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Pune's Hidden Gem: More Than Just Snakes!
29 Apr
Summary
- Features over 150 reptiles, including a 13-foot king cobra.
- Part of a 130-acre zoo with mammals, birds, and a lake.
- Offers affordable entry and educational conservation programs.
Tucked within Pune's Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park, the Katraj Snake Park offers a surprising depth beyond its reptilian inhabitants. It is home to over 150 reptiles across 22 species, prominently featuring a king cobra exceeding 13 feet in length. Established in the 1980s by wildlife expert Neelam Kumar Khaire, its foundational mission focused on snake awareness and conservation.
The park's educational programs, especially around Nag Panchami, continue this legacy by promoting reptile protection. Visitors can explore the broader 130-acre zoo, which includes diverse mammal and bird exhibits, an animal orphanage, and a sizable lake. Despite its extensive grounds, the entry remains remarkably affordable, around ₹60 for adults and ₹20 for children.
While the snake park section may take one to two hours, exploring the entire zoo can extend to three to four hours, with comfortable footwear recommended. The zoo operates seasonally, typically from 9:30 AM until 5 PM or 5:30 PM, and is closed every Wednesday. Winter and monsoon months offer the most comfortable visiting conditions.
Its focus is distinctly educational, emphasizing reptile behavior and ecological roles through informative displays and Braille support. This makes Katraj Snake Park a uniquely accessible and enriching wildlife destination, encouraging a deeper understanding of conservation efforts.
