Introduction

About 14-kilometer (8.75 miles) from Mahabalipuram on the Chennai-Mahabalipuram Road, the Crocodile Bank is an abode for crocodiles, alligators and snakes. For reptile lovers, this is in fact a great place to view crocodiles – thousands of them – in their natural environment. The snake farm is close to the crocodile bank; here anti-venom is produced for treating snakebites. A lot of visitors come here to go through the process of venom extracting; it helps the Irulas, a tribe of snake catchers, make a living. Crocodile Bank was set up by herpetologist Romulus Whitaker in 1976, to breed Indian and African crocodiles and alligators in captivity. Romulus wanted to recreate a natural habitat for these creatures in an attempt to protect and conserve them. Today, the trust is home to over six species of crocodiles. Over 5000 such reptiles are kept in their natural surroundings in open pools, and can be viewed from a safe distance.

The park spreads across 3.2 hectare, and continues to work towards conserving endangered reptiles. Lush tropical vegetation surrounds the area, and provides shade to a thousand crocodiles. A major attraction here is the crocodile conservation centre – it is the largest croc-breeding site in India. After breeding, the crocodiles are subsequently released in the protected sites, mostly in the waters of Chambal and Mahanadi among others.

Special Attributes

It is the largest croc-breeding site in India.

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Dress in whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

State buses depart daily from Pondicherry, Kanchipuram, Chengalpattu and Chennai to Mahabalipuram. Your can also hire a private taxi straight from Mahabalipuram.

Enjoyed by

Reptile Lovers

Exposure

The area has a lush green cover.

Avoidable Season

March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October

Facilities

Basic, plan accordingly

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction

Tip

Begin early in the day and do not throw any food at the reptiles.

Type of site

Crocodile Breeding Farm