7 Reasons to Visit Rann of Kutch, Gujarat

The Great Rann of Kutch in Gujarat is one of the largest salt deserts in the world. An extent of the Thar Desert, Kutch is inhabited by the Kutchi people who have been living in the region for centuries. 

In recent times the Rann of Kutch has become quite famous with people who like offbeat travel and visiting local festivals. The Rann of Kutch is one of the famous tourist destinations. 

So if you are planning a Rann of Kutch trip, the following is a travel guide to Kutch that you can use to schedule your visit to this unconventionally attractive place. 

1. Rann Utsav
2. Wildlife Attraction & Birdwatching
3. Village Safari
4. Kala Dungar
5. Local Delicacies
6. Full Moon Nights
7. Photography

• Rann Utsav

The Gujarat government hosts Rann Utsav, also known as the Rann of Kutch festival, every year during the winter season. The four-month-long festival begins in the last week of October and ends in February. The colourful festival provides a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the Rann of Kutch and its vivid cultural diversity.  

The festival is a grand carnival of music and folk dances against the shimmering Kutch landscape. Moreover, you can interact with the local artisans and watch them at work. Additionally, you can go camping in the desert with comfortable staying arrangements in tents. 

The festival has earned so much fame that even international tourists have started asking about Kutch Rann Utsav.

• Wildlife Attraction & Birdwatching

A trip to Rann of Kutch can be an excellent opportunity to explore the ecologically rich wildlife conservation areas in the region. Winter is the best time to visit Indian Wild Ass Sanctuary, Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary, Kutch Bustard Sanctuary, and many more protected areas in the Kutch region. 

These sanctuaries are home to some exotic animals like chinkara. Birdwatchers can spot more than 300 bird species in Kutch, including the extremely rare lesser flamingo. 

• Village Safari

A tour of nearby villages can help you learn about the local culture of the Rann of Kutch people and appreciate the hardships Kutch villagers face all around the year. You can even, shop for souvenirs, unique handicraft items, and local tribal clothing while touring these villages.

• Local Delicacies

The cuisines of Kutch are a little different from the rest of Gujarat. While the prevalence of vegetarian and seafood cuisine is expected, the local delicacies are a little savoury in taste. Also, you would be surprised at the variety of sweets on offer. 

The winter season can be the best to explore the numerous gastronomical delights, such as Kadai roti, Kutchi Dabeli, and many more. Of course, you need to end your meal with a sweet pan (betel leaf).

• Full Moon Nights

The full moon nights at the Rann of Kutch can be a surreal experience making it one of the best places to visit in Gujarat in winter. When moonlight dances on the white saline land under the star-studded winter sky, the stage can be set for proclaiming your love to that special someone. 

• Photography

The Rann of Kutch is a photographer's dream, with its stunning landscape, vibrant culture, and unique wildlife presenting endless opportunities for capturing striking images. The stark contrast between the white salt desert and the vivid colours of the local attire, handicrafts, and wildlife create visually stunning compositions.

Additionally, the dramatic sunrises and sunsets over the salt flats provide a perfect backdrop for landscape and portrait photography. Whether you are a professional photographer or simply enjoy taking pictures, the Rann of Kutch is sure to leave you with captivating images and lasting memories.

• Kala Dungar

Kala Dungar, the highest point in the Rann of Kutch, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. At an altitude of 462 meters, visitors can marvel at the vast expanse of the salt desert and appreciate its unique beauty from an elevated perspective. The hill also holds spiritual significance, with the ancient Dattatreya Temple located at its summit. A trip to Kala Dungar is an essential part of the Rann of Kutch trip, providing visitors with a memorable and picturesque experience.