The upcoming Indian winter is the best time to explore warmer regions of India that are rich with diverse landscapes, cultural festivals and shopping that will make your jaw drop.
Gujarat and Rajasthan are top options for travelers who love a diverse range of experiences. But with so many options, which destination do you choose from?
This guide will help you take your pick for your next eclectic holiday that will give you a drool-worthy Instagram feed!
Landscape
Kutch and Jaisalmer boast of the some of the best desert landscapes that come alive during the winter months of January-March.
Kutch for: The Rann of Kutch is best experienced on a full moon night when the light radiates across the salt marshes making it a beautiful sight. The Rann Utsav is where you can experience its grandeur - book your holiday before 28 February 2021!
Jaisalmer for: The Thar desert where you can camp under a million stars and drive over dunes in the iconic Thar Jeep. If camel rides are more your style, then hop on to one to see the rugged yet mesmerizing beauty of the desert.
Monuments
Kutch for: Dotted with beautiful architecture, there are forts, palaces and more that showcase the beauty of Kutch through its buildings. Frozen in time, this place will hypnotize you into wanting to stay forever.
Jaisalmer for: The Jaisalmer Fort made of sandstone and is believed to be one of the few 'living forts' with a large part of the city's population still residing in the fort. The yellow-brown structure must be experienced both during the day and the night. Filled with lovely cafes with incredible views, markets and coloruful houses you can experience the place like a local.
Shopping
Kutch for: The traditional handcrafted items such as textiles, embroidery, ornaments and mirror work by the local artisans draw shopaholics from around to the colourful destination. If you need to refuel stop for a bite of hot and sweet dishes, sweets and pickles which are unique to the cuisine here.
Jaisalmer for: Handmade leather artifacts, bags, puppets and Bandhani sarees are a must to buy and make memorable souveniers to take back home. Filled with markets within the gigantic sandstone fort, shoppers are left spoilt for choice at this desert town. A mix of global cuisines and street food, you can chomp on some delicious snacks before you make your way to more 'bazaars'.
Wildlife
Kutch for: Spectacular sightings of Flamingos that gather at the 'Flamingo City' located at the mud flats of Kutch. If you're lucky, you may even get to track a wolf or observe a hyena.
Jaisalmer for: Camels walking across the desert covered in colourful ornaments. If you're camping out in the Thar, you may even come across reptiles or wild foxes!
Food
Kutch for: Hot and sweet snacks, street food and delicious pickles that make great souvenirs to take back home
Jaisalmer for: Bhang, Dal Bati Churma and sweets. Interestingly, the 'palate' of this location has also been influenced by European tourists making it a great place to try western cuisine if you get bored of Indian food.
Travel style
Kutch for: A cultural extravaganza set in against the pure white landscape of the Rann of Kutch. Experience local dances, food and spend time among folk artists who showcase the best of Kutch through colourful performances and art.
Jaisalmer for: A slow experience where you can take it all in at ease. Watch the desert landscape change over days and set out to explore the beautiful forts. While away over chai and conversations with fellow travelers with a sunset for company
Where to Stay
Kutch for: The Rann of Kutch offers tents for every travel style. Luxurious tents with five-star hospitality or a basic one that allows you to experience the dramatic, white Rann like a local, there are several options available.
Jaisalmer for: Live within the fort just as the city-dwellers do or book a hotel with luxuries a little further away. The city has plenty of options to choose from.
Duration and Budget
Both destinations have so much to offer that it's better to plan for a long stay so you can see all sides to these gorgeous locations. However if you have only a weekend to spare, you could focus on the activities of your choice and manage to get a taste of the diverse activities.
For budget travelers: Approximately Rs 1000 per day
For mid-range travelers: Approximately Rs 2000 per day
For Luxury Travelers: Approximately Rs 5000 per day onwards
Now that you have everything you need to choose your next travel-experience, what are you waiting for? It's time to pack your bags and enjoy an eclectic Indian winter!
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