Similipal is one of India’s largest and oldest tiger reserves, a vast sal forest on a plateau in northern Odisha. It’s also the only place in the wild where you’ll find tigers with unusually dark, merged stripes, often called black tigers. Scientists have linked the trait to a genetic variation found in this small, isolated population.
Beyond the tigers, Similipal is simply beautiful: rivers, grasslands and two of Odisha’s highest waterfalls, Barehipani and Joranda, tumbling off the plateau.
In this guide
Similipal quick facts
| Location | Mayurbhanj district, Odisha |
|---|---|
| Area | About 2,750 sq km (tiger reserve) |
| Established | Tiger reserve 1973 (among the first nine) |
| Famous for | Pseudo melanistic (black striped) tigers, waterfalls, sal forest |
| Best time | November to March |
| Nearest town | Pithabata (near Baripada) and Kalikaprasad (near Jashipur) |
| Safari types | Jeep drives with Forest Department permission |
Why visit Similipal?
Similipal is perfect for travellers who love forests, waterfalls and the thrill of a less visited reserve. Don't come expecting easy tiger photos. Do come for the scenery and the sense of wilderness.Wildlife in Similipal
Similipal’s huge sal forest supports a wide mix of species.
Tiger
Similipal’s tigers include the famous dark striped individuals, but the forest is dense and sightings are rare.
Asian elephant
Elephants are common and often seen along the forest roads.
Gaur and deer
Gaur, sambar, chital and barking deer.
Birds and reptiles
Hornbills, mugger crocodiles in the rivers and many forest birds.
Similipal safari zones
Visitors enter Similipal from two main gates and drive through the forest along set routes.
Pithabata gate
The entry near Baripada, on the eastern side.
Kalikaprasad gate
The entry near Jashipur, on the western side.
Barehipani and Joranda falls
The two famous waterfalls inside the reserve.
Chahala and Gudgudia
Forest areas with meadows and good wildlife viewing.
Safari types and timings
Visitors drive through the reserve in permitted vehicles with a guide. Entry is managed by the Odisha Forest Department, with a daily limit on vehicles.How to book a Similipal safari
Safari permits for Similipal are issued by the Odisha Forest Department, with a fixed number of vehicles allowed in each zone and shift. You can also arrange entry directly with the Forest Department.
Entry permits are issued by the Forest Department and the reserve usually opens from 1 November. Night stays inside are limited and need advance booking.
If you’d rather not deal with portals, zone choices and timings yourself, we can plan the trip and apply for permits on your behalf, then arrange your stay, vehicle and guide. Government fees are charged at actuals and our service charges are listed separately in your quote, so you always know what you’re paying for. See our Cancellation and Refund Policy.
Best time to visit Similipal
November to February
Cool and clear, with waterfalls still flowing. The best time to visit.
March to June
Hot. Better chances of mammals near water, but waterfalls shrink.
Mid June to October
The reserve is usually closed for the monsoon.
How to reach Similipal
By air
Bhubaneswar Airport is about 250 km away; Kolkata is around 270 km.
By train
Baripada is the nearest major station.
By road
About 5 to 6 hours from Bhubaneswar.
Where to stay near Similipal
There are a few eco cottages managed by the Forest Department inside and around the reserve, plus hotels in Baripada and Jashipur.Suggested Similipal itinerary
Here’s a simple plan that works for most first time visitors. We’ll tailor it to your dates and interests.
- Day 1: Drive from Bhubaneswar or Kolkata to Baripada.
- Day 2: Enter through Pithabata, visit Barehipani and Joranda falls, stay inside if permitted.
- Day 3: Explore Chahala meadows and exit via Jashipur.
Tips from our safari team
- Start early; distances inside the reserve are long.
- Carry food and water, as there are few facilities inside.
- Bring a good camera for the waterfalls as well as wildlife.
- Wear muted greens, browns or khaki, and skip perfume. Bright colours and strong smells can disturb animals.
- Carry your original photo ID. It must match the name on your permit.
- Keep your voice low and never ask the driver to go off the track or crowd an animal.
Similipal packages
Ready made trips you can book as they are or adjust to your dates. Prices are confirmed in a written, itemised quote.
Photos of Similipal
Similipal safari FAQs
Are there black tigers in Similipal?
Yes. Similipal is the only place in the wild with tigers that have unusually dark, merged stripes, known as pseudo melanistic tigers. They are rarely seen.
When does Similipal open?
The reserve usually opens on 1 November and closes in mid June for the monsoon.
Which waterfalls are in Similipal?
Barehipani and Joranda are the two best known waterfalls inside the reserve.
How far is Similipal from Bhubaneswar?
About 250 km, around five to six hours by road.
Is Eagle Safaris the official booking website for Similipal?
No. Eagle Safaris is a private travel company. Permits for Similipal are issued by the Odisha Forest Department. We plan your trip and can apply on your behalf, with our service charges shown separately.
