The Madras Crocodile Bank Trust (MCBT), located on the scenic East Coast Road (ECR) about 40 km from Chennai, is one of India’s most unique wildlife conservation and research centers. Founded in 1976 by renowned herpetologist Romulus Whitaker, this reptile park was established to conserve endangered crocodile species and educate the public about reptiles and amphibians.
Spread across 8.5 acres of lush greenery, the Crocodile Bank is home to over 2,000 reptiles, including crocodiles, alligators, gharials, turtles, snakes, and lizards. It is a family-friendly, educational, and eco-tourism destination that attracts school groups, families, wildlife enthusiasts, and researchers from around the world.
👉Opening hours: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; Holidays: All Mondays
🐊 Top Things to See and Do at the Crocodile Bank
The Crocodile Bank isn’t just about crocodiles, it’s a living classroom about reptiles and their habitats. Here’s what you can explore inside:
Crocodile Enclosures
Walk through large, secure enclosures featuring Indian Mugger, Saltwater Crocodiles, and Gharials. The sight of dozens of crocodiles basking in the sun is both thrilling and educational.🔍 Hidden Tip: Visit during feeding hours (weekends at 4:30 PM) to watch trained keepers feed the crocodiles safely.
Snake Park & Reptile House
View a wide range of snakes including cobras, vipers, pythons, and rat snakes. The park also showcases rescued reptiles and conducts awareness sessions.Turtle Bay & Water Exhibits
A peaceful section featuring Indian and exotic turtle species. It’s shaded and great for children.Nocturnal House (Night Safari Room)
Experience the rare nocturnal reptiles in a dimly lit environment, geckos, vipers, and more.🎟️ Separate Entry: ₹30 extra per person.
Snake Venom Extraction Demonstration (Available only on specific days)
The Irula Snake Catchers’ Cooperative Society, working nearby, demonstrates safe venom extraction used for making antivenom.🕓 Timing: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM (Tuesday to Friday)
Eco Shop & Souvenir Corner
Purchase eco-friendly souvenirs, educational books, and small reptile toys for kids.Children’s Education Zone
Designed for school kids, includes fun quiz walls, interactive information boards, and reptile conservation videos.
🎫 Madras Crocodile Bank Entry Fees & Timings
| 🎟️ Ticket Type | 💰 Fee / Charges | 🕒 Timings | 📌 Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Ticket | ₹100 per person | 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM | Open Tue–Sun |
| Child Ticket (below 10 yrs) | ₹50 per child | 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM | With adult supervision |
| Students (School Groups) | ₹60 per head | Within regular hours | Pre-booking required |
| Nocturnal House (add-on) | ₹30 per person | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Limited capacity |
| Camera / Mobile | ₹50 (handheld) | During visit | No flash in Nocturnal House |
| Parking | Car ₹50 · Bike ₹20 · Bus ₹100 | 9:00 AM – 5:45 PM | On-site, guarded |
| Weekly Holiday | Every Monday | Closed |
🌤️ Best Time to Visit & Peak Season
Best Season: November to February (pleasant winter weather)
Peak Season: December – January (Christmas holidays & Pongal vacation)
Avoid: Peak summer afternoons (March to May), reptile activity is lower, and heat can be intense.
Ideal Visit Time: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM or 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM for active reptiles and cool shade.
⚠️ Things to Be Cautious and Careful About
Stay behind barriers – never lean over fences or enclosures.
Don’t feed animals – it’s strictly prohibited.
Beware of monkeys near food stalls.
Keep children supervised – some areas have open pond edges.
Carry water bottles, hats, and sunscreen – the park involves moderate walking.
Use dustbins – it’s a conservation zone; littering is fined.
🎠 Fun and Educational Activities for Kids
Junior Reptile Keeper Program (pre-booking required) – Kids learn about reptile care, feeding, and habitat.
Photo Booth Area with crocodile replicas.
Interactive learning corners and short films about wildlife conservation.
Weekend “Croc Talk” – A 15-minute storytelling session by staff naturalists.
🪶 Hidden Tip: Ask the staff about the “Mini Croc Feeding Session” for kids (safe and guided demonstration on weekends).
🍴 Food, Parking & Restroom Facilities
Food Facilities:
On-site Croc Café serves snacks, juices, coffee, and South Indian meals.
Outside the gate, several small eateries on ECR serve seafood and vegetarian meals (₹150–₹300).
Restrooms: Clean, maintained, and available at two points (entry and mid-section).
Parking Facilities:
Spacious parking for cars and buses.
Parking Fee: ₹50 for cars, ₹20 for bikes, ₹100 for buses.
Security available during visiting hours.
📍 Madras Crocodile Bank Nearby Tourist Attractions
| 🏛️ Place | 📏 Distance | 🌟 Highlights | 💡 Hidden Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mahabalipuram | 7 km | UNESCO World Heritage temples, Shore Temple, Five Rathas, and beach shopping. | Visit early morning for golden light photos and fewer crowds. |
| Dakshina Chitra Museum | 8 km | Cultural village museum showcasing South Indian art, homes, and crafts. | Watch live pottery and weaving demos on weekends. |
| Kovalam Beach | 5 km | Calm seashore, water sports, beach shacks with fresh seafood. | Best at sunset; try the grilled prawns from local stalls. |
| Muttukadu Boat House | 12 km | Boating, kayaking, and jet-ski rides in the backwaters. | Go before noon for calmer waters and short waiting time. |
| ISKCON Temple ECR | 15 km | Beautiful temple architecture, serene prayers, and Govinda’s restaurant. | Stay for the evening aarti for a peaceful spiritual experience. |
| Covelong Surf School | 6 km | Learn surfing or paddleboarding with certified trainers; weekend events for kids. | Morning sessions (7–9 AM) have gentler waves ideal for beginners. |
📷 Photography and Souvenir Tips
Photography is allowed (mobile and handheld cameras).
Avoid flash photography inside nocturnal house.
Souvenir shop sells miniature crocodile toys, postcards, and wildlife-themed T-shirts (₹100–₹500).
Hidden Tip: Buy eco-friendly bamboo bookmarks handmade by local artisans, available only here.
🌿 Best Time for Family Visits
Ideal Months: November – February
Avoid Weekends if you prefer fewer crowds.
Best Family Hours: 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM for cooler weather and active reptiles.
💬 Visitor Review Snapshot
⭐ Highlights: Clean, educational, and well-maintained.
⭐ Family Friendly: Excellent for kids aged 4+.
⭐ Best Memory: Watching crocodile feeding and visiting the nocturnal house.
🐊 Madras Crocodile Bank Traveller Reviews
🌞 The Good
★★★★★ “Educational and exciting for kids.”
Staff explain snakes, turtles, and crocodiles in simple words. The boards are clear and the nocturnal house is a unique experience for school-age kids.
★★★★★ “Crocodile feeding talk was a highlight.”
The weekend session drew a crowd, but it was safe, well-guided, and full of facts about different species and their behavior.
★★★★☆ “Lots of shade and neat pathways.”
Even on warm days, the tree cover, benches, and well-marked trails make walking comfortable. Strollers and wheelchairs manage most paths.
★★★★☆ “Clean, well-managed campus.”
Restrooms are maintained, dustbins are everywhere, and the staff politely remind visitors not to feed animals or tap on glass.
★★★★☆ “Great add-on to an ECR day trip.”
Easy to combine with Mahabalipuram or the beach. Parking is straightforward and signage is clear from the highway
⚠️The Bad
★★★☆☆ “Crowded on weekends and holidays.”
Lines form at popular enclosures and the feeding talk area fills quickly. Arrive early afternoon or on weekdays for a quieter visit.
★★★☆☆ “Heat and humidity can be tiring.”
Open areas feel hot in peak summer. Carry water, a hat, and sunscreen; take breaks in the shaded zones.
★★★☆☆ “Some animal areas have a mild odor.”
Expected around reptile pools, especially after rain. Moving past these sections or timing your visit earlier helps.
★★☆☆☆ “Limited food variety inside.”
Quick bites and beverages are available, but full meal options are basic. Families often prefer to eat on ECR before or after the visit.
The Madras Crocodile Bank Trust and Centre for Herpetology is not just a zoo, it’s a world-class reptile conservation center and a must-visit spot on Chennai’s ECR. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a student, or a family traveler, the park promises a mix of education and excitement in a natural setting.
It’s one of the top family tourist places near Chennai, ideal for a one-day picnic or weekend getaway. With its eco-friendly ambiance, interactive programs, and close encounters with reptiles, it’s an unforgettable stop for nature lovers.
👉 Plan your visit between November and February, stay nearby in Mahabalipuram, and experience one of South India’s most fascinating wildlife attractions!
