Similipal National Park is in Mayurbhanj district in northern Odisha. Baripada is a convenient base for many visitors, while Balasore is a useful arrival point for travellers coming by train. Your best route depends on your starting point and the gate or boarding location assigned to your booking.
Before travelling, check the latest official Similipal route and access information and confirm your entry details. Roads, vehicle requirements and forest access can change.
How to reach Similipal from Bhubaneswar
By road
Bhubaneswar is approximately 240–270 km from Baripada by road, depending on your route and starting point. The drive often takes around five to six hours, before stops or delays. From Baripada, continue to the gate or accommodation specified in your itinerary.
If your entry time is early, consider reaching Baripada the previous evening. This gives you time for the final drive without rushing.
By train
Check trains from Bhubaneswar to Balasore or Baripada for your travel dates. Schedules and services can change, so confirm the current timetable before booking. From the station, arrange onward transport to your hotel, nature camp or assigned gate.
By air
Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar is the main airport for many visitors. From there, continue by road or connect to a suitable train service. Allow enough time for the onward journey and the entry schedule shown on your booking.
How to reach Similipal from Baripada
Baripada is the district headquarters of Mayurbhanj and a practical base for arranging the final part of your journey. The Pithabata Gate is on the Baripada side. The drive from town depends on your exact destination and road conditions, so confirm directions with your accommodation or driver.
Baripada can be a good place to stay if you want to:
- Arrive the evening before an early entry
- Arrange transport to the gate
- Stay in town before or after your forest visit
- Confirm directions and travel details locally
Similipal has more than one access point. The official route information identifies Pithabata on the Baripada side and Kalikaprasad on the Jashipur side. Follow the gate and route on your confirmed booking; don’t assume every visit enters from Pithabata.
How to reach Similipal from Balasore
Balasore is a useful arrival point for visitors travelling by train. From Balasore, continue by road toward Baripada and then follow the route for your confirmed gate. Balasore to Baripada is approximately 55–60 km by road. Your total journey time will depend on traffic, transport and the final access point.
You can arrange a taxi or check available bus services to Baripada. If travelling directly to your accommodation or gate, confirm the route with your driver and host before setting out.
If you want to combine the forest with a coastal visit, see the Similipal and Balasore 3 Nights 4 Days tour package.
Choosing the right entry route
Your booking determines the route you should take. The official Similipal routes and access page provides current access guidance.
Before leaving, confirm:
- The gate named on your permit or booking
- Your safari boarding point, if applicable
- The reporting time
- The route to your accommodation
- Current vehicle requirements for your route
Check these details again close to your travel date, since access can change with forest and weather conditions.
Can you drive your own vehicle to Similipal?
Vehicle access inside the reserve is controlled. The official route guidance currently specifies light motor vehicles with at least 180 mm ground clearance and requires visitors to travel with a certified local nature guide. Visitors must stay on the authorized route and follow the guide’s instructions.
Confirm the rules for your specific route before travelling. If your vehicle does not meet the requirements, ask about suitable transport when arranging your visit.
Practical travel tips
- Book your entry and accommodation before travelling.
- Allow time for road delays between the station, town, gate and stay.
- Save your booking details offline in case mobile coverage is limited.
- Share your arrival details with your driver or accommodation in advance.
- Carry the identification required by the official booking instructions.
- Recheck your route before departure, especially during unsettled weather.
- Follow the vehicle and guide requirements for your assigned route.
For an overview of the destination and itineraries, visit our Similipal National Park tour page. You can also compare the 1 Night 2 Days package and the 2 Nights 3 Days package.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the nearest railway station to Similipal?
Balasore and Baripada are two rail options to consider. Check which station best matches your train service and onward road transfer.
How far is Similipal from Bhubaneswar?
Baripada is approximately 240–270 km from Bhubaneswar by road. The drive often takes about five to six hours, before stops and delays. Your journey will be longer if you continue to a gate or stay beyond Baripada.
How far is Baripada from Similipal?
The distance depends on your gate, camp or destination. Pithabata is on the Baripada side, while other access points are farther away. Confirm your specific route before travelling.
Can I travel from Balasore directly to Similipal?
Yes. You can travel by road from Balasore toward your confirmed gate or accommodation. Check your permit before choosing the route.
Should I stay in Baripada before visiting?
Staying in Baripada the night before can be useful if you have an early reporting time or need to arrange transport. Your best base depends on the entry gate and accommodation listed in your booking.
Plan your route before you leave
Confirm your gate, boarding point, permit and road transfer before setting out, then allow enough time for the final journey. For sightseeing ideas, read our guide to 7 must-see spots in Similipal National Park.
