The Simlipal National Park is situated in the Mayurbhanj district in Orissa. It is spread over 2750 sq, kms and at an altitude of 559 meters.

Simplipal derives its name from Simul, which is the silk cotton tree that grows there. Its hills, waterfalls and dense foliage hide almost 80 tigers and a number of elephants, deer and crocodiles.

The Simlipal National Park is endowed with exceptional foliage and there are almost 1,000 species of flowering plants, and 94 varieties of orchids! Twelve rivers cut across the plain area and Joranda and Barehipani waterfalls are a refreshing attraction for tourists.

History
In the ancient days, this reserve was the hunting ground of the Mayurbhanj Maharajas. Their excessive hunting endangered the wildlife, and in 1979 the government declared a small area as a sanctuary. In 1986, the area of the
National Park was increased to prevent poaching.

How to Reach

Air
The nearest airports are Kolkata at 250 kms and Bhubaneshwar is 300 kms away.

Rail
The nearest railhead is Baripada (17 km). Other important stations are Balasore (76 km from Lulung) and Jamshedpur (115 km from Jashipur).

Bus
Baripada, is 170 km from Bhubaneswar, 240 from Kolkata and 60 km from Balasore and 22 km 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.

Things to do
The things to do list will include exploring the forest in the hope of so of sighting some game – a tiger if you are very lucky. Go trekking and just enjoy the wonderful environment!

Sightseeing
The forest and ecology provide the perfect environment for some of the most beautiful creatures of the world to exist in. You might be luck to spot a leopard or a tiger on your safari. You may get lucky and come across some deer, or herds of elephants, walking across your path. Ramtirtha has an additional attraction – crocodile rearing. So take a trip and give the reptile a visit! Similipal has so much to offer – cool fresh air, sights that soothe the eyes and sounds that feel like music to your ears.

Activities
Take a wildlife safari and view the various flora and fauna in the park. You may get lucky and spot a leopard or a tiger apart from other animals you can expect to see like deers and herds of elephants. For the adventurous there are several options for trekking, or simply just take a leisurely walk and imbibe the beauty of it all.

Places Near Simlipal
KHICHING , 60 km from the park is an ancient capital with many ruins of temples. And famous for the shrine of Kichakeswari.There is some great colourful stone craft here.

CHANDIPUR (60 km from Baripada) is a unique Beach Resort where the sea – water recedes about 5 km twice a day. It is an astounding sight.

DEOKUND (65 km from Baripada and 110 km from Balasore) is an amazing place with a series of waterfalls and a Shakti shrine.