The Similipal National Park in Mayurbhanj district, which was closed since mid-June due to monsoon, reopened for tourists on Tuesday.
A maximum of 35 four-wheeler vehicles from Kaliapani check-gate and 25 four-wheelers from Peethabata check-gate are allowed inside the park between 6 am and 9 am every day. There are two entry points and tourists can book their entry tickets from the Jashipur counter.
As per rules, the tourists will have to leave Badheipani and Jaranda by 3 pm and Chahala water fall by 4 pm.
Besides, a forest guide for each tourist vehicle has been made mandatory; and they are allowed to stay in the park till 5 pm. Picnics are strictly prohibited inside the park. However, the tourists are allowed to bring dry or cooked food with them in containers, but no plastic bags are permitted.
For yjr tourists interested in staying inside the park, the Forest Department has made arrangements at Jamuani and Kumari. However, prior booking is to be made in advance at the forest office at Similipal or they can book online through www.ecotourodisha.com
Notably, this world-famous tiger reserve remains closed for tourists every year during monsoon and reopens in October or November depending on the withdrawal of the monsoon. The park is closed as the roads get washed away due to rain during the monsoon.