Kutch; this name needs no introduction. Even you might have never been Gujarat, the splendor of Kutch won’t be a secret for you. Worldwide known for the largest white salt desert, Kutch is an international tourist destination in India. Though it is only a district, holds the honor of being the backbone of Gujarat’s tourism. Entangled with the flavors of heritage culture, royal history, and ancient traditions, it is a melting pot where exquisiteness blooms in multi-colors. With the majestic backdrop of Aravali Hills and unfathomable expansion of the Great Rann of Kutch, it makes the visitors go weak at the knees. So, brace yourself because now we heading to Kutch for exploring the beautiful places to visit in Kutch district.
The Rann of Kutch
- The Rann of Kutch is the largest salt desert in the world.
- It becomes a vast, surreal white salt desert during the dry season.
- During the monsoon season, it gets submerged by water.
- The Rann Festival is a major tourist attraction, celebrating the culture and crafts of Kutch.
The Rann of Kutch is tourism industries itself but the ads by Amitabh Bachchan have surely surged up the popularity of Rann of Kutch. The tourism of Gujarat starts from here. Snuggled gorgeously between the Thar Desert and the Arabian Sea, the Rann of Kutch is truly a visual treat for the eyes. As far as, your eyesight would reach, you would see only and only a never-before-seen amalgamation of sand and salt. Drawing a spellbinding canvas of endlessness, The Great Rann of Kutch is stretched in a far-reaching area of 7000 km2.
The Rann of Kutch comes in its full splendour in winters. From November to February, many cultural events happen here and people live in the tents across the Rann of Kutch. Don’t visit Rann of Kutch during the monsoon months because it gets completely submerged with the water. The Rann of Kutch is one of the famous places to visit in Kutch.
Things To Do At Great Rann of Kutch – Camel Ride, landscapes photography, see various art & dance performances and Desert Camping.
Kala Dungar
- Kala Dungar, or Black Hill, is located about 97 kilometers from Bhuj, the district headquarters of Kutch.
- The hill is home to the Dattatreya Temple, which is a significant religious site.
- Tourists often visit Kala Dungar to witness the breathtaking panoramic views of the Great Rann of Kutch.
Kala Dungar literally means ‘The Black Hill’. Located proximate to The Rann of Kutch, it is the highest point in Kutch. If you’re an adventurous freak, Kala Dungar will slake your thrill. It offers a breathtaking view of entire Kutch from the high above. So, sit for a while in Kala Dungar and spend some time with yourself. You would feel refreshed. An evening walk with your loved ones form Rann of Kutch to Kala Dungar admiring the glory of nature will make you believe in the love again. Kala Dungar shares the border with Pakistan. This gives the visitors another reason to visit the place.
Kutch Museum
- The Kutch Museum, also known as the Kutch Museum Bhuj, is located in the city of Bhuj.
- It houses a vast collection of artifacts, textiles, paintings, and sculptures.
- The museum provides insights into the history, culture, and crafts of Kutch.
Kutch was once the royal kingdom of Jadeja rulers. The city Bhuj bears the marks of their existence in the form of monuments and forts but in Kutch Museum, you can see all the artifacts of tribal as well as royal folks of ancient times. From the royal crown to the sharp weapons, from traditional embroidery cloths to the glittering jewelry, from intricate carvings to the painstaking sculptures, from ancient musical instrument to the unbelievable metal work and from the ancient inscription in Kutch script to the old-age Kutch currency, you’ll find the amusing things in Kutch Museum. Being the largest Museum in Gujarat, it is known for its precious collection of cultural and traditional stuff. It is among famous places to visit in Kutch.
Things To Do At Kutch Museum – Explore rich past of Gujarat, See the largest collection of ancient artefacts and Photography.
Aina Mahal, Bhuj
- Aina Mahal, meaning “Hall of Mirrors,” is a historic palace in Bhuj.
- It was built during the reign of Maharao Lakhpatji in the 18th century.
- The palace is renowned for its exquisite mirror work and European-style architecture.
Built around the 18th century, Aina Mahal is a famous tourist place in Bhuj. Also known as the Hall of Mirrors, it was constructed during the rule of Maharao Sri Lakhpati between 1752 and 1761. The palace also houses a handicraft museum where you can see various craft items from all over the Kutch region. Flanked with carved doorways, elaborate window boxes and balconies, it reflects Indian and European style of architecture. There is also an art gallery within the museum complex which comprises of rarest photographs and portraits of Bhuj city and its rulers.
Things To Do At Aina Mahal – See Indian and European style of architecture, Visit Inside Museum and Explore inside art gallery.
Prag Mahal, Bhuj
- Prag Mahal is an imposing palace located near Aina Mahal in Bhuj.
- Constructed in the 19th century, it is an architectural marvel featuring a blend of Gothic and Italian styles.
- The palace offers an opportunity to explore its grand interiors.
Adjoining the Aina Mahal, Prag Mahal is another famous sightseeing tourist destination in Kutch. Built by Rao Pragmalji II, the historical monument famous for its Italian-Gothic style of architecture. The Mahal has a large hall in the middle with a 45m high bell tower. Further, one can also take the bird’s eye view of the entire Bhuj city from the top point of Mahal. Most of the part of this Mahal damaged in an earthquake in the year 2001 but it still holds its position in the list of famous places to visit in Kutch.
Things To Do At Prag Mahal – Sightseeing, Take bird’s eye view of Bhuj city and Photography.
Narayan Sarovar
- Narayan Sarovar is a sacred lake located near the village of Narayan Sarovar in Kutch.
- The site is of great religious significance to Hindus and a place for pilgrimage.
- Surrounding the lake are various temples, making it a serene and spiritual destination.
Narayan Sarovar is one of the most significant religious sites in Bhuj, hence it attracts all spiritual travellers in Kutch region. The site is a combination of 5 holy lakes namely Man Sarovar, Pampa Sarovar, Bindu Sarovar, Narayan Sarovar and Pushkar Sarovar. According to the Legend, Lord Vishnu appeared in this site in the avatar of Narayan, thus it has high religious value among all devotees. Further, there are numerous temples around Narayan Sarovar like Shri Trikamraiji, Laxminarayan, Govardhannathji, Dwarkanath, Adinarayan, Ranchhodraiji and Lakshmiji. An annual fair also held here in the month of November and December that makes it most sought tourist destination in Kutch.
Things To Do At Narayan Sarovar – Explore 5 holy lakes, Visit surrounded temples and Sightseeing.
Vijay Vilas Palace
- Located in Mandvi, Vijay Vilas Palace is a royal residence and a popular tourist attraction.
- The palace boasts stunning architecture and expansive courtyards.
- It gained fame as the filming location for Bollywood movies like “Lagaan.”
Located in Mandvi, Vijay Vilas Palace is about 65 km away from Bhuj city. The palace once was used by Jadeja kings of Kutch and now it is a leading tourist attraction in this region. The monument still in good condition that depicts the rich heritage of Kutch. There is also a private beach from the few distances of this palace that makes it a prime tourist spot in Kutch. Further, the palace also considered as a famous site for the film shoot as it is picturised in many Bollywood films like Lagaan, Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam and R Rajkumar. The interior and exterior design of this palace is truly magnificent to watch. So a popular tourist attraction in the list of places to visit in Kutch that every tourist has to explore on their holiday vacation to Kutch.
Things To Do At Vijay Vilas Palace – Get a chance to explore the rich heritage of Kutch, Photography and Visit beautiful interior and exterior design.
Bhadreshwar Jain Temple
- This temple complex in Bhadreshwar is an important Jain pilgrimage site.
- It includes ornate temples, shrines, and a peaceful ambiance.
- Devotees and tourists visit to admire the intricate Jain architectural details.
Kutch is known for its offbeat kind of tourism. Here, you’ll hardly see any architectural wonder or historical splendor. So, if there is any, don’t miss a chance to visit it. Yes, I’m talking about Bhadreshwar Jain temple which is an architectural wonder in the form of a temple. There are also some other Jain temples in Kutch but the stellar architecture of Bhadreshwar Jain Temple makes it a famous tourist destination of the district.
Tracing back the time period of around 449 BC, it is completely built in ancient architectural styles. The engraved pillars, carvings, and motifs are the focal features of Bhadreshwar Jain Temple. Because of being the home to the idol of Jain Tirthankar ‘Parshwanath’, the temple is high revered among the Jains but people from all beliefs visit the temple. This Jain Temple is one of the religious places to visit in Kutch.
- Also Read: Popular Jain Temples in India
Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary
- Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area in the Thar Desert.
- It is known for its diverse wildlife, including the endangered Indian wild ass.
- Visitors can enjoy safaris and birdwatching in this unique desert ecosystem.
Today, everyone is a selfie lover but if you’re a photography buff who loves to capture the never-before-seen creativity of nature, Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary will make you roll the reel. Don’t think it as the all other sanctuaries because it is sprawled in a whopping area of 7505 km2. Being home to many rare species of wild animals, this biosphere reserve is considered to be the largest wetland area in the world. It is not very deep that’s why many wild animals can survive here easily.
The endangered wild animal such as Chinkara, Wild Boar, and Desert Fox are the signature species of the Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary. If you’re lucky enough, you might get a chance to see the Flamingo birds playing in front of your eyes. Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary offers a mesmerizing milieu especially in the evening. This Sanctuary is among beautiful places to visit in Kutch.
Things To Do At Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary – Spot many wildlife species, Bird Watching and Photography.
Mandvi Beach, Bhuj
- Mandvi Beach is a picturesque coastal destination near Bhuj.
- It offers opportunities for relaxation, water sports, and camel rides.
- The nearby Vijay Vilas Palace adds to its charm.
Mandvi Beach is a famous recreational tourist spot in Bhuj as well as in Kutch for friends and family. The most serene beach flanked by lots of tourists every day and it also offers many adventure activity like Camel Safari and water sports. Further, the location offers an amazing view of the sea and shoreline, hence it is a popular tourist destination in Bhuj for all beach lovers. Take an evening stroll here which truly rejuvenates your body, mind and soul.
Things To Do At Mandvi Beach – Camel Safari, Sightseeing, Evening Stroll and Photography.
Dholavira
- Dholavira is an archaeological site from the Indus Valley Civilization.
- It is one of the five largest Harappan cities, showcasing well-planned urban structures and water reservoirs.
- A visit to Dholavira provides insights into the ancient history of the region.
Also known as Kotada Timba, Dholavira is a famous historical site in Kutch which hag high archaeological value. Located beside the Saraswati River, the site has remarkable excavations of the Indus Valley and Harappan Civilization that dates back to around 5000 years ago. Currently managed by Archeological Survey of India, it is one of the best places to visit in Kutch for history buffs and students. Further, the site also tells the story of the 7 stages of the civilization that makes it the most prominent archaeological sites in India.
Things To Do At Dholavira – Explore Harappan Civilization, Ideal for archaeological study and Witness Architecture & Handicrafts of Harappan Civilization.
Cenotaphs Complex
- The Cenotaphs Complex in Bhuj is a collection of beautifully crafted chhatris (memorial canopies).
- It honors the members of the royal family of Kutch.
- These cenotaphs are a blend of Rajput and Indo-European architectural styles.
This is built of red stones and is a famous place at Chattaradi. The largest and the finest one of these is the one that is dedicated to Rao Lakha. This was built in 1770. With a polygonal shape and with balconies and intricately carved roof there are other magnificent cenotaphs like the ones of Rao Rayadhan, Rao Desai, and Rao Pragmal.
Anjar
- Anjar is a historical town known for its ancient temples and mosques.
- The town exhibits a unique blend of architectural styles and is renowned for its earthquake-resistant structures.
- Anjar’s rich heritage and cultural diversity make it a fascinating place to explore.
Anjar is famous for the tomb of Jesal Toral. This is where James MacMurdo’s bungalow is found. This is a museum of Kachchhi art. Some of the places worth visiting here are the Ajaypal Temple, the Holy Shrine of Pinjora Pir. Anjar is also known for its block printing work, nutcrackers, scissors, and penknives.
Lakhpat
- Lakhpat is a ghost town located in Kutch.
- It was once a bustling port and trade center but is now largely abandoned.
- The town features historical sites like the Lakhpat Fort and several gurdwaras.
This town is 151kms from the Bhuj airport. The beautiful landscape and the surroundings here are nostalgic. The cenotaphs and the memorials outside Bhuj are charming and elegant. People have left the town because of the climate.
Mandvi Port
- Mandvi Port is a historic port city along the Arabian Sea.
- It was known for its shipbuilding industry, producing wooden vessels.
- The port area offers scenic views of the sea and is a hub for boat-building and ship repairs.
This is a seaport found in 1581 AD. This port is famous for its handicrafts, filigree and enamel work. This port also has magnificently maintained beaches, which are a rare sight now. Here is where we find the Rukmavati Bridge that was built in 1883 AD. This place also has the Vijay Vilas Palace. Overall, Mandvi is an ideal tourist destination.
Kutch – Entertainment Factor
Kachchh is a land of fairs and colors. The colorful festivals it has every year provide the entertainment factor here. The color, the radiance, the activity here is so infectious that a tourist is drawn to come to this place every year at this time.
The Kachchh Mahotsav: The Kachchh Mahotsav is a tourist festival organized by the State of Gujarat tourism. It is held in the months of February and March every year. It is a must see for anyone wanting to see Kutch in full flow.
Dhrang Fair: This is held every year during the months of February and March. It is 40 kms from Bhuj and is at the tomb of the Mekan Dada. He is a person who served the community with a lot of dedication.
Ravechi No Melo: This fair is held in August in the Rav village at the Ravechi mata temple.
Besides, this there is other ways that the Kutch land can become more entertaining. The tour could be more enlightening by various circuits.
Circuit 1: This begins with Bhuj the 400-year-old city of Kachchh. From here, one goes to Bhirandiyara, which is the biggest village of Banni, which is famous for the exquisite embroidery of Harijan communities. From here, one can go across
Banni, which are the Kachchh grasslands.
Circuit 2: This route takes from Bhuj and then to Purneshwar to the Mata No madh. This is a place of a 1200-year-old temple, which is dedicated to the Kachchh family goddess. From here one can go to Koteshwar and then to the neighboring Narayan Sarovar.
Circuit 3: This starts from Bhuj then goes to Kera, which is famous for the 10th century Shiv temple and the Ghulam Ali Muslim shrine. From here one goes to Bhrajmer and then to Tunda Vandh which is the Rabari village. This has magnificently designed huts, the interiors of which are an art to reckon with. This journey ends with Mandvi.
Circuit 4: This takes a tourist from Bhuj to Anjar. This is famous for the shrine of Jesal Toral. It is famous for its block prints and the nutcrackers. From here to Gandhidham and then Kandla as the final destination.
As we leave the land, we feel “This is the land of pleasure immeasurable.”
Best Time to Visit Kutch
Yes, the consideration of the ideal time to explore Kutch is necessary because Kutch is not a city that can greet you the same way all-year round. According to the seasons, the city changes its facades. Summers are a big NO to visit Kutch because during this season, Kutch completely seems to be in the flames of heat. Next comes monsoon months. You can visit during this season if you’re a nature lover because there are many small biosphere reserves in Kutch and they come in full splendor in the rainy season. Then comes the winters, undoubtedly the best time to explore Kutch. ‘Kutch Ustav’ takes place during these months and the weather also doesn’t create any hurdle for the visitors.
How to Reach Kutch
Kutch is just a district in Gujarat, so don’t expect a handy transport facility. No matter you’re going by air, rail, or by vehicles, first you have to get Bhuj, the adjoining city of Kutch. Bhuj Airport is the closest airport which is merely 55 km from Kutch. If you’re going by rail, Bhuj Railway station is the most approachable for you. It is 70 km from Kutch. From Bhuj, you can hire taxis, autos, or the buses to reach Kutch. If you’re planning to visit Kutch by your own vehicle, you have to go via Ahmedabad. And if we talk about the transportation service within Kutch, cabs, rickshaws, and autos make the journey easier.
Attracting the worldwide tourist, Kutch is the most shining jewel in the map of Gujarat. With an unequaled blend of culture and history, it gives an unforgettable experience to its visitors. If you’ll visit it once, it would definitely call you back. So, just plan the first trip.
