wildlife in orissa

Similipal:

Similipal Tiger Reserve, Orissa

A vast and beautiful area protecting India's largest region of sal forest, with magnificient scenery and a variety of wildlife, including tiger, elephant, leopard, sambar, chital, muntjac and chevrotain. The best time is from November to June.

In the centre of Mayurbhanj district of Orissa, is Simlipal- one of the 18 tiger reserves of India. 2,750 sq. kms of lush grassland and Sal forests, this reserved forest was declared a sanctuary in 1979. It has an awesome beauty: the water falls, tribal settlements and mountain peaks add grace to the park.

 Flora:
 The park is a treasure house of 501 species of plants belonging to 102 families. 82 species of orchids have also been identified here. It has a mixed type of vegetation with Northern tropical semi-evergreen trees and Northern tropical moist deciduous trees. Plus, dry deciduous hill forest and high level Sal forests. The grasslands and the savannas provide grazing grounds for the herbivores and hiding place to the carnivores. The forest boasts of innumerable medicinal and aromatic plants, which provide a source of earnings for the tribals.

Fauna :

Project Tiger also coverned itself with the care of other animals. After the project was launched, the park saw an increase in population of not only Tigers but Leopards, Sambars, Langurs, Barking and Spotted Deer, Gaur, Elephant and the 'Four-horned' antelope. The protected environment of the park has provided

Nandankan

 Nandankanan, Bhubaneshwar

The 'Garden of Pleasure', a combination of a beautiful botanical garden, a zoo and a sanctuary, Nandankanan, situated 20 km from Bhubaneshwar, provides perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. It's quiet environment sets amidst a vast expanse of the Chandaka forest where the flora and fauna flourish in their most natural habitat and environment.

The zoo at Nandankanan is world famous for its white tigers. In 1980, for the first time, three white cubs were born to ordinary tiger parents. Leopards, Lions, Bears and other reptiles and smaller mammals keep the tigers company. Among other sanctuaries, Nandankanan also has the first Gharial breeding centre.

Recently a Lion safari was launched which has become extremely popular among tourists. Other attractions of the park includes white tiger safari, nocturnal animal house, reptile park and a cable car. The park has a cafeteria and a guest house for an overnight stay. The sanctuary can be approached by bus from Bhubaneshwar.