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Similipal |
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Thick and evergreen forests, extensive
grassy lands and meadows, cloud kissing peaks,
precipitous and sparkling waterfalls, meandering
rivers, roaring tigers and trumpeting tuskers,
fleeing deer and flying squirrels, talking myna
and dancing peacocks all together make Similipal a dreamland of Nature in the
wilderness and an irresistible destination.
Covering a vast area of 2750 sq. Km out of which 303 sq. km from the
core area, this biosphere reserve is a sanctuary and one of the
Tiger
Projects and National
Parks of India. |
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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 eye. In the midst of the dense
forests, the summer stands humbled and the sun gets lost. |
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Several rivers like
Budhabalanga, Khairi, Salandi, Palpala, 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 (150 meters) 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 |
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birds to an Chahala. Forget the apprehensive fear and devour the
sylvan beauty. The nature at avian delight. The dense
forest and reverie system serve an excellent home to some of the most
beautiful creatures of the World. To stay with them, even for a while,
is a thrilling 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 Similipal is at its natural best. |
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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 nose with fresh and free fragrance, 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. 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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Entry points, Permits and Timings
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You can enter into
Similipal through Pithabata (22 Km from Baripada) or through Jashipur
(94 Km from Baripada).
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Entry permits can be
obtained from the Range Officer, Pithabata check gate of the Assistant
Conservator of Forests at Jashipur on payment of prescribed
fees.
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Day visitors can enter
between 6 AM & 12 Noon and visitors with reservation between 6 AM & 2
PM.
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Similipal remains open
from 1st November to 15th June only.
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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 kichakeswarei
and Stone Crafts made of different colour stones .There is a
Phanthasala here . chandipur 960 km from Baripada and 16 km
from Baiasore ) is ba 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 a
panthanivas & Yatrinivas OTDC. There are also private hotels.
Panchalingeswar (85 km from Baripada and 30 km from Balasore ) is a
panoramic place on the lap of Nilaigri Hills with a
perrnnial stream flowing over five Lingams . There is a Panthasala
of Orissa Tourism Department here. 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 10 Km from Balasore ) is enchanting place with a
series of waterfalls and a shakti shrine set against the
outer periphery of similipal . |
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Road:- Baripada, the
district headquarters of Mayurbhanj ,on the junction of NH 5and 6,
is 270 km from Kolkata and 60 km from Balasore and 22km 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 (270km ) and Kolkata (240km ) |
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