The white never-ending expanse of the gorgeous salt deserts of Rann of Kutch is the perfect winter holiday destination. It is a one-of-a-kind experience that you should explore at least once. The Rann Utsav was started in 2006 by Narendra Modi who visualized the Utsav. Since then, the annual festival has created a mark on the global tourism map.
Things you must know about the Rann of Kutch Festival
When to visit the Rann Utsav?
The Rann Utsav usually starts in November and ends in February around Holi. The best time to visit the Rann of Kutch for the festival is on the full moon days that fall during this period. The Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Ltd. has impeccable arrangements for accommodation, transportation, sightseeing and food during the Rann of Kutch Festival.
Where is the Rann Utsav?
Rann of Kutch Festival is held in the Dhordo village situated in Kutch just 85 km (52.8 miles) from Bhuj. Bhuj even has a small air terminal to transit from Dhordo. The festival begins in Bhuj but the entire region is set up for a carnival of arts, crafts and culture of Gujarat.
What to do at the Rann Utsav?
- Cultural Extravaganza
The Rann Utsav is a centre stage of cultural activities. Folk artists from various parts of Gujarat enthrall the audiences with their performances. Tourists also love to join the artists as they shake a leg with them around a bonfire in the white desert.
- Sightseeing
The marshy salt desert is spread out as far as your eyes can see. The most favorite tourist activity is to spend a night under the clear skies, gazing at the stars. A late night walk on the moonlit Rann of Kutch desert, holding hands with your beloved, is bound to make your better half very happy.
If you are an adventure-enthusiast, you can go on a hot air balloon and enjoy the dramatic views of the desert. You could also hit the sand dunes, either on a fun solo ride on a DPV or on a camel ride.
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- Food
The two gigantic dining halls in the tent city serve Kutchi cuisine. It is a must-have experience at the Rann Utsav. You would also find little food joints tucked in unexpected corners if you do not want to try out Kutchi cuisine.
- Shopping
The Rann of Kutch festival is a shopper’s delight. The amazing range of local handicrafts makes great mementoes and gifts for friends and family. The absolute must-buy things are intricate Kutchi embroidered things, beautiful block-printed fabric, leather accessories and gorgeous silverware.
Where to Stay?
The tent city at Dhordo has 400 air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned tents in neat white rows. There are Swiss and Luxury tent options along with home stays in villages nearby, traditionally designed bungalows and a wide range of comfortable hotels and resorts.
The tent city is the best place to get the full experience of the Rann of Kutch festival. It has round the clock supply of warm water, room heaters & air-conditioners to combat the extreme temperatures, a marketplace and two dining halls; hence you would find the tent city very comfortable and convenient.
How to reach Rann of Kutch?
The nearest airport and railway station is Bhuj and you can reach the Rann of Kutch by road from there. You can fly or take a train into Bhuj. Or better still, you can actually plan an entire road trip around it. Check our suggestions of places you can add to your itinerary, if you are visiting the Rann of Kutch festival.
Tips for Rann of Kutch:
- Pack some woolens as the temperatures difference from day to night is high.
- Due to the close proximity to the Pakistan border, a govt. stamped pass is mandatory. Passes are easily available at the Bhirandirya checkpost. You can get one when you show your govt. approved Identity card.
- Check out the the beautiful sunset at Mandvi Beach on reaching Rann.
- Take out time and go to the highest point of Kutch – Kalo Dungar (Black Mountain) to get a bird’s eye view of the whitewashed desert.
- Participate in handicraft workshops organized at Gandghi-Nugam, Bhirandiyra and Khavda.
We have covered all the basic information you need to plan a trip to the Rann of Kutch Festival. We would love to answer any questions you have on the Community forums. Now that you have decided to go for Rann Utsav 2017, you can plan you trip here. You could also check out the Rann Utsav Package here. So pack your bags, crank up the music, check on everything one last time and hit the roads.
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