Madras Crocodile Bank Chennai: The Madras Crocodile Bank Trust and Centre for Herpetology (MCBT) is the most prominent crocodile park on Chennai’s East Coast Road (ECR) and one of the largest reptile conservation centers in the world. Located amid natural coastal greenery, this iconic wildlife destination attracts families, students, researchers, and nature lovers throughout the year.
Founded with a mission to protect endangered reptiles, the Crocodile Bank today stands as a global leader in reptile conservation, education, and scientific research.
Madras Crocodile Bank Chennai
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | East Coast Road (ECR), Vadanemmeli, near Mahabalipuram |
| Distance from Chennai | ~40 km |
| Timings | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Closed On | Monday |
| Entry Fee | ₹100 (Adults), ₹50 (Children 3+) |
| Main Attraction | Crocodiles, Komodo Dragon, Gharial Exhibit |
| Best Time to Visit | November – March |
| Ideal Visit Duration | 2–3 hours |
About Madras Crocodile Bank Trust (MCBT)
Established in 1976 by renowned conservationists Romulus Whitaker and Zai Whitaker, the Crocodile Bank was created to save India’s rapidly declining crocodile populations. Over the decades, it has evolved into a world-class conservation institution dedicated to reptiles and amphibians.
Spread across 8.5 acres, MCBT houses:
- 15 species of crocodilians (out of 25 globally)
- 33+ species of reptiles, including snakes, turtles, tortoises, and lizards
- Several IUCN-listed critically endangered species
With nearly half a million visitors annually, it is one of the most visited attractions on ECR.
Crocodile Bank Entry Fee
| Category | Ticket Price |
|---|---|
| Adults | ₹100 |
| Children (3+ years) | ₹50 |
| Night Safari | Separate ticket |
| Snake Venom Extraction Demo | Separate ticket |
Prices may change; visitors are advised to check the official website for updates.
Ticket site
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How to Book a Visit to Madras Crocodile Bank
- Visit Official Website
Go to the Madras Crocodile Bank Trust official website. - Find “Visit Us / Tickets” Section
Click on the Visit Us or Tickets page on the menu. - Choose Your Date & Ticket Type
Select date, number of visitors, and ticket type (standard, night safari, snake venom demo). - Fill Guest Details
Enter names, ages (children/adults) and contact information. - Make Online Payment
Pay securely using credit/debit card, UPI, or other available options. - Get Confirmation
You’ll receive an email/SMS ticket — save it for entry.
Major Attractions at Madras Crocodile Bank
| Attraction / Activity | Brief Description |
|---|---|
| Crocodile & Reptile Collection | Home to ~2,400 crocodiles including Mugger, Saltwater Crocodile, Critically Endangered Gharial, Komodo Dragon, Aldabra Giant Tortoise, and Asian Water Monitor |
| Underwater Gharial Exhibit | Rare viewing gallery that lets visitors observe gharials swimming underwater in a natural setup |
| Snake Venom Extraction Demo | Ethical venom extraction by the Irula Snake Catchers’ Cooperative, supporting antivenom production, tribal livelihoods, and snake conservation |
| Night Safari (Weekends) | Guided night experience showcasing nocturnal reptile behavior in a safe, controlled environment |
| Feeding Sessions | Popular Sunday afternoon sessions featuring “Jaws III”, India’s largest captive crocodile |
| Junior Zoo Keeper Program | Interactive program for children to learn reptile care under expert supervision |
| Guided Tours & Education | Pre-booked tours, wildlife camps, workshops, and awareness programs for schools, colleges, researchers, and wildlife enthusiasts |
Conservation & Research at Crocodile Bank
MCBT plays a critical role in:
- Captive breeding of endangered crocodiles
- Successful breeding of 5,000+ crocodilians
- Publishing a biannual herpetology journal
- Maintaining India’s largest herpetological library
- Field conservation and habitat restoration projects
The center also runs mobile exhibitions in coastal villages to promote wildlife awareness.
Best Time to Visit Crocodile Bank Chennai
The ideal visiting period is November to March, when Chennai experiences pleasant weather, making outdoor exploration comfortable.
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How to Reach Madras Crocodile Bank
- By Road:
Easily accessible via buses, taxis, autos, and private vehicles on ECR - Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport (~40 km)
- Nearest Railway Station: Chennai Central (~42 km)
Visitor Tips
- Visit early morning for active reptile sightings
- Carry water, sunscreen, and hats
- Follow safety instructions strictly
- Avoid feeding animals
- Photography is allowed in most areas
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Nearby Places to Visit Near Madras Crocodile Bank
| Place Name | Distance | Why Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Thiruvidanthai Beach | ~3 km | Quiet beach, scenic views, less crowded |
| Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram) | ~12 km | UNESCO World Heritage temples, Shore Temple |
| DakshinaChitra | ~6 km | South Indian heritage, culture & crafts museum |
| Muttukadu Boat House | ~8 km | Boating, kayaking, family-friendly spot |
| Covelong (Kovalam) Beach | ~7 km | Surfing, beachside cafés, relaxed vibe |
| VGP Universal Kingdom | ~20 km | Amusement park, ideal for families |
| Tiger Cave | ~10 km | Historic rock-cut cave, peaceful picnic spot |
Why Madras Crocodile Bank is a Must-Visit
- One of the largest reptile zoos globally
- Strong focus on conservation & education
- Family-friendly & educational
- Unique experiences like night safari & venom extraction
- Ideal weekend getaway from Chennai
Venue
Do’s & Don’ts at Madras Crocodile Bank
| Do’s | Don’ts |
|---|---|
| Follow staff instructions and safety signs | Do not feed or tease animals |
| Walk only on designated visitor paths | Do not cross barriers or enclosures |
| Carry water, hat, and sunscreen | Do not litter inside the park |
| Maintain silence near animal enclosures | Do not use flash photography |
| Supervise children at all times | Do not run or shout inside the zoo |
| Book night safari and guided tours in advance | Do not touch reptiles or snakes |
FAQs
Q1. Where is Madras Crocodile Bank located?
It is located on East Coast Road (ECR), Vadanemmeli Village, about 40 km south of Chennai, near Mahabalipuram.
Q2. What are the opening timings of Crocodile Bank?
The park is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Tuesday to Sunday. It is closed on Mondays.
Q3. What is the entry fee for Crocodile Bank?
The entry fee is ₹100 for adults and ₹50 for children (3+ years). Special activities require separate tickets.
Q4. Is online booking available?
Yes, tickets can be booked through the official Madras Crocodile Bank website or purchased at the entrance.
Q5. How much time is needed to visit Crocodile Bank?
A complete visit usually takes 2 to 3 hours.
Q6. Is Crocodile Bank safe for children?
Yes, it is safe and educational, but children should be supervised at all times.
Q7. Are guided tours and night safaris available?
Yes, guided tours are available on pre-booking, and night safaris are conducted on weekends with separate tickets.
Q8. Can visitors take photographs inside the park?
Yes, photography is allowed, but flash photography is not permitted.
Q9. When is the best time to visit Crocodile Bank?
The best time to visit is between November and March, when the weather is pleasant.
Q10. Can I donate or adopt a reptile at Crocodile Bank?
Yes, visitors can donate, adopt a reptile, or buy souvenirs from the Croc Shop.
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