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Introduction
Similipal National Park in Odisha is one of India’s most celebrated national parks. Located in the Mayurbhanj (Baripada) district, Similipal National Park in Mayurbhanj is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve famous for Barehipani Waterfalls and Melanistic (Black) Tigers.
Quick Facts
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| State | Odisha |
| Districts | Mayurbhanj (Baripada) |
| Year of Notification | 1980 (National Park, Tiger Reserve & UNESCO Biosphere Reserve) |
| Total Area | 845.70 sq km core (2,750 sq km biosphere reserve) |
| Landscape | Sal forests, plateau grasslands, deep gorges, and roaring waterfalls. |
| Major Rivers & Waterbodies | Budhabalanga River, Khairi River, Deo River, and Palpala River (Barehipani & Joranda Waterfalls) |
| Nearest Airport | Bhubaneswar Airport (BBI) – 250 km / Kolkata Airport – 240 km |
| Nearest Railway Station | Baripada Railway Station (BPO) – 60 km / Balasore Junction – 90 km |
| Best Time to Visit | November to June |
Location
The national park lies in the Mayurbhanj (Baripada) region of Odisha. Entry gates at Pithabata (Baripada) and Jashipur.
History
Declared a Tiger Reserve in 1973, National Park in January 1980, and UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2009.
Landscape, Geography & Habitat
Covering an expansive area of 845.70 sq km core (2,750 sq km biosphere reserve), the park’s terrain features Sal forests, plateau grasslands, deep gorges, and roaring waterfalls.
Flora
Dominant vegetation and floral species include: Sal forests, plateau grasslands, deep gorges, and roaring waterfalls.
Fauna
Primary Mammals & Key Species: Royal Bengal Tiger (famous Melanistic/Black Tigers!), Asian Elephant, Gaur (Indian Bison), Leopard, Sambar, Barking Deer, Sloth Bear, Four-horned Antelope, and King Cobra.
Other Wild Animals & Wildlife
Avifauna & Bird Species: Records over 230 bird species including Malabar Pied Hornbill, Hill Myna, Peacock, Crested Serpent Eagle, Grey Hornbill, and Red Junglefowl.
Rivers & Water Bodies
The lifeline of Similipal National Park is sustained by: Budhabalanga River, Khairi River, Deo River, and Palpala River (Barehipani & Joranda Waterfalls).
Other Attractions
Major nearby tourist attractions, historic monuments, and viewpoints include: Barehipani Waterfall (399 m height – 2nd highest in India, 35 km), Joranda Waterfall (150 m), Baripada Town (60 km), Khiching Temple (75 km).
Weather & Climate
Continental climate (8°C to 40°C).
How to Reach
- Nearest Airport: Bhubaneswar Airport (BBI) – 250 km / Kolkata Airport – 240 km
- Nearest Railway Station: Baripada Railway Station (BPO) – 60 km / Balasore Junction – 90 km
- Road Connectivity: Entry gates at Pithabata (Baripada) and Jashipur.
Best Time to Visit
The optimal tourism season for wildlife viewing in Similipal National Park is from November to June.
Accommodation
Odisha Forest Department Eco-tourism Cottages at Kumari, Jamuani & Gudgudia.. Advance booking through official State Tourism or Forest Department portals is highly recommended.
Conservation Highlights
World’s ONLY wild habitat housing rare Melanistic (pseudo-melanistic black-striped) Tigers.
Visitor Tips
Visit Barehipani Waterfall viewpoint inside the core park area.
Did You Know?
- The ONLY place on Earth where rare wild Melanistic (Black) Tigers are found.
- Contains Barehipani Waterfall (399 meters), the 2nd highest waterfall in India.
- Derives its name from ‘Simul’ (Red Silk Cotton) trees blooming across the forest.
Last Updated: August 2026