The King Cobra Village Thailand-Ban Khok Sa-nga
The King Cobra village is about 30-40 km from Khon Kaen. The real name of the village is Ban Khok Sa-Nga. It is a whole village that has turned into tourism around snakes and especially cobras.
They have shows every day and accept donations. You will see also some snakes or reptiles in cages, but the main attraction is the snake show. Do not expect something fantastic, but it does worth the trip if you are around.
And these cobras are dangerous. One of these men died in 2012 and there is an article in Thai about it here: http://www.thairath.co.th/content/region/275891
We actually visited the place just before that man died and I remember seeing him. You will see more of our picture on Flickr, here:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/50651722@N03/sets/72157628630600861/
Not very far, maybe 5 Km away, there is a nice resort called Castle How Chow. The owner is Australian. He has peacocks on the land and one of the most fabulous swimming pool in Isaan. Very enjoyable if you are in family with kids.
Visitor Tips
The King Cobra Village Thailand Ban Khok
Located in Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat), this is one of the many dining options available to visitors and expats in the Isaan region of Thailand. When visiting restaurants in Korat, it is customary to order several dishes to share. Most restaurants in this area serve both Thai and international cuisine, and staff often speak some English.
Getting There
Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat) is located approximately 250 km northeast of Bangkok. You can reach Korat by bus from Bangkok’s Mo Chit terminal (about 3.5 hours), by train from Hua Lamphong station, or by minivan from Chatuchak. Tuk-tuks and songthaews (shared trucks) are the most common local transport within the city.
About Isaan Cuisine
The Isaan region of northeastern Thailand has its own distinct culinary tradition, influenced by Lao and Khmer cultures. Signature dishes include som tam (spicy papaya salad), larb (spiced minced meat salad), sticky rice (khao niao), and grilled chicken (gai yang). Food in Isaan tends to be spicier and more sour than central Thai food, using ingredients like padaek (fermented fish sauce) and fresh herbs.
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The Shows and the Snakes
The performances at Ban Khok Sa-nga typically involve handlers putting their heads inside the mouth of a large king cobra, kissing the snake on the head, or allowing it to rear up and spread its hood centimetres from their face. It is deliberately theatrical — the handlers know their snakes well and have worked with them for years. The cobras themselves are not defanged; this is the point. The skill of the handlers is the entire attraction. Shows usually last 15–20 minutes and happen several times daily.
Beyond the Show: Snake Culture
The village’s relationship with king cobras goes deeper than tourism. The snake is considered a protective spirit in local belief, and the knowledge of snake-handling has been passed down through generations. Many households keep cobras, and the village contains a small snake farm where visitors can observe different species up close. The king cobra (Ophiophagus hannah) is the world’s longest venomous snake, capable of reaching over 5 metres in length and delivering enough venom in a single bite to kill an elephant. Watching a handler work with one makes an impression that photographs cannot fully convey.
Getting There and Practical Tips
Ban Khok Sa-nga is located in Khon Kaen province, about 50 km from Khon Kaen city near the town of Ban Phai. From Nakhon Ratchasima, take Highway 2 north for approximately 150 km. The village is signposted from the main road. Shows are typically available daily between 08:30 and 16:30; small entrance fees apply. Bring a camera and comfortable clothes. Photography during the shows is encouraged.