About 45 km from Ranthambore, the Chambal river runs slow and clear through deep ravines. It is protected as the National Chambal Sanctuary, and it is one of the last strongholds of the gharial, a long-snouted crocodile found only in South Asia.
What you can see
- Gharials basking on the sand banks, their thin snouts unmistakable
- Mugger crocodiles, broader and heavier than the gharial
- Gangetic river dolphins surfacing in deeper water
- Indian skimmers, river terns and, in winter, migratory ducks and waders
The boat ride
Boats leave from the jetty at Palighat and move slowly along the banks so you can watch without disturbing the animals. A ride lasts about an hour and a half. Morning trips have the softest light and the most bird activity.
When to go
The boat safari runs from October to June. River levels and sanctuary rules decide the exact dates each year, so check before you plan.
Pairing it with Ranthambore
The Chambal fits well between two tiger safaris, or on the day the zones you want are closed. We arrange the cab from your hotel to Palighat and back and book the boat. See the Chambal safari page or message us on WhatsApp with your date.