About Parassinikkadavu Snake Park
Parassinikkadavu Snake Park is a reptile conservation center and mini zoo located in Anthoor Municipality, Kannur district, Kerala. Established in 1982 by M.V. Raghavan, it houses over 150 species of snakes including King Cobra and Spectacled Cobra, along with crocodiles, monitor lizards, mammals, and birds. The park aims to educate visitors about snakes and dispel superstitions through awareness programs and live demonstrations.
Visitors guide
Visitors can explore enclosures housing various venomous and non-venomous snake species such as King Cobra, Russell's Viper, Kraits, and Pythons in naturalistic habitats. The park also features crocodiles, monitor lizards, tortoises, jungle cats, macaques, peafowl, and other birds. Daily awareness classes and guided tours explain snake behavior, morphology, and safety measures. Live snake handling demonstrations are conducted by trained staff to educate visitors and reduce fear of reptiles.
Key highlights
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Houses the world's longest venomous snake, the King Cobra, with specimens up to 30 feet
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Features over 150 species of reptiles including Spectacled Cobra, Russell's Viper, and various pit vipers
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Daily snake awareness classes and live handling demonstrations by trained professionals
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Mini zoo with mammals like jungle cats, bonnet macaques, and birds including peafowl and eagles
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Educational exhibits explaining snake anatomy, behavior, and myth-busting information
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Statue of wildlife conservationist Steve Irwin holding a crocodile
History of Parassinikkadavu Snake Park
Established on January 8, 1982, by former Kerala Minister M.V. Raghavan as an offshoot of the Pappinisseri Visha Chikitsa Kendra (Venom Treatment Center) founded in 1964. The park was created to conserve reptiles and provide snakebite treatment using Ayurvedic and traditional methods. It received guidance from renowned herpetologist Romulus Whitaker.
Culture & Context
The park plays an important role in dispelling myths and superstitions about snakes prevalent in local communities. It promotes wildlife conservation education and conducts awareness programs for school children and the general public. The park is located near the Parassinikkadavu Muthappan Temple, a significant religious site in the region.