Similipal Tiger Reserve Reopens with Stricter Entry Rules and Enhanced Eco-Tourism Facilities
The Similipal Tiger Reserve in Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district has officially reopened to tourists, marking the start of the new season after its annual monsoon closure.
This year’s reopening was delayed due to prolonged rainfall, which hampered road restoration and safety preparations.
Forest officials have introduced revised entry protocols to ensure visitor safety and minimise ecological disruption.
Only 60 vehicles will be allowed daily—35 through the Jashipur gate and 25 via the Pithabata gate near Baripada. Entry timings are staggered: 5:00 AM to 9:00 AM for Jashipur and 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM for Pithabata. All visitors must exit the reserve by 6:00 PM.
To preserve the reserve’s delicate ecosystem, only vehicles with a minimum ground clearance of 180 mm are permitted, and heavy vehicles remain banned. Tourists must carry a valid photo ID and submit a written undertaking to follow park rules.
Hiring a registered eco-guide is now mandatory for all safari trips, with violations punishable under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
Ahead of the reopening, forest authorities repaired nearly 1,000 km of internal roads damaged by monsoon rains.
Visitors can now explore scenic eco-tourism destinations such as Jamuani, Barehipani, Gurguria, Kumari, and Ramtirtha.
Morning safaris run from 5:30 AM to 10:30 AM, while afternoon slots are available from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
Similipal is India’s fourth-largest tiger reserve and the only known habitat of melanistic (black-striped) tigers. Its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes continue to attract wildlife enthusiasts, researchers, and eco-tourists from across the globe.
