Similipal, the National Park, covering an area of 2,750 Sq. Km, has been selected as one of the nine tiger projects in India . For a nature loving tourist,the entire Similipal with its ever green sal forests,extensive grassy lands and luxuriant waterfalls provide an element of abiding interest. A package tour of the area could consist of the waterfalls of Barehipani (450 metres) and Joranda (150 metres) ,the grassy lands of Bachhurichara, cloud kissing Meghasani peak (1,158 metres) and areas around bristling with rich wildlife. The talking mynas, beautiful peacocks, roaring tigers, trumpeting tuskers and fleeing deer are but added attractions for a pleasure of holidaying at Similipal.

The Mayurbhanj district of Orissa is the home of one of the most important National Parks not only of Orissa, but also of the country. Spread over an area of 2,750 sq. km, the park was specially chosen by Project Tiger for continuing the onerous task of conserving the country's depleting tiger population. This Tiger Reserve has over 95 Royal Bengal Tigers within its lavish bounds. Leopards, elephants, mugger crocodiles and numerous reptiles abound here. Over 231 species of birds.The vast expanse and changing topography as well as the vegetational and climatic variations in Similipal have been the major reasons for the successful breeding of the flora and fauna.

Similipal offers an excellent exposure to the delights not only of its wildlife but also of its wonderful natural beauty. Scenic beauty of the lush forests and mountains and valleys is as extravagant as it is varied. The best way to see as much as possible would be to take a package tour which would take in the Barehipani waterfall (399 meters) and the Joranda waterfall (150 meters), the lush grasslands of Bachhuri Chara, the Meghasani peak(1,158 meters) and the wildlife in the environs. Joshipur, one of the two entry points to the park, has a crocodile sanctuary; the other entry point being Lulung.

For visiting Similipal National Park, prior permission is to be obtained from the Field Director, Similipal Tiger Project, Baripada, district Mayurbhanj.

Approach: By road and rail.

Best time to visit: Similipal is usually open for visitors from the begining of November till the onset of the monsoons.