ANcash | ` 125 |
The great white desert of Kutch is among the most fascinating places in India. Sprawling over thousands of square kilometres, it lies in the state of Gujarat on the western tip of the country. If you can just take 3 days out of your busy schedule, you will have the opportunity to explore this ivory marvel and see why people are drawn to it. The Rann of Kutch road trip is a journey, which unveils different sides of the region, namely culture and terrain. The local culture is often overshadowed by the beauty of the Great Rann of Kutch, but to give you a comprehensive experience, it has been made an integral part of the venture.
Beginning with pickup from Ahmedabad or Bhuj, the Rann of Kutch cultural tour takes you to the salt desert for some fun-filled time. The first day of the trip ends with a hearty Gujarati meal. The second day of the voyage, which is also its best part, starts with a walk through some local villages. Several settlements of talented artisans are located in the area, and while strolling through one, you get to learn about their way of life. Later, you head to Kala Dungar to admire the sight of the black marvel. Following this, capture a mesmerising sunset in your camera.
After the sunset, proceed to enjoy the festivities of the spectacular Kutch Rann Utsav. A range of cultural shows, from folk music performances to dances, are organised here to give visitors an insight into the heritage of Gujarat and its people. The third and final day again gives you an opportunity to be spell bound by the beauty of the Great Rann of Kutch. This is your chance to do what you might have missed earlier. Later, you would be transferred to Ahmedabad or Bhuj, where this 3-day sojourn ends, gifting you memories that you will cherish for life.
Itinerary:
Day 01: Pickup from Ahmedabad/Bhuj | Ahmedabad/Bhuj to Kutch
Begin the Rann of Kutch road trip from Ahmedabad or Bhuj by heading to the amazing Great Rann of Kutch. While Ahmedabad is about 402 km from here, taking about 6-7 hours to reach, Bhuj is merely 70 km away, requiring a 1 or 2-hour drive.
Located in India’s largest district, the Great Rann of Kutch is a salt marsh, spread across about 7500 sq km of land. Counted among the largest salt deserts in the world, the place was once submerged in the Arabian Sea, but as its altitude rose, the water evaporated, leaving behind tons of white salt. After reaching your destination, savour a hearty dinner, comprising typical Gujarati delicacies, and enjoy an overnight stay at the village homestay for a proper Kutch experience.
Day 02: Village Tour | Visit to Kala Dungar | Rann Utsav
Post freshening up in the morning, head out on foot to explore a few villages in the region. The villages of artisans, located in the area, are a perfect place for you to learn about their culture and way of life. Following the walk, enjoy a delicious breakfast, and then drive to Kala Dungar, about an hour away.
Standing tall at 462 metres above sea level, Kala Dungar or the Black Hills are the highest point in the district of Kutch. A 400-year-old temple, dedicated to Dattatreya – the three-headed manifestation of Lord Vishnu, Brahma and Shiva – is located here. Spend some time in the area, and after lunch, return to Kutch to enjoy a sunset.
The bright yellow sun, dropping behind a vast white land of salt, is a sight to behold. Use this time to click a few pictures with your friends and family to immortalise the moment. After the photography session, proceed to the vibrant Kutch Rann Utsav.
Rann Utsav is the celebration of the rich culture of Gujarat. Numerous folk dance and music performances are organised during it to intimate people about the traditions of the locals. A host of activities, including horse riding, camel safari and ATV riding, are also offered.
Learn about the state’s traditions, buy local handicrafts and handlooms, and later retreat to the village to enjoy dinner, followed by a good night’s sleep.
Day 03: sightseeing in the Rann of Kutch | Kutch to Ahmedabad/Bhuj
Start the day with breakfast, and then embark on a short drive to enjoy the sights of the white lands of the Great Rann of Kutch one last time.
Post admiring the vistas, drive back to Ahmedabad or Bhuj to end this unforgettable Rann of Kutch cultural tour.
Departure Dates: 4th November 2016, December 2017 – 2nd, 23rd, 26th January 2017, 10th February 2017
Best Season – November to March
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