How many of you have watched the iconic Refugee movie? Well the entire movie was shot on the Rann of Kutch. Popularly known as the White Dessert, Rann of Kutch is one of the most unique places to visit in India. Known to be the largest salt dessert in the world, the Rann of Kutch is 27454 sq. km area in habitated by Kutchi people.
The best time to visit Rann of Kutch is between December to February when the water dries up and you can actually view the vast expanse of salt dessert in its full glory. The Rann Utsav is also one festival which is attended by people from around the world. During the festival time from December end to February, you can experience finger licking food of Gujarati cuisine. You can also watch entertaining folk shows and shop Gujarati ethnic dresses and accessories at very reasonable prices.
How to Reach Rann of Kutch –
Approximately 74 km from Kutch in Gujarat, you need to reach Bhuj first to visit the Rann of Kutch. Some of the direct ways to reach Bhuj is directly opting for a flight or a road trip from Ahmedabad or Rajkot. However, the flight costs are on the higher side due to less frequency and limited visitors at Bhuj.
You also require a permit at Bhirandiyara Checkpoint with valid id proof which can be your passport/voter id or aadhar card.
Places to Visit-
Kalo Dungar – Kalo Dungar which means Black Hills is a place worth the drive. From Kalo Dungar you can witness entire white dessert as well as the Dholavaria Lake which makes it worth the drive to reach the destination.
Nirona Village – Nirona Village comes on the way to Bhuj where you can come across amazing handicrafts from the village artisans. The beautiful Kutch handicrafts, Rogan Art Paintings by Gafur Bhai & beautiful copper bells are some of the things visitors never miss out to shop! The copper bells are completely handmade and there are also many woodwork items which will make you go in awe.
Beautiful Sunset- A beautiful sunset, a hue of pink atmosphere in the air and a vast white dessert is a view to die for. Enjoy the beautiful sunset at the Rann of Kutch which occurs usually after 6:30 pm daily. The whole sky turns into a beautiful shade of pink and orange and the white salt with a bluish tinge makes it a view once in a lifetime.
Cultural Performances at Kutch-
Once you enter the Rann Utsav area or the Tent City, you will come across numerous cultural performances which reflect the culture of Gujarat. You can take part in world famous Garbas, housie games, free mehndi by local women of the village absolutely free of cost!
You can also interact with the locals who will explain you the meaning of various words and traditions of Gujarati culture.
Stay at Rann of Kutch –
If you can afford, then there is a heaven lying for you!
Once you enter the tent city or the famous White Rann Resort, you can enjoy a lavish & extravagant stay in the most beautiful places. Soul satisfying meals and memorable souvenirs is something which will linger with you even after you leave the tent city. There are multiple resorts / tent areas near the Great Rann of Kutch which provides stay/ meals/ complimentary tour to Bhuj / free souvenirs and games. If you opt for a stay here, the permit required is also taken care of by the resorts / tent owners.
During the full moon period, the cost of stays is higher than other days!! The prices can be subjective depending on your travel dates as well as your stay duration.
