Kutch
The White Desert of India
Kutch Tourism
The beautiful ocean of white sand in the shape of a tortoise has enchanted the world for centuries. The erstwhile princely state of India, Kutch is one of the most popular vacation spots among tourists, especially during the month of February. The rich history of Kutch works as the cherry on the cake catching the attention of every travel freak from across the world. The ‘Wild West’ of India is blessed with the cultural and ecological abundance, making the magnificence of kaleidoscopic Kutch reflecting through its beauty and superfluity of colors.
The rich flora and fauna work as the additional beauty, especially when it’s the favorite residence of migratory birds in winter. Famous for its arts and craft, Kutch is the home of popular Mandvi Beach and is totally worth visiting.
The best time to visit Kutch starts from the month of October and lasts till March, as it's the time when harsh marsh dries up leaving behind the white paradise. The Rann Utsav is also a popular time when people from across the globe visit Kutch to witness its unique profusion of culture and tradition. The Rann Utsav starts from November and la0sts till February when more accommodation options become available.
DINE AND DRINK
Gujarati people love food, especially when it comes to snacks. Though Jain and Brahmin communities make the majority of Kutch and the food is predominantly vegetarian, yet the delicacies of Kutch is unmatchable. Top five delicacies of Kutch that you should not miss on when in Kutch are Kathiyawadi Thali, Kutchi Dabeli, Thepla, Locho, and Lilva Kachori.
Since Gujarat is a dry state, hence no alcohol can be found in Kutch.
Top things do in Kutch
1. KALA DUNGAR
2. DHOLAVIRA
40 kilometres from city centre5. Mata no Madh, Bhuj
95 kilometres from city centre6. Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary
45 kilometres from city centre8. Kutch Museum
57 kilometres from city centre9. Great Rann of Kutch
45 kilometres from city centre10. Narayan Sarovar, Bhuj
135 kilometres from city centre11. MANDVI BEACH
114 kilometres from city centre12. PRAG MAHAL AND AINA MAHAL
57 kilometres from city centre14. City Shopping
1449 kilometres from city centre15. Hamirsar Lake, Bhuj
58 kilometres from city centre16. Kandla Port and Mundra port
91 kilometres from city centre17. Kutch Bustard Sanctuary
116 kilometres from city centre
How to reach
Even though Kutch does not have any railway station or airport but it is well-connected with the road, making it the only direct means to reach Kutch.
How to Reach by Flight
Bhuj has its own domestic airport which is 73 km from the city of Kutch. The airport of Bhuj is well-connected to other major cities such as Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Delhi, etc.
How to Reach by Train
Two direct trains, Be Bhuj Express and Ala Hazrat Express, connect New Delhi to Bhuj. Five direct trains connect Mumbai to Bhuj, whereas direct trains available from Ahmedabad to reach Bhuj take approximately six to seven hours to reach Bhuj.
How to Reach by Bus
State buses and taxis are available to reach Bhuj from all major cities of Gujarat. From Bhuj, direct taxis and governments buses can be taken to reach Kutch.
How to Reach by Road
Taking a private vehicle is the best option for reaching Kutch as it provides flexibility and freedom of time while visiting various places in Kutch. Cabs can be hired to reach Kutch at reasonable rates. Public buses are also available to reach Kutch.
How to travel within
For visiting the various regions of Kutch and its neighboring villages buses and autos can be easily hired. The option of hiring a cab is also available in Kutch.
The spectacular sight of the boundless white desert under the soft moonlight presenting the stunning marvels of nature makes it a unique sight to witness. Kutch homes plethora of sites to visit when you are in the white desert of India, but the top three places that should not be missed are-
- Mandvi Beach- The pristine and tranquil seashore of Mandvi can make anyone fall in love with nature. Endowed with the calmness of nature, Mandvi makes a perfect peaceful getaway from the city.
- Dholavira is the destination borrowed from the pages of history. Starting from the remarkable excavations of the Indus valley civilization, the history of Dholavira can be traced back to over 4500 years.
- Wild ass sanctuary- The lively wildlife sanctuary is said to be the largest seasonal saline wetland areas in the world. It homes various species of flamingos, Indian porcupines, spiny-tailed lizard, wild ass, black-necked storks, and Indian cormorant.
The days spent in the westernmost corner of our country opens a window into the vibrant culture of this Wild West, igniting the light of culture, beauty, and colors in your heart and life that will resonate the song of happiness in positivity in your life.
Kutch Itinerary
Day 1
Travel from Bhuj to Hodka
Situated at a distance of 80 km from Bhuj, Hodka is the coveted spot of white sand. Because of its close proximity with Pakistan border, it is important to take special permission from the DSP office situated near Jubilee Ground in Bhuj.
Day 2
Take a day trip to Mandavi Beach
Direct taxis are available from Bhuj to Mandavi Beach, which is the fastest and most convenient mode of transportation to reach the beach. You can spend the day lazing around, watching the clear water, windmills, and birds. After spending some quality time on the beach move on to the Vijay Vilas Palace. The royal family of the princely state of Kutch still lives in this palace. The beautiful Vijay Vilas Palace is also famous for featuring the legendary Bollywood movie Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam. The luxury tents available provides a spectacular view of Mandavi Beach at night.
Day 3
Travel to Dhordo to experience the dazzling White Rann of Kutch
Hire a vehicle to travel all the nearby place and be the witness of the vibrant culture of the region. You can visit the White Rann of Dhordo, and it's neighboring Banni Villages. The Rann Utsav is the best time to visit these villages located on the Indo-Pak border.
By the end of the third day, it is time to travel Back to Bhuj opening the gateway to the normal life.