Simlipal Interiors refer to the deep forest regions inside Simlipal Tiger Reserve in Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district. Known for lush sal forests, hidden waterfalls, winding streams, rich wildlife, and age-old tribal settlements, the interiors of Simlipal offer an immersive jungle experience. This is one of India’s most biodiverse landscapes, home to tigers, elephants, giant squirrels, gaurs, and hundreds of bird species.
Exploring the interiors allows visitors to witness serene forest trails, eco-tourism zones, and scenic viewpoints far from busy tourist routes.
Quick Facts
– Location: Mayurbhanj district, Odisha
– Designation: Tiger Reserve, National Park, Biosphere Reserve
– Area: Approximately 2,750 sq km
– Known For: Dense forests, waterfalls, wildlife, tribal heritage
– Core Entry Points: Jashipur and Baripada
– Ideal Trip Duration: 1–2 days
How to Reach
By Air
The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar, around 190 km away. Taxis and buses connect Bhubaneswar to Baripada and Jashipur.
By Train
The closest railway stations:
– Baripada (60 km)
– Balasore (100 km)
– Jamshedpur (100 km)
By Road
Simlipal Interiors are accessible via forest gates from:
– Baripada: 40–50 km
– Jashipur: 20–25 km
– Balasore: 100 km
– Bhubaneswar: 190 km
Forest entries require permission and limited daily vehicles.
Best Time to Visit
– November to June: Best season for exploring the interiors.
– March to June: Hot afternoons but great for wildlife sightings.
– Monsoon (July to October): Park remains closed.
Highlights
– Dense sal forests and rich biodiversity
– Barehipani Waterfall (one of India’s highest)
– Joranda Waterfall
– Crocodile conservation at Ramatirtha
– Deep forest trails and eco-tourism zones
– Wildlife species like elephants, tigers, gaur, deer, birds
– Tribal villages around the buffer zone
– Scenic viewpoints near Chahala
Nearby Attractions
– Lulung riverside area
– Devkund Waterfall
– Khiching Temple
– Baripada town
– Raruan and Karanjia forest belts
Food
Food options inside the interiors are limited. Visitors usually rely on:
– Eco-tourism guesthouses
– Forest rest houses
– Packed meals from Baripada or Jashipur
Popular local dishes include:
– Dalma
– Pakhala
– Local vegetables and rice meals
– Tribal millet-based dishes
Shopping
Nearby towns offer:
– Sabai grass handicrafts
– Tribal jewellery
– Bamboo crafts
– Dokra metal artworks
– Forest honey and local spices
Suggested Itinerary
1-Day Trip
– Enter via Jashipur gate
– Visit Barehipani and Joranda Waterfalls
– Explore Chahala zone
– Exit by evening
2-Day Trip
Day 1: Enter from Baripada, explore Joranda, Barehipani, Chahala
Day 2: Visit Lulung or Ramatirtha, return via scenic forest routes
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do I need permission to enter Simlipal Interiors?
Yes, entry permits are mandatory and issued at forest gates with limited daily access.
2. Are private vehicles allowed?
Yes, but only a limited number of vehicles per day. Drivers must follow forest rules.
3. Is accommodation available inside the park?
Eco-tourism cottages and forest guesthouses are available at locations like Barehipani, Jamuani, and Gudugudia.
4. Are the interiors safe for visitors?
Yes, when visited during official hours with registered entry. Visitors must follow forest guidelines.
5. What wildlife can I expect to see?
Common sightings include elephants, deer, wild boar, giant squirrels, birds, and occasionally tigers or leopards.
