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 part of the larger Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park and is regarded as one of India’s well-known reptile attractions. The park draws wildlife enthusiasts and curious visitors from across the country who come to see a wide variety of reptiles, including Indian rock pythons, king cobras, Russell’s vipers, and several other snake species.

Pune International Airport is the nearest airport, located around 15 km away from the park.

Pune Junction railway station is well connected to major cities across India. Shared cabs, auto-rickshaws, and buses for Katraj are easily available from different parts of Pune.

Located within Guindy National Park, Chennai Snake Park is among India's most renowned centres for reptile conservation and education. Established in 1972 by celebrated herpetologist Romulus Whitaker, it holds the distinction of being the country's first snake park. The facility offers visitors a chance to observe a variety of reptiles, including cobras, vipers, pythons, crocodiles, and several species of turtles in carefully maintained enclosures. Beyond showcasing these fascinating creatures, the park plays an important role in wildlife education through awareness campaigns, interactive sessions, and educational programmes aimed at promoting conservation and dispelling myths about snakes.
How to reach:
By air: Chennai International Airport is the nearest airport, located approximately 12 km from the park.
By rail: Chennai Central railway station, one of the city's major rail hubs, is well connected to destinations across India.

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.

Established in 1977 by noted conservationist Dipak Mitra, the Calcutta Snake Park is recognised as eastern India’s first dedicated snake park. Spread across nearly two acres, the facility houses a diverse collection of snakes and other reptiles. Beyond showcasing these fascinating creatures, the park plays an important role in educating visitors about snakebite awareness, rescue efforts, and reptile conservation.

How to reach
By air: The nearest airport is Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata.
By rail: Howrah Junction and Sealdah Railway Station are the closest major railway hubs.
Local transport: Visitors can easily reach the park by taxi, app-based cabs, metro services, or local public transport from different parts of Kolkata.

Located about 25 km from the heart of Bengaluru, Bannerghatta is one of India’s most visited biological parks and is well known for its wildlife safari experiences. The park features a dedicated reptile section that houses several rare snake species and other reptiles. It also gives visitors a chance to observe these animals in habitats designed to closely resemble their natural surroundings.


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.