Telijjavila Snake Farm: Sri Lanka's Premier Venom Research Center

Hidden in the village of Telijjavila near Matara, this unique family-run venom research center combines ancient Ayurvedic knowledge with modern antivenom production. Founded by the Wijepala Veda Parampara (traditional medical dynasty), the farm:

• Treats 300+ snakebite cases annually
• Supplies venom to national antivenom programs
• Preserves 5 generations of herpetological expertise
• Offers rare public educational demonstrations

Visitor Experience Highlights

Snake Handling Demonstrations

• Watch venom extraction from cobras and vipers
• Learn identification techniques for 6 deadly local species
• See traditional first-aid methods using jungle herbs

The Ayurvedic Hospital

• Tour the 100-year-old treatment rooms
• View antivenom preparation processes
• Examine historical snakebite case records

Conservation Work

• Rescue program for endangered reptiles
• Breeding initiative for rare kraits
• Community education to reduce snake killings

Practical Information

• Location: Horagoda, Telijjavila (20 mins from Matara)
• Contact: +94 41 341 1876 (Call ahead recommended)
• Visiting Hours: 9AM-4PM (Shows at 10:30AM & 2:30PM)
• Entry Fee: ~$5 (Funds conservation work)

Safety Protocols:

• Strict no-touch policy with venomous species
• Antivenom stocks always on-site
• First-aid trained staff present at all times

Why This Matters

• Sri Lanka has world's highest snakebite deaths per capita
• The farm's work has reduced mortality by 60% locally
• Their plant-based treatments complement Western antivenoms

Local Insights

• Full moon days often see increased snake activity
• The family's 1915 formula book contains forgotten remedies
• Nearby jungle walks can spot non-venomous species

Ethical Considerations

• No forced milking - snakes have rest periods
• No entertainment tricks - purely educational
• No permanent captivity - rehabilitated snakes released

Nearby Attractions

• Matara Star Fort (15-min drive)
• Polhena Reef (snorkeling with sea snakes)
• Weherahena Temple (unique tunnel temple)

Book a Herpetology Tour

Want to learn from the experts? Sri Lanka Tour Help offers:

• Private research lab tours
• Jungle night walks (safe snake spotting)
• First-aid certification courses

Contact us for a life-saving educational experience!