Chennai Snake Park, Mahabalipuram

Highlights

• India’s first reptile park, founded in 1972 by Romulus Whitaker
• See a variety of snakes including cobras, pythons, vipers, and adders
• Located within the lush Guindy National Park campus
• Educational displays on snake venom and conservation

Religious Significance

The park holds historical importance as India’s first reptile park and a pioneering conservation initiative by Romulus Whitaker, who later founded the Madras Crocodile Bank Trust. It is also notable for its role in snake venom research and public education about snakebite prevention. Recognized as a medium zoo by the Central Zoo Authority in 1995, it contributes to herpetological awareness and conservation in Tamil Nadu.

Facilities

Basic facilities include restrooms and a small visitor area; there is no on-site restaurant, but drinking water is available. The park is compact, so plan for a short visit.

History

• •The Chennai Snake Park Trust was constituted in 1972 by herpetologist Romulus Whitaker, making it the first reptile park in India.
• •It was established on the former site of the Madras Crocodile Bank Trust, which later moved to its current location.
• •The park received statutory recognition as a medium zoo from the Central Zoo Authority in 1995.

Travel Tips

• Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Guindy National Park or the Children’s Park for a fuller day out.
• Carry water and hats, as shade is limited in some areas.
• Check the park’s opening hours (usually 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM, closed on Tuesdays) before you go.

Location

• •The park is located next to the Children’s Park within the Guindy National Park campus, in the Guindy area of Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
• •It is approximately 42.1 km from Mahabalipuram town center.

How to Reach

• •From Mahabalipuram, take the East Coast Road (ECR) north toward Chennai, then follow signs to Guindy via the Sardar Patel Road or Anna Salai.
• •The drive typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours depending on traffic; you can hire a taxi or use app-based cabs.

Things to Do

Do's and Don'ts

• •Do maintain a safe distance from enclosures and never attempt to touch or feed the animals.
• •Do follow the marked pathways and listen to staff instructions.
• •Don’t use flash photography, as it can stress the reptiles.

Photography Rules

• •Photography is generally allowed, but avoid using flash to prevent disturbing the snakes and other reptiles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick Information

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