10 deadly snakes found in the forests of Northeast India: What travellers should know before planning a trip

Northeast India is one of the most beautiful and biodiverse regions in Asia. The seven states, namely Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Sikkim, are blessed with lush forests which are noted for being home to over a dozen venomous snake species. The rainforests, bamboo groves, and mountain forests make for perfect habitats for some of India's most dangerous and venomous reptiles. As per researchers, Northeast India is home to over 20 species of medically important venomous snakes.

And when it comes to wildlife enthusiasts, and adventure travellers, spotting a snake can really be a thrilling experience. But it is important to know which species live in which forests and how to stay safe.

A look:

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Not many must be aware of the fact that the king cobra is the world's longest venomous snake. It can grow over 5 metres in length. King Cobra can be found across the forests of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, and parts of Meghalaya.

Main habitat: Kaziranga, Namdapha National Park, Pakke Tiger Reserve, Nagaland forests and Arunachal Pradesh

What should travellers know: King cobras generally avoid humans and are shy. If you spot one, don’t lose calm. Maintain a safe distance. Don’t attempt photography from close range.

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The monocled cobra is one of the most common venomous snakes in Northeast India. But travellers should know that this particular species is responsible for several snakebite incidents in Assam. The venom of this monocled snake is highly neurotoxic and can cause respiratory failure.

Main habitat Forests of Assam, Tripura, Mizoram and Nagaland.

What should travellers know These remain active during dusk and night. Be careful and vigilant around campsites and homestays near forests.

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Indian Cobra is among the most iconic snakes and is distributed across parts of Northeast India. It can be encountered around forest edges and villages.

Main habitat: Villages in and around Assam and Tripura

What should travellers know: Avoid placing hands into rock crevices or hollow logs. These are the common hideouts of Indian Cobra.

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The common krait is among the deadliest snakes found in India. One thing that travellers must know about this species is that its bite might feel painless but the venom attacks the nervous system which can leave the victim paralysed.

Main habitat Grasslands, forests, agricultural lands across Assam and other states.

What should travellers know Most bites occur at night. Don’t venture alone after it gets dark without a torch.

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Banded krait might look beautiful with its striking yellow-and-black bands but it's quite venomous. The snake possesses powerful neurotoxic venom.

Main habitat: Assam's wetlands, forests, riverbanks, and foothill regions.

What should travellers know: If you spot one, give it space to move. Don’t follow it for pictures or reels.

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The greater black krait is among the highly dangerous snakes of Northeast India. Its venom can cause paralysis and respiratory complications. Assam has one of the highest recorded sights of greater black krait in India.

Main habitat: Forests Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and Nagaland.

What should travellers know: It is largely nocturnal. So don’t venture out at night alone.

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It’s smaller than its feared larger cousin but is equally dangerous. The species is medically significant and is often mistaken for harmless black snakes.

Main habitat: Forests of Assam

What should travellers know: Never walk barefoot around camps and forests

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Green Pit Vipers are largely tree-dwellers and are masters of camouflage. Their bites can cause severe bleeding and northeast India is known for being home to several species of green pit vipers.

Main habitat: Forests of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, and Nagaland.

What should travellers know: Don’t touch everything that looks green.

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Salazar's Pit Viper is a recently-discovered species which is named after a famous fictional wizard. Today it is counted among one of Northeast India's most famous reptiles.

Main habitat: Arunachal Pradesh and neighbouring forested regions.

What should travellers know: This species blends perfectly into green foliage, so be vigilant when hiking in jungles.

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Suzhen's Krait is among the newest venomous snakes which was recently-found on the Nagaland-Manipur border region. It possesses potent neurotoxic venom.

Main habitat Nagaland, Manipur border forests and adjoining mountain landscapes.

What should travellers know Not completely understood or studied, this snake should be avoided.

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