Simlipal National Park

Simlipal National Park is a protected area in India.

Simlipal National Park at a Glance

Location
Eastern Plateau & Coastal Wetlands, India, South Asia
Coordinates
21.804775, 86.379760
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Very Quiet
Malaria Risk
Moderate
Best Time to Visit
October to March (cooler, dry months) for tiger safaris and wildlife.

Getting to Simlipal National Park

Nearest airport: Rairangpur Airstrip, 61 km away.

Nearest international airport: Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI), 182 km away.

Wildlife in Simlipal National Park

Home to 55 recorded species including 21 iconic birds, 17 birds of prey, 8 waterbirds, 7 tropical birds, 1 primates, 1 big herbivores.

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in Simlipal National Park

5 safari lodges available.

Other

Similar Parks in Eastern Plateau & Coastal Wetlands

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for India

Travel advisory for India

Simlipal National Park FAQs

What is the best time to visit Simlipal National Park, and what kind of unique experience can I expect given its low crowding?

The park is typically open from October to June, with the cooler, drier months from November to February being ideal for wildlife spotting. Due to its exceptionally low crowding (1/5), you can anticipate a more serene and intimate wilderness experience, often enjoying sightings without the presence of multiple other safari vehicles.

Beyond common Indian safari animals, what unique or notable wildlife species are Simlipal National Park particularly known for?

Simlipal is renowned for its population of Royal Bengal Tigers, including the rare melanistic (black) tigers, which are a unique highlight. The park is also a significant habitat for Asian elephants, gaurs, and a diverse array of birdlife, making it a treat for both mammal and bird enthusiasts.

What should I expect from the safari experience in Simlipal National Park, considering its unique landscape and less-trafficked trails?

Safaris in Simlipal typically involve jeep excursions through its undulating terrain of dense forests, grasslands, and stunning waterfalls like Barehipani and Joranda. The low crowding ensures a tranquil journey, allowing for deeper immersion in nature and a more authentic exploration of its diverse ecosystems.

What specific health and safety precautions are recommended for visitors to Simlipal National Park, especially concerning malaria risk?

Given the moderate malaria risk in the region, it is strongly advised to consult your doctor about antimalarial prophylaxis before your trip. Additionally, use insect repellent diligently, wear long sleeves and trousers during dawn and dusk, and stay hydrated to ensure a safe and comfortable visit.

How accessible is Simlipal National Park for travelers, and what are the general cost implications for a safari?

Simlipal is accessible by road from nearby towns like Baripada and Jashipur, with the nearest major airport being Bhubaneswar. While specific costs vary, expect expenses for park entry permits, vehicle hire, and accommodation, which can be relatively modest compared to more commercialized parks, reflecting its less crowded nature.

Recommended Books

  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.