Similipal National Park Opens for 2026-27 Tourist Season

Baripada: Similipal National Park has reopened to visitors from November 1, marking the beginning of the 2026-27 tourist season. Nature lovers can once again explore the reserve’s lush forests, waterfalls and rich wildlife, with hopes of spotting the elusive black tiger.

To regulate tourist movement and minimise pressure on the ecosystem, the Similipal authorities have capped daily entry at 60 four-wheelers. Only vehicles with a minimum ground clearance of 180 mm will be allowed inside the park.

Of the permitted vehicles, 35 will enter through the Kaliani gate at Jashipur and 25 through the Pithabata (Lulung) checkpoint near Baripada. Entry at the Jashipur gate will be allowed between 5 am and 9 am, while vehicles can enter through Pithabata between 8 am and 9 am. All visitors must leave the park by 6 pm.

Advance online booking is mandatory and can be made through the official website, www.simlipal.org. Tourists must also take a guide along with each vehicle. Those visiting the popular Joranda and Barehipani waterfalls will have to leave the spots by 4 pm.

For visitors seeking a closer experience of the forest, the Forest Department is also offering open-jeep wildlife safaris and night-stay facilities at designated locations, including Kumari, Gudgudia, Jamuani and Barehipani. Cottage bookings can be made through www.ecotourodisha.com.

The regulations have been framed to ensure a safe and organised tourism experience while safeguarding Similipal’s biodiversity, said the Regional Chief Conservator of Forests-cum-Field Director of Similipal Tiger Reserve, Baripada.

The park witnessed enthusiasm among visitors on the opening day, with tourists looking forward to exploring its wilderness and catching a glimpse of black tigers and other wildlife.