King Cobra in Bali

The King Cobra, known locally as Ular Raja Kobra, is an iconic and awe-inspiring snake found in the lush environments of Bali. This magnificent serpent, scientifically named Ophiophagus hannah, holds the title of the world’s longest venomous snake, reaching lengths up to 5.5 meters. Predominantly inhabiting forests, mangroves, and agricultural areas, the King Cobra is diurnal, making it active during the day.

Although encounters with this elusive reptile are rare, its presence in the rural and forested regions of Bali is a testament to the island’s rich biodiversity. Known for its distinctive hood and formidable display when threatened, the King Cobra commands both respect and caution.

King Cobra

  • Latin Name: Ophiophagus hannah
  • Bahasa Name: Ular Raja Kobra
  • Length: Up to 5.5 meters
  • Danger Level: Extremely dangerous
  • Venom: Contains potent neurotoxins that can cause severe pain, paralysis, and respiratory failure. A single bite can deliver a significant amount of venom, potentially lethal without prompt treatment.
  • Color: Olive-green, brown, or black
  • Specific Markers: Distinct hood, large size, and chevron pattern on the neck. **Eye Shape:** Round pupils. **Head Shape:** Broad and flat when hood is expanded. **Eye Color:** Usually dark.
  • Habitat: Forests, mangroves, and agricultural areas
  • Activity: Diurnal (day active)
  • Prevalence: Rare
  • Region: Throughout Bali, but mostly in rural and forested areas
  • Behavior: Generally avoids human contact and will only attack if provoked or threatened. Known for its intimidating display of raising its head, spreading its hood, and hissing
  • Behavior: Generally avoids human contact and will only attack if provoked or threatened. Known for its intimidating display of raising its head, spreading its hood, and hissing.
  • Encounter Risk: Moderate. King Cobras are elusive and prefer forested areas, reducing the likelihood of encounters. However, bites can be severe and require immediate medical attention

Interesting Facts about the King Cobra in Bali

The King Cobra, known locally as Ular Raja Kobra, is an iconic and awe-inspiring snake found in the lush environments of Bali. This magnificent serpent, scientifically named Ophiophagus hannah, holds the title of the world’s longest venomous snake, reaching lengths up to 5.5 meters. Predominantly inhabiting forests, mangroves, and agricultural areas, the King Cobra is diurnal, making it active during the day. Although encounters with this elusive reptile are rare, its presence in the rural and forested regions of Bali is a testament to the island’s rich biodiversity. Known for its distinctive hood and formidable display when threatened, the King Cobra commands both respect and caution.

In Balinese culture, snakes are often seen as guardians of the earth and symbols of fertility and protection. The King Cobra, with its majestic presence, is sometimes associated with powerful deities and is believed to possess spiritual significance. During certain traditional ceremonies, offerings are made to the spirits of the land, and the presence of a cobra can be seen as a potent omen. For instance, in the ritual known as “Tumpek Uduh,” which is dedicated to Sanghyang Sangkara, the god of agriculture and fertility, offerings are made to ensure the prosperity of crops. Spotting a King Cobra during this ceremony is believed to signify a bountiful harvest and protection from natural disasters.

The King Cobra also appears in Balinese mythology and folklore. One notable story involves the myth of Basuki, a giant serpent believed to dwell at the base of Mount Agung, Bali’s most sacred volcano. Basuki is considered a protective figure, and some legends suggest that King Cobras are his earthly representatives, embodying his power and guardianship over the island. In another myth, the King Cobra is seen as a manifestation of Naga, the dragon-serpent, which plays a crucial role in many Balinese Hindu ceremonies. The Naga is often depicted in temple carvings and is revered as a symbol of the cosmic balance between good and evil.

These cultural associations highlight the deep reverence the Balinese people have for the King Cobra, viewing it not just as a dangerous animal but as a significant spiritual entity. Its preferred habitats and behaviors underscore the importance of preserving Bali’s natural landscapes to ensure the survival of such majestic wildlife and maintain the cultural heritage intertwined with these magnificent creatures.

Conservation Status of the King Cobra (Ophiophagus hannah)

Vulnerable (VU) globally due to habitat loss and hunting. Locally in Indonesia, it is also considered at risk for similar reasons.

What Travelers want to know about Snakes in Bali

Yes, Bali is home to several dangerous snakes, including the King Cobra, Blue Krait, and Malayan Pit Viper. While these snakes are venomous, they are generally shy and avoid human contact.

The Pythons can also be dangerous, depending ion their size and whether they feel threatened. It's important to be cautious, especially in rural and forested areas.

It is uncommon, but not impossible, to find snakes in Bali villas. Most villas are well-maintained and have measures in place to prevent wildlife from entering and gardeners keep the gardens free of potential habitats as much as possible. However, occasional sightings of non-venomous snakes like the Common Wolf Snake may occur, particularly in areas close to nature.

Snakes can be found in Ubud due to its lush, natural environment, but they are not commonly encountered by visitors. The area’s forests and rice fields provide habitats for various snake species.</p]

The most common snakes in Bali include the Common Wolf Snake and the Oriental Rat Snake. These non-venomous snakes are frequently found in gardens, forests, and near human settlements.

Bali hosts several poisonous snakes, including the King Cobra, Blue Krait, Malayan Pit Viper, Javan Spitting Cobra, Green Tree Pit Viper, Island Pit Viper, Asian Coral Snake, Red-Necked Keelback Snake, Yellow-Bellied Sea Snake, and the Banded Sea Krait. These snakes possess potent venom but are typically shy and avoid human contact.

Yes, there are. Venomous sea snakes in Bali include the Yellow-bellied Sea Snake and the Banded Sea Krait. These snakes are usually found in coastal waters and are generally not aggressive towards humans.</p]

Yes, there are non-venomous snakes in Bali. Non-venomous snakes include the Burmese Python, Reticulated Python, Common Wolf Snake, Oriental Rat Snake, Brahminy Blind Snake, Green Cat Snake, Red-tailed Pipe Snake, and the Chinese Rat Snake. These snakes are harmless to humans and play a vital role in controlling pest populations.

Identifying snakes in Bali can be challenging due to the variety of species. Yes, identifying snakes in Bali involves looking at key markers such as color patterns, head shape, and habitat. For detailed information, refer to our specific snake pages guides available on our website.

Yes. The King Cobra in Bali is known for its impressive size and potent venom. It is typically found in forests and rural areas. Despite its fearsome reputation, it tends to avoid human contact.

The Banded Krait is a venomous snake found in Bali, recognized by its distinctive black and yellow bands. It is generally nocturnal and prefers wetland habitats.</p]

The thin green snake in Bali is likely the (mostly) harmless Vine Snake or the  Green Tree Pit Viper or the Island Pit Viper,, which is the snake that causes the most bites in Bali and is specifically found in the Lesser Sunda Islands of Indonesia, including Bali, Lombok, Sumbawa, and Komodo.

The striped snake in Bali could be the Blue Krait or the Banded Krait, both of which have distinct banding patterns and are venomous. These snakes are nocturnal and typically found in rural areas.

The likelihood of seeing a snake in Bali depends on your location and activities. While urban and tourist areas have fewer sightings, rural and forested areas have higher chances of encounters. However, snakes generally avoid human contact.

Besides snakes, other dangerous animals in Bali include certain species of spiders and scorpions. However, encounters with these creatures are rare, and they generally avoid human contact, and are not very poisonous. It's more dangerous playing with a monkey in the Monkey Forest.