Green shades of Simlipal

After we found out that Simlipal can be visited throughout the year except during monsoons, we planned to pack our bags and get ready for the jungles. Located at a distance of 190 km from Bhubaneswar, SImlipal National park and tiger reserve gives shelter to a variety of flora and fauna which includes but not limited to tiger, leopard, Asian elephant, sambar, barking deer, red junglefowl and numerous other wildlives.

Day 1

Ignoring the temperature of Odisha during summer days of May, we arrived Baripada by bus from Kolkata. Heading for the Jashipur entrance gate to Simlipal which is 96 kms away from Baripada we had views of green fields, mountain ghats and the rising sun. Our driver cum eco-guide was Mr. Abdul Wahid who was a true gentleman and had a sound knowledge of Simlipal. After reaching Jashipur, we verified our booking as well as entry tickets. After their due procedure, we started for our forest eco-tourism cottage at Kumari. On the way we saw two ancient trees, one is a sal tree of age 340 years and another a champa tree of age 300 years.

After our lunch at Kumari bamboo cottage, we started for Uski waterfall, one among three waterfalls in Simlipal. From Uski, we went for one of the longest waterfalls in India, Baheripani waterfalls. On our way we traced different species of birds. Next, we went to a place called ‘Chahala’ which is located in the ‘core area’ of jungle, an open space in the jungles where one can see deers, elephants etc. Also, barking and howling sounds of different animals can be heard from the junction. After having a late evening safari of the dark and dense woods and returned to our cottage.

Day 2

Our morning started with a visit to Gurguria valley where we found elephants ready to leave for the jungle. Orchid house and a small gully of river passing by make this valley worth visiting. From there we headed for Khiching. A temple of Godess Kali and works of various colored stones are the main attractions of this place. Our journey ended as we visited Ramtirtha. It is famous for its crocodile project and a small temple dedicated to Lord Ram. All through the tour lush green valleys, mighty mountains, kaccha roads, dense woods and wildlife gave a good company. Hope to have this company in coming tours as well!!

Points to remember about Simlipal- There are two entry gates at simlipal. One through Pithabata gate near Lulung which carry a long trail through forest and another is Jashipur which will make an entry into the jungle in much less time.

How to reach- From Baripada one can hire a bolero or a SUV for Jashipur. Ac/ non ac buses are also available for Jashipur (Cost-Rs 100-120). For Pithabata gate, autos are available.

Where to stay- One can stay outside the jungle in Jashipur as hotels are quite available there. For staying inside the forest one has to book from Odisha Forest Development Corporation and choose from variety of options.

Do’s and don’ts-

Do’s-

1.     Try to hire heavy vehicle for the jungles as the roads are kaccha and have deep curves at many points.

2.      Carry sufficient food and water for your journey inside the jungle.

3.      Do carry mosquito net and sprays for insects.

4.      Do cooperate with your eco-guide.

5.      Make sure that you always wear sneakers or boots in the woods.

6.      Wear dark colour clothes in woods. This will make the wildlife be unaware of your presence.

    Don’ts-

1.      Never disturb the wildlife making unnecessary noises like speaking loudly, clapping or making faces.

2.      Don’t pollute the green using plastics.

   Some important contacts-

Mr. Biswal- Officer at Bhubaneswar office of Odisha Forest Development Corporation, 09437279340

Mr. Abdul Wahid- Our driver cum eco-guide, 9437356175

To view more on greens and falls click here