Baripada: The picturesque Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR) and National Park will be reopened to tourists from November 2 after being shut for the rainy season, official sources said on Sunday.
The important tourist destination in Mayurbhanj district remained closed ahead of the onset of monsoons since June 15.
"The closure date of STR is fixed, but reopening depends upon the prevailing weather condition," field director of STR Anup Kumar Nayak said.
There are two entry points to the sprawling STR, one through Kaliani check post from Jashipur side and the other through Pithabata from Baripada side.
Although two points have been opened to facilitate smooth entry of tourists, certain limitations are imposed which include the number of vehicles entering the STR every day and the timing of entry and exit, Nayak said.
While a maximum of 40 four-wheelers are allowed from Kaliani check post after verification of documents, from Pithabada check post only 20 four-wheelers are allowed. No other heavy vehicle is allowed inside from either side for the safety of animals inside the sanctuary, he said.
A strict schedule is maintained as far as entry and exit of tourists. All the tourists with their vehicles are allowed from 6 AM to 9 AM and they are required to start leaving the spots inside the STR by 3 PM to make exit through both the check posts latest by 5 PM, Nayak said.
The scenic spots in the STR, which attract scores of visitors every year include Chahala, Badheipani, Jaranda, Naana, Gududia and Jamuani.
Though there used to be night staying facilities at forest rest houses, it has been done away with for security reasons following violent Maoist attacks on forest department beat houses on May 29, 2009.
However, the authorities allow night stay at two forest rest houses - Gududia and Jamuani - which is close to the gates, Nayak added.