Geography of Great Rann of Kutch
The salt march of the Great Rann of Kutch is located in the Thar Desert of the district of Kutch, in Gujarat. A part of this Rann lies in India and some portion in the Sindh province of Pakistan. In India, it occupies an area of over 7500 square kilometres making it one of the largest salt deserts in the world. The Rann is divided into two parts, the Great and the Little Rann of Kutch and has the Banni Grasslands to its south.
It lies between the Gulf of Kutch and the Indus River in Pakistan and comprises of flatlands of salty clay located about 15 metres above sea level. These flatlands were once a part of the Arabian Seabed but due to a continuous geological uplift of the region, the land was disconnected from the sea leaving an enormous lake. The Rivers Luni and West Banas drain into the Thar Desert from North-East while the River Rupen drains from the east. The wildlife sanctuary on the sandy islets of the region is home to a variety of birds like Flamingos, Common Teal, Pelicans, Ducks and Sarus Cranes.
Rann of Kutch Utsav
The Rann Utsav is a vibrant celebration of life and colours of the beautiful and rich culture of Kutch and Gujarat. The festival is celebrated in the midst of the enchanting Rann of Kutch with traditional music, dance and finger licking good Gujarati cuisine. It is a three-month-long event and many plan family holidays during the time to experience and enjoy the lively celebrations of Kutch.
An overnight stay is highly recommended as the visuals of the Rann of Kutch especially during full moon nights cannot be found in any other part of the world. The day times have a variety of colour sprinkled on the barren lands and offer visitors an excellent opportunity to experience the diverse traditions, the generosity and hospitality of Kutchi people.
Read more about Kutch Rann Utsav
Handicrafts in Great Rann of Kutch
The unique handicrafts of Kutch are world famous. A lot of women and young girls make their living by selling different types of embroidered clothes. The embroidery is of various styles such as Rabari, Ahir, Sindhi, Banni, Mutwa, Ari and Soof - and some styles include mirror or bead inlay.
Best time to visit Great Rann of Kutch
The best time to Visit the Great Rann of Kutch is between October and March as the weather is pleasant to explore the outdoors.
How to Reach Great Rann of Kutch
The closest railway station is the Bhachau Railway Station in Bhachau town which is around 80 kilometres from the mesmerizing expanse of Rann of Kutch.The closest airport is the Kandla Airport in Kutch which is about 100 kilometres away from the salt desert.
One can rent tourist cabs to reach the Great Rann of Kutch via road from the Airport or the Railway Station. There are regular direct buses plying from Bhuj to Rann of Kutch that one can take.
Top Tourist Places in Kutch
Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary
Mandvi Beach, Bhuj
City Shopping
Dholavira
Kutch Museum
Kandla Port and Mudra port
All Tourist Places in Kutch
Tips
1. There is provision to park vehicles at a little distance away from the Great Rann of Kutch.2. Do carry proof of identity to pass check-posts without any hassles.3. Vehicles are not allowed beyond the BSF check-point.4. The area is categorized sensitive due to its proximity to Pakistan and hence is under the Control of the Indian Army. Do not let that bog you down; they do not interfere as long as you are just having fun exploring the natural beauty of the location.5. Do not litter.6. Take precaution if you have any cuts or rashes. Since this is a salt desert, you might experience burning sensation.7. Some parts of the desert might be wet, so tread carefully.8. Wear proper footwear as it tends to get heavier by salt sticking to it.
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