India, with its rich coastline, mighty rivers, and diverse ecosystems, is home to several species of dolphins. These intelligent and playful marine mammals are not just fascinating to watch but are also indicators of a healthy aquatic environment. India boasts both riverine dolphins (like the endangered Ganges River Dolphin) and marine species (such as the Indo-Pacific Humpback Dolphin and the Bottlenose Dolphin).
For wildlife enthusiasts, dolphin watching in India offers a mix of serene river rides and exhilarating sea excursions. Here’s a list of the 15 best places to spot dolphins in India, along with what makes each location unique.
1. Vikramshila Dolphin Sanctuary, Bihar
Situated along a stretch of the Ganga River in Bhagalpur, this is the only dedicated dolphin sanctuary in India. It is home to the Ganges River Dolphin, India’s national aquatic animal.
- Best time to visit: October to June
- Highlight: Guided boat tours with local experts
2. Chilika Lake, Odisha
Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, Chilika Lake, is famous for its population of Irrawaddy dolphins, a rare and shy species.
- Best time to visit: November to February
- Highlight: Watch dolphins from eco-friendly boats near Satapada
3. Sundarbans National Park, West Bengal
The Sundarbans, known for its mangrove forests and Royal Bengal Tigers, also offers dolphin sightings, particularly Ganges River Dolphins and Irrawaddy Dolphins in estuarine zones.
- Best time to visit: September to March
- Highlight: Combine dolphin watching with tiger tracking via boat safari
4. Goa
Apart from beaches and nightlife, Goa is also a hotspot for marine dolphin watching. The Arabian Sea hosts Indo-Pacific Humpback Dolphins, often seen near the shore.
- Popular spots: Palolem, Sinquerim, and Candolim beaches
- Best time to visit: October to May
- Highlight: Affordable boat trips with frequent sightings
5. Diu, Gujarat
The tranquil island of Diu offers dolphin sightings in its pristine coastal waters, mostly around Nagoa Beach.
- Best time to visit: October to February
- Highlight: Less crowded, offering peaceful dolphin watching
6. Andaman and Nicobar Islands
This tropical paradise is home to Spinner Dolphins and Bottlenose Dolphins, particularly around Havelock and Neil Islands.
- Best time to visit: November to April
- Highlight: Clear waters, ideal for underwater dolphin watching and snorkeling
7. Lakshadweep Islands
Known for their coral reefs and turquoise waters, Lakshadweep Islands offer a chance to spot Spinner and Striped Dolphins.
- Best time to visit: October to March
- Highlight: Dolphin sightings during glass-bottom boat rides and scuba diving
8. Ganga River at Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
The Ganges River Dolphin, locally known as “Susu,” can be spotted near Assi Ghat and Rajghat in Varanasi.
- Best time to visit: October to March
- Highlight: Spiritual boat rides with a side of dolphin magic
9. Dibru-Saikhowa National Park, Assam
This park in upper Assam is one of the few places where you can spot both freshwater dolphins and wild horses.
- Best time to visit: November to April
- Highlight: Birdwatching and dolphin spotting from country boats
10. Brahmaputra River, Guwahati, Assam
Take a river cruise along the Brahmaputra River near Guwahati to spot the Gangetic Dolphin, especially near Kuruwa and Kukurmara.
- Best time to visit: October to April
- Highlight: Combine dolphin watching with a scenic sunset cruise
11. Malvan, Maharashtra
Located in the Sindhudurg district, Malvan offers dolphin sightings just off its pristine beaches.
- Best time to visit: October to May
- Highlight: Spotting dolphins along with coral reef snorkeling
12. Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu
The waters around Pamban Bridge and Dhanushkodi in Rameswaram offer dolphin sightings, especially Spinner Dolphins.
- Best time to visit: November to March
- Highlight: Combine temple tourism with marine exploration
13. Kochi, Kerala
Backwaters and sea routes near Kochi offer glimpses of Humpback and Bottlenose Dolphins.
- Best time to visit: October to April
- Highlight: Luxury houseboat rides with dolphin views
14. Dwarka, Gujarat
Located on the western coast, Dwarka offers dolphin watching near Okha Port and Bet Dwarka, especially during boat trips to the temple island.
- Best time to visit: October to March
- Highlight: Religious tourism with marine adventure
15. Mandarmani, West Bengal
This quiet beach town near Digha offers boat rides into the Bay of Bengal, where dolphins can often be spotted close to the shore.
- Best time to visit: November to February
- Highlight: Less touristy, serene dolphin watching
Dolphin Species Found in India
India is home to several dolphin species, including:
- Ganges River Dolphin (Platanista gangetica) – Found in the Ganga, Yamuna, and Brahmaputra rivers. Declared India’s National Aquatic Animal and classified as endangered.
- Irrawaddy Dolphin (Orcaella brevirostris) – Found in Chilika Lake and parts of the Sundarbans.
- Indo-Pacific Humpback Dolphin – Common in coastal areas of Goa, Kerala, and Gujarat.
- Bottlenose Dolphin – Often spotted in Andaman, Lakshadweep, and along the western coast.
- Spinner Dolphin – Known for acrobatic spins, found in deeper waters off Tamil Nadu and the islands.
Dolphin Conservation in India
India has taken several steps to protect dolphins:
- In 2012, the Ministry of Environment and Forests banned dolphin shows, recognizing dolphins as non-human persons due to their high intelligence.
- Several NGOs and local governments promote eco-tourism and awareness campaigns.
- National programs like Project Dolphin aim to enhance conservation efforts for both river and marine dolphins.
Tips for Responsible Dolphin Watching
- Choose certified tour operators that follow eco-friendly guidelines.
- Avoid feeding or touching dolphins – they are wild animals.
- Use silent, non-motorized boats when possible to reduce noise pollution.
- Maintain a respectful distance – don’t chase or circle the animals.
- Support local communities by hiring local guides and staying in eco-lodges.
Conclusion
From sacred rivers to sun-kissed seas, India’s dolphin habitats are as varied as they are breathtaking. Whether you’re watching Ganges River Dolphins glide through holy waters or Spinner Dolphins leap through ocean waves, the experience is bound to be magical.
As interest in eco-tourism grows, dolphin watching in India offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature while supporting conservation efforts. So, pack your binoculars and get ready for a journey where nature’s most graceful swimmers steal the show.
