World Congress
on Snakes
Date
Oct 1-4, 2026
Location
Kandy, Sri Lanka
Welcome to WSC 2026
The World Congress on Snakes (WCS) is the first international gathering dedicated exclusively to snake research, conservation, and education. Set in the culturally rich city of Kandy, a World Heritage City in Sri Lanka—a biodiversity hotspot—this historic event brings together the world's leading ophiologists, herpetologists, conservationists, and wildlife enthusiasts.
From October 1 to 4, 2026 , participants will engage in groundbreaking discussions on snake ecology, conservation strategies, phylogeny, behavior, snakebite management, and combating illegal wildlife trade. This congress represents a unique opportunity to forge international collaborations, share cutting-edge research, and develop innovative solutions for the challenges facing snake populations worldwide.
Whether you're a professional scientist, a novice researcher, a management and conservation practitioner, or personnel working on snake bite, WCS 2026 offers an unparalleled platform to learn, network, and contribute to the future of snake conservation and research.
🐍 Join us in making history
Be part of the inaugural World Congress on Snakes and help shape the future of snake biology, conservation, and human-wildlife coexistence.
Founding Partners
Dedicated experts guiding the congress
Dr. Anslem de Silva
Founding Partner
Dr. Julie Ray
Founding Partner
Dr. Dan Natusch
Founding Partner
Executive Committee
Leading researchers and experts in snake science
Dr. Anslem de Silva
Congress Chairperson
Scientific Committee
Dr. Nimal D. Rathnayake
Secretary General
Scientific Committee
Dr. Kanishka Ukuwela
Scientific Committee
Mr. Suranjan Karunarathna
Scientific Committee
International & National Media Relations
Mr. Ifham Nizam
A senior journalist with expertise in environmental and wildlife reporting
International Scientific Committee
Expert advisors guiding the congress vision
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Prof. Aaron Bauer
International Scientific Committee
Prof. Rick Shine
International Scientific Committee
Prof. Indraneil Das
International Scientific Committee
Prof. Walter Erdelen
International Scientific Committee
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Prof. Bartosz Borczyk
International Scientific Committee
Dr. Sanjay Molur
International Scientific Committee
Dr. Pritipal Soorae
International Scientific Committee
Professional Congress Organizers
Local team members supporting the congress operations
Local Host Representative
Mr. Imran Hassan
CEO / Managing Director
CDC Events and Travels (Pvt.) Ltd
Field Excursion Coordinator
Mr. Janiru Wakista
Miss. Rangika Jayawardhana
A Historic Gathering in a World Heritage City
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The first World Congress on Snakes will take place in Kandy, a World Heritage city. The conference will include symposiums, plenaries individual presentations and poster presentations covering a wide range of topics related to snakes, such as ecology, phylogeny, conservation, behavior, illegal trade, and snakebite.
Additionally, there will be workshops, field trips, and opportunities to experience local culture. This groundbreaking event brings together experts from around the globe to share knowledge, collaborate on solutions, and advance our understanding of these remarkable reptiles.
Congress Venue
WCS 2026 will be held in the beautiful cultural capital of Sri Lanka - Kandy
Grand Kandyan Hotel
Kandy, Sri Lanka
The congress will take place at one of Kandy's premier conference facilities, equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual technology and spacious meeting rooms. The venue offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and is conveniently located near major hotels and attractions.
Location
89, 10 Lady Gordon's Dr, Kandy
From Airport
3 hours by car
Capacity
Main hall + breakout rooms
Facilities
WiFi, AV, catering
"Global snake diversity is vast, with over 4,100 species adapted to nearly every habitat except extreme cold, showcasing huge variety in size, shape, and diet, from tiny leaf-litter dwellers to giant constrictors."
Why Attend
Join us for an unforgettable experience in snake research and conservation
Connect with leading ophiologists, researchers, and conservationists from around the world.
Participate in workshops, field trips, and immersive experiences in Sri Lanka's biodiversity hotspots.
Access the latest research and innovations in snake ecology, conservation, and snakebite management.
Sponsors & Endorsements
Supported by leading conservation organizations
