The Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR) is to remain closed for tourists from June 16 in view of the rainy season. Though it is not clear now as to when it would reopen for the visitors, generally the sanctuary reopens after a gap of about four and a half months every year. It may be noted that communication to the Similipal Biosphere is disrupted every year due to monsoon rains and, as a result, it becomes impossible for tourists to go there. Thus usually, it remains open to tourists for about seven or eight months and is shut for them for about four to five months. However, the number of tourists to Similipal has been on the increase with each passing year.