The Crocodile Breeding Centre, also known as the Crocodile Park, is the only crocodile reservation park in West Bengal and one of the few in the world. It is located in Bakkhali, a coastal town south of Kolkata, West Bengal, India.
The breeding center houses a large collection of crocodiles, with species in almost every stage of life, from hatchlings to adults. Visitors can observe these magnificent reptiles from a safe distance and learn about their biology and conservation. The center is part of a ten-year management plan by the State Forest Department to systematically breed crocodiles and release them back into the wild, specifically the rivers of the Sundarbans Biosphere Reserve.
Getting There:
Bakkhali is about 130 kilometers from Kolkata. You can reach Bakkhali by car, bus, or train. If you are coming from Kolkata, you can take a taxi or a bus from Esplanade or Babughat. The train journey from Kolkata to Namkhana, the nearest railway station to Bakkhali, takes about 3 hours. From Namkhana, you can hire a rickshaw or car to reach the Crocodile Breeding Centre.
Opening Hours and Entrance Fees:
The Crocodile Breeding Centre is open to the public from 9am to 5pm. The entrance fee is nominal.
What to See and Do:
The main attraction of the Crocodile Breeding Centre is, of course, the crocodiles. Visitors can see a variety of crocodile species, including the mugger crocodile, the saltwater crocodile, and the Siamese crocodile. The center also has a museum where you can learn about the history and biology of crocodiles.
Here are some additional activities you can enjoy near the Crocodile Breeding Centre:
- Visit the nearby beaches of Bakkhali.
- Take a boat ride on the Saptamukhi River.
- Explore the Sundarbans Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Visit the Henry's Island, a small island with a lighthouse.
- Visit the Fraserganj Wind Park, which has a number of wind turbines.
Tips:
- The best time to visit the Crocodile Breeding Centre is during the cooler months, from November to February.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as there will be some walking involved.
- Bring sunscreen and a hat, as there is not much shade in the park.
- Photography is allowed, but please be respectful of the animals and avoid using flash.
- Be sure to dispose of your trash properly.
The Crocodile Breeding Centre is a great place to learn about crocodiles and see these fascinating creatures up close. It is a perfect destination for a day trip from Kolkata or a stop on a longer trip to West Bengal.