Kutch & Bhuj #TheFirstOne

Last Sunday, my dad called and was asking for suggestions for a short trip during weekend. Even my Maasi and Maasa wanted to join because they too had an off on Friday on account of Mahashivratri. But, they were adamant that they don't want to visit the stereotype places like Lonavala, Mahabaleshwar, Alibaug and Igatpuri and also want to report back to work on Monday. I was scratching my head for the best possible weekend gateway. I googled a lot for all suggestions and discussed with friends. Also, my parents had never experienced flight journey so I desperately wanted them to experience it. So, I came up with an option of Kutch. But, I was not sure if I would be able to reserve hotel room, flight tickets and local transportation within such short notice.  Also, when I searched online, I got to know that last date for Rann Utsav 2020 was 20th February. But, still I decided to go with the Kutch option and booked a trip for 6 persons (including me) from 21st February to 23rd February.

Transportation cost for 6 persons

1. Air Tickets: ✈️
My dilemma started when the flight tickets from Mumbai to Ahmedabad for the onward journey were costing me Rs 3200/-(fair enough) but return journey was costing a bomb of Rs 9000/-, so I decided to return via sleeper AC bus. There is also an airport at Bhuj but there are very less number of flights available and it is also very expensive. (Rs 13000/- for a single journey for my travel dates)

Destination: Mumbai to Ahmedabad
Flight: Air India
Time: 1.35 am to 2.50 am
Cost : Rs 19674/- (Rs 3279/- each)

2. Local Transportation: 🚗
There are very less number of local transport available in Bhuj as well as Kutch, so, it is recommended to book beforehand to avoid last minute hassle. I rented a car with driver from Amy Cab services. The coordinating lady, Rachna was very helpful and quick in response. She allocated us Kamlesh for our entire travel, who was an enthusiastic 27 year old lad. Being an Ahmedabad resident, he shared a lot of  information about Gujarat. I also explored an option of booking a zoomcar but it was expensive by Rs 3000/-

Destination: Pick up from Ahmedabad Airport to Hotel at Kutch, all local travel and transfer from hotel to Ahmedabad bus stop.
Car Rental Agency: Amy Cab Services
Car: Mahindra Marazzo
Cost: Rs 17500/- ( Rs 13 for every km +300 per day of Driver)
*Kindly note that there is a condition of minimum 900 kms)

3. Bus for return journey🚌

Destination: Ahmedabad to Mumbai
Bus Agency: Falcon travels
Type: Volvo- AC Sleeper
Time: 10.00pm (reached at my destination at 6.30 am)
Cost: Rs 12060/- (Rs 2010/- each)

Stay for 6 persons

I was searching for an accommodation in White Rann Resort but there were no rooms available for my travel dates. After long online search, I came across this option of Kutir Craft Village Resort based on ratings.

Kutir Craft Village Resort:🏡

They have traditional bhonga styled house and also provide option of booking a family room of 4 members. I booked a couple room and one family room and my package included breakfast, Gujarati lunch and Kutchi dinner. They also organised traditional folk music program post dinner by the local artisans. The food was really lip smacking as they cook on Chulha. Also, my Airtel Network was not working in this resort's premises but thankfully they had a provision of free WiFi for the guests.

Day 2:
Next day, we left at 9.30 am in the morning for Bhuj. The best part of traveling in Bhuj was that all the destinations were in close proximity of each other and hence it saved our time.

1. Swami Narayan Temple: This beautiful temple is located in heart of Bhuj City and its artistic work is marvelous.

2. Aaina Mahal: Entry fee is Rs 20/- and they charge for photography inside the Mahal. They have showcased the collection of royal family. It also has shopping stalls within it's premises

3. Pragmahal: Entry fee is Rs 40/- and they also charge for the photography.  It has a clock tower and it's architecture is inspired by Italian style. They have also showcased the personal collection of royal family. Some part of Mahal was damaged during the massive earthquake of the year 2001, the restoration work for the same is still in progress.

4. Hamirsar Lake: This lake covers the entire outline of the city and is a pretty sight.

5. Chattedi: At this place, tombs of Kutch royals i.e Jadeja rulers are located. There has been a major destruction because of 2001's earthquake so it appears as ruins. The famous Shaadi scene of the film, Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam was shot here.