‘Simlipal National Park’ where Black Tiger Reigns Supreme
Simlipal National Park
Simlipal National Park is a treasure trove of biodiversity nestled in the heart of Odisha, India. Spread across an area of around 2,750 square kilometers, it’s one of the largest national parks in India. The park is named after the Simul (Silk Cotton Tree), abundant in the region. Simlipal is renowned for its rich biodiversity. It’s home to a variety of flora and fauna, including around 99 Royal Bengal Tigers, elephants, leopards, and numerous species of birds and reptiles. The park encompasses diverse vegetation, including moist deciduous forests, dry deciduous forests, and grasslands. Sal trees dominate the landscape, along with bamboo, and medicinal plants.
The park is blessed with scenic waterfalls like Joranda and Barehipani, which cascade down from considerable heights, adding to the park’s natural beauty. The prominent rivers flowing through the park include the Budhabalanga, Khairi, and Palpala. Several indigenous tribal communities, including the Santhal, Munda, and Ho, reside in and around the park. Their lifestyle, culture, and traditions contribute to the cultural richness of the region. The park attracts nature enthusiasts, wildlife photographers, and adventure seekers from around the world. Visitors can indulge in activities like jungle safaris, trekking, and bird watching while exploring the park’s natural wonders.
1. Black Tiger Simlipal National Park
The term “black tiger” typically refers to a rare color variation of the Bengal tiger, characterized by a melanistic (black) coat caused by a genetic mutation. There are 10 black tigers (melanistic tigers) in India, all of which are exclusively found in Odisha’s Similipal tiger reserve. Black Tigers are not a distinct species but a rare color variant of the Bengal Tiger. Simlipal National Park is known for its population of Bengal tigers, which typically exhibit the characteristic orange coat with black stripes. While melanism is known to occur in other species, such as leopards, it’s exceedingly rare in tigers.
Similipal Tiger Reserve was designated in 1956, part of Project Tiger since 1973, and declared a biosphere reserve in 1994. It is part of the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves and the Similipal-Kuldiha-Hadgarh Elephant Reserve popularly known as Mayurbhanj Elephant Reserve.
Also read- Deomali Hills- A Pinnacle of Natural Wonder in Odisha’s Landscape
2. Simlipal National Park Animals
Simlipal National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife species, making it one of the most biodiverse areas in India. Here are some of the prominent animals found in Simlipal National Park-
Bengal Tiger: The park is known for its population of Bengal tigers, which are the apex predators in the region. They play a crucial role in maintaining the ecosystem’s balance.
Indian Elephant: Elephants are another flagship species of Simlipal. These majestic animals roam the park’s forests in search of food and water.
Leopard: Leopards are stealthy predators that inhabit the dense forests of Simlipal. They are known for their adaptability and elusive nature.
Indian Bison (Gaur): The Indian bison, also known as the gaur, is the largest species of wild cattle found in India. They can be spotted grazing in the grasslands and forest clearings of Simlipal.
Sambar Deer: Sambar deer are one of the most common deer species in Simlipal. They are large herbivores and serve as prey for tigers and leopards.
Indian Wild Dog (Dhole): Dholes are social predators that hunt in packs. They are occasionally seen in Simlipal National Park preying on smaller animals.
Indian Giant Squirrel: The Indian giant squirrel is a visually striking species with its vibrant fur and long bushy tail. It inhabits the forests of Simlipal and is primarily herbivorous.
Wild Boar: Wild boars are widespread in Simlipal and play an essential role in the park’s ecosystem as seed dispersers and scavengers.
Indian Pangolin: The Indian pangolin is a rare and endangered species found in Simlipal. It is known for its unique appearance and armor-like scales.
Various Bird Species: Simlipal is also a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 230 species of birds recorded in the park, including hornbills, peafowls, and various species of eagles and owls.
3. How to Reach Simlipal National Park
The nearest airport to Simlipal National Park is Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Simlipal. The distance between Bhubaneswar and Simlipal is approximately 250 kilometers, and the journey takes around 6 to 7 hours by road.
The nearest major railway station to Simlipal National Park is Balasore Railway Station, located around 100 kilometers away. From Balasore, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Simlipal. Alternatively, you can also reach Baripada Railway Station, which is around 90 kilometers away from Simlipal.
Simlipal National Park is well-connected by road network. You can drive to the park from nearby cities like Bhubaneswar, Balasore, or Baripada. If you’re traveling from Bhubaneswar, you can take National Highway 16 (NH16) towards Balasore and then continue on State Highway 22 (SH22) towards Baripada. From Baripada, you can follow the signs to Simlipal National Park.
