Snakes have long fascinated people. These slithering creatures have been a part of India's culture for years. While masses fear them, Indians worship them and are deeply connected to local folklore. But beyond myths, there are several snake parks in India which are working towards reptile conservation, snake rescue, and creating awareness about venomous and non-venomous species. Though snake parks may not be your traditional tourist attractions, they offer a rare insight into one of nature's most feared and misunderstood creatures. For travellers who enjoy wildlife tourism and offbeat experiences, these snake parks provide an unusual and offbeat escape. Let's have a look at five such destinations.
Katraj Snake Park, Maharashtra
Katraj Snake Park is a part of the Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park in Pune. It is counted among India's renowned reptile attractions, drawing visitors from across the country. Here, you can see Indian rock pythons, king cobras, Russell's vipers, and many other reptiles. The park also focuses on education and conservation, making it a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts.
How to reach: Pune International Airport is the nearest, located about 15 km away. Pune Junction railway station is well connected to major Indian cities. Shared cabs and buses to Katraj are easily available from the city.
Chennai Snake Park, Tamil Nadu
Chennai Snake Park is one of the best places to learn about these fascinating creatures. Situated inside the Guindy National Park, it is known as India's first snake park. Founded by noted herpetologist Romulus Whitaker in 1972, the park houses cobras, vipers, pythons, crocodiles, and turtles in naturalistic enclosures. It also conducts awareness sessions and educational programmes for visitors.
How to reach: The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport, about 12 km away. Chennai Central railway station is well connected to major Indian cities. Local transport like taxis and buses are readily available.
Parassinikadavu Snake Park, Kerala
Located close to the famous Muthappan Temple in Kannur district, Parassinikadavu Snake Park serves as both a rescue and research centre. It is home to a wide range of reptile species, including the king cobra, one of the world's most venomous snakes. The park also promotes snake conservation and public awareness.
How to reach: The nearest airport is Kannur International Airport, about 35 km away. Kannur railway station connects the city with Kochi and Bengaluru, among others. Taxis and local buses are easily available from the station.
Calcutta Snake Park, West Bengal
Calcutta Snake Park was established in 1977 by conservationist Dipak Mitra. It is known as eastern India's first snake park, spread across two acres. The facility houses a wide variety of snakes and reptiles and promotes awareness regarding snakebite prevention and reptile conservation. It is an excellent destination for educational visits.
How to reach: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport is the nearest. Howrah and Sealdah railway stations are close to the park. Taxis and metro services are available for convenient travel.
Bannerghatta Biological Park, Karnataka
Bannerghatta, situated about 25 km from central Bengaluru, is one of the most popular biological parks in the country, offering amazing safari experiences. One section of the park is dedicated to rare snakes and reptiles, providing visitors an opportunity to observe snakes in a more natural environment. The park also focuses on conservation and education.
How to reach: Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru is the closest. Taxis and cabs are easily available from outside the airport. Bengaluru's railway stations also offer easy access to the park via local transport.
