Nepal’s First-Ever Snake Festival Promotes Conservation and Awareness

In a groundbreaking initiative, the inaugural ‘Nepal Snake Festival’ has been organized in Kawasoti on the auspicious occasion of Naag Panchami. Spanning two days, the festival aims to foster harmony between humans and snakes, ultimately contributing to the preservation of these important creatures.

Kamal Devkota, a dedicated snake conservationist, revealed that Nepal witnessed its first-ever snake festival, supported by the Nepal Toxinology Association, the District Division Forest Office Nawalpur, Health Office Nawalpur, Nepal Red Cross Society, and Madhyabindu Multiple Campus.

Numerous stalls have been set up at the festival, each providing valuable insights into snakes, snakebite prevention, and snake conservation. Particularly in the sweltering summer months, snakebite incidents surge in the Terai region, often resulting in fatalities when not promptly addressed. “Snakes hold a critical place in the ecological balance, much like humans, and their preservation is essential,” emphasized Devkota.

Addressing common misconceptions, Dr. Chabilal Thapa, the Focal Person for Snake Bite Management, educated attendees, stating that only 20 percent of snake species are venomous, while a substantial 80 percent are non-venomous. He reassured participants that there is no need for panic if bitten by a snake. He highlighted the urgent need to dispel false beliefs and misinformation surrounding snakes, as a lack of understanding has tragically claimed lives in the past.

Mukesh Rana, a participating student, shared his newfound knowledge gained from the festival. Formerly reliant on color alone to identify snakes, Rana can now distinguish various snake species by observing their distinctive skin patterns. He expressed gratitude for learning essential skills in managing snake encounters and addressing snakebites.

The ‘Nepal Snake Festival’ stands as a pioneering effort in promoting awareness, understanding, and coexistence between humans and these enigmatic creatures, while also paving the way for increased conservation efforts in the nation.