The Rann of Kutch famously known as “White Desert” and “Tent City” is famous among the tourists for rich culture, Rajasthan tradition, Kutch heritage, and the unseen white desert. In India, Kutch is the only place to experience the white desert and three-day long-awaited festival is celebrates in a marvelous way.
Rann of Kutch became famous worldwide in the year 2005, when the Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Limited (TCGL) took the initiative and the then Chief Minister of Gujarat, Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi envisioned the concept of Rann Utsav. The festival became famous worldwide and now every year around the world around 5,00,000 visitors witness the Great Grand Rann Utsav.
Rann of Kutch Festival Date & Weather
The Great Grand Rann Utsav celebration started from 10th November 2023 to 25th February 2024. If you are planning to experience the white desert, then plan now, before you are late. If you are planning a trip in January, then I would advise you it’s been the best month to explore the Rann of Kutch. In January, the weather in Kutch would be around 11 degrees and you can enjoy the chilling breeze and white desert together. The special dates are:
- 11th January & 9th January 2024 – Dark Moon (A Day of Astro Photographers)
- 13th to 15th January 2024 – Uttarayan
- 24th to 26th January & 23rd to 25th February 2024 – Full Moon
Rann of Kutch Attraction Points
Kala Dungar
Image Credit: Google
Kala Dungar, North of the Village of Khavda is famously known as Black Hill, is the highest point of Kutch at 462 meters. At the top of kala dungar, a mesmerizing view of Great Rann of Kutch White Desert gives you a remarkable experience. The Black Hill is also famous for the 400-year-old temple dedicated to Lord Dattatreya. The India Pakistan border is only 15 minutes away from the hill, but photography is not allowed, as it comes under the jurisdiction of Indian Army.
Dholavira
Image Credit: Google
In the year 2021, Dholavira village has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site and a proud of Gujarat. Dholavira is the largest excavation of 4500-year-old Indus Valley Civilization or Harappa Culture. The excavation tells the story of rich civilization, artefacts, include pottery, ornaments, vessels, and some imported vessels of Mesopotamia.
Kadiya Dhro
Image Credit: Google
Kadiya Dhro, a wonder of Kutch, named under the “52 Best Places to Visit in 2021” by The New York Times. The gush of water streams and the natural rock formation gives a scenic view. The beauty of this place can’t stop you from taking N Number of Photographs.
Mandvi Beach
Image Credit: Google
Mandvi Beach is known for the finest beach of Gujarat and a perfect getaway from the hustle bustle life and the hot summer weather. You can spend time with your partner, family, or friends, drinking coconut water and watching the magnificent view of the beach.
Smritivan Earthquake Memorial
Image Credit: Google
Smitivan is a memorial for the families of earthquake victims who died in the deadliest earthquake in 2001. The memorial is the India’s Largest Earthquake Memorial which was developed by Gujarat State Disaster Management Authority, Government of Gujarat.
Things to do in Rann of Kutch
Adventure Activities
The Great Rann of Kutch offer various activities like pulse-racing ATV Rides, Paramotor, Segway, Archery, and Paintball. You can choose the activities as per your liking or try everything at once.
Bicycle Tour
The Bicycle Fun Park offers amazing experiences of bicycle tours on the white desert. While on the Bicycle Tour, you can explore the sunrise and sun set rides and the roads of Kutch.
Camel Safari
The Camel Safari is a must, if you are willing to enjoy the white desert of Rann of Kutch. The ride surely gives breathtaking views and unforgettable experience.
Spa
If you want to relax your body, you can enjoy the spa and rejuvenate your body. Afterall, Relaxation is an important part of life.
How to reach Rann of Kutch from Ahmedabad
- Nearest Airport: The nearest airport to the Rann of Kutuch is Bhuj Airport (BHU). The domestic flights are available from Ahmedabad for Kutch. To reach Rann of Kutch from the airport, taxi, and local transportation are available.
- Nearest Railway Station: The Nearest Railway Station to Rann of Kutch is Bhuj Railway Station. To reach the destination, taxis and local transportation are readily available. It will take around 6 to 8 hrs. from the train to reach Rann of Kutch.
- By Road: Ahmedabad is only 450 kms away from Rann of Kutch. The buses are available from Ahmedabad and will take around 7-8 hrs. to reach Rann of Kutch. If you are planning to come by your own vehicle, check the documents and enjoy the view.
Important Tips to adhere at Rann of Kutch
- Permit is required to visit Rann of Kutch/Salt desert.
- Always carry Identity Proof (Aadhar Card and Pan Card).
- Check Festival Dates before planning a trip.
- Book your accommodation in advance.
- Do carry warm clothes in winter, evening time gives you chilling vibes. For daytime carry comfortable clothes, as you need to go for activities.
- Explore local handicrafts, and local cuisine.
- Stay hydrated, so always carry a water bottle.
Final Thought
Rann of Kutch offers a mesmerizing and unforgettable experience of the White Desert, Salt land and a Tent City. In this blog, I have explained the attraction points, things to do and how to reach Rann of Kutch. Before planning, check the festival dates and do follow the important tips.
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