Where can you see a variety of snakes up close and personal? Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute in Bangkok, the second oldest snake farm in the world

Experience Asia’s Historic Snake Farm

Do you love snakes? Would you like to see various snake species up close? Are you interested in learning about Asia’s native snakes through hands-on experiences? Furthermore, do you want to visit a place where animals are treated well rather than used only for entertainment? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you should visit the Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute in Bangkok.

This institute represents much more than just a tourist attraction. Therefore, it combines education, research, and conservation in one unique location that has served Asia for nearly a century.

World’s Second-Oldest Snake Farm

The Queen Saovabha Institute holds the title of the world’s second-oldest snake farm. Additionally, it was the first snake farm ever built in Asia. For more than 90 years, this institute has supplied poisonous snake antivenom to countries across Asia.

Originally, Thailand’s Ministry of Interior managed the institute. During this time, it was responsible for providing vaccines against rabies, smallpox, cholera, typhoid, and other serious diseases. However, the Thai Red Cross Society now operates the facility.

Today, the institute not only makes antivenom but also serves to educate visitors and students. Consequently, people better understand snake behavior and develop improved attitudes toward both poisonous and non-poisonous snakes.

Educational Snake Shows

As part of its education mission, trained professionals perform snake shows that teach people important skills. For example, visitors learn how to recognize and deal with different snake species found throughout Asia. The exciting 30-minute show provides both entertainment and valuable information.

The show starts by introducing small snakes like the Green Pit Viper. Then, it progresses to larger species such as the Burmese Python and Mangrove snakes. Finally, the presentation features the deadliest types, including the Cobra and King Cobra. Therefore, visitors experience a complete range of Asian snake species in one educational program.

Because the shows follow a careful progression, even nervous visitors feel comfortable learning about these fascinating creatures.

Show Schedule and Special Features

The institute offers two shows every weekday. The first show takes place at 11am and features a unique highlight. During this morning session, visitors watch a live demonstration showing how poisonous snakes are “milked” of their venom. This process is essential for creating life-saving antivenom.

The second show runs at 2:30pm and focuses on practical skills. Specifically, this afternoon session teaches proper handling techniques for both poisonous and non-poisonous snakes. Moreover, it finishes with an exciting photo opportunity where you can have your picture taken with a large, tame python.

However, weekends follow a different schedule. Saturday and Sunday feature only the 11am show. Therefore, weekend visitors should plan their trip accordingly to avoid disappointment.

Additional Learning Opportunities

In addition to the snake shows, visitors can explore comprehensive exhibitions. The first and second floor areas display more than 35 species of living snakes. Consequently, you can observe these creatures in comfortable, controlled environments.

These exhibition areas teach visitors about various aspects of snake biology. For example, you’ll learn about snake anatomy, evolution, and reproduction cycles. Additionally, the displays include important information about snake bite first aid procedures.

Because the exhibitions complement the live shows, visitors gain a complete understanding of these remarkable animals. Furthermore, the combination of live demonstrations and static displays ensures everyone learns something new during their visit.