Simlipal National Park

ସିମ୍ଲିପାଳ ନେଶନାଲ ପାର୍କ

A vast biosphere reserve and tiger sanctuary in northern Odisha featuring dense forests, scenic waterfalls, and diverse wildlife including Bengal tigers, elephants, and numerous bird species. The park offers trekking, safari tours, and camping for nature enthusiasts.

Things to do

• Barehipani Waterfall Trek — Hike through dense forest to witness the stunning 399-meter cascade of Barehipani, one of India's highest waterfalls, best visited during monsoon season.
• Dhavaleshwar Temple Visit — Explore the ancient hilltop temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located within park boundaries, offering panoramic views of the surrounding forests.
• Tiger and Elephant Safari — Embark on guided jeep or elephant-back safaris through the biosphere reserve to spot Bengal tigers, Asian elephants, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
• Jorandasahi Cave Exploration — Visit this prehistoric cave site featuring ancient rock paintings and archaeological significance, situated within the park's boundaries.
• Kali Temple Forest Trekking — Trek through biodiverse forest sections leading to the sacred Kali Temple, observing endemic plant species and bird populations along the route.
• Chandipur Beach Day Trip — Take a day excursion from the park to nearby Chandipur Beach, famous for its receding tidal phenomenon and pristine coastal landscape.
• Bird Watching Expedition — Conduct early morning bird-watching sessions to observe over 440 bird species including eagles, hornbills, and endemic species across various ecosystems.

Food to try

• Chhena Poda — A traditional Odia dessert made from fresh cottage cheese, caramelized with jaggery and condensed milk, widely available in nearby towns.
• Dalma — A nutritious Odia vegetable and lentil stew typically served with rice, representing authentic local cuisine and comfort food.
• Odia Fish Curry — Locally caught freshwater fish cooked in a coconut-based or mustard oil gravy with traditional spices, reflecting regional culinary traditions.
• Khichdi and Ghee — A simple rice and lentil preparation drizzled with pure ghee, commonly served at local eateries and guesthouses within the park area.
• Pakhala Bhata — Fermented rice soaked in water served during summer months with accompaniments like fried eggplant and onions, a traditional Odia refreshment.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Sacred Sites — Remove footwear and maintain respectful behavior when visiting temples like Dhavaleshwar and Kali Temple, as they hold spiritual significance for local communities.
• Hire Local Guides — Engage experienced local guides who possess deep knowledge of wildlife behavior, forest trails, and cultural history, enhancing both safety and authenticity.
• Wildlife Conservation Ethics — Maintain distance from animals, avoid loud noises, and follow park regulations strictly as Simlipal is a protected biosphere reserve crucial for tiger conservation.
• Seasonal Visit Planning — Visit between November and May for optimal weather and wildlife sightings, as monsoon season (June-October) brings heavy rainfall that restricts accessibility.