The Crocodile Park in Chennai is also known as the Madras Crocodile Bank Trust and Centre for Herpetology. The site is dedicated to the conservation of reptiles, especially crocodiles and other endangered species. So, all the daring animal lovers, this place is for you. The Crocodile Park in Chennai is in the Mahabalipuram district of Chennai and is house of various other historical and cultural areas. The Crocodile Park in Chennai is an initiative to save and take care of various crocodile species that may be extinct in some parts of the world. The idea behind creating this park was designed by Romulus Whitaker, a herpetologist and wildlife conservationist, in 1976.
History & Diversity Of The Crocodile Park In Chennai
The Crocodile Park in Chennai began when an American-born wildfire conservationist, Romulus Whitaker, came to India in the 1960s. His passion for reptiles and his study led to the Crocodile Park. The idea came from the fact that, at that time, many animals were on the verge of extinction. So, Romulus Whitaker and his wife, Zai Whitaker, talked to like-minded conservationists and convinced them to create this Crocodile Park in Chennai in 1976.
The challenges during the initial year of discussions and creation were complex due to land procurement issues, money crunch, and even maintaining a habitat for the crocodiles. However, after a few years, the Crocodile Park in Chennai gained recognition from various research institutes and became a tourism hub.
Also Read: Places To Visit In Mahabalipuram
Species Of Crocodiles In The Crocodile Park
Various crocodile species are present in this crocodile park, protected from extinction from the world. Out of all the experiences, the best to showcase is the night safari. A few of the species you can enjoy watching here are-
The Madras Crocodile Bank Trust and Centre for Herpetology in Chennai, also known as the Crocodile Bank, is home to several species of crocodiles. Here are the main types of crocodiles you can find at the Crocodile Bank:
Saltwater Crocodile: The first is the Crocodylus porosus species, the largest species alive. It is usually found in coastal regions, where it is found in brackish water. It is mainly found in the Indian and Southeast Asian regions. The saltwater crocodiles of the Crocodile Park in Chennai are known to be the most aggressive.
Mugger Crocodile: The second one is the Mud crocodile, also known as Crocodylus palustris. It loves being in lakes, rivers, and marshy areas. These are a little smaller than Saltwater crocodiles.
Gharial: The Gharial crocodile, also called the Gavialis gangeticus, is native to India and is one of the most critically endangered species. They are long and slender in shape and are mainly found in the Ganga and Brahmaputra River systems.
Why To Visit Crocodile Park
The Park consists of the natural habitat for each species, giving it the setup of various places around the world. Many schools around the area visited the Crocodile Park in Chennai to enhance the knowledge of their students and teachers. The science teachers gave live demos to the students about the behaviour and conservation of these crocodiles. Lastly, the Crocodile Park in Chennai has been one of the few sites in the world where various famous researchers have landed to study the stay and growth of different species in the park. There are amenities in Crocodile Park in Chennai, such as the crocodile breeding centre and reptile rehabilitation site. It also plays a positive role in the conservation of these breeding species.
Timings: 9:30-5:30 pm. Tickets are available till 5 pm
Closed on-Mondays
Night safari timings- 7:30-9:30 pm
Related Post: Hotels Near Yercaud Lake
Food To Try
You must indulge in the best foods while travelling to Crocodile Park in Chennai. Dosa Sambhar and coconut chutney are the ones you should try. The South Indian version of dosa is authentic in taste and is the finest one. The other food items on your list should be vada, sambhar rice, and biryani. Pongal is another dish made of rice, cashews, and curry leaves that will keep your fingers licking. Some sweets that you can try and take back while visiting the Crocodile Park in Chennai are Mysore Pak, Jangri, and Payasam.
If you plan to have these foods, the best restaurants near the Crocodile Park in Chennai are Shri Krishna Sweets, Murugan Idli Shop, and Sangeeta Veg restaurant. The Buhari restaurant in the area is best for its different types of biryanis, and Bharath Sweets is famous for its Mysore Pak.
Places to enjoy other than the Crocodile Park in Chennai
Places To Visit Along With The Crocodile Park in Chennai
The first one on your list should be the Mahabalipuram district. The place is full of various UNESCO heritage you can enjoy with your family. Enjoy the five Rathas, The Krishna butterball, Shore Temples, and the Arjuna’s Penance. The district is around 45 km from Crocodile Park in Chennai and can give you various places to enjoy.
You can also visit Dakshinachitra, a living museum and storehouse of South Indian traditions and values.
Related Post: Places To Visit Madurai In 1 Day
Location and How To Reach
Crocodile Park in Chennai is parallel to the Bay of Bengal and can be reached on East Coast Road. The journey itself is beautiful and mesmerizing, making your trip memorable.
You can travel by air, train, or road to the crocodile park. If you opt for the flight route, you can get to the Chennai International Airport, 50-70 km from the Mahabalipuram district, where the park is located. If you take the train service, Chengalpattu railway station is the closest (around 30km) from the district. You can choose a private cab from both places to drive you to the crocodile park.
You May Also Like To Read: Offbeat Places In Tamil Nadu
The Crocodile Park in Chennai is the sum of wildlife conservation for various reptile species. The park plays a significant role in making efforts for education and research purposes. The park is home to multiple endangered species that can be endangered shortly. Romulus Whitaker’s efforts brought critical success to us enjoying these reptiles with the kids. We can bring our children to show them about these animals and give them the virtual opportunity to learn. Plan a trip to Chennai and have an interactive, fun, and learning experience so you do not miss out on the fun of visiting this unique place. Such things bring us closer to nature and motivate us to save the mother earth.
For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here.
Cover Image Source: Facebook
Frequently Asked Questions About Crocodile Park In Chennai
How Far is the Crocodile Park in Chennai from Chennai Airport?
The Crocodile Park in Chennai is around 50 km from the Chennai International Airport, and you can reach it via private taxi.
Is there a facility for a night safari in the Crocodile Park?
Yes Night safari is possible from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., but tickets are available until 5 p.m. only.
Are their guides available?
Guides are readily available to make your visit more knowledgeable.
Are we allowed to touch the animals in the Crocodile Park?
No, touching animals is not allowed due to safety reasons.
How much time does it take to visit the Crocodile Park?
It takes around 2 hours to visit the whole Crocodile Park.
People Also Read:
Sula Park Cubbon Park Bugle Rock Park
With a passion for travelling, and carving beautiful stories of stunning locations I chose my profession as a content writer. The unique blend of creativity and strategy ensures that each narrative takes readers on a journey to their desired destination. With distinct locations and unique vibes, I strive to deliver captivating content that speaks to the hearts of readers.
