Baripada, Oct 15: The Similipal Tiger Reserve will reopen to visitors on October 18, marking the start of the 2025–26 tourist season.

The reserve will be open for day tourism under specific guidelines to ensure safety and conservation, said Field Director Prakash Chand Gogineni.

A total of 60 four-wheelers will be permitted entry each day — 35 through Jashipur and 25 through the Pithabata Check Gate in Baripada. Only vehicles with a minimum ground clearance of 180 mm will be allowed.

Private vehicles can enter between 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM at the Pithabata gate, and between 5:00 AM and 9:00 AM via Jashipur. All visitors must exit the reserve by 6:00 PM, as per the guidelines.

Entry permits can be booked online at www.similipal.org, and valid photo identification must be presented at the gate. Tourists are required to follow all existing rules and regulations — violations will attract legal action.

Security checks for vehicles, passengers, and luggage will be conducted at both entry and exit points. Visitors must leave Joranda and Barehipani waterfalls before 4:00 PM, and a licensed guide is mandatory for every vehicle entering the reserve.

The Open Jeep Wildlife Safari, operated by local Eco Development Committees (EDCs), can be booked online at www.ecotourodisha.com. Safari trips will be available from Gudugudia, Pithabata, Jamuani, Talabandha, and Barehipani. Morning safaris will run from 5:30 AM to 10:30 AM, while evening safaris will be from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM.

Authorities have stated that the reserve may be closed temporarily in case of adverse weather conditions.