One of the biggest salt deserts in the world, the great Rann of Kutch in the Gujarat state of India is known not only for its natural splendor but for what its inhabitants have created – The Rann Utsav.Magnificent is the word that one could simply use and glorify the natural beauty of Kutch unless there was this sin-worthy canvas of culture, profusion of art forms, and an overabundance of life.
For some, winters can be cruel and monotonous and for the rest – a perfect excuse to advent to the desert of Kutch during the most mesmerizing months of the year in India. Hence it is in this tempting crisis, we take up the cause to introduce you to this celebration of colors, cultures, and expressions.
When does the Rann Utsav start?
Rann Utsav is a grand winter rendezvous. It takes place when the air is crisp and the moon is at its fullest. The year 2018-’19 version is scheduled from Nov 1st, 2018 to Feb 20th, 2019.
And the venue? It’s at Dhordo
The expanse of the celebrations is more grand than one can think. It begins in Bhuj, and the entire district goes gala during the celebrating months. The finale of the festival is put up at a tent city, a city made of more than 400 AC and non-AC tents. It is set up near a small village called Dhordo, easily accessible from the Bhuj airport.
The great grand fiesta: What should you expect?
This idyllic geographical marvel with its 7,505 square miles in the Thar Desert is a sensational salt marsh with a sparkling panorama of white sands across the horizon. And it stays hibernated under water till the festival preparations start. Seems like nature preserves the beauty only to celebrate this great infusion of life and its diverse forms.The Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Limited ensures a lifetime of experience and memories to cherish. From hogging to shopping, the Rann Utsav in Gujarat has everything covered under its myriad offerings of folk dances, handicrafts, sightseeing, star gazing and several other adventures.
Things to do at the Rann Utsav
And it truly does not digress from what is promised. There is a lot one can do while at one of the greatest desert festivals in Asia.
1. Go on a date with the Moon
White expanse of serene sand under the full bloom of the moon – trust us, it gets more romantic than words. And add to that a cultural fiesta
2. Enjoy a cultural fiesta
Of all the things to do in Rann Utsav, attending the cultural fiesta hosting folk artists from all corners of Gujarat is a must. They perform almost everywhere and every moment. You can actually live those imaginations of a bonfire in the desert while you dance to the tunes of true folk music.
3. Sightseeing and adventurous tours
There are innumerable range of experiences in the Rann Utsav. One can go for a solo ride on the desert on a DPV (Desert Patrol Vehicle). Desert safari is another exhilarating activity to look out for. The festival also has moderate adventure rides for kids. And the fun doesn’t end here, as for that extra edge experience, you can also enjoy a hot air balloon Kutch, priced differently by various operators.
4. Beaching in Mandvi
Spend some time while the blues touch the sky at the horizon. Do visit the nearby villages of Bhirandiyra, Khavda, and Gandghi-Nugam as they arrange workshops for amazing handcrafted textile and fabrics.