Exploring Kutch was like stepping into a world where time slows down and everything is painted in vibrant colors!
My trip started early in the morning at Bhachau, right after the Kutch Superfast Express dropped me off. We freshened up at a nearby hotel and then hit the road towards Khadir Bet, an island in the middle of the Rann of Kutch. The landscape changed as we crossed over to the island, becoming drier and more rugged—a real sign that we were heading into a different adventure.
We stayed at the Rann Resort on Khadir Island, a cozy spot that felt like a little oasis. That evening, we visited Fossil Park, which was like walking through history itself, and then watched the sun dip below the horizon at sunset point. The view was nothing short of magical!
The next morning, we explored the ancient ruins of Dholavira, a 5000-year-old city from the Harappan civilization. Our guide shared stories that made the ruins come alive, and it was amazing to think about the history beneath our feet. We then headed to Chipper Point, which gave us a stunning view of the Great Rann Lake. A local Kutchi lunch on the way back was the perfect end to the day. In the evening, we took a peaceful walk, through a nearby village, seeing firsthand how the locals live in harmony with the harsh landscape.
The drive from Khadir Bet to Kalo Dungar was probably the most scenic part. The new road offered breathtaking views of the Rann in all its glory. From the top of Kalo Dungar, the Black Hill, we could see for miles, even into Pakistan on a clear day. We also visited the India Bridge, the closest we could get to the border. After a quick stop in Dhordo to see the tent city, we made our way to Devpur Homestay, the only heritage homestay in Kutch, where we stayed the night.
Early in the morning, we ventured into the Banni Grasslands with a local guide. The morning birding safari was incredible, with winter migratory birds filling the sky. Later, we visited Nirona, a village known for its arts and crafts. Watching the artisans at work—creating Rogan art, making copper bells, and painting with lacquer—was inspiring. We returned to Devpur Homestay in the evening, where it felt like coming home after a day filled with cultural wonders.
Our next stop was Mandvi, a port town with a rich history. We explored the old shipbuilding sites and had a traditional Kutchi thali for lunch—full of flavors I’ll never forget. The Vijay Vilas Palace was a royal treat, and we ended the day with tea on a private beach, watching the sunset over the Gulf of Kutch.
On the last day, we headed to Ajrakhpur and Bhujodi. The Living and Learning Design Centre (LLDC) Museum in Ajrakhpur was a highlight, showcasing the beautiful textiles of the region. Ajrakhpur is famous for its block printing, and it was fascinating to see the artisans at work. Bhujodi was our final stop, perfect for picking up some last-minute souvenirs. We spent our final hours relaxing in Prag Mahal, Bhuj, before catching the night train back to Mumbai.
As the train rolled into Bandra Terminus the next morning, I felt like I was leaving with more than just memories. Kutch had given me a piece of itself—the stories, the crafts, and the spirit of its people. It’s a place where tradition and creativity meet, and where the artisans are the true heart of the region.
