Wildlife in Orissa is not only about Nandan Kanan Zoo but the state also has a number of wildlife sanctuaries. Simlipal National Park in Orissa is one of the wonderful wildlife sanctuaries in Orissa. Situated about 320 kilometers from Bhubaneshwar, the capital of Orissa, the Simlipal National Park comes under the Mayurbhanj district. The thick forest of the park is believed to have 95 tigers and other species of birds and animals.
The national park, which is also a tiger reserve has deciduous forest and is rinsed by 12 rivers. The park also has a number of waterfalls that offer a picturesque view. Barehipani waterfall is a beautiful fall that tumbles down from 400 metres height. Joranda is another cascading waterfall falling down from 150 metres.
The core area of the park is about 850 square kilometres, which is home to tigers. While it is difficult to spot a tiger, if luck is not on your side, however you can spot other animals like elephants, sloth bears, leopards, deer, gaur bison, reptiles, langurs and crocodiles. The park is also home to more than 200 species of birds.
The park is a floral treasure. There are about 501 species of plants that belong to some 102 families. You can also find about 82 species of orchids in the park.
You can include some nearby tourist attraction on your itinerary on your tour to Simlipal National Park. You can travel to Bhubaneshwar and other places near Simlipal.
Travel Tips
Prior travel information will help you in making you tour a smooth affair. Entry permits are required to visit the park. One needs to apply in advance for permits. The permit can be obtained from Field Director, Simlipal Tiger Project.
Climate
Summers are quite hot and temperature goes up to 40ºC. Winters are pleasantly cool and temperature dips to 14ºC.
How To Reach
Jameshedpur is the nearest airport while the nearest railhead is Baripada, which is about 50 kilometres from Simlipal. Simlipal is well connected by road with other parts of the country. You can take bus or taxi from Baripada to reach Simlipal.
You can stay at forest guest houses in the Simlipal Hills. Accommodation is also available at Barehapani, Newana, Joranda and Joshipur.
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