About Baripada

Odisha

BaripadaBaripadaSimilipal National ParkSimilipal National Park

Overview

Baripada is the headquarters town of Mayurbhanj district in northern Odisha and the usual starting point for Similipal National Park and Tiger Reserve. Similipal is a large reserve of sal forest, hills and rivers, with waterfalls such as Barehipani and Joranda, and is known for tigers, elephants and gaur. The Pithabata gate is on the Baripada side, while Kalikaprasad gate near Jashipur serves the west. The town is also known for Chhau dance traditions and the Rath Yatra of the Jagannath temple.

Best Time to Visit Baripada

Plan your trip around the right season

Nov-FebBest Window

Why visit

Cool, clear days for forest drives and waterfall viewpoints.

Keep in mind

Nights inside the reserve can be cold.

How to Reach Baripada

Intercity connectivity and travel options

Baripada has a railway station. Bhubaneswar and Kolkata are the nearest major airports, both several hours away by road.

Getting Around Baripada

Local transport and practical tips

Local transport

Hire a vehicle with good ground clearance for the reserve. Autos and buses run within Baripada.

Best Areas to Stay in Baripada

Pick the right neighbourhood for your trip

Baripada town

Most visitors

Hotels in the district town, close to the Pithabata gate road.

Jashipur

Entering from the west

A smaller town near the Kalikaprasad gate on the western side of the reserve.