Board a traditionally carved wooden river boat and take to the calm waters of the Brahmaputra River in search of the Ganges dolphin. Warm yourself in the rays of the Indian sun as you drift over the still surface of the water and scan the surface for the distinct shapes of dolphin. Your tour guide will tell you all you need to know about this rare and endangered freshwater dolphin, including the steps that are being taken to preserve the species.
Home to many magnificent freshwater residents, the Brahmaputra River is one of the key waterways in Asia, spanning 3 848km (2 391mi.) in length. The river acts as a natural border between India, Bangladesh and China, feeding into many smaller rivers and streams. The highly endangered Ganges river dolphin is the apex predator in this vast body of water, part of a complex ecosystem that is slowly diminishing in size. Fondly known as the Susu due to its powerful sonic pitch, the Ganges dolphin is the national aquatic animal of India. The freshwater dolphin shares its habitat with several other unusual species, such as the mighty river crocodile and the ageless freshwater turtle. This naturally blind aquatic dweller lives in one of the most densely populated regions in the world, resulting in its endangered status and conservation priority label.
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