Kutch’s Rann Utsav- the Exquisite White Sand Festival

Rann of Kutch is one of the most beautiful destinations which will give you lifetime memories to cherish as it is something you should not miss in India from your bucket list. Known for its natural splendor and cultural wonders, Rann of Kutch is one of the largest salt deserts in the world where Rann Utsav is organized and tourists visit this picturesque place in large numbers to relish the nature’s wonder and sight the cultural extravaganza which takes place every year between the months of November to February/March.

What Happens at the Rann Ustav?

Kutch’s Rann Utsav is the carnival of folk music, folk dances (Garba, Tippani, and Hallisaka), local Gujarati cuisines, camel safari on full moon night, camping in luxurious tents, bonfires, and more. It is organized by the Tourism Department of Gujarat. It is the grand winter carnival that takes place when the moon shines the brightest and the wind is chilly which will give you a perfect opportunity to explore the colourful and vibrant region of Kutch.

Best Time to Visit Rann of Kutch

Rann of Kutch is a popular tourist spot and people often wonder when is the best time to visit. The Best time to visit Rann of Kutch is from November to March as the Rann Utsav begins in November and ends in February/March. During this time of the year, the weather is extremely pleasant with chill nights where you would require light to moderate winter clothes.
One can find lots of shops by artists and artisans where you can get crafts of Kutch at a deal.
Unlike the rainy season, this season remains dry and not muddy.
Also, one important thing to remember while planning the trip to Rann Utsav is that you should plan your trip in a way that you get to experience the Full Moon night at Rann of Kutch when it looks like a sheet of silver. During the full moon night, the beauty of Rann of Kutch is absolutely out of this world and is something that can’t be explained in words or pictures but can be definitely witnessed through the naked eye.

Things to do at Rann of Kutch

1. Spend time in Desert Watching Moon
The Best time to witness the white desert is during the serene full moon night when it looks like a sheet of silver. You can check the full moon dates during the festival on the website and make your bookings accordingly.

2. Munch on Gujarati Cuisine as much as you want
If you want to make your experience extra special, you just need to explore all the amazing food options available here. Dedicated food corners and food halls are also present here offering Gujarati cuisine and catering to the hunger calls even at odd hours during the night.

3. Enjoy the Rich Culture
The Most important thing to do at the Rann of Kutch is to attend the cultural fiesta as the festival hosts folk artists from all corners of Gujarat and their performance will leave you awestruck no matter which corner of the Kutch you go to. While you dance to the tunes of true folk music, you can also enjoy the bonfire in the desert.

4. Adventure Sports and Local Sightseeing
There is still so much more the festival has to offer which will give you a lifetime of experience. You can enjoy the various exhilarating activities happening at the festival like the solo desert ride on the DPV (Desert Patrol Vehicle), Star gazing in the desert, Desert Safari, camel ride, zip lining, paintball a shot, and many more such exciting activities.

5. Spend Quality time at Mandavi Beach
Where the blue melts into the horizon, spend some time at Mandavi Beach. One can also hop on the camel and go on the beach ride along with the other adventure water sports which happen here like the banana boat rides, parasailing, water scooter rides, swimming in the ocean, and many more.

6. Experiencing the Bird’s Eye View of the White Sparkling Desert on Hot Air Balloon
Taking a hot air balloon is a mind-boggling experience and I bet you’ll take months to get over it as you will be remembering the vibrant hues of the salt sand for months after viewing them from the top.

Other Attractions to Visit Around!!
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to visit Kala Dungar (Black Hill) offering a panoramic view from 458 metres height above mean sea level, you can also see the way across the Pakistan border, or take a spiritual break at Dwarka. Apart from this visit Hodka artist village, Ludia village, and other villages where you can explore the culture and the tribes specializing in Block Printing, Weaving, Banni Embroidery, Leatherwork, Beadwork, and more.

So go see Kutch kyunki…

Kutch Nahi Dekha to Kuchh Nahi Dekha !!!