Snakes are one of the most misunderstood creatures of all time- the very sound of “snake” sends chills down the spine. Yet these creatures are one of the most beautiful and mysterious of creatures on this planet. So, if you’ve seen Snakes on a Plane, get ready to see snakes on a farm!
Where?
Slither your way towards the southern province of Sri Lanka to Matara, that’s 2 and a half hours away from Colombo. Here, in a little hamlet called Telijjawila you will find the snake farm. If you think it’s a waste of time just to come all this way and see just the farm no matter how awesome it is, no worries; there are plenty of things to do in Matara other than visiting the farm. Settle down at a hotel in Matara the likes of Amaloh by Jetwing and go on a bird watching safari along the Nilwala, a river that’s infested with giant mugger crocodiles. You can also try a range of water sports and go on a whale watching tour in nearby Mirissa.
Not Exactly a Snake “Farm”
Though it calls itself a snake farm, this amazing establishment can best be described as a snake conservation centre for it protects endangered snake species and educates people about the differences between venomous and non venomous snakes. This is very crucial because many people, especially in Sri Lanka, think that all snakes are venomous and try to kill even the innocent ones when they see them.
Snakes and Ayurveda
33,000 envenomed snake bites are reported annually in Sri Lanka. The owner of the snake farm is an Ayurvedic physician who uses the venom of the snakes in his centre, to provide cures for bites. His family is said to have owned the property for about 200 years! In addition to snakes, he also keeps tarantula spiders and some scorpions- sound like a nightmare doesn’t it!
Snake Selfies Anyone?
At the Snake Farm in Matara you can get up close and personal with some of the non-venomous snakes and even take photos with them!
Filled with wanderlust that seeks to explore distant shores and captivated by the colors and vibrancy of exotic cultures, Kanya Mae writes on the beautiful, exciting, and enchanting wonders of the world. She is a writer who not only has a passion for travel, but also has a background in fashion, art and media.
