Parassinikkadavu Snake Park

Parassinikkadavu Snake Park in Kannur (celebrated across India as one of Asia's most prominent reptile conservation sanctuaries and zoological research institutions dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and scientific education on non venomous and venomous snakes, founded in 1982 by visionary political leader M.V. Raghavan to demystify serpents and eradicate deep rooted superstitions, world famous for its live demonstrations with King Cobras, Spectacled Cobras, Russell's Vipers, Saw scaled Vipers, Pit Vipers, marsh crocodiles, and rescued raptors), located in Parassini near the sacred Valapattanam River in Kannur in Kerala, stands as the land of looms and lore's premier wildlife education center.

Operated by the Pappinisseri Visha Chikilsa Society (Pappinisseri Toxicological Center), the snake park plays an invaluable role in extracting anti venom serum precursors, treating snakebite victims from across north Kerala, and rehabilitating distressed reptiles captured from agricultural villages.

It's the home of the massive glass enclosures housing large 14 foot King Cobras (Ophiophagus hannah)—the world's longest venomous snake, the specialized pit viper terrariums mimicking tropical rainforest microclimates, the open air crocodile and gharial ponds where adult mugger crocodiles bask in the sun, the interactive daily reptile awareness sessions where trained herpetologists demonstrate safe handling techniques and explain first aid measures for venomous snakebites, the aviary section harboring rescued eagles, barn owls, and pea fowls, and an intensely educational, engaging family atmosphere where children and naturalists discover the ecological importance of serpents in controlling rodent pests.

It represents a rich herpetological conservation history, lifesaving toxicological science, and wildlife rehabilitation where King Cobra enclosures, crocodile ponds, Muthappan temple culture, and Kannur eco tourism unite in Parassinikkadavu Snake Park.

Located in Parassini village just 2 km from the famous Parassinikkadavu Sri Muthappan Temple, it sits 16 km north of Kannur city center, 17 km from Kannur Main Railway Station (CAN), 32 km from Kannur International Airport (CNN), and 25 km from Payyambalam Beach, easily accessible by auto rickshaw, town bus, or taxi via NH 66 and Valapattanam Bridge.

The 14 Foot King Cobra & 150+ Serpent Species

The sanctuary houses over 150 reptiles, including India's 'Big Four' venomous snakes, Spectacled Cobra, Common Krait, Russell's Viper, and Saw scaled Viper.

Trained handlers conduct hourly awareness demonstrations in Malayalam and English, teaching visitors how to distinguish between venomous and harmless rat snakes or tree vipers.

Truth is, standing inches from an upright King Cobra behind safety glass while learning about its hunting instincts is unforgettable.

Crocodile Breeding Ponds, Anti Venom & Aviary

Marsh Crocodile Enclosures: Features dedicated breeding ponds for Mugger crocodiles and tortoises with artificial sandbanks for egg laying.

Toxicological Research: The parent hospital at Pappinisseri has saved thousands of lives using specialized anti snake venom protocols developed alongside the park.

Kannur Cultural & Wildlife Circuit

Parassini Loop: Sits just 2 km from the sacred Parassinikkadavu Sri Muthappan Temple, 5 km from Vismaya Water Theme Park, and 10 km from Valapattanam River Boat Jetty.

District Day Tour: Connects smoothly with St. Angelo Fort (18 km), Arakkal Museum (19 km), and Madayi Kavu (22 km).

After observing the reptile species at Parassinikkadavu Snake Park, seek blessings at Muthappan Temple, take a river cruise, or tour Kannur.