World · India Bureau
Similipal Tiger Reserve opens gates to visitors from November 1
Odisha's premier wildlife destination will resume operations after seasonal closure, welcoming nature enthusiasts eager to explore one of India's most biodiverse reserves. The sanctuary remains a critical habitat for the elusive black tiger and hundreds of other species.
LSN India ·
Similipal Tiger Reserve in Odisha will reopen to visitors on November 1, marking the start of the peak tourism season at the sprawling 2,750 square kilometre sanctuary. The reserve, located in the northern part of the state, closes annually during monsoon months to protect wildlife during breeding and nesting seasons.
The reserve has earned international recognition for its exceptional biodiversity and conservation efforts. It serves as a crucial refuge for the rare black tiger, a melanistic variant found in limited numbers across India, alongside a thriving population of Bengal tigers. The sanctuary's diverse ecosystem supports 42 mammal species, including Asian elephants, Indian bison, and sloth bears.
Flora enthusiasts will find the reserve equally rewarding, with the landscape dotted by 96 varieties of orchids and numerous other plant species that underscore Similipal's ecological significance. The reserve also harbours 242 bird species, making it a premier destination for birdwatchers across the subcontinent.
The reopening comes as wildlife tourism in India continues to gain momentum, with visitors increasingly seeking authentic experiences in natural habitats. Authorities have put in place measures to balance visitor access with conservation priorities, ensuring that tourism activities do not disturb resident wildlife populations during critical seasons.