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SANCTUARY SPOTLIGHT

Similipal Tiger Reserve

Lush green forests, grasslands, sparkling cataracts and rivers, tigers, elephants, deer, flying squirrels ... there is so much to take in at the Similipal Tiger Reserve, Orissa. The vegetation ranges from dry deciduous to moist green forests, and this supports different species of flora and fauna. About 1,076 species of mammals, 29 types of reptiles and 231 species of birds make their home here. Several rivers like Budhabalanga, Khairi, Salandi and Palpala, wind their way through the forest and culminate in rapids and falls. Similipal is open from November 1 to June 15.

Area

2750 sq. km of which 303 sq. km is the core area,

Also visit

The waterfalls at Barehipani and Joranda, the crocodile rearing centre at Ramtirtha near Jashipur and Khiching that is famous for the shrine of Kichakeswari and stone crafts. Chandipur is a unique beach resort.

Deokund is enchanting with a series of waterfalls.

How to go

You can enter Similipal through Pithabata (22 km from Baripada). Entry permits can be obtained from the Range Officer, Pithabata check gate. Day visitors can enter between 6 a.m. and 12 noon and visitors with reservation between 6 A.m. and 2 p.m.

Similipal is 170 km from Bhubaneswar, 240 from Kolkata, 60 km from Balasore and 22 km from Pithabata

The other entry point Jashipur is 94 km from Baripada on N.H. 6. Both places are well connected by bus. Taxis and jeeps are available.

By Rail - The nearest railhead is Balasore (60 km), served by major trains running on the South-Eastern sector.

By Air - Nearest airports are Bhubaneswar (270 km) and Kolkata (240 km)

Accomodation

Aranyanivas at Lulung has 8 double rooms and 2 dormitories, while Panthasala at Bangiriposi (35 km from Baripada) has 4 double rooms. For reservation, contact Tourist Office, Baripada. Call 06792-252710, 252593 or 0674-2432177.

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