Rann of Kutch Travel Guide
Kutch is a former princely state of India that looks like a tortoise-shaped island. It still holds onto its grandeur nature from the past. Kutch is one of India’s most stunning and surreal places, with vast expanses of white salt desert. During the winter months of December to February, the Rann Festival is held, and the place comes to life. Large camp settlements have cultural programs, functions, and adventure activities like hot-air ballooning.
Kutch tourism is renowned for its crafts and embroidery works, as well as its Flamingo Sanctuary and Wild Ass Sanctuary. To explore the Rann of Kutch, Bhuj is an excellent starting point. Additionally, the stunning beaches of Mandvi near Bhuj are a must-visit during your trip to Kutch.
Places to visit in Kutch
Kutch is a remarkable destination with breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and fascinating history. Its sparkling beaches and the renowned Dholaveera, one of the five largest Harappan sites, attract tourists worldwide. Let us discover the wonders of this paradise and explore the most captivating places in Kutch. Look at this list of the top places to visit in Kutch.
- Great Rann Of Kutch
- Bhujodi Vande Mataram Memorial Park
- Ma Ashapura Temple
- Vijay Villas Palace
- Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary
Things to do in Kutch
Planning a trip to Kutch and needing clarification about the activities to do in Kutch? Below are the top things to do in Kutch.
- Walk at the White Rann of Kutch in full Moonlight
- Visit the Rann of Kutch’s Indo-Pak border area.
- Go for a wildlife safari to the Indian Wild Ass Sanctuary in the Little Rann of Kutch in northwest Gujarat.
- Go on a camel safari and camp in the Great Rann of Kutch white desert.
- Enjoy the panoramic view of Kutch from the top point of Kala Dungar.
Best time to visit Kutch
Winter (November–February) is the best time to visit Kutch because of the full moon nights that turn the place into an absolute paradise. The Rann Festival is also organized at the same time. The rains arrive in Kutch by the end of June and last until September. Although the showers are not severe, it still relieves the area from the heat. The summer begins in April and lasts till June. Kutch is not an ideal place to visit during the summer season.
How to reach Kutch
To reach Kutch, the closest airport is in Bhuj, approximately 80 km from the Rann desert. Bhuj Airport has convenient connections to various cities across India. Alternatively, traveling by road is the only option to reach Kutch. You can drive your vehicle or hire a cab from Bhuj. While Kutch itself does not have a railway station, Bhuj city has one that offers train services from major cities like Mumbai and Ahmedabad.
Accommodations in Kutch
Booking a stay in Kutch is never a problem here, and one can find many budget hotels, luxury hotels, resorts, and homestays. Small towns like Mandvi, Gandhidham, and Bhuj offer well-maintained hotels. If planning a trip around festival season, then it is advisable to book in advance as most accommodations remain full and even overcharged. People who are attending Rann Utsav should stay at the tent city, located nearby the venue. Besides the tent city, many eco-resorts offer rustic experiences to travelers.
Where to eat in Kutch?
In Kutch, the food is primarily vegetarian due to the strong influence of Jainism and Brahmanism, which adhere to strict vegetarianism and often avoid ingredients such as garlic, potatoes, yam, and onion. A notable local specialty is Bajra na Rotla, typically served with a refreshing drink such as Lassi, Chaas, or Buttermilk, as is typical for most meals in the district. Some of the top restaurants in Kutch include Jesal, Green Rock Restaurant, Noorani Mahal, Zorba The Buddha, Neelam Restaurant, and many others.
How to get around in Kutch?
You can take the buses and autos to explore the region and the villages. There is also the option of hiring a cab.
Travel tips
- Make sure to carry your sports shoes if you want to go trekking
- Plan your trip around the Rann Utsav festival, and you will surely enjoy
- Get a taste of the local food delicacies