Snakes are among the most feared and unfriendly creatures on Earth. However, deep in the heart of Maharashtra's Solapur district lies a village where an unimaginable friendship between two extremely opposite species—humans and snakes—can be witnessed. Any first-time visitor would be shocked. This is Shetphal, also famously known as the "Snake Village of India." The village is home to some of India's most venomous snakes, including the deadly cobras. Surprisingly, cobras and humans live side by side in harmony here. In normal places, spotting a cobra causes panic, but in Shetphal, seeing a cobra playing with village kids is a regular occurrence.
Location
Shetphal is situated approximately 200 kilometers from Pune in Maharashtra. It has gained global recognition for its unusual way of life with snakes. The villagers treat cobras as sacred entities linked to Lord Shiva and Naag Devta, the serpent god in Hindu tradition.
Devasthanam in Every House
You will be surprised to see a devasthanam in almost every house in this village. It is a special resting area built specifically for snakes. However, these snakes are not caged or raised as pets; they roam freely inside houses, gardens, and temples. Do not panic if you see some slithering in schools. Today, villagers have learned to coexist peacefully with snakes. They have built friendships based on mutual respect, which is why serious snakebite incidents are extremely rare.
Species of Snakes Found in Shetphal
Indian cobras are common here, recognized as India's most venomous snake species. Cobras are revered in India and are often seen resting in shaded corners of homes. In addition to cobras, villagers and wildlife enthusiasts have reported spotting rat snakes, kraits, vine snakes, water snakes, and occasionally pythons.
Why So Many Snakes?
Solapur's dry climate creates a natural habitat for reptiles. Snake sightings are more common during summer and monsoon months. The village celebrates the festival of Naag Panchami with great enthusiasm, when they worship serpents and decorate their homes with rangoli featuring snake motifs. The place attracts curious travelers from all over the world who visit to witness the unique relationship between snakes and humans.
How to Reach Shetphal
Reaching Shetphal requires some planning. By air, the nearest airport is Pune International Airport, from where taxis are available. By train, the nearest railway station is Solapur Railway Station, well connected to nearby cities and towns. By road, Shetphal is about a 4–5 hour drive from Pune through Maharashtra's countryside.
What Makes Shetphal Special for Travelers
For offbeat travelers and snake enthusiasts, Shetphal is a dream come true. There is no curated itinerary or experiences, and that is exactly what makes it memorable. Visitors come here to witness an unusual way of life. However, travelers should remember that snakes here are still wild animals. Visitors are advised not to touch or irritate them. Shetphal may sound like the setting of a mystery novel, but it is as real as it gets.
