists can also take a dip in the pond formed by the waterfall and enjoy some moments.
Jaranda Falls
Best time to visit: March to November
The Jaranda Falls, located at a height of 150 meter, offers yet another picturesque view within Simlipal National Park. Situated in the core area amidst the dense forest, this waterfall captivates observers with its beauty. The water droplets and the pleasant sound of the fall, with the vegetation background, create a beautiful ambiance.Â
Chahala
Best Season: June to November
Chahala is a renowned wildlife sighting spot located inside Simlipal National Park. Bengal Tiger often roams around this place and also comes in front of tourists, with that there are elephants, deer, peacocks, and various other animals that also visit this area, making it a notable destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
Where to stay around Simlipal National Park?
Aranya Nivas Lulung
Location – Lulung
Avg Price – Rs 7,240 per night
This hotel offers luxurious rooms with indoor games, outdoor activities, an expansive pool, and a multi-cuisine restaurant. It also provides a bonfire to spend some time in the evening enjoying with friends and family.Â
Sitakund Forest Resort
Location – Baripada
Avg Price – Rs 1,034 per night
The place offers multiple facilities which include parking, 24*7 room service, air conditioning rooms, and Housekeeping. It is located at a distance of 1.1 km from the park and offers big rooms within budget.Â
Similipal Eco Retreat riverside cottage
Location – Baripada
Avg Price – Rs 3,197
The lodge has a barbeque facility, a caretaker, free parking, housekeeping, a luxurious room with air conditioning, and 24*7 free Wi-Fi. The lodge comes with a bar that offers multiple drinks options so anyone can spend free time enjoying drinks with barbeque.Â
Real estate around Simlipal National Park
Residential impact around Simlipal National Park
Balasore which is near Simlipal National Park is like many other towns in India, it has a mix of residential properties including apartments, independent houses, and plotted developments. The residential real estate market is influenced by factors like location, amenities, connectivity, and nearby famous parks.
Commercial impact around Simlipal National Park
Balasore has an increased real estate landscape due to its closeness to tourist places like the Simlipal National Park such attractions are leading to increased demand for properties in the area. The town serves as a commercial center for the surrounding areas, properties like shops, offices, and spaces for businesses have shown a recent hike.Â
Price range of properties near Simlipal National Park
| Location | Size | Type | Price |
| Balia | 870 sqft | Residential Plot | Rs 8 Lakh |
| Balia | 2180 sqft | Residential Plot | Rs 8.5 Lakh |
Source: Housing.com
FAQs
Simlipal National Park stands out as India's largest wildlife sanctuary and has held the status of a Tiger Reserve since 1973.
The management of Simlipal falls under the purview of the Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India.
The most favorable period for a visit to Simlipal National Park spans from February to December.
Simlipal National Park is open from 6 AM to 9 PM.
A fee of Rs 100 is the entry charge for the park.
The closest railway station, Balasore Junction, is situated 76 km away.
Indeed, accommodations such as Aranya Nivas Lulung, Sitakund Forest Resort, and Similipal Eco Retreat riverside cottage offer diverse facilities for visitors. What is the significance of Simlipal National Park?
Who governs Simlipal National Park?
When is the best time to visit Simlipal?
What are the park's open timings?
What is the entry fee for Simlipal National Park?
Which is the nearest railway station to Simlipal?
Are there accommodations near Simlipal National Park?
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