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Dolphins are among the most perceptive marine animals on Earth. India is home to a number of different species of dolphins. One of the most fascinating and evasive creatures in India, the Gangetic dolphin (Platanista gangetica) inhabits the rivers and streams of the ancient Ganges. Protecting these freshwater dolphins is crucial since they are in danger of extinction and were formerly ubiquitous throughout the subcontinent's river systems. Dolphin watching is a great way to support these sanctuaries!
If you are looking for places in India for dolphin sighting- you have come to the right place. Here are all the states in India that have the best places to see dolphins!
Where to spot Gangetic Dolphins
Bihar
This 60-kilometre stretch of the Ganges in Bihar, between Sultanganj and Kahalgaon, is one of the best spots to witness them in their natural habitat. Pollution control, habitat preservation, and ecotourism education and engagement are the primary goals of conservation efforts in this area. Locals who rely on the river for their livelihood benefit from dolphin-watching cruises in this area, and tourists get the opportunity to do the best dolphin safari!
Dolphin viewpoint: The vanishing Gangetic dolphin is one of many endangered species. One of the few locations where dolphins like the Vikramashila can find refuge is the Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary in the Bhagalpur region of Bihar. This 60-kilometre-long sanctuary is home to just hundreds of them. If you want to see dolphins, Barari Ghat is the place to go.
Uttar Pradesh
Due to its extensive river network, Uttar Pradesh is an important state for the Gangetic dolphin population. The Yamuna, Chambal, and Ganges rivers provide essential habitats for these animals. Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary is a great place to go dolphin watching because boat rides along the Ganges increase the chances of seeing them. Conservation initiatives such as "My Ganga, My Dolphin" have also helped bring attention to the plight of these unique species by urging locals and tourists to enjoy them without putting their natural habitats at risk. It is one of the best places to see dolphins!
Dolphin viewpoint: Not only is the National Chambal Sanctuary home to a thriving Gharial population, but it is also a haven for the endangered Ganges Dolphin. In addition to many This picturesque location is home to bird species and other animals that may be at risk of extinction. Here you can find the homes of over 320 different bird species. Tourists can hire boats to cruise the Chambal River and get up close and personal with Gharials and Gangetic, and enjoy the best dolphin safari!
Assam
The Brahmaputra River in Assam is an important habitat for these dolphins, while their major home is the Ganges. A large number of Gangetic dolphins call the Brahmaputra River, with its deep waters and rich biodiversity, home. Although seeing dolphins here is more challenging owing to the strong currents, viewers who pay close attention often get the most out of dolphin watching! The Assam government has demonstrated its commitment to environmental protection by closely monitoring pollution levels and regulating construction projects near rivers.
Dolphin viewpoint: In Assam, you may find Dibru Saikhowa National Park, where you can view freshwater Gangetic dolphins. The Assam districts of Dibrugarh and Tinsukia are home to the national park. Three rivers—the Brahmaputra, the Lohit, and the Dibru—encircle this area. It is a wonderful spot to see plants and animals because it is a biosphere reserve. Most years, you can do your dolphin sighting in the floodplains of the Brahmaputra River. In the Brahmaputra River, you can be lucky enough to see pink river dolphins, which are quite rare.
West Bengal
The Sundarbans, a web of waterways in West Bengal, provide a crucial but underappreciated sanctuary for the Gangetic dolphin. Although local population estimates are still in the works, anecdotal evidence suggests that these dolphins may still navigate the brackish delta waters. This is an offbeat location to do your dolphin watching!
Dolphin viewpoint: The Sundarbans are a wetland region in the Ganges Delta that visitors can explore. Most people know it as the place where the Royal Bengal Tigers live. But it's also a haven for a wide variety of wildlife, including the Irrawaddy and Gangetic dolphins. In addition to being a Ramsar Wetland, it is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In this region, dolphin safaris are popular, and the guides are knowledgeable and friendly.
Where to spot other species of dolphins
Goa
Goa is a stunning Indian state famous for its stunning beaches. In addition to that, it is the nesting place for stunning dolphins in the water! Sinquerim, Morjim, Cavelossim, and Coco Beach are just a few of Goa's many beaches. Dolphin watching in Goa is most enjoyable when done on a cruise over the Arabian Sea. Pro tip? For some prime dolphin watching, go out on the water early.
Kerala
Kerala is an amazing Indian state that has long been famous for its picturesque backwaters. Anyone boarding a boat from Cherai Beach has a good chance of seeing humpback dolphins. And they'll also have the chance to witness some of the many fish and bird species that call this area home.
Andaman
Seeing dugongs and dolphins is the main draw at Andaman North Button Island National Park. Visitors to the Andaman Islands have a unique opportunity to interact closely with the marine life that inhabits this region. Havelock Island in the Andaman Islands is a wonderful place for dolphin watching as well!
Odisha
Many Irrawaddy dolphins call Chilika Lake, a brackish water lagoon in Odisha, their home. To see the lagoon, visitors must take a boat journey, and knowledgeable guides may likely see dolphins along the way. In addition to dolphins, Chilika Lake is home to a wide variety of wildlife. Visitors can also make port calls at several islands while out on the water tours.