Rann Utsav, Gujarat

Welcome to the world's most perfect salt desert. Kutch diverse terrains can stun anyone because during the monsoon season the area remains covered with water and in winter the water evaporates leaving behind layers of salt. The dramatic landscapes of Kutch rise to full glory when the great Rann Utsav takes place during the winters. Rann Utsav is the time when the desert recedes, allowing itself to be tamed, to be made into a showpiece.

From folk dance (Garba, Hallisaka, and Tippani) performance to scrumptious Gujarati thali, from moonlit camera safari to folk dramas, the festival is organised to celebrate the uniqueness and culture of the Kutch region. Also on display during the festival is the most magnificent display of Kutch craft and art like rabari embroidery, rogan art, and the mirror work fabrics. Multiple dance and musical performances are organized during the festival against the shimmering moonlit landscape. For the adventure junkies, there are activities like hot air balloon ride, ATV ride, Para Motoring and Rifle Shooting.

For those who want to explore the region, apart from the festival can visit Kala Dungar (Black Hill). From the top of the hill, one can see the birds-eye view of the Great Rann of Kutch. At the hilltop, there is a tiny temple called Dattatreya Temple. The interesting part of the temple is that here one can see priest feeding jackals day and night. Also, one can do camel ride and visit the India-Pakistan border, Mandvi beach and numerous another tribal village like Hodka Artist Village and Ludia Village.

The festival has already wowed people, young and old, first-timers and frequent visitors, who flock to the seasonal salty marsh year after year. Organized by Gujarat tourism, Rann Utsav is organized to celebrate the diversities and uniqueness of Kutch. With such sheer beauty and superficiality of culture, one can say that 'kutch nahi dekha toh kuch nahi dekha.'

Where: Great Rann of Kutch in the Kutch district of Gujarat

When: October to February