Crocodile Farm, Phuentsholing, Bhutan

The farm is home to two species of crocodilians, both of which are rare and protected:

Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus)

The Gharial is one of the most critically endangered reptiles in the world. The farm houses six adult Gharials. The original four were brought from Manas National Park, Bhutan in 1976. In April and May 2004, two additional male Gharials were received as a State gift from the Gharial Breeding Centre of Royal Chitwan National Park in Nepal. The farm maintains separate day and night ponds for hatchlings. Each Gharial is fed 12 kg of fish every alternate day.

Mugger Crocodile (Crocodylus palustris)

The farm houses 15 Mugger Crocodiles distributed across different ponds. The original five marsh crocodiles were brought from Bhutan's Manas National Park in 1976. Over the 32 years since, they laid approximately 200 eggs, of which 50 hatched and 10 survived. Breeding has been suspended since 2004 due to space constraints. Each feeding consists of 30 kg of beef for 15 crocodiles every two days.

Visiting the Crocodile Farm

The Norgay Crocodile Breeding Farm is open to visitors and provides a unique opportunity to observe these remarkable reptiles up close in a conservation setting. A ticket counter at the entrance manages visitor access.

Conclusion

The Norgay Crocodile Breeding Farm in Phuentsholing is a fascinating and important conservation facility that offers visitors a rare chance to see the endangered Gharial and Mugger Crocodile up close. For anyone stopping in Phuentsholing on their way into or out of Bhutan, a visit to the farm is an educational and worthwhile experience that connects you to Bhutan's unique commitment to nature conservation.