Shocking! Five giant pythons spotted coiled together near temple in Himachal Pradesh; leaves residents stunned

A shocking incident from Himachal Pradesh’s Kangra district has left locals alarmed after a group of giant pythons was spotted coiled together near a temple. The sighting reportedly took place near the Kalothare Wali Mata temple in the Gahliyan area. Residents initially mistook the cluster for a pile of tree roots. When a stone was thrown towards it, the mass began to move. It turned out to be a group of large pythons resting together. Locals estimated that around five to six massive snakes were entwined in the cluster. A short while later, the reptiles dispersed quickly, slithering away into the nearby forest. The entire incident was recorded on mobile phones by bystanders, and the video has since gone viral, attracting widespread attention.Such sightings are said to be rare. Experts have indicated that it is uncommon for pythons to be found in groups. Although a number of them can come together for a short period, it is unusual for several large snakes to be found coiled in one spot, especially near human settlements. The incident is said to have caused concern among residents, particularly those living close to forest areas, the temple, and nearby agricultural lands, where encounters, sightings, and potential threats from snakes could pose safety risks.According to the viral video, the authorities, including the forest department, have been notified.Pythons belong to the family Pythonidae. They are non-venomous. Found in Asia, Africa, and Australia. They hunt using constriction. Their diet mainly consists of mammals, birds, and occasionally reptiles. Larger adults can take medium-sized animals like deer or pigs.Experts say that attacks on humans are very rare. Pythons generally avoid contact with people. Grouping may occur due to environmental factors, seasonal activity, or breeding behaviour.Indian rock pythons (Python molurus) are native to forests, wetlands, grasslands, and rocky areas. They prefer areas with cover and sufficient prey. Villages near forests may occasionally encounter these snakes. Temporary gatherings are rare and do not indicate aggressive behaviour.After the Kangra incident, the snakes reportedly moved into nearby undergrowth within minutes. Authorities reportedly advised residents to remain cautious near forest edges. People are recommended to avoid disturbing snakes and to report sightings to officials. Monitoring may continue to ensure safety in areas where human and wildlife habitats overlap.While pythons are large and potentially intimidating, experts stress that they are generally non-aggressive unless provoked. Awareness and precaution can reduce risk for both humans and wildlife.