Visit Little Rann of Kutch for a Unique Experience in Gujarat

Gujarat is a wonderland. It holds some of the best hidden gems India has to offer. From the tallest statute in the world to the stunning desert safari, and the World’s first UNESCO World Heritage City, you have plenty of things to do, see, and explore in Gujarat. One such unique place you must visit in Gujarat is Little Rann of Kutch. 

The Little Rann of Kutch consists of an area of about 5000 square km, which is a part of the much larger Great Rann of Kutch in Gujarat’s Kutch district. The place is one of those exceptional landscapes on Earth that can provide an overwhelmingly unique experience to visitors.

Vast stretches of saline desert plains, arid grasslands, and thorn scrubs with little to no human habitat appear hauntingly beautiful. You can feel your heart wandering toward a thoughtful realm and your mind thinking about some larger questions of life. 

However, you’ll be astonished to find such a barren landscape beaming with life with an energy more than you can imagine.

• Indian Wild Ass Sanctuary
• Salt Panning
• Best time to visit Little Rann of Kutch
• How to reach Little Rann of Kutch

Indian Wild Ass Sanctuary 

Established in 1973, the Indian Wild Ass Sanctuary in the Little Rann is the 15th biosphere reserve. It is probably the last home left for the Asiatic Wild Ass, locally called Khur, one of the most highly endangered species on the planet. The sanctuary is also home to numerous migratory birds like the Dalmatian pelican, Sarus crane, Sandgrouse, Francolin, etc. Moreover, this is the place where you can find the critically endangered Great Indian Bustard. You can also spot the Nilgai, Desert Fox, Indian Wolf, and many such wild animals. 

The tidal water from the Gulf of Kutch mixes the freshwater from the rivers in this area to form an ideal spawning ground for prawns.

Salt Panning

Salt panning is a major economic activity in Little Rann. A majority of India’s inland salt is produced here. Kutch’s underwater table is filled with saltwater during the monsoon season. After the end of the monsoon season, salt workers use motor pumps to pump the salt water into salt pans. Once the water evaporates, salt crystals are left behind.

Best Time to Visit Little Rann of Kutch 

The summer season is extremely hot, with the average daily temperature hovering around 44°C. Therefore, the winter season, which lasts from October to March, can be the ideal time to explore Little Rann. However, carry sufficient woollen clothes as the temperature routinely drops below 0°C, especially at night.

How to Reach Little Rann of Kutch

Although Ahmedabad is about 165 km away from Little Rann of Kutch, the city is well connected with the rest of India by flight and train. So, it’s probably the best place to prepare for your forward journey toward the Little Rann. Check into Club Mahindra Kensville Golf Resort,  one of the most premium and beautiful resorts in Ahmedabad and visit the nearby places first. Once you get enough rest, take a five-hour road trip to reach the Little Rann.

You should visit Little Rann of Kutch at least once in your lifetime. Apart from exploring the quaint beauty of the place, you'll learn to appreciate how the local people lead a harsh desert lifestyle without complaining about circumstances.