Odisha’s Similipal Tiger Reserve reopens for tourists; timings, entry rules revised

The Similipal Tiger Reserve in Mayurbhanj district reopened to visitors on Saturday, marking the start of the new tourist season after a prolonged closure during the monsoon.

The reserve resumed operations later than usual this year due to extended rainfall that delayed road repairs and preparations inside the park.

Tourist Entry Capped, Timings Revised

According to the revised guidelines, a total of 60 vehicles will be permitted to enter the reserve each day, with 35 from the Jashipur gate and 25 through the Pithabata check gate near Baripada.

Reports added that tourists can enter through Jashipur between 5 am and 9 am, and through Pithabata between 8 am and 9 am, with mandatory exit before 6 pm. Only vehicles with a minimum ground clearance of 180 mm are being allowed, while heavy vehicles remain barred from entry.

Mandatory Guide And Undertaking

Visitors must present valid identity proof and submit a written undertaking to comply with all park regulations. Hiring a registered guide has been made compulsory for all safaris.

Any violation of the rules will invite penal action under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. The wildlife wing has clarified that the restrictions aim to ensure safety and minimise ecological disturbance inside the core and buffer zones of the reserve.

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Improved Facilities

Authorities said that around 1,000 km of internal roads damaged by rain have been repaired ahead of reopening. Tourists can now visit popular eco-tourism spots like Jamuani, Barehipani, Gurguria, Kumari, and Ramtirtha spread across the buffer region.

Morning jeep safaris will operate from 5:30 am for five hours, while afternoon safaris will begin at 2 pm and continue for four hours.

It is worth noting that Odisha’s Similipal Tiger Reserve is India’s fourth-largest tiger reserve and the only habitat of melanistic (black-striped) tigers in the world, drawing visitors from all across the globe.