Similipal Tiger Reserve to Reopen on November 1

CNB WORLD TIMES

Similipal Tiger Reserve in Mayurbhanj district of Odisha will reopen to tourists on November 1, 2026, for the 2026–27 tourism season. The reopening marks the end of the annual monsoon closure, which began on June 29.

According to an official notification dated October 9, 2026, issued by the Field Director of Similipal Tiger Reserve-cum-Regional Chief Conservator of Forests, Baripada, tourists will once again be allowed to explore the reserve from November 1.

Spread across approximately 2,750 square kilometres, Similipal is one of India’s richest biodiversity regions and the largest protected area in Odisha. The reserve is known for its dense sal forests, scenic valleys, waterfalls and mountainous landscapes. Peaks such as Khairiburu and Meghashini rise to more than 1,500 metres.

Similipal is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including tigers, elephants, leopards and deer. It also forms an important part of the Similipal Biosphere Reserve, attracting nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts and tourists from across the country.

Tourist activities are suspended during the monsoon season for safety reasons and to allow the forest ecosystem to recover. Visitors will be able to explore the reserve again after the reopening, subject to the rules issued by forest authorities.

Entry Guidelines for Tourists

Forest authorities have introduced several rules to regulate tourist entry and protect wildlife.

·         Daily vehicle limit: A maximum of 60 vehicles will be allowed into the reserve each day.

·         Jashipur entry gate: Up to 35 vehicles can enter daily through the Jashipur gate, also known as the Kaliani or Kalikaprasad gate. Entry is permitted between 5 am and 9 am.

·         Pithabata entry gate: Up to 25 vehicles can enter daily through the Pithabata gate on the Baripada side. Entry is permitted between 8 am and 9 am.

·         Vehicle requirements: Only light vehicles with a minimum ground clearance of 180 mm are permitted inside the reserve.

·         Prohibited vehicles: Hatchbacks, sedans, two-wheelers, three-wheelers, buses and heavy trucks are not allowed.

·         Mandatory tourist guides: Every tourist vehicle must be accompanied by a registered forest department guide.

·         Identity documents: Visitors must produce valid identity proof at the entry gate and submit a written undertaking to follow wildlife protection rules.

·         Exit deadline: Day visitors must leave the reserve by 6 pm. Visitors must leave the Barehipani and Joranda waterfall areas by 4 pm for safety reasons.

How to Book Tickets and Safaris

Tourists can obtain day-visit permits through the official Similipal Tiger Reserve booking portal. Reservations for overnight stays at forest nature camps and open-jeep safaris can be made through the Odisha Eco-Tourism booking portal.

Visitors are advised to check the latest entry conditions, availability and booking procedures through the official portals before travelling.

With its rich wildlife, scenic waterfalls and extensive forests, Similipal is expected to welcome nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts again during the 2026–27 tourism season.