About VGDS
Overview
A protected stretch of the Ganga, established to safeguard India's National Aquatic Animal.
Where the Ganga Becomes a Sanctuary
A Protected Landscape for the Ganga's Wildlife
The Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary (VGDS) protects a stretch of the Ganga river near Bhagalpur, Bihar, running approximately from Sultanganj to Kahalgaon. Established in 1991, the sanctuary was created to safeguard the Gangetic dolphin — an endangered freshwater dolphin and India's National Aquatic Animal — along with the wider riverine ecosystem it depends on.
Administered under the Environment, Forest & Climate Change Department, Government of Bihar, VGDS combines wildlife conservation with a growing role in eco-tourism, biodiversity education and river research.
Bhagalpur
Divisional headquarters and gateway city to the sanctuary.
Ganga River Ecosystem
A living river system supporting dolphins, turtles, gharials, otters and birds.
Dolphin Conservation
Protecting the habitat of India's National Aquatic Animal.
Eco-tourism
Responsible river safaris and dolphin-watching for visitors.