Rann of Kutch, Gujarat – The white desert, an enormous stretch of natural salt pan
Rann of Kutch is a geographically unique landscape that was once an arm of the Arabian Sea. The land separated from the sea by geological forces and became a vast, featureless salty plain that gets flooded with water during the rains. It is a seasonal salty and marshy land located in the Thar Desert in the Kutch District of Gujarat. The place is a blend of sea and desert and spans over an area of 7,505.22 sq.km. This is the largest salt desert in the world. It is said often that without visiting the Rann of Kutch your “Bharat Darshan” remains incomplete. Little Rann of Kutch is a salt marsh located near the Great Rann of Kutch.
Places to see at Little Rann of Kutch: The whitish sandy cracked horizon of little Rann consists mainly pricked cactus bushes. Indian Wild Ass Sanctuary also known as the Wild Ass Wildlife Sanctuary is primary attraction in the Little Rann of Kutch. It spans over an area of 4954 km² and is the largest wildlife sanctuary in India. The sanctuary was established in the year 1972. It is the last space in the earth where the endangered wild ass sub-species Indian Wild Ass that belongs to the species of Asiatic Wild Ass Onager can be spotted. The two entrances to this sanctuary are Banjhana and Jhinjwada. Apart from the wild ass the Nil gai and various species of bird can be spotted here. The local and migratory water birds like cranes, ducks, pelicans, flamingos and land birds like sandgrouse, francolins and the Indian bustards will be visible to you in this wide area of Rann. The avid bird lovers will be specially attracted by the sight of MacQueen’s bustard and Sociable lapwing. It is also home to various unique mammals apart from wild ass and Nilgai, such as the Indian wolf, desert fox.
Things to do in Little Rann of Kutch: In the little Rann of Kutch you can enjoy the Cross desert horse ride and Camel safari (specially in the mesmerizing moonlit night).The unique handicrafts of Kutch are world famous. These are different types of embroidered cloths. Do carry atleast one specimen with you. The Rann Ustav festival organized by the Gujarat Tourism in mid December is a major attraction here. Hundreds of luxury tents are set up near the Gateway to Rann Resort at Dhordo for visitors, along with rows of food and handicraft stalls. Try to organize your trip during this time to get an authentic touch of the hospitality of Gujrat.
Best time to visit Little Rann of Kutch: The best time to visit this place would be between November and March. Woolen cloths in sufficient numbers are required during the winter months.
How to go ?
By Air
Ahmedabad Airport also called the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport is the nearest airport from the Rann of Kutch. Airport is connected with all major cities in India and also with many cities in abroad. Ahmedabad is only 90km from the Rann of Kutch. Private cars are available on hire from the airport.
By Train
Ahmedabad railway station is connected to many major cities including Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore, Bhubaneshwar etc. Ahmedabad is only 90km from the Rann of Kutch. You can hire private cars to reach the destination.
By Road
The closest metro is Mumbai. Bus services are available from Mumbai and also from all major cities in Gujarat.
Where to stay ?
Very few but luxurious accommodation options are available for staying. Some options are:
Rann Riders: +91-0 2757 280257, 280457 Website: www.rannriders.com
Kutch Rann Resort: www.kutchrannresort.com
Note : Phone numbers given above are according to the information available with us. If you find any contact number/s given above is/are incorrect or not in use, please let us know.
