As someone who loves to travel, I highly recommend considering Kutch in Gujarat, India as a fun and unique destination!
This desert landscape is filled with breathtaking natural vistas, vibrant textiles, mouthwatering cuisine, and a rich cultural heritage.
Hi there! I’m Tanvi, a copywriter and content writer. I’m also an avid traveller, a foodie who enjoys cooking, and a café enthusiast, which gives me a unique perspective when crafting content. With my creativity, dedication, and expertise, I’m always up for new challenges and eager to take my skills to new heights.
You also have numerous options, activities and several mesmerising sights to behold! Trying the local cuisine, which features unique flavours and ingredients like bajra and jaggery, was a treat for my taste buds.
I want to take you on a journey through this beautiful part of India through my blog. I’ll share all the insider information, travel tips, and recommendations on the best places to visit and things to do in Kutch.
Getting to Kutch
Kutch is a district located in the state of Gujarat, India. There are several ways to reach Kutch. Some of the most convenient ones for travellers are:
By Air
The nearest airport to Kutch is the Bhuj Airport, which is located around 60 km from the district headquarters.
You can take a flight to Bhuj from major cities in India like Mumbai, Delhi, and Ahmedabad, among others.
By Train
The railway station in Bhuj is well-connected to major cities in India. You can take a train to Bhuj from Mumbai, Delhi, Ahmedabad, and other cities.
If you plan to visit Kutch, here is where you can book your tickets for the Kutch Express 22955!
By Road
Kutch is well-connected to major cities in Gujarat and other parts of India by road.
You can take a bus or hire a taxi from cities like Ahmedabad, Rajkot, and Surat, among others.
Check out the top bus services in Kutch here.
Transportation options in Kutch
There are several transportation options available within Kutch, depending on your preference and budget while travelling here!
Taxis and Cabs
You can hire a taxi or cab to get around Kutch. Most of the major cities and towns in Kutch have taxi services, and you can book them in advance or hire them on the spot.
Auto-Rickshaws
Auto-rickshaws are a popular mode of transportation in Kutch. They are convenient, affordable, and readily available. You can hire an auto-rickshaw to get around town or to travel short distances.
Buses
Kutch has a well-developed network that connects the major cities and towns in the district. You can take a bus to travel between different parts of Kutch.
Camel Rides
If you are an adventurous traveller, then you can take a camel ride to explore the Rann of Kutch or other desert areas in the district. Camel rides are a unique way to experience the local culture and scenic landscape of Kutch.
Cars
If you are someone who loves to travel by road or take a spontaneous road trip to your favourite travel destination then Kutch is the best option as it offers an equal amount of nature and scenic beauty while travelling.
Accommodation options in Kutch
Guesthouses
Guesthouses are a popular option if you are a budget traveller in Kutch.
They offer basic amenities such as a clean bed, shared bathrooms, and sometimes, a common kitchen too!
Some of the best guesthouses that offer all the best and on-time services for their tourists in Kutch are: Hotel Shivam, VRP Guesthouse, and Hotel Ritish.
Hotels
Kutch has several hotels that cater to all traveller’s budgets and preferences! You can find here the most beautiful and budget-friendly options and many luxurious resorts too, that suit your needs.
Some of the most decent and well-kept hotels are The Tree Top Residency, Hotel Shyam Palace and Hotel Raj Mahal.
Campsites
If you are a nature-lover and someone who loves to be closer to nature in peace then you can stay at one of the many campsites in Kutch.
These campsites offer basic amenities such as tents, sleeping bags, and a campfire which is one of a kind experience here that makes you feel away from the chaos in the city!
Luxurious Resorts
As you have several options for budget travellers in Kutch, you also have the most luxurious and peaceful resorts that make your stay more relaxing! They include – The Fern Residency & Rann Utsav Tent City.
The Fern Residency
This is a luxury hotel located in Bhuj, offering luxurious rooms and a range of amenities such as a spa, swimming pool, and restaurant that definitely make your day!
Rann Utsav Tent City
This is a luxury resort located in the village of Dhordo that is named after the most happening event of Kutch that is largely celebrated by the locals and the international tourists here.
It offers luxurious tents and a range of amenities such as a spa and restaurant.
Top attractions in Kutch
Rann of Kutch
Did you know this is the largest salt desert in the world?
And during the monsoon season, the entire area gets flooded, turning it into a beautiful marshland!
Plus, the Rann of Kutch is also home to the unique and endangered Indian wild ass, making it a must-visit destination for you if you are a wildlife enthusiast!
Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary
If you are looking for a wildlife adventure and planning to spot some incredible animals, including the elusive Indian wolf, caracal, and desert fox then Kutch is the best place for you!
And if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the majestic desert cat, the Asiatic lion, roaming freely in its natural habitat.
So grab your binoculars and go exploring the wild side of Kutch!
Aina Mahal
This mahal is also known as the House Of Mirrors which is built in the 18th century by the visionary ruler of Kutch, Maharao Lakhpatji.
The palace was designed by a talented artisan named Ramsingh Malam, who used a combination of local and European techniques to create the palace’s unique style.
A visit to the Aina Mahal is a must for anyone interested in history, art, and architecture.
Bhujodi Handicraft Village
This is a paradise for shoppers and craft enthusiasts!
If you are looking for beautiful Kutchi shawls, blankets, and accessories that are handcrafted with exemplary skills that are passed down through generations then Bhujodi village is the go-to place for you!
But that’s not all! Bhujodi is also home to a variety of other handicrafts, including pottery, wood carving, and leatherwork.
You can even try your hand at creating your own handicrafts by taking a workshop with a local artisan.
Activities to Do in Kutch
Kutch Rann Utsav
Are you ready to party in the middle of a desert? Then you can’t miss the Kutch Rann Utsav, the ultimate festival celebration in Kutch, Gujarat!
Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and traditions of the region, while enjoying music, dance performances, camel rides, and more, all while surrounded by the stunning white sands of the Rann of Kutch.
White Rann camping
This is one of a kind experience where you get to spend a night under the stars in the middle of the Rann of Kutch.
Waking up to stunning views of the sunrise over the white salt flats and enjoying a peaceful and serene atmosphere is a blissful experience that you won’t find anywhere else.
Wildlife Safari
When you are in Kutch, you cannot skip this! Embark on a thrilling ride of the wildlife safari to witness India’s most incredible wildlife animals, including the Asiatic lion, Indian wild ass, and blackbuck.
With expert guides leading the way, you’ll have the chance to witness these majestic animals in their natural habitat and create unforgettable memories.
Shopping
Kutch is a perfect place that offers a variety of artefacts, jewellery sets, rings, traditional Kutchi attires, pagadis, traditional jackets, intricate embroidery, handmade pots, vibrant handwoven shawls for women and much more items to shop that resembles Kutch and its beauty for you to take back home with you!
Local festivals
Celebrating the local festivals in Kutch is an absolute delight, trust me! This colourful region is known for its lively festivals, from the Kutch Rann Utsav to the Bhujia Hill Festival, where you can dance to traditional music, savour delicious cuisine, and immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture.
Food and Drink in Kutch
Kutch is famous for its local street food stalls, sweet stores and food markets. Some popular places to try local street food include Vithalbhai’s Dabeli in Bhuj and the Khavda Night Market near White Rann.
Inn Prince Hotel, Bhuj
This place is the best dining spot in Bhuj that serves delicious local and international cuisine.
You should definitely try the Kutchi Thali is a must-try, which includes a variety of vegetarian dishes served on traditional thali plates.
Noorani Restaurant, Bhuj
Noorani Restaurant is another popular restaurant in Bhuj that is known for its authentic Kutchi cuisine.
Their Chicken Biryani and Mutton Curry are highly recommended by locals and tourists alike.
Cafe Festa, Bhuj
Cafe Festa is a trendy cafe in Bhuj that serves a range of international cuisine, including Italian, Mexican, and Continental dishes.
Their wood-fired pizzas and sandwiches are highly recommended.
Overall, Kutch offers a wide range of dining options that cater to all tastes and preferences, making it a food lover’s paradise.
Tips for visiting Kutch
- The best time to visit Kutch is between November and February which is the pleasant winter season in Gujarat
- Visiting Kutch during the monsoon season, from June to September, is not recommended as the region experiences heavy rainfall
- Wear lightweight clothes as the weather is pleasant and cool in Kutch during the November- February months.
- Kutch has narrow and winding roads, and it is important to exercise caution when driving or riding a motorcycle. Always wear a helmet and follow traffic rules.
- Kutch can be quite hot during the day, so it is important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and other fluids.
Day trips from Kutch
Mandvi Beach
Mandvi Beach is a beautiful white sand beach in Kutch, Gujarat, known for its calm waters, peaceful ambience, water sports activities, and camel rides.
It’s surrounded by coconut palms and features small huts for relaxation.
If you are planning to visit this beach the next time you travel to Kutch the best time to visit is between November and February!
Narayan Sarovar Sanctuary
If you are a travel freak like me then you’ve got to check out Narayan Sarovar Sanctuary! It’s located in the Kutch district of Gujarat, India, and covers an area of 444 square kilometres.
As soon you enter the sanctuary, you can spot the Indian wolves, chinkaras, Indian foxes, striped hyenas, and even a desert cat!
Over 200 species of birds call this sanctuary home, including the Great Indian Bustard which is sadly endangered.
Conclusion
I hope this travel guide for Kutch has given you that inspiration for your next adventure trip! Exploring Kutch is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience! Its unique culture, rich history, heritage, and stunning landscapes have brought it to the limelight!
I’ve loved every minute of my time in Kutch, from hiking in the hills to watching the sunset over the desert. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature, or adventure, Kutch has something for everyone.
So pack your bags and get ready to experience the magic of this incredible region for yourself!
