Baripada, Oct 16: Here’s good news for nature enthusiasts! Odisha’s renowned Similipal Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its rich biodiversity and scenic beauty, will reopen for tourists starting October 18. The Forest Department has geared up to welcome visitors with renewed preparations and enhanced guidelines.
To ensure ecological balance and smooth operations, a daily cap of 60 four-wheelers has been set for entry into the sanctuary. Of these, 35 vehicles will be allowed entry through Jashipur and Kalikaprasad gates, while 25 vehicles can enter via the Pithabata-Tanakhi gate near Baripada.
Entry timings have been fixed to manage crowd movement:
• Jashipur Gate: 5:00 AM to 9:00 AM
• Pithabata-Tanakhi Gate: 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM
All tourists must exit the sanctuary by 6:00 PM.
According to officials, entry permits will be issued exclusively through the official website. Furthermore, entry into the tiger project area mandates the presence of a trained guide with every vehicle. Any violation of the sanctuary's rules and guidelines will attract penalties under existing laws.
In addition, wildlife safaris in open jeeps—operated by the local Eco-Development Committee—will be available to tourists, but advance online booking is mandatory.
Two safari slots have been scheduled daily:
• Morning Safari: Starts at 5:30 AM and lasts up to 5 hours
• Afternoon Safari: Begins at 2:00 PM and concludes within 4 hours
For those planning an overnight stay, advance booking of accommodations is also required.
Similipal, a UNESCO-recognized biosphere reserve, attracts thousands of visitors every year for its lush forests, wildlife, and tranquil environment. The sanctuary’s reopening is expected to boost eco-tourism in the region while ensuring conservation efforts remain intact.
