Mayurbhanj has the distinction of having a
vast forest area bristling with varied flora and fauna-stretches of lush green
forest served with a network of perennial streams. And its bracing climate
contributes so much to make the district an ideal habitat for tropical birds
and animals. Specific mention may be made of Similipal National Park- the ideal
zone for animals like tiger, leopard, elephant, sambar, deer and birds. Added
to it is the scenic beauty in extravaganza which keeps one amazed. A nature
loving tourist cannot perhaps afford to miss the majestic sal forests, cool,
calm and expansive grassy lands, soaring peaks and the waterfalls of streaming
pearls which make Similipal the " Dreamland of Nature ".
Rich in ancient culture, the district is a
treasure house for the students of history and archaeology. The Bhanja rulers
have left their makes at places like Khiching, Haripur and Baripada. The
prehistoric sites of Kuchai and Kuliana provide interesting study.
A host of colourful tribal dances as well
as the traditional Chhau dance are added attractions of the district. Baripada,
the district headquarters, can be conveniently made the base for planning a
tour of district.
ATTRACTIONS:
Similipal
Similipal National Park covers an area of
2,750 Sq. Kms. out of which 303 Sq. Kms. form the core area and the rest around
it the buffer zone. The altitude at strategic points in the park ranges from
757.5 meters to 946 metres. A vast stretch of lush green forest in Similipal
has been selected for one of the fifteen Tiger Project of India. A package tour
of the area could consists of the waterfalls of Barehipani ( 398.67 metres),
Joranda (150.26 metres ), the grassy lands of Bachhurichara, cloud kissing peak
of Meghasani ( 1,158 metres ) and the areas around bristling with rich wild
life. Elephant, Tiger, Leopard, Leopard Cat, Jungle Cat, Gaur, Sambar, Spotted
Deer, Mouse Deer, Barking Deer, Four-horned Antelope, Sloth Bear, Hyena, Common
Langurs, Flying Squirrel, Wild Dog, Talking Mainas, Beautiful Peacocks and
varieties of other birds can be largely found here. A herd of elephants gliding
majestically on the open scrub forests of Bachhurichara is a common sight. At
Ramatirtha near Jashipur, one could enjoy the Crocodile Research project. The
sanctuary can be approached from Jashipur on National Highway or from Lulung,
about 30 Kms. from Baripada.
