Some trips are remembered not just for the destinations but for the journey we went through. Travelling to exotic locations often means commuting via train, car and road, and some of these journeys take us up winding hills, colourful villages and lush green fields. One such place, a hub of culture, is Kutch. By Anushka Goel
Your guide to travelling to Kutch
The Destination
The Rann Of Kutch is a vast salt marsh in Gujarat, which remains submerged in water for a large part of the year. One of the largest salt marshes in the world, this white desert is also home to one of the biggest cultural fests in India, the Rann Utsav, which happens during the winter months and attracts tourists from all over the world. It is a great destination for those looking to immerse themselves in Gujarat’s culture and colour while basking in the warm sun. What’s also interesting here is the night desert safaris, which take you through moonlit nights and clear skies.
An important thing to remember is that you will need a permit to enter Kutch, which is a sensitive area due to its close proximity to the Pakistan border. A nominal fee is required, and these permits can be obtained online or at the checkpoint at the Bhirandiyara village, about 44 kilometres from Bhuj. You’ll need to carry a photo ID proof and submit a photocopy of the same, to be allowed to enter.
The Way
By Air
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The nearest airport to Kutch is in Bhuj, which is a domestic airport. It is located about 80 kilometres from the Rann of Kutch, and one will have to take taxis or buses to reach the destination. The airport is connected to major cities of India, but the Ahmedabad Airport, which is about 413 kilometres, offers better connectivity to other cities.
Apart from the clear white clouds and beautiful skies, you may be able to witness India’s vast desert expanses as you fly to the city.
By Train
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Like it doesn’t have an airport, Kutch also does not have its own railway station, but Bhuj is well-connected to major Indian cities via train. From here, you can hop on a bus or book a cab to take you to Kutch. The beautiful train ride takes one through several small villages and cities, vast expanses of green fields and several cultural centres, which will make for a fun experience. And the moment you enter Gujarat, be sure to indulge in some delicious jalebi–fafda wherever the train stops!
By Road
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Road is probably the best way to reach Kutch, since about 70 kilometres of the journey, no matter how you’ve arrived, happens this way. You can hire a taxi from Bhuj Airport or railway station to take you to the white sands, and watch the landscape change from the small city to the villages, sands and more in front of your eyes.
Alternatively, make a road trip out of this journey from Ahmedabad. You can hop on an overnight bus, which come equipped with double and single beds, depending upon your preference. You can also make a day trip of the journey, passing through cities such as Sanand, known for being a manufacturing hub, and Bhuj, which is a great place to shop for Gujarati cloth and more.
Things to do in Kutch
Rann of Kutch
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Visit the Rann of Kutch, said to be one of the largest salt marshes in the world. The vast white expanses are not only beautiful to look at but also offer some amazing night sky views on the night safaris.
Visit Dholavira
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One of the five sited from the Indus Valley Civilisation, Dholavira is about 40 kilometres from Kutch and makes for a great day trip to witness India’s (and the world’s) past and history. The civilisation is among the oldest known in the world, and the place is a great learning experience for those wanting to understand just how people lived in the olden times.
Experience Rann of Kutch differently at Kalo Dungar
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The highest point in Kutch, Kalo Dungar offers expansive views of the white desert, with beautiful views of the region. You can also look across the Pakistan border from here. What’s more, the locals here specialise in traditional crafts such as block printing in the ajrakh style.
Shopping
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Gujarat is known for being a cultural hub, and there are many places in and around Kutch where you can shop for local, handmade wares at affordable prices. Bhujodi is a village where you can buy directly from the artisans. Also, the Rann Utsav hosts a massive fair with local artisans setting up stalls selling clothes, jewellery, stationery, and more that is handmade, beautiful, ethnic and affordable.
Best time to visit
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Visit from October to February for the best weather and temperature. Club your visit to Kutch with the Rann Utsav to get the best experience of living in the tented city specially created for these months, as you shop till you drop and take in the expansive views of the region.
Related: By Air, By Road, By Train: A Complete Travel Guide To Leh, Ladakh
