This one-of-a-kind sanctuary was established in 1991 with the aim of protecting the endangered Gangetic dolphins. The Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary is spread over 50-60 km in the middle of the Ganges, with its borders ranging from Sultanganj to Kahalgaon Hill.
Apart from dolphins, the sanctuary also works to protect other endangered species including flap shell turtles, tent turtles, catfish, anchovies, the roofed turtles, croakers and much more. These are among a total of 135 species that are protected by the sanctuary. You can catch sight of the beautiful dolphins and other fishes and animals when you visit this remarkable sanctuary. The best time to visit is between the months of June and October when rainfall is minimum in the area.
Location: The Sanctuary covers an area of approximately 50 km, between Sultanganj to the Kahalgaon Hill in the middle of the Ganges, in the Bhagalpur District of Bihar
Timings: Open 24 hours
Area covered: 50 km stretch along the Ganga
Wildlife Found:
- Dolphins are the most common species found in this protected stretch
- You can also find fishes such as catfish, gharials, anchovies, and much more
- Turtles such as the Indian Roofed Turtle, flap shell turtles and tent turtles are also protected by the sanctuary
- Some other endangered animals that are found here include the crustaceans, several freshwater turtles, the Smooth-coated otter and helicopter catfish
