Simlipal Tiger Reserve, located in the Mayurbhanj district of Odisha, India, is one of the largest tiger reserves in the country, spanning an area of approximately 2,750 square kilometers. Established in 1973, it forms part of the Simlipal-Kuldiha-Hadgarh Elephant Reserve and is a key component of the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves since 2009.

Simlipal is characterized by a rich and diverse ecosystem that includes dense forests, expansive grasslands, waterfalls, and numerous rivers and streams. The reserve's varied habitats support a wide range of flora and fauna. Besides the Bengal tiger, which is the flagship species, the reserve is home to other significant wildlife such as elephants, leopards, gaur (Indian bison), sambar deer, and various species of reptiles and birds. The presence of rare and endangered species, including the melanistic tiger (black tiger), adds to its unique biodiversity.

The flora of Simlipal is equally diverse, with over 1,000 species of plants, including several medicinal plants. The forest types range from tropical semi-evergreen to moist deciduous, providing a lush and vibrant landscape.

Conservation efforts in Simlipal focus on protecting its diverse wildlife and ecosystems through anti-poaching measures, habitat management, and scientific monitoring. The reserve has faced challenges such as poaching, forest fires, and human-wildlife conflicts, but ongoing efforts by the forest department and conservation organizations aim to address these issues effectively.

Eco-tourism is a vital component of Simlipal's conservation strategy. The reserve offers various activities, including guided jeep safaris, trekking, bird watching, and visits to scenic spots like Barehipani and Joranda waterfalls. These activities are designed to promote conservation awareness among visitors while ensuring minimal impact on the environment.

Local communities are actively involved in the reserve's conservation efforts, participating in eco-tourism initiatives and sustainable livelihood programs. This community-based approach helps reduce dependence on forest resources and fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility towards conservation.

Overall, Simlipal Tiger Reserve is a crucial sanctuary for wildlife conservation, offering a blend of rich biodiversity, natural beauty, and sustainable development. Its ongoing efforts in conservation and community involvement make it a model for preserving India's natural heritage.

Flora

Similipal comes under the Deccan Peninsular Bio-geographic Zone, Chhotanagpur Province and Mahanadian Region. The forest is predominantly moist mixed deciduous forest with tropical semievergreen forest in areas with suitable microclimatic conditions and sporadic patches of dry deciduous forests and grasslands. Some patches of old plantations of tropical pines and Eucalyptus are also present. Similipal harbours a unique blend of Western Ghats, Eastern Ghats and Sub-Himalayan plant species. The floristic composition indicates a connecting link between South Indian and North Eastern Sub-Himalayan Species. The landscape supports 1076 plant species with 94 species of
orchids of which three species are endemic. Northern Tropical Moist Deciduous Forest: It is found all over except the moist valleys and on the southern and eastern aspects of the hills Dry Deciduous Hill Forests: Found mostly in eastern and southern Similipal with steep and exposed slopes. High Level Sal Forest: Occurs in plateaus above an elevation of 850m Grassland and Savanna: Spread over in small patches found on hill tops over 900m high as well as in frosty valleys and nallah banks.

Fauna

The rich diversity of habitat and mosaic of landscapes with wide altitudinal and climatic variation in Similipal supports a fascinating faunal composition. There are 55 species of mammals, 361 species of birds, 62 species of reptiles, 21 species of amphibians, 38 species of fishes, 164 species of butterflies and many species of insects and micro fauna. Herbivores: Similipal harbours the largest population of elephants (Elephas maximus) in Odisha. Indian Bison (Bos gaurus) is found in few localised pockets in herds ranging from 8 to 20. The major deer species found in Similipal are Sambar (Cervus unicolor), Chital (Axis axis), Barking deer (Muntiacus muntjac) and Mouse deer (Moschiola meminna).
Carnivores: The major carnivores include Tiger and Leopard. Others are Leopard cat, Fishing Cat, Jungle Cat, Wolf, Jackal and Hyena. Other significant mammalian species of Similipal include Ratel, Civet, Giant Squirrel, Flying squirrel, Mongoose, Pangolin, Hare, Langur and Rhesus Macaque. Reptiles: A significant population of Mugger Crocodile is present in the river system and perennial streams of Similipal. The snake species found in the habitat are Python, King Cobra, Common Cobra, Krait and Viper and several others. Birds: There are 361 species of birds and common ones are Peafowl, Jungle Fowl, Patridge, Malabar Pied Hornbill, Grey Hornbill, Hill Myna, Parakeets, Sun Birds, Crested Serpent Eagle, Oriole, Tree Pie, Minivet, Wagtails and Pipits. The water birds include White Ibis, Spoonbills, Red Wattled Lapwings, Teal, Plover, River Tern, Herons, Egrets and Kingfishers.

By train
The nearest railway station is Balasore Junction located 114 km away from the park is connected with all the important cities and from there take any taxi, bus, or car to reach the park.

By air
The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport whose distance is about 195km, there is a lot of public transportation available to reach the park.

By road
The place is easily accessible by major roads and highways, NH5 and NH6 are the nearest major highways that are joined at Baripada located 60 km away from Simlipal Park.