 Similipal
" The Dreamland of Nature of India" |
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SIMILPAL RESERVE FOREST |
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Thick and evergreen forests, extensive grassy
lands and meadow's , cloud kissing peaks, precipitous and sparkling
waterfalls, meandering rivers, roaring tigers and trumpeting tuskers,
fleeing deer and flying squirrels, talking myna and dancing peacocks et al
make Similipal a dreamland of Nature in the wilderness and an
irresistible of Nature in the wilderness and an irresistible destination.
Covering a vast area of 2750 sq. km out of which 303 sq.km form the
core area, this biosphere reserve is a sanctuary and one of the Tiger
Projects and National Parks of India. With wide range of rain falls and
edaphic variations, ranging from dry deciduous to moist green forests, it is |
| suitable to different species of plants, 87 varieties of orchids, 42
species of mammals , 29 types of reptiles and 231 species of birds are the
proud possession of this plateau. |
| Average mean elevation of Similipal is 900
meters. Tall and luxuriant Sal Trees in large numbers stand like sentries.
The handsome peaks of Khairiburu (1178 meters), Meghasani (1158 meters ) and
others welcome like smiling receptionists from the emerald heights, Sweet
scented Champak flowers freshen the air, The richly hued orchids on the
green foliage are soothing to the eyes, In the midst of the dense
forests, the summer stands humbled and the sun gets lost. Several rivers
like Palpala, |
Budhabalanga, Khairi , etc. Originate from the hills and
meander through the forest like veins and arteries in the body. Many of them
have formed cascading rapids and foaming falls before leaving for the
plains. The panoramic view of the waterfalls at Barehipani (400
meters ) and Joranda (250 meter) are simply enchanting, Mahaseer , A
typical variety of fish, is found in abundance in most of the rivers.
The silence of Similipal is occasionally broken by the chirping of the
birds to an avian delight. The dense forest and revering system serve as an
excellent home to some of the most beautiful creatures of the World. To stay
with them, even for a while, is a trilling experience. Herds of elephants
majestically walking across the roads and rivulets could be a regular
sight. While you are moving on the hilly tracts, predators like Tiger and
Leopards might be obliviously lulling under the shade with their own
thoughts. If lucky, you could spot them there or else see them around the
saltlicks at places like Chahala. Forget the apprehensive fear and devour
the sylvan beauty. The nature at Similipal is at its natural best. The crocodile rearing centre at Ramtirtha near
Jashipur is an additional attraction .An epitome of fascinating beauties
Similipal beckons you for a sojourn of its mind boggling interiors. It will
fill your lungs with cool and clean air, your eyes with soothing sights,
your ears with sonorous sounds and your heart with a hypnotic throb. After a
trip., your body is sure to feel rejuvenated . |
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WATERFALL,BAREHIPANI
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| Similipal also provides
succour to thousands of tribal people living on the fringe, A glimpse of the
tribal culture will therefore be a bonus at no extra cost. |
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| Similipal remains open from 1st November to 15 June only |
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PALPALA RIVER, LULUNG, SIMILIPAL |
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Road :-
Baripada, the district headquarters of Mayurbhaj, on the junction of NH 5
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6 , is 270 km from kolkata and 60 km from Balasore and 22 kms. from
Pithabata, which is an entry point. The other entry point Jashipur is 94 km
from Baripada on N.H. 6. Both the places are well connected by regular bus
services. Taxis and Jeeps are available.
Rail :-
Nearest railhead is Balasore (60 km from Baripada), served by major trains
running on the South-Eastern sector.
Air :-
Nearest airports are Bhubaneswar (270 km) and Kolkata (240 km) |
ACCOMMODATION
Orissa Tourism Units
Aranyanniavas at Lulung (3 km from Pithabata) of the OTDC has 8 Double Rooms
and 2 Dormitories (Total 40 Beds).
Panthasala at Bangiriposi (35 km from Baripada on way to Jashipur) has 4
Double Rooms (8 Beds).
Reservation :- Tourist Office, Baripada,
Phone No :- (06792) 252710.
Forest Bungalows
The forest Department also provide accommodation in their Forest Bungalows
inside Similipal at Chahala , Nawana, Joranda, Barehipani, Gudgudia, Jenabil
etc.
Reservation:- Field Directior , Similipal Tiger Reserve, Bhanjapur,
ripada,.Phone No :- (06792) 252553, FAX :- 56705. |
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LOG HOUSE FOR THE TOURISTS |
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Assistant Conservator of Forests, Jashipur.Phone No :- 06792-2474.(Not more
than 60 days and not less than 30 days notice required) Private Hotels
Visitors can also stay at Baripada or Jashipur in private hotels. |
EXCURSION
Similipal in itself offers a complete package. But if you like, visit a few
more places around Similipal.
Khiching (149 km from Baripada and 55 km from Jashipur) is famous for
the shrine of Kichakeswari and Stone Crafts made of different Colour Stones.
There is a Panthasala here.
Chandipur (60 km from Baripada and 16 km from Balasore) is a unique
Beach Resort with a Vanishing sea. The sea water recedes to a distance of
about 5 km twice a day. It is a marvel of Nature, rarely found anywhere.
There is Panthanivas & Yatrinivas of OTDC. There are also private hotels .
Panchalingaswar (85 km from Baripada and 30 km from Balasore) is a
panoramic place on the lap of Nilagiri Hills with a perennial stream flowing
over five Lingams. There is a Panthasala of Orissa Tourism Department
here. |
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TRIBAL WOMEN RETURN FROM
WEEKLY MARKET |
Remuna (60 km from Baripada and 10 km from Balasore)
is famous for the shrine of Khirachora Gopinath, visited by Sri Chaitanya.
Deokund (65 km from Baripada and 110 km from Balasore) is an
enchanting place with a series of waterfalls and a shakti shrine set against
the outer periphery of Similipal. |
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