Description :
In
 the centre of Mayurbhanj district of Orissa,
is Simlipal-one of the 18 tiger reserves of India.
2,750 sq. kms of lush grassland and Sal forests,
this reserved forest was declared a sanctuary in
1979. It has an awesome beauty: the water falls,
tribal settlements and mountain peaks add
grace to the park.
Flora :
The Simlipal national park is a treasure
house of 501 species of plants belonging to 102
families. 82 species of orchids have also been
identified here. It has a mixed type of vegetation
with Northern tropical semi-evergreen trees and
Northern tropical moist deciduous trees. Plus, dry
deciduous hill forest and high level Sal forests.
The grasslands and the savannas provide grazing
grounds for the herbivores and hiding place to the
carnivores. The forest boasts of innumerable
medicinal and aromatic plants, which provide a
source of earnings for the tribals.
Fauna :
Project Tiger also concerned itself with the care of
other animals. After the project was launched, the
park saw an increase in population of not only
Tigers but Leopards, Sambars, Langurs, Barking and
Spotted Deer, Gaur, Elephant and the 'Four-horned'
antelope. The protected environment of the park has
provided shelter to a number of other mammals. 231
species of birds nest in these forests. Red Jungle
Fowl, Hill Mynah, Peafowl, Alexandrine Parakeet,
Crested Serpent Eagle are common. The Grey Hornbill,
Indian Pied Hornbill, Malabar Pied Hornbill and
Indian Trogon are also found in the reserve. Apart
from the large number of mammals and bird species,
the park has a sizeable population of reptiles which
includes snakes and turtles. The Mugger management
programme has helped the Mugger crocodile to survive
and flourish on the banks of river Khairi.
Barheipani :
It has the log cabins, beautiful waterfalls, variety
of orchids. And it offers panoramic view of the
park.
Chahala :
This place has forest reserve houses and the
Eucalyptus villa for tourists.
Newana :
This place offers good opportunity for bird
watching.
Jashipur :
This is the second entry point for the park and is
also the nearest market place. 95 Kms from Baripada.
Baripada :
Here one has to collect the entry permit for the
park. The stone lodges provide good lodging
facility. The food served here is of good quality
and best part of the place is that every thing is
solar powered.
Waterfalls in :
Barheipani - 399meters (1308ft)
Joranda - 150 meters (493ft)
Season :
The Simlipal Wildlife Sanctuary or national park
is open for visitors from November to June.
|
