The huge Rann of Kutch, one of the world’s largest salt deserts, is famed not only for its natural beauty, but also for what its inhabitants have built — the Rann Utsav. Unless there existed this sin-worthy canvas of culture, profusion of art forms, and an overabundance of life, one might just use the word “magnificent” to describe Kutch’s natural beauty.
Winters can be terrible and tiresome for some, but they are also a fantastic excuse to visit the Kutch desert during the most fascinating months of the year in India. As a result, it is in this appealing dilemma that we take up the cause of introducing you to this colourful, cultural, and artistic event.
Rann Utsav’s Origins, History, and Importance
Gujarat Tourism launched the Rann festival in 2006, which was inaugurated by then-Chief Minister and current Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The event began with the goal of boosting the tourism business in Gujarat by attracting a global audience. Every year in the winter, the festivities take place in the White Rann. Due to popular demand, Rann Utsav has grown from a three-day event to a 100-day celebration.
The Rann of Kutch, located in the Thar Desert, is one of the world’s largest salt marshes. It largely runs along the Indian-Pakistan border in the Gujarat state of Kutch.The Rann festival was organised by the Gujarat government to allow people from all over the world to enjoy the beauty of the landscapes and Kutchi culture.
When does Rann Utsav take place?
The Gujarat Tourism Department hosts the Rann Utsav in the winter, between October and February. The festival began as a three-day event, but has since grown into a three-month carnival. The cool air, beautiful sky, and white desert lighted by moonlight make this the most suitable moment for the celebrations to take place.
The dates for Rann Utsav 2021 are November 1, 2021, to February 28, 2022. With the Rann Utsav 2022 dates rapidly approaching, you can get started on your Rann Utsav booking right away. The greatest time to go is when the moon is full.
Things To Do At The Rann Utsav 2022
It also does not stray from the original commitment. There is a lot to do when attending one of Asia’s largest desert festivals.
1. Meet The Moon For A Date
Trust us when we say that a white stretch of peaceful sand under the full moon is more lovely than words. Add a cultural festival to the mix. Kutch’s Rann Utsav will leave you speechless. You could spend some time looking at the moon.
Tips: The ideal time to see the white desert is when the moon is full. On their website, you may check out the full moon dates for the festival and make your reservations accordingly.
2. Enjoy A Cultural Fiesta
Attending the cultural fiesta with folk artists from all around Gujarat is a must among the many exciting things to do at the magnificent Rann of Kutch festival 2021. They appear practically everywhere and at all times. You can actually carry out your fantasies of a desert bonfire while dancing to the melodies of true folk music, whose zeal stretches beyond all things to do.
Tips: There’s also the Mandvi Palace, which is a fantastic find. During the Rann festival in Kutch, visit Narayan Sarovar, Koteshwar, and Dholavira.
3. Birding Above Kutch
We challenge you to recuperate from a hot air balloon journey. The sensation of staring down from the top at the brilliant hues of the salt sand is so captivating that you will feel compelled to talk and ponder about it. Have the most thrilling winter in Gujarat this year at Rann Utsav 2021-22. It’s going to be a blast!
4. Sightseeing And Adventurous Tours
The Rann Utsav offers a diverse selection of experiences. A DPV can be used for a solitary ride in the desert (Desert Patrol Vehicle). Another thrilling activity to look out for is a desert safari. The event also offers some kid-friendly adventure rides. And the fun doesn’t stop there; for a truly unique experience, you can also take a hot air balloon ride in Kutch, which is priced differently by different operators.
Desert safari, aerial adventure sports like ziplining and more at Skyzilla, chess, carrom, camel ride, paintball, and star gazing
5. Beaching In Mandvi
Spend some time watching the sky turn blue as it approaches the horizon. Visit the nearby villages of Bhirandiyra, Khavda, and Gandghi-Nugam for amazing handcrafted textile and fabric workshops. Remember the dates for Rann Utsav 2021-22 and make plans appropriately so you don’t miss out. How amazing is it to be able to celebrate the New Year in Rann of Kutch?
Tips: Visit the nearby villages to learn more about the art and craft industry. The handicrafts are also available at a little lesser cost.
Things to buy:
- Rogan Art: Oil based painting.
- Copper Bells.
- Lacquer.
- Embroidered garments with mirror-work.
- Chunky silver jewellery.
- Gold Jewelry.
- Bandhini sarees or dupattas.
- Ajrakh block printing shawls
6. Indulge In The Food At Rann Utsav
After all, the fantastic culinary options here are exactly what you need to make your visit more unforgettable. We have a feeling the organisers are foodies who understand the needs of ravenous appetites and ravenous taste receptors. Two opulent dining halls offer delectable authentic Kutchi cuisine. Furthermore, there are food stands open at all hours of the night to satisfy hunger pangs.
Must Try: Bajra and milk are staple foods in the villages, as is bajara na rotla with curd and butter milk.
Visit The Rann Of Kutch With These Tips
Here are some pointers for first-time visitors to the Rann of Kutch:
- Because the Rann Utsav takes place in the winter, you should bring some warm clothing.
- Once you’ve arrived at Rann, don’t miss the sunset vista from Mandvi Beach.
- From Kalo Dungar (Black Mountain), Kutch’s highest peak, take in the whitewashed countryside.
- Identity cards must be carried at all times because they must be presented at checkpoints. As ID cards, drivers licences, Aadhar cards, passports, voter ID cards, and other similar papers are accepted.
- The dates for the Rann Utsav are still being finalised and will be announced on the official website.
You can also read this full travel guide article on ‘Jaisalmer-The Golden City : Complete Travel Guide‘.