7 Must Do’s if you are visiting one of the worlds largest salt desert
The Rann of Kutch, the vast expanse of white salt desert by itself is a driving factor for someone to visit Kutch. Stretching for 10,000 sq kms, the Rann attracts tourists from all over the world who are eager to witness the Rann shine like diamonds under the moonlight. The tented city of Dhordo is a cultural delight where one can participate in many activities, gorge on delicious local food, wear traditional clothes and dance and sing with the locals. Though the Rann is extremely beautiful and attractive, we believe the Kutch region has so much more to offer and one has to explore the lesser explored locations of Kutch too. From hidden ancient civilizations to artisan villages to fossil parks, let us tell you the 7 must do’s if you are visiting one of the worlds largest salt deserts.
1- Visit the Rann under the full moon light.
One of the best ways to do this is by spending a night at Dholavira, an island in the middle of the Rann. From here the Rann is easily accessible and you can spend hours walking on it.
2- Gorge on Dabeli, a popular street snack that originated in Kutch.
Dabeli is a spicy, tangy potato filling inside a bun – called “pav” and drizzled with a spicy sweet chutney, pomegranates, onions and “sev”.
3- Learn the local arts through interactive workshops.
The Kutch region is extremely rich in creative arts and craft and almost every hamlet in the region has its own specialization. While visiting these villages, you can learn more about the artform by participating in interactive workshops. You can learn about weaving from the Vankars in Bhujodi, learn about block printing at Ajrakhpur, interact with the famous Khatri family of Nirona who practice Rogan Painting and see how a copper bell is made from scratch from scrap metal.
4- Dance at the Rann Utsav.
Kutch is famous for its cultural heritage which is prominent in the music, songs, and plays performed during RannUtsav. You can enjoy watching folk songs, folk dances, Sufi music and get into the tunes of musical instruments like Manjira, Bhorrindo, etc.
5- Take a tour on the ancient Indus Valley Civilization at Dholavira.
But don’t forget to visit the site of the Jurassic wood fossils just 10kms away from it too.
6- Enjoy sunset at Mandvi beach.
7- Visit Kala Dungar, the highest point of Kutch during sunset to witness a pack of hungry Jackals feed on rice offered by the priest.
