Similipal Tiger Reserve In Odisha Welcomes Wildlife Enthusiasts After 4 Months

After a four-month hiatus, the Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR) in Odisha has officially reopened its gates to wildlife enthusiasts, providing a much-anticipated opportunity to explore its stunning biodiversity. The reserve, known for its rich flora and fauna, welcomed 151 visitors across 36 vehicles on its first day back in operation

Wildlife Safari Services For Tourists

Due to the monsoon season, STR had closed its doors to tourists on June 12, prioritizing the preservation of its delicate ecosystem. Now, with the arrival of clearer skies, the reserve is ready to showcase its natural wonders once more. This year marks a significant development, as the STR authorities have introduced wildlife safari facilities for the first time, allowing visitors to experience the reserve in a guided, eco-friendly manner.

Visitors are required to pre-book their safari vehicles through the Odisha Eco Tourism web portal, ensuring an organized and sustainable approach to wildlife viewing. Safari operations run for five hours in the morning, starting at 5:30 AM, and four hours in the afternoon, beginning at 3 PM. Guests can enter through the Kaliani entry point in Jashipur between 6 AM and 12 PM or the Pithabata entry point in the Baripada division from 11 AM to 1 PM.

To enhance safety and conservation efforts, each tourist vehicle is mandated to have a trained guide during the visit. Guests must exit the reserve via the Kalikaprasad check gate by 6 PM. In the event of a mechanical issue with any vehicle inside the park, occupants will be charged ₹4,000 for assistance and will need to use reserve-provided vehicles.

Covering 2,750 square kilometers, Similipal is home to diverse plant species and 96 types of orchids. The reserve boasts a rich array of wildlife, including rare melanistic tigers, Royal Bengal tigers, leopards, Asian elephants, and various deer species. As STR opens its doors once again, it promises a unique adventure for nature lovers and wildlife photographers alike.