Odisha Tourism / Similipal Tiger Reserve reopens to tourists for 2026-27 season; Check official links to book vacation

Baripada, Nov 1: The Similipal Tiger Reserve in Odisha reopened to tourists on Sunday, November 1, marking the beginning of the 2026-27 tourism season. Nature lovers and visitors can once again explore the reserve's lush forests, waterfalls and wildlife, subject to entry restrictions issued by the authorities.

The Similipal authorities have introduced guidelines to ensure visitor safety and protect the reserve's biodiversity. Entry will be restricted to a maximum of 60 four-wheelers a day. Only vehicles with a ground clearance of at least 180 mm will be permitted.

Of the daily quota, 35 vehicles will be allowed through the Kaliani entry gate near Jashipur, while 25 can enter through the Pithabata (Lulung) check gate from the Baripada side.

Visitors entering through the Pithabata gate must report between 8 am and 9 am, while those using the Jashipur gate must enter between 5 am and 9 am. All tourists must leave the reserve through the exit gates before 6 pm.

Online permits, mandatory guides
Tourists must book their entry permits in advance through the official website, www.similipal.org. No other website has been authorised for entry permit bookings, according to the guidelines. Hiring a guide for each vehicle is also mandatory.

Visitors to the Joranda and Barehipani waterfalls, two of Similipal's major attractions, must leave the sites by 4 pm.

Also Read: Similipal Tiger Reserve to Reopen for Tourists from November 1

The reserve also offers open-jeep wildlife safari experiences and overnight stays for visitors seeking to explore its forest environment more closely.

Tourists can book accommodation at forest cottages in Kumari, Gudgudia, Talabandha, Barehipani and Jamuani through www.ecotourodisha.com.

The guidelines have been issued to provide visitors with a safe experience while safeguarding Similipal's rich biodiversity and wildlife. The information was shared by the Similipal authorities and the Regional Chief Conservator of Forests, Baripada.

Tourists have been urged to follow the prescribed rules and cooperate with forest authorities to protect the reserve. Visitors on the opening day expressed enthusiasm about the start of the new tourism season.