Madras Crocodile Bank Trust is one of India’s most renowned reptile conservation centres and the largest crocodile sanctuary in the country. Established in 1976 by noted herpetologist Romulus Whitaker, the park was created to conserve endangered crocodilian species that were nearing extinction.
Located along the scenic East Coast Road (ECR), about 40 km south of Chennai, the sanctuary spans approximately 8.5 acres and houses one of the world’s largest collections of crocodiles and alligators. The centre has successfully bred over 5,000 crocodiles and alligators, playing a crucial role in reptile conservation and research.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Attraction Name | Madras Crocodile Bank Trust |
| Popular Name | Crocodile Park Chennai |
| Category | Wildlife Sanctuary, Reptile Zoo & Research Centre |
| Location | East Coast Road (ECR), Vadanemmeli, near Mamallapuram, Tamil Nadu |
| District | Chengalpattu |
| Nearest City | Chennai |
| State | Tamil Nadu |
| Country | India |
| Established | 1976 |
| Founder | Romulus Whitaker |
| Total Area | Approximately 8.5 Acres |
| Type of Park | Crocodile Sanctuary, Conservation Centre & Reptile Zoo |
| Main Objective | Conservation and breeding of endangered crocodilian species |
| Famous For | Crocodiles, Alligators, Gharials, Turtles, Tortoises, Snakes and Lizards |
| Number of Crocodilian Species | 14 of the world’s 23 crocodilian species |
| Conservation Achievement | Successfully bred over 5,000 crocodiles and alligators |
| Major Species | Saltwater Crocodile, Mugger Crocodile, Gharial |
| Other Reptiles | King Cobra, Indian Python, Monitor Lizards, Turtles and Tortoises |
| Bird Species | More than 60 species recorded |
| Research Activities | Herpetology research and reptile conservation |
| Educational Programs | Wildlife awareness programs, workshops and guided tours |
| Photography | Allowed |
| Night Safari | Available on selected days |
| Parking Facility | Available |
| Restrooms | Available |
| Drinking Water | Available |
| Souvenir Shop | Available |
| Food & Refreshments | Available |
| Wheelchair Accessibility | Partial Accessibility |
| Ideal Visit Duration | 2–3 Hours |
| Suitable For | Families, Students, Nature Lovers, Wildlife Enthusiasts and Photographers |
| Best Time to Visit | November to February |
| Recommended Visit Time | Morning or Late Afternoon |
| Timings | Generally 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM |
| Weekly Holiday | Usually Open All Days (subject to change) |
| Nearest Bus Stand | Chengalpattu Old Bus Terminal (Approx. 34 km) |
| Nearest Railway Station | Guduvancheri Railway Station (Approx. 15 km) |
| Nearest Airport | Chennai International Airport (Approx. 40 km) |
| Road Connectivity | Accessible via East Coast Road (ECR) |
| Entry Fee | Separate charges for adults, children and foreign visitors |
| Official Website | Madras Crocodile Bank Trust |
Point of Attractions
Crocodile & Alligator Collection
- Home to 14 crocodilian species from around the world.
- Includes Saltwater Crocodiles, Mugger Crocodiles, Gharials, and various alligator species.
Turtle & Tortoise Conservation Centre
- Houses several endangered turtle and tortoise species.
- Conservation breeding programs for rare reptiles.
Snake Enclosures
- Features King Cobra, Indian Python, Rat Snake, and other reptiles.
- Educational displays on reptile behavior and ecology.
Lizard Exhibits
- Monitor lizards and other reptilian species.
- Interactive educational information boards.
Reptile Research & Conservation Centre
- Active breeding and conservation programs.
- Educational workshops and awareness initiatives.
Bird Watching
- More than 60 bird species recorded within the sanctuary.
- Excellent opportunities for wildlife photography.
Night Safari (Selected Days)
- Special guided tours to observe nocturnal reptile behavior.
- One of the park’s most popular experiences.
Facilities
| Facility | Availability |
|---|---|
| Parking | Yes |
| Restrooms | Yes |
| Drinking Water | Yes |
| Guided Tours | Available |
| Souvenir Shop | Yes |
| Refreshment Kiosk | Available |
| Wheelchair Access | Partial |
| Educational Displays | Yes |
| Photography | Allowed |
| Night Safari | Selected Days |
Best in the Park
Saltwater Crocodile
The largest living reptile on Earth and a major attraction.
Gharial
A critically endangered crocodilian known for its long, narrow snout.
Mugger Crocodile
One of India’s native crocodile species.
King Cobra
The world’s longest venomous snake.
Aldabra Giant Tortoise
Among the largest tortoise species in the world.
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