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.

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