We’ve already seen Rajasthan, but there is is another underrated sandy heaven in India itself, that not many of us seem to know about. So, let’s talk about Kutch, or the Rann of Kutch. Covering an area of 45,674 km², it is the largest district of India. It is a district of Gujarat state in western India with its headquarters at Bhuj.
The Rann is known for its marshy salt flats which become snow white after the shallow water dries up each season before the monsoon rains.
So, what are some places to visit in Kutch?
#1. Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary
Less than 100 km away from Bhuj, this sanctuary is spread over an area of about 7505.22 sq. km. in the Kutch District of Gujarat. This wildlife sanctuary is considered as one of the largest seasonal saline wetland areas.
#2. Dholavira
Dholavira in Kutch is one of the largest remarkable excavations of the Indus Valley Civilisation which was one of the most developed civilisation roughly 4500 years ago.
#3. The Kutch Museum
The oldest museum of Gujarat, the Kutch Museum boasts of its collection of the extinct Kutchi Script and ancient coins. Tribal artifacts are also a part of the museum along with many other kinds of objects on display exhibits of embroidery, paintings, arms, musical instruments, sculpture and precious metalwork.
#4. Rann of Kutch
Rann of Kutch , a large area of salt marshes is located in Gujarat , India . It is divided into : Great Rann of Kutch and Little Rann of Kutch .The name “Rann” has come from the Hindi word ran meaning “desert”.
#5. Kutch Bustard Sanctuary
Also known locally as the Lala Prajan Sanctuary, its primary aim is to conserve the Great Indian Bustard. Among many other different varieties of wildlife that can be found within the reserve, there are three different kinds of Bustards themselves in the sanctuary.
What are some famous food dishes, from Kutch? Some of them have even made it to be eaten all around India now!
#1. Dabeli
Dabeli has its origin in Mandvi, a city of the Kutch region and even today dabeli masala made in the city are said to be most authentic. The dabeli is also, therefore, known as Kachchhi dabeli, taking its cue from the region of its origin. Bhuj and Nakhatrana towns of Kachchh or Kutch are also known for authentic dabeli apart from Mandvi.
#2. Pakwan
This is one of the India’s most famous sweets, People in North India calls it Mesuk-Paak, in South India they calls it Mesur-paak, we call it Mesukh. Actually Mesukh is a Mogul item, which is invented before 300-400 years ago when Pakistan & Afghanistan were lands of India. Mesukh is the softest & most fast melting in India. You just put it in your mouth & you don’t even have to chew it, it will melt itself in seconds. It is Made from Beshan, loads of Ghee, Pistachio, and Sugar.
#3. Gulab-Pak
Gulab-pak was invented in Kachchh. It is a sweet of pure rose petals. Almond, Cashew, pistachio Milk & Sugar.
Here are some Interesting facts about Kutch that you should know
#1. If you’re right on the trip to Kutch’s extreme Salt Desert, you are going to be at the world’s greatest Salt Desert here. Spread over 30,000 Km2, the Marshy Salt Land of Kutch turn’s to mesmerising beauty with the vast sea line.
#2. Every Year the Rann of Kutch enthrals with the famous Rann Utsav during the period of October to February. Gujarat Tourism’s esteemed celebration contrasts as one of the biggest doings in Kutch.
#3. Bhuj became the center of trade and commerce due to the longest sea line of Kutch, giving rise to a capital amongst the region. It is home to the Famous Rulers of Kutch, you can find more at the Bhuj Provinces – Mahals, Lakes and Museums.
#4. The famous Mandvi has a Private Beach resort and a Beautiful Beach Mansion – Vijay Vilas Palace. The summer resort for the King there and the white ornamental beach, It’s a must visit to experience the breeze of the Vijay Vilas Palace.
We hope this was helpful, in case you were in the process to plan your next short escape from reality. There are many more places, dishes, etc. that we haven’t mentioned. If you want to find out what they are, contact us for a trip to the sandy abode, that is Kutch.
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