¤ About Crocodile Bank
The Crocodile Bank offers a green bed of lush tropical vegetation which provides ample shade both to the thousands of crocodilians that lie on the water-banks with their jaws wide open as well as to the curious onlookers. The Madras Crocodile Bank is 40 kilometers from the metropolis and is a route to the 7th century Pallava seaport town of Mahabalipuram renowned for its rock-cut temples. The main attraction is the crocodile conservation centre, which is the largest croc-breeding site in India. The Bank today has about seven crocodilian species including the three Indian types.

The Indian species include the 3.6 metre long Marsh/Mugger variety which is the most widely distributed species once found in all lowland water systems including the arid State of Rajasthan; the four to five metre long Gharials, the crocodile with the longest jaw which has a pot like snout; and the largest of reptiles, the Saltwater crocodiles, eight metres long and 900 kilogram's in weight, found in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the Sunderbans in West Bengal and in coastal Orissa. Romulus Whittaker runs this crocodile breeding and research centre. It was set up in 1976. This bank was started to protect India's dwindling crocodile population and to preserve the Snake catching.

This bank has already produced more than 6,000 crocodiles. There is also a snake farm where anti - venom is produced. Several species of Indian and African Crocodiles and Alligators bred in captivity are kept here in open pools. The snake venom extractions are a great attraction to the visitors and it helps the Irulas to maintain their way of life.

¤ Major Tourist Attractions of Crocodile Bank
Crocodile Bank is the fantastic high-tech amusement Park called Little Folks. The park offers thrilling and heart throbbing entertainment options. Another noteworthy site is the Golden Beach about 21 km on the road to Mamallapuram. Many films are shot here. The beach also has amusement and theme park with artificial settings, sceneries and high-tech entertainment equipments.

¤ Season to visit Crocodile Bank
The best time to visit the Crocodile Bank is October to March.The maximum temperature of 35°C and a minimum of 19°C.

¤ How To Reach Crocodile Bank
» Air -Chennai (42-km) is the nearest airport with both domestic and international terminus. Chennai is connected with all the major places in India through the numerous domestic flights. International flights operate from various parts of the world to Chennai.

» Rail -The nearest railway stations are Chengalpattu (29-km) and Chennai (42-km).

» Road - There are buses available from Pondicherry, Kanchipuram, Chengalpattu and Chennai to Mahabalipuram daily. The Crocodile Bank is on the way to Mahabalipuram. Tourists can also hire a taxi from Chennai (Madras) or Mahabalipuram.