National Chambal Sanctuary
Facts and practical information
National Chambal Sanctuary, also called the National Chambal Gharial Wildlife Sanctuary, is a 5,400 km2 tri-state protected area in northern India for the protection of the Critically Endangered gharial, the red-crowned roof turtle and the Endangered Ganges river dolphin. Located on the Chambal River near the tripoint of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh, it was first declared in Madhya Pradesh in 1978, and now constitutes a long narrow eco-reserve co-administered by the three states. Within the sanctuary, the pristine Chambal River cuts through mazes of ravines and hills with many sandy beaches. ()
Best Ways to Experience the Park
Wildlife
AnimalsSee what popular animal species you can meet in this location.
Gharial
The gharial, often referred to as the gavial or fish-eating crocodile, is a unique species of crocodilian within the Gavialidae family. Notable for its impressive length, mature females typically range from 2.6 to 4.5 meters, while males can grow between 3 and 6 meters.
Reptiles
Sarus crane
The sarus crane is a striking, non-migratory bird native to parts of the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and Australia. Standing up to 1.8 meters tall, this elegant bird is easily recognizable by its grey feathers and contrasting red head and upper neck.
Birds
Sambar deer
The sambar is a large deer species native to the Indian subcontinent, South China, and Southeast Asia. Since 2008, it has been listed as a vulnerable species on the IUCN Red List, primarily due to hunting, insurgency, and habitat destruction.
Mammals
Mugger crocodile
The mugger crocodile, also known as the marsh crocodile or broad-snouted crocodile, is a fascinating freshwater species native to regions spanning from southern Iran to the Indian subcontinent. Unfortunately, it has been listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List since...
Reptiles
Smooth-coated otter
The smooth-coated otter is a captivating species native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, with a unique population residing in Iraq. Regrettably, it is classified as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List due to significant threats such as habitat loss, polluted...
Mammals
Uttar Pradesh