As one of the country’s most intelligent and friendly creatures, the Dolphin signifies nature’s intelligence, and India, with its rich biodiversity, is home to them. The Indian subcontinent offers a unique habitat for freshwater dolphins, either in the river systems of the Ganges or in the salt waters of the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal. In particular, the Gangetic river dolphin occupies a special place in Indian conservation history, being designated as the National Aquatic Animal of India.
In this article, let’s explore seven amazing places in India where you can spot dolphins in their natural habitat. From serene riverbanks to lively coastal locales, these spots are sure to delight wildlife lovers, nature photographers, and adventure seekers alike.
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Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary, Bihar
It is located in the Bhagalpur district of Bihar. The type of Dolphin found here is the Gangetic River Dolphin (Platanista gangetica). The best time to visit is October to March.
Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary is the country’s largest protected area for endangered Gangetic River Dolphins . It is set across more than 50 km of the Ganga River and was created in 1991 to help protect the declining population of these freshwater dolphins. The sanctuary is home to dolphins, several species of turtles, fish, and aquatic birds, making it a biodiversity hotspot. Dolphin-watching boat safaris are available, which can be a hair-raising experience. The river is calm and clean in this stretch, and it is one of the best for spotting dolphins, especially near Kahalgaon.
Travel Tip: Visit the ancient ruins of Vikramshila University, which is not far from the park, and enrich your wildlife visit with some history.
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National Chambal Sanctuary, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh & Rajasthan
It is located along the Chambal River, which cuts through three states. The type of Dolphin found here is the Gangetic River Dolphin. The best time to visit is November to March.
The Chambal river, which has been associated with stories of dacoits, also hides inside it a rare ecological treasure: the Gangetic Dolphin. National Chambal Sanctuary was established in 1979 along a 400 km stretch of the Chambal river and is one of the few places where one can sight river dolphins, gharials (a rare breed of crocodiles), and migratory birds.
Boat safaris are tightly regulated here, so they do not disturb the dolphins. The clear waters of Chambal are perfect for catching sight of dolphins as they occasionally dance above the surface in search of fish or just for a breath.
Interesting Fact: The Chambal River is considered one of the cleanest rivers in India and thus is suitable for dolphin habitats.
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Sundarbans National Park, West Bengal
It is located in the Delta region of the Ganges, West Bengal. The types of dolphins found here are the Irrawaddy and Gangetic Dolphins. The best time to visit is September to February.
The Royal Bengal Tigers and mangroves are among the many things famous in Sundarbans. Still, not many know that Gangetic river dolphins and Irrawaddy dolphins are also found in the rivers of Sundarbans. It is home to a rare brackish water environment and is the ideal habitat for freshwater and saltwater dolphin species.
Barge tours through the Sundarbans’ network of estuaries often offer exhilarating views of dolphins that swim next to or surface near the boat. The Irrawaddy dolphin, in particular, has a distinctive rounded head and shorter beak, unlike other dolphin species.
Travel Tip: Book eco-tourism operators trained in wildlife spotting to improve your odds of spotting dolphins.
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Goa
It is located in the Arabian Sea, in Coastal Goa. The type of Dolphin found here is the Indo-Pacific Humpback Dolphin. The best time to visit is October to May.
Goa is not only about sand and parties; it also offers India’s best marine Dolphindolphin-watching experience. The coastal waters of Goa, particularly at SinQuerim, Candolim, Calangute, and Palolem, are often sought after for dolphin-watching boat rides.
The Indo-Pacific Humpback Dolphin, best known for its acrobatics and proximity to boats, is the species most frequently observed here. Many fishermen run dolphin-watching tours around the area, generally beginning early morning when the sea is flat and the likelihood of dolphin encounters is greatest.
Travel Tip: There are many commercial dolphin-watching tours, but look for ethical operators that adhere to responsible tourism practices.
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Chilika Lake, Odisha
It is located in the Puri, Ganjam, and Khurda districts of Odisha. The type of Dolphin found here is the Irrawaddy Dolphin. The best time to visit is October to March.
Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, is a paradise for birdwatchers and aquatic wildlife lovers. It is the only region in India where Irrawaddy dolphins are abundantly found. The Satapada region of this lake, where it merges with the Bay of Bengal, is a paradise for dolphin sightseeing. The population of the Irrawaddy dolphin is one of the biggest in the world and is being monitored and protected. These bashful and elusive dolphins can often be spotted surfacing and then diving back gracefully.
With hundreds of migratory bird species, Chilika is a holistic wildlife experience.
Interesting Fact: Chilika Lake holds the Chilika Bird Festival each year, which frequently features guided dolphin-watching tours.
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Dapoli, Maharashtra
It is located in Ratnagiri District, Maharashtra. The type of Dolphin found here is the Indian Ocean Humpback Dolphin. The best time to visit is November to March.
Dapoli, a quiet coastal town in Maharashtra, is emerging as a dolphin-watching destination. Indian Ocean humpback dolphins are commonly sighted along the Konkan coast, particularly around beaches such as Murud, Ladghar, and Karde.
To maximise our chances of Dolphin watching, boat rides usually begin early in the morning and can extend for a few hours. On these tours, you often go a few kilometres into the Arabian Sea, where the playful dolphins swim in pods. Besides dolphins, Dapoli’s beaches are scenic; there are temples, forts, and good, offbeat getaways from Pune and Mumbai.
Travel Tip: Visiting during local festivals such as Ganesh Chaturthi can add a unique charm to your stay in Dapoli. Its coastal culture is hard to miss at such times, with colourful decorations, trimming of coconut trees, etc. Dapoli, Dolphin spotting.
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Lakshadweep Islands
It is located in the Arabian Sea, off the coast of Kerala. The types of dolphins found here are Spinner Dolphins and Bottlenose Dolphins. The best time to visit is October to April. The Lakshadweep archipelago is a set of 36 coral islands and one of India’s most pristine marine ecosystems. Its crystal-clear waters and coral reefs are home to plenty of sea life, including several species of dolphins, around islands like Kadmat, Agatti, and Bangaram.
The most common Pacific species, spinner dolphins, are focused on here. These dolphins are known for their acrobatic spins and playful antics. Visitors often get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures by snorkelling, scuba diving, or taking a glass-bottomed boat ride. Tourism is continuously monitored by the Indian Navy and local authorities to minimise the impact on marine biodiversity.
Travel Tip: Because of limited connectivity, planning far in advance is best. Opt for eco-resorts that offer dolphin safaris as part of their packages.
