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Simlipal National Park

Simlipal National Park

wildlife park · Odisha

Simlipal National Park, in the Mayurbhanj district of Odisha, is a tiger reserve and biosphere reserve set among rolling sal forests, plateaus and waterfalls.

State
Odisha
Type
Wildlife Park

Simlipal National Park, in the Mayurbhanj district of Odisha, is a tiger reserve and biosphere reserve set among rolling sal forests, plateaus and waterfalls. It is one of the few places associated with rare melanistic (black) tigers, and also shelters elephants, leopards and gaur, along with the Barehipani and Joranda waterfalls.

When to go

November to mid-June is the visiting season; winter and spring are pleasant, with the reserve closing during the monsoon.

Why visit

The only place on earth with black tigers — pseudo-melanistic, where the stripes have run together into slabs. Barehipani is one of India's highest falls. Permits are required and the park shuts through the monsoon.

Cultural notes

Simlipal lies within a UNESCO-recognised biosphere reserve and is home to Adivasi communities; it is among the very few habitats linked to melanistic tigers.

How to reach

By Road and Train: Simlipal is reached via Baripada, the district town, with entry gates at Pithabata and Jashipur. By Air: Bhubaneswar is the nearest major airport, and Kolkata is also a gateway.

Simlipal National Park guide & itineraries

Shopping

Mayurbhanj is known for Sabai grass craft, Dokra metalwork and tribal handicrafts.

Frequently asked questions

What is Simlipal known for?

It is a tiger and biosphere reserve known for rare melanistic (black) tigers, elephants and the Barehipani and Joranda waterfalls.

Do I need a permit for Simlipal?

Yes, entry is regulated and permits are required; access is via gates such as Pithabata and Jashipur near Baripada.

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