The Similipal Tiger Reserve in Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district reopened to tourists on Saturday, officially marking the beginning of the new tourist season after remaining closed during the monsoon months.
This year’s reopening was slightly delayed due to extended rainfall, which postponed essential road restoration and safety preparations inside the reserve.
Revised Entry Timings and Rules
As per the new guidelines, only 60 vehicles per day will be permitted to enter the reserve — 35 from the Jashipur gate and 25 from the Pithabata gate near Baripada.
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Entry timings:
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Jashipur Gate: 5:00 AM to 9:00 AM
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Pithabata Gate: 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM
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Exit deadline: All visitors must leave the reserve by 6:00 PM.
Only vehicles with minimum ground clearance of 180 mm are allowed. Heavy vehicles remain prohibited to ensure safety and prevent environmental damage.
Mandatory Guidelines for Tourists
Tourists must carry valid photo identification and submit a written undertaking agreeing to follow all park rules.
Hiring a registered eco-guide is compulsory for all safari trips.
Any violation of these rules will attract penalties under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
Officials said the updated rules are aimed at maintaining visitor safety and minimising ecological disturbance in the reserve’s core and buffer zones.
Improved Infrastructure and Tourist Facilities
Ahead of reopening, forest authorities repaired nearly 1,000 km of internal roads damaged by heavy monsoon rain.
Tourists can now explore several scenic eco-tourism destinations inside the reserve, including Jamuani, Barehipani, Gurguria, Kumari, and Ramtirtha.
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Morning safaris: 5:30 AM to 10:30 AM
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Afternoon safaris: 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM
About Similipal Tiger Reserve
Similipal Tiger Reserve is India’s fourth-largest tiger reserve and the only known habitat of melanistic (black-striped) tigers in the world.
The reserve attracts wildlife lovers, researchers, and eco-tourists from across India and abroad for its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes.
