National Chambal Wildlife Sanctuary

National Chambal Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Dholpur district of Rajasthan, is a significant riverine protected area known for its status as a gharial (a critically endangered crocodile) and Ganges river dolphin habitat.

Established in 1978, it extends along approximately 400 kilometers of the Chambal River, spanning parts of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh, covering a total area of about 5,400 square kilometers. The sanctuary features a unique ecosystem characterized by deep ravines, sandy riverbanks, and islands, providing vital habitats for aquatic species like gharials, mugger crocodiles, smooth-coated otters, and a diverse array of turtles.

It also supports over 320 species of resident and migratory birds, including rare birds like the Indian skimmer, sarus crane, and greater flamingo, as well as mammals such as striped hyenas, Indian wolves, and jackals.

The river and surrounding landscape remain relatively unpolluted, maintaining ecological balance and supporting important breeding grounds for endangered aquatic wildlife. The sanctuary is a popular location for boat safaris, which offer close encounters with gharials, river dolphins, crocodiles, and rich birdlife, making it an important conservation area as well as a notable ecotourism destination.