Bhubaneswar: In a welcome move for nature lovers and the tourism industry, the Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR) in Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district has reopened earlier than usual this year. The decision comes after favorable weather conditions and completion of road restoration work inside the reserve following the monsoon season.
The Similipal Tiger Reserve, one of India’s largest and most scenic tiger habitats, draws thousands of visitors every year with its rich biodiversity, picturesque landscapes, and cascading waterfalls such as Barehipani and Joranda.
A senior forest department official confirmed that all necessary preparations have been completed to ensure a safe and smooth experience for visitors.
“We are happy to welcome tourists back to Similipal ahead of schedule this year. The reopening will help promote eco-tourism and benefit local communities dependent on the sector,” the official said.
Entry and Booking Details
Tourists can access the reserve through the Pithabata gate near Baripada and Jamuani gate near Karanjia. Visiting hours are from 6:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with a fixed daily limit on vehicle entries to prevent overcrowding and protect wildlife.
Visitors are encouraged to book their trips online through the Odisha Forest Department’s eco-tourism portal. Overnight stays are available at designated eco-cottages and nature camps in locations such as Barehipani, Joranda, Kumari, Gurguria, and Ramatirtha.
Focus on Safety and Conservation
The forest department has stepped up patrolling and deployed additional guards across both core and buffer zones to ensure visitor safety and wildlife protection. Road safety inspections and necessary repairs have also been completed to facilitate smoother access to popular tourist routes.
Officials have urged visitors to strictly follow eco-tourism guidelines, maintain cleanliness, and avoid littering or causing any disturbance to wildlife.
Boost for Local Economy
The early reopening of Similipal is expected to provide a much-needed boost to the local economy, especially for tribal and forest-dependent communities involved in eco-tourism, handicrafts, and hospitality services. The longer tourist season will offer extended livelihood opportunities to these groups.
Spread over 2,750 square kilometers, Similipal is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including Royal Bengal tigers, elephants, leopards, deer, and rare orchids. The reserve is also part of the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves, highlighting its global ecological significance.
Eco-Tourism Push
With improved infrastructure and better facilities, the forest department expects an increase in tourist footfall this year. The reopening of Similipal aligns with the Odisha government’s broader efforts to promote sustainable and responsible tourism that supports conservation and local livelihoods alike.
