5 snake parks in India where travellers can spot rare and venomous species and how to reach them

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 offer an unusual and offbeat escape.

Let’s have a look:

Katraj Snake Park is a part of the Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park in Pune. It is counted among India’s renowned reptile attractions and people visit here from all over the country. Visitors can see Indian rock pythons, king cobras and Russell’s vipers, and many other reptiles.

How to reach:

Pune International Airport is the nearest and located about 15 km away.

Pune Junction railway station is well connected across India. Shared cabs and buses to Katraj are easily available.

Chennai Snake Park is one of the best places to know and learn about these fascinating creatures. Situated inside the Guindy National Park, it is known as India’s first snake park. Not many must be aware that the park was founded by noted herpetologist Romulus Whitaker in 1972. It is the best place to witness cobras, vipers, pythons, crocodiles and turtles in enclosures. The park also conducts awareness sessions and educational programmes.

How to reach:

The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport, which is about 12 km away.

Chennai Central railway station is well connected to major Indian cities.

Situated close to the famous Muthappan Temple in Kerala’s Kannur district, Parassinikadavu Snake Park is a rescue as well as research centre. It is known for being home to a wide range of reptile species, including the king cobra, which is among the world’s most venomous snakes.

How to reach:

The nearest airport is Kannur International Airport, which is about 35 km away.

Kannur railway station is the nearest and connects the city with Kochi and Bengaluru, among others. Taxis and local buses are easily available.

Calcutta Snake Park was established in 1977 by conservationist Dipak Mitra. It is also known as eastern India’s first snake park which is spread across two acres. The facility is home to a wide range of snakes and reptiles. It also promotes awareness regarding snakebite prevention and reptile conservation.

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.

Bannerghatta, situated some 25 km from central Bengaluru, is among the most popular biological parks in the country offering amazing safari experiences. One section of the is dedicated to rare snakes and reptiles. The park also provides visitors an opportunity to observe snakes in a more natural environment.

How to reach:

Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru is the closest to the park. Taxis and cabs are easily available from outside the airport.

Bengaluru’s railway stations also offer easy access to the park.