About Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary
Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary is India's only protected area for the endangered Gangetic dolphin, located on a 60 km stretch of the Ganges River from Sultanganj to Kahalgaon in Bhagalpur district, Bihar. Established in 1991, it protects the National Aquatic Animal of India in its natural riverine habitat. The sanctuary encompasses river channels, islands and floodplains, offering opportunities for dolphin sighting, birdwatching and boat safaris in a significant freshwater ecosystem.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a riverine landscape on the Ganges with wide channels, sandbars and islands. The main experience is a motorboat or country boat safari to spot the endangered Gangetic dolphin surfacing briefly, along with migratory and resident birds, turtles and riverine scenery. There are no enclosed gates or built structures; viewing is from boats and riverbanks near Sultanganj, Bhagalpur and Kahalgaon with local boatmen acting as guides.
Key highlights
- 01
India's only sanctuary dedicated to the endangered Gangetic dolphin (Platanista gangetica), the National Aquatic Animal of India
- 02
60 km protected stretch of the Ganges River from Sultanganj to Kahalgaon
- 03
Boat safaris for dolphin sighting and birdwatching
- 04
Rich avifauna including migratory birds, plus turtles and other freshwater species