In spite of living in Gujarat all my life and having visited Bhuj many times, I was yet to explore Rann Utsav. Thanks to the All India Influencer’s Meet organized by Gujarat Tourism in association with the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, I was able to experience Rann Utsav in Kutch.

In this blog, I have tried to cover all aspects of Rann Utsav at Tent City such as Kutch festival, Rann Utsav packages, how to reach, activities, experiences, day trips and food.

Note: Photos & Experience are based on my personal visit in December 2021.

What is Rann Utsav in Kutch?

Simply put, Rann in the local language Gujarati means Desert and Utsav means festival. All Indian travellers are well versed in Bollywood Superstar Amitabh Bachchan’s advertisement and the tagline ‘Kutch nahi dekha to kuch nahi dekha’. Kutch is a district located in the state of Gujarat and is the largest district in India. It also hosts Rann Utsav, probably the longest festival. 

What is the Rann Utsav Tent City?

The Tent City is a huge expanse of a makeshift city that participates in the Rann Utsav. Tent City is located at Dhordo. As the name suggests, the tent city Dhordo is like a city in itself and is spread over 5,00,000 sq. mt. There are 450 tents under various categories to suit the budget of all travellers.

A guide to Rann Utsav in Kutch at Tent City

After a long 300km ride from Little Rann of Kutch, I and the other participants from the Influencer’s meet made it to Great Rann of Kutch. I could the festive atmosphere from my bus window as there were colourful shops dotting the highway and lots of activity around. The bus stopped at the gate of Rann Utsav Tent city at 9 pm!

Warm welcome at Rann Utsav Reception

As I walked from the gate to the reception, I saw many Kutch craft shops and I promised myself to check them out first thing in the morning.

With a plate full of flowers and diyas, we received a warm welcome at the reception. After putting tilak on our foreheads, we were allotted our tents. Our bags directly reached our allotted tents even before we could.

Golf carts were waiting outside the reception and we were dropped off at our assigned cluster. Tent city Rann Utsav has 9 clusters, each cluster having 50 tents. The cluster manager welcomed us again and gave a small demonstration of using a fire extinguisher in case of fire. Fire extinguishers are placed outside every tent in Rann Utsav at Tent city.

Tents at Tent City Dhordo

I crossed the sit-out of the tent and I was welcomed into an actual room-like-looking tent. As I entered my premium tent, I saw a small potli having a sanitiser and mask placed on the king-sized bed. A working table and chair, dressing mirror and sofa chairs ensured there is enough space in the tent. An attached bathroom with 24 hours running water ensured there is comfort at all times. 

Types of Tents at Rann Utsav Tent City

Darbari Suite

Spread over 1600 sq. feet, Darbari Suite at Tent City Dhordo has 2 bedrooms with king-sized beds, a private dining area, a mini-bar and a camp-fire area. It also offers express check-in and exclusive transfers.

Approximate cost for 4 persons: INR 50,000 (1N,2D), INR 95,000 (2N,3D), INR 1,40,000 (3N,4D) 

Rajwadi Suite

Spread over 900 sq. feet, Rajwadi Suite at Tent City Dhordo has one master bedroom with a king-sized bed, private dining area, a mini-bar and a camp-fire area. It also offers express check-in and exclusive transfers.

Approximate cost for 2 persons: INR 25,000 (1N,2D), INR 45,000  (2N,3D), INR 65,000 (3N,4D) 

Premium Tents

Spread over 473 sq. feet, Premium tents at Tent City Rann Utsav are the most popular and most booked tents. It has a king-sized bed, a front porch with a sitting area.

Approximate cost for 2 persons: INR 15,000 (1N,2D), INR 28,500  (2N,3D), INR 41,000 (3N,4D)

Deluxe AC Swiss Cottages

Spread over 387 sq feet, Deluxe AC Swiss Cottages are similar to Premium tents but do not have a front porch. They have comfortable twin beds.

Approximate cost for 2 persons: INR 12,000 (1N,2D), INR 22,500  (2N,3D), INR 33,000 (3N,4D)

Non-AC Swiss Cottages

Spread over 387 sq feet, Non-AC Swiss Cottages are similar to Deluxe AC Swiss Cottages but do not have the front porch and air-conditioning. They have comfortable twin beds.

Approximate cost for 2 persons: INR 8,200 (1N,2D), INR 16,500  (2N,3D), INR 25,000 (3N,4D)

Rann Utsav Packages | Rann Utsav Booking

Since Rann Utsav is quite far from any of the major cities of Kutch, Bhuj acts as the gateway to White Rann. The following things are included in the Rann Utsav Packages.

• Pick-up and drop to and from Bhuj Airport/Railway station/Bus stand (do note their pick up timings and plan accordingly)
• All meals and hi-tea
• Trip to white rann at sunset
• Cultural activities
• Visit nearby places. Check the next paragraph to know Rann Utsav Itinerary.

If you are wondering what is included in the Rann Utsav package as per your preference it is best to visit the official website. 

The rates above are an approximation to give an idea of the budget. Do note 18% GST is extra on the above prices.

The prices for a full moon day are different and it is on the more expensive side.

Rann Utsav in Kutch | An Itinerary

As per the travellers choice, visitors can choose 1N2D, 2N3D or 3N4D Rann Utsav packages. Here is a quick glimpse of what is offered.

Day 1: Arrival, Check-in, Sunset at White Rann, Cultural Event

Pick-up

Visitors are picked up from the airport/railway/bus station as per the pre-decided slots. Air-conditioned buses will transfer you to the Tent City. 

Check-in and lunch

After a smooth check-in and settling into the tents, it is time to head to the dining area for lunch. Golf carts are available for internal transportation. 

Sunset in the White Rann

5 km away from Tent city Rann Utsav is the white rann. Visitors will leave for the sunset at 4:30 pm. Buses will drop visitors at a particular point. From there, one can walk or ride a camel cart to reach the white salt pans. Spend the next one hour in awe and drown in the white expanse.

Day 2: A day at Mandvi

Post breakfast, leave for the beach town of Mandvi. Read here why mandvi is a must-visit place in Gujarat.

Visit Shyamji Krishna Memorial

Shyamji Krishna Varma played an important role in the freedom fight against British rule. His memorial is located around 7 km from Mandvi town and pays tribute. The exhibition hall also containing his ashes, the replica of India House (originally in London), the 15-minute documentary, all are a sight to behold.

The Vijay Vilas Palace

Vijay Vilas Palace, sometimes also referred to as Mandvi palace Gujarat is a Royal abode placed in the middle of manicured gardens.

The Mandvi Beach

Mandvi beach in Gujarat is a clean and pristine beach. Take a stroll or swim in the water while watching the sunset over the Arabian Ocean.

Day 3: Sunrise in White Rann, Visit Kalo Dungar and Gandhi Nu Gaam

Sunrise in White Rann

It is said that the white rann shines in different shades at different times of the day. Sunrise is a magical time that paints a golden hue.

Kalo Dungar

Kalo Dundar meaning Black Hill is the highest point of Kutch. The tour guides will tell you how the hill got its name and the legend of Lord Dattatreya and hungry jackals.

Gandhi Nu Gaam

Gandhi nu Gaam was adopted by an NGO from Ahmedabad post-2001 earthquake. The women from the household sell handmade items such as beaded jewellery, block-printed bedspreads, traditional clothing, stoles and shawls. 

Day 4: Checkout and Bhuj city tour 

Check out from Rann Utsav Tent City and head to Bhuj. there are many things to do in Bhuj and one should not miss out on that. 

Prag Mahal

Prag Mahal is a 19th-century palace, parts of which have survived the Bhuj earthquake of 2001. Some of the noteworthy places here include the Durbar hall, marble statues and chandeliers.

Aina Mahal

Meaning the palace of mirrors is a treat to the eyes. It is said that the mirrors in the palace are placed in such a way that lighting one candle will light up the entire palace.

Chattardi Bhuj

Chattardi is the royal cenotaphs that act as resting places of bygone rulers of the region. Each pillar is intricately carved and is a must for architecture lovers.

Day tours from Rann Utsav Tent City

There are many places around Rann Utsav that can be customized. Some of the places offered by Rann Utsav for one day tours are:

• Nirona (between Bhuj and Dhordo): Popular for Lacquer art, Copper bell art and Rogan art
• Ajrakhpur: For Ajrakh prints 
• Hodko: For Kutchi Handicrafts
• Dholavira: For remains of Harappan civilization
• Chari Dhand: For wildlife trip houses over 2 lakh migratory birds
• Kadiya Dhro: For a barren area. It is a newly discovered place, popular among instagrammers as it is termed as the Grand Canyon of Kutch

Rann Utsav Guide for in-house Activities

If visitors do not wish to leave the premises, there are many activities to keep them engaged and entertained. Following are some of the in-house activities in Rann Utsav Tent City. Here is an activity guide for the same.

Adventures activities –  Rann Utsav at Tent City

• Paramotoring: Enjoy a bird’s eye view from a motor in the sky. 
• ATV Ride: Ride an All-terrain vehicle or a quad bike ride in the rugged terrains of white rann.
• Skyzilla: It is a giant tower that has adventure activities such as rappelling, zipline, rock climbing and rope course
• Paintball: Pick your teams and fight it out in a paintball match.

Cultural events and Entertainment at Rann Utsav in Kutch

• Dance performance: Dhammal: Know about the African roots in Gujarat through a traditional dance by the Siddi tribe of Gujarat.
• Garba: You cannot come to Gujarat and not play garba. Sway and twirl with the performers at Rann Utsav.
• Comedy Darbar: Join the laughter therapy as the comedians cook up a riot.
• Bhavai: Enjoy the 700-year old popular folk theatre form of Gujarat called Bhavai.
• Star Gazing: As you sit on the white sands, admire the star-lit night sky.

Leisure activities – Rann Utsav at Tent City

• Spa: Indulge in much-needed me-time in the in-house spa.
• Indoor games: The clubhouse at Rann Utsav tent city is a place where all the fun happened inside. Choose from a game of chess, carrom, pool, table tennis or pick up a book from the library. 
• Art gallery: Revel at the many frames on display or pick up one for your house.

Food at Rann Utsav

One of the important features in any place is the food and so is the case in Tent city. Food is an important part of the Rann Utsav experience.

The tent city has two dining halls that serve a mix of Gujarati and North-Indian cuisine to suit the palette of all visitors. The variety served at Breakfast, Lunch, Hi-Tea and Dinner is huge. Each meal has a good combination of savoury and sweet dishes.

Dinner is accompanied by live music by an artisan.

Shopping at Rann Utsav in Kutch

Rann Utsav supports local artisans and has helped them set up shops in the Rann Utsav Tent City area. There are small shops between each cluster and a big Haat (bazaar) area near the reception. Each shop is unique that sells handicrafts, embellished outfits, art, footwear, shawls and much more.

Souvenir shop

I believe that no trip is complete without picking up merchandise to commemorate the trip. The souvenir shop is a perfect place to pick a hat, bag or fridge magnet.

Rann Utsav HaatChoose from a variety of Kutchi arts, crafts and clothing at the Rann Utsav Haat. Visitors can see the artisans making the items live. You can customize the colours or give them an order for something specific. The colours are a treat to the eyes.

Sustainability at Tent City

Special attention has been given to sustainability and responsible tourism at Rann Utsav Tent City. 

Sustainable housing

Rann Utsav uses temporary tents that are dismantled and put up every year. Concrete structures were not used as they could have disrupted the local and sensitive ecology. 80% of housing is temporary and stored in godown to be used next year.

Sustainable transport

The entire area uses Battery operated vehicles for the transfer of visitors and baggage. This helps in the reduction of air pollution in the area.

Sewage treatment

Due to the temporary nature of the festival, soak pits are made for sewage collection. The vehicle is pushed into action every day which collect sewage through motors and are taken to a nearby industry. The sewage is treated in the Sewage Treatment Plant (STP).

Food waste treatment

Due to a large footfall of visitors and over 400 staff in Tent city, food waste is generated in large amounts. Food waste (from cut vegetables and leftover food) is processed in the organic waste converter and converted into manure.

Plastic waste recycling

All the water bottles are collected from tents and sent to an organization that recycles them.

Best time to visit Rann Utsav

The White Rann is at its absolute best during the full moon night. It is said that the salt sparks up like diamonds. Rann Utsav kite festival is also special as colourful kites fly high in the sky against the white background.

Rann Utsav Full moon dates 2023-24

• 26 – 27 – 28 November 2023
• 26 – 27 – 28 December 2022
• 24 – 25 – 26 January 2023
• 23 – 24 – 25 February 2023

How to Reach Rann Utsav at Tent City

Rann Utsav provides bus services for pick and drops from and to Bhuj railway station/bus stand and airport. 

By Road

It is possible to visit Rann Utsav at Tent city by personal car or group bus. One can hire a car from Bhuj and drive 80km to reach Hodko. Ahmedabad to Rann Utsav distance is 413km by road and it takes over 9 hours to reach. Rann Utsav is a perfect weekend destination from Ahmedabad. There are many direct trains between Mumbai and Bhuj

By Train

The train is one of the best travel modes to Bhuj. There are many direct trains between Mumbai and Bhuj and Delhi Bhuj. From Bhuj, one can hire a car or opt for the Rann Utsav Tent city bus.

By Flight

Bhuj is the nearest airport to the Rann of Kutch. From the Bhuj, visitors can hire a taxi to reach the Great Rann of Kutch. There are many flights from Mumbai to Bhuj.

Is Rann Utsav worth visiting?

YES! Rann Utsav at tent city is once in a lifetime experience and I feel it should be done in a luxurious way. The never-ending expanse of the white desert of Rann of Kutch is a perfect holiday destination. Some of the reasons why I feel Rann Utsav is worth visiting are:

• The itinerary is planned perfectly right from pick up from the airport to the drop.
• There are many things to do in the tent city itself.
• The food is delicious with so much variety.
• The day trip options are great.
• The staff is super courteous.
• The experience of living in luxurious tents is amazing.

What did I not like about my experience at Rann Utsav?

Plastic water bottles are being used in rooms. Water refilling stations are a necessity with the kind of footfall the festival gets. I feel that reusable water bottles with the Rann Utsav logo cold be given as welcome souvenirs and encourage visitors to use water refilling stations at dedicated areas.

There is a morning tea call at 6 am sharp that tends to wake everyone up. That is really not necessary. The tea could be left at the cluster manager table and visitors can get the tea from there.

Frequently asked questions about Rann Utsav at Tent City 

When is Rann Utsav celebrated?

Rann Utsav is celebrated from 01 November to 20th February. Depending upon the water inundation, sometimes the inaugural dates get pushed to 15th November.

What happens in Rann Utsav?

Rann Utsav is a celebration. It is a typical carnival full of cultural performances, food and shopping at festive shops. The highlight here is the visit to the White Desert which dries unravelling the salt crystals, turning the entire into a white salt pan.

What to do in Rann Utsav?

Explore, play games, relax, shop – basically anything and everything you want is available for all age groups.

Is the Accommodation at Tent City good?

Yes! For the money paid, visitors are well taken care of, the tents are good, spacious and clean. 

Is the Rann Utsav safe for solo women travelers?

Just like the entire state of Gujarat, there is no issue of women safety at Rann Utsav. I stayed as a single-occupancy guest and I felt very comfortable.

Are Covid Protocols at Rann Utsav maintained?

All covid protocols are strictly being followed at Rann Utsav with thermal screening, social distancing and usage of masks. All rooms are sanitized before check-in. Every room is given a sanitation kit.

Travel Tips for first-time visitors to Rann Utsav in Kutch 

• Book your Rann Utsav package as soon as possible as it may get sold out in peak season.
• Packages are cheaper in November and February.
• If you are travelling between December to February, you can go for Non-AC Swiss tents as nights are super chilly.
• Golf carts are available for internal transportation but sometimes the waiting time in more. So be patient or walk on foot. But one has to walk a lot in the tent cluster and other areas.
• Wear comfortable footwear as one has to walk a lot.
• Wheelchairs are available at reception.
• There are mosquitoes in the tent city so carry a spray.
• Rann Utsav at Tent city procures official permission for entering the White Desert on your behalf. If you go by yourself, one has to get permission.

Sustainable tips for visiting Rann Utsav

• The festival takes place in an eco-sensitive zone so please respect the environment. Do not litter in the tent city or white rann.
• Smoking is prohibited in Tent city as the entire area is carpeted to avoid dust.

Disclaimer – This post contains affiliate links. It means it adds no extra cost to you if you book through the link but I get a referral bonus which helps me earn a little to keep this website up and running.

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While Bhuj offers a transit point to the entire Kutch region in Gujarat, the city itself is worthy of spending some time. This guide covers all the places to visit in Bhuj.

Bhuj Kutch is the transit to reach The Rann Utsav or The Great Rann of Kutch.

What people don’t realize is that Bhuj is much more than a transit place and visitors should stop here for a couple of days. Bhuj is a surprise package in the real sense of the term. 

Check out all these Bhuj visiting places.

History of Bhuj Kutch

Bhuj, a city in the district of Kutch, was an old walled city in the past. Bhuj came in limelight on the global map, due to the 2001 Gujarat Earthquake that tore down most of the city.

Thanks to the many humanitarian organizations and NGOs, Bhuj Kutch rose from the ashes. Kutch now hosts one of the longest festivals in India – The Rann Utsav in the White Desert. Bhuj acts as a gateway to the Rann Utsav and the Great Rann of Kutch.

In spite of being a city in the district of Kutch, Bhuj is referred to as Bhuj Kutch or Kutch Bhuj by travellers. 

Bhuj is full of history, architecture, grandeur, colourful bazaars and delicious food. Visitors can spend hours in the intricate streets and alleys which have the historical glory standing strong. There are walls within walls, old palaces, temples, intricately carved step-wells and lakes making Bhuj a must-visit place before heading to Rann Utsav.

Places to visit in Bhuj

While Bhuj keeps adding tourist places in Bhuj every few years, the following list is based on the places I have been to in recent years. These are the best places to visit in Bhuj.

Prag Mahal, Bhuj and Aina Mahal, Bhuj

Two palaces ( or the remains of palaces) stand adjacent to each other – The Prag Mahal and Aina Mahal. One can see the impact of the devastating earthquake on the exterior structures of both these palaces.

Prag Mahal, Bhuj is also known as the Bhuj Palace. Prag Mahal is one of the best places to visit in Bhuj. The palace survived the impact, which was earlier built in a lavish Italian gothic style. The palace has a lavish Durbar hall, with large pillars, huge chandeliers and classic marble statues, all defining the opulence of the bygone era.

Other important parts of the palace include Corinthian pillars, carved doorways, broad window boxes and Jali work representing European flora and fauna. Do climb the stairs to reach the bell tower for an exhilarating view of the city and Bhujia Hills.

Aina Mahal

Aina Mahal literally means the ‘Palace of Mirrors’. As soon as one enters the palace, one can see an exhibit on a 15 m long scroll that depicts the Royal Procession of Maharao Shri Pragmalji Bahadur.

The palace also has exhibits that include paintings, jewelled swords, ivory inlaid doors, photographs, royal possessions and the finest samples of the Kutch embroidery.

It has countless artefacts ornamented with Venetian-style chandeliers, silver objects and clocks make it an interesting sightseeing place in Bhuj.

Hamirsar Lake

Come out of the Kutch museum to witness the glory of migratory birds in the Hamirsar lake which is within walking distance from each other. The lake is a manmade lake built and derives its name from the yesteryear ruler – Hamir Rao.

The lake was built in order to cater to the domestic needs of Bhuj city and is adorned with cenotaphs. Unfortunately, the cenotaphs haven’t survived the earthquake impacts but can still see some remains and the Greater Cormorants basking in the sun’s glory.

Hamirsar lake is a good place for a walk in the evening and you can find some local vendors selling snacks. Winter mornings can be really special as you can spot local as well as migratory birds like Greater flamingos, Pelicans, Black-winged stilt, etc. Hamirsar Lake is one of the best places to visit in Bhuj.

Chattardi Bhuj

The construction of cenotaphs or chhatris was done by the Royal families of erstwhile kingdoms in Gujarat, Rajasthan, Delhi and Indore, Madhya Pradesh. These umbrella-shaped dome structures were built in memory of a royal family member and do not contain the mortal remains. 

Chattardi in Bhuj is a cenotaph’s complex made of red stone. It is one of the rarest monuments existing in India as all of the tombs here are made out of Red stones.

Each tomb is different in size, shape and design with intricately carved walls and roof. Floral designs are the most common patterns found on these tombstones. Apart from floral patterns, hexagons, octagons and stripe patterns can also be seen across the walls of the structure.

Although many movies have been shot here and Chattardi has shot to fame, visiting this place will transform you into a different world altogether. Unlike other tourists, I visited this place with a guide and got amazing information about each structure’s significance. This is definitely a place to visit in Bhuj.

Swaminarayan Temple, Bhuj

The divinity of the temple can be proved during the Gujarat Earthquake of 2001. The earthquake destroyed one side of the temple facing north which was built by Lord Shree Swaminarayan. Miraculously the divine idols remained as they were, without any damage whatsoever.

It was decided that the idols would be housed inside a new grand temple. A huge temple was constructed using traditional Vedic architectural methods, on the banks of Hamirsar Lake.

Since its first brick installation ceremony on 7 May 2003, it has taken 7 years for its completion. Based on a grand podium, the new temple faces East and is constructed mainly with pure high-quality marble. It has intricate wooden carvings coated with vibrant colours that characterize this temple.

Ram Dhun temple and Ram Kund

Ram Kund is a stepwell, designed like a small reservoir in which rainwater used to be collected for drinking purposes in the past. Ram Kund is located near the Prag Mahal while on the way to the Kutch Museum, just behind the Ram Dhun Temple.

After walking along the water, pray your respects to the carvings of characters from the Ramayana, such as Ram, Sita, Lakshman and Hanuman, along with the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu over the walls in Ram Dhun temple

Bhujia Hills

The Bhujia Hill Fort lies on the outskirts of Bhuj.

Originally built as a safe house and to store defence artillery during battle, the fort was later used by the Indian Army to store ammunition. It is now barren with only a temple at the top and a proposed memorial park at the foothills of the hill.

In winters you can trek to the top of the hills for breathtaking, panoramic views of  Bhuj city. There are some steep steps on a set trail from the parking to the fort. If you are fit and want to sweat it out, Bhujia hills could be included in your list.

Vande Mataram Memorial Park Bhuj

The latest attraction added in Bhuj is the Vande Mataram Memorial Park. the Memorial Park beautifully tells the intriguing tale of India’s freedom struggle through 13 episodes – from the revolt of 1857 right up to the country’s Independence in 1947. Build in 4-D technology, this memorial aims to abide by the most exigent moment of India’s freedom struggle.

Spread across 12 acres of land, the memorial was painstakingly built over 4 years. The primary structure is modelled like the Sansad Bhavan. Indian parliament and India Gate are some of the most popular places to see in Vande Mataram memorial park.

Vande Mataram memorial park entry fee: Rs. 200 per adult, Senior Citizen: Rs. 50, Kids below 10 years: Rs. 50

Timings of Vande Mataram memorial park: 10 am to 7 pm. It is closed on Mondays.

Shopping in Bhuj

Going to Bhuj and not shopping is like committing a crime. Shopping in Bhuj and around for Kutch arts and crafts is a must and one of the best tourist places in Bhuj. Depending upon whether you are spending one day in Bhuj, two days in Bhuj or more, shopping can vary. There are many tourists who only tour the art and crafts scene in Kutch villages. There are 2 options for things to buy in Bhuj.

Shopping in Bhuj city

If you do not feel up to driving out of town to Bhujodi village, there is a street in the middle of the city on station road, where you can shop for artefacts, and textiles and even customize a nameplate for yourself in mirror and mud work. There is no particular name to the street but it is the one near Rajgulab shopping centre.

Shopping in Bhujodi | Famous Kutch Handicrafts

Bhujodi is a traditional crafts village which is situated about 12 km from Bhuj. The village is over 500 years old and is popular as the weaver village as the 1200 families residing here have looms in their house. Shopping in Bhujodi is probably one of the best places to visit in Bhuj Kutch!

Brightly coloured stoles, kurtas, shawls adorned on the walls of each house welcome everyone in Bhujodi. These are handwoven and hand embroidered and beautified with silk threads and mirror work in intricate designs. Other commonly seen textile products consist of bed sheets, the regional outfits called chaniya choli and dupatta.

Spend time around the villages in Kutch to explore the art and craft which is unique, vibrant and mind-blowing. Some of the options are:

Ajrakh Block Prints: In Ajrakh, Khavda and Dhamadka areas

Rogan art: In Nirona area

Copper bells: In Jhura area

Wood lacquer: In Nirona area

Hand embroidered chaniya choli and fabrics: In Hodka area

Bandhani: In Abdasa, Mandvi, Mundra, Anjar, Bhuj, and Nakhatrana areas

If you have more days in hand, you could explore nearby places like Mandvi, Kala Dungar, White Rann and many nearby villages which offer art and craft tourism. Read in detail about Crafts of Kutch.

Bhuj Kutch famous food | Must try street food in Bhuj

While common Gujarati snacks that are found all over Gujarat are found here such Sev Khamni, Puri Shak, Dhokla, Khaman, etc. there are special dishes that have made a mark. Bhuj is a paradise for street food and has many options to choose from.

Dabeli

Dabeli is a popular street food that originated in Kutch. Hence it is also known as Kutchi or Kacchi Dabeli! Kutchi dabeli is a must-try food in Bhuj that has a sweet, hot and tangy masala and is served in Bun bread.

Thali

If you want to indulge in a vegetarian thali (assortment of dishes arranged as a platter for lunch or dinner) I would highly recommend Umiyaji Dining Hall or Ashapura dining hall. Most hotels in Bhuj, also have a restaurant so that is also a good option to wind up the day with.

Gulab Pak

This is a food souvenir to take back home from Bhuj Kutch. Combining the choicest rose petals and dry fruits Gulab Pak is a delicately flavourful, luxurious sweet. Khavda is the shop that specializes in this dessert.

Best time to visit Bhuj

Bhuj in Kutch district is basically a desert and gets super hot in summer. The best time to visit Bhuj is between the months of December to March. It is also the same time when the White Desert Festival or Rann Utsav is organized.

Weather: Winter temperatures are 25 ℃ during the day and 8-10℃ at night with chilly winds. The summer temperatures hover around 50 ℃.

Hotels in Bhuj/Where to stay in Bhuj

There is a range of budget and mid-range hotels, as well as luxurious resorts in Bhuj.

Budget Hotel: Go Desert Homestay, Oasis Hotel, Click Hotel, 

Mid Range: Mangalam Hotel, Hotel Tulsi

Luxurious: Regenta resort, The Fern Residency

How to Reach Bhuj

By Air:

2 flights fly to Bhuj from and to Mumbai everyday. It is a domestic airport. The next nearest airport is in Ahmedabad which is also an international airport.

By Train:

Bhuj is well connected to all major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Ahmedabad by train.

By Bus:

Bhuj is well connected by bus. Busses are available to and from all neighbouring cities in the state of Gujarat to Bhuj.

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