The nomadic tribes of Kutch or the larger tribes of the Kutch community (as there are smaller nomadic tribes among them as well) and the route of this migration are one of the sights of Gujarat in India. One of the unique attractions that is highly visited among the many attractions in the country of India, the Indian salt desert and the nomadic tribes of Kutch are among this white desert. Eligasht Magazine not only introduces you to the largest salt desert in India but also accompanies you with the nomadic tribes of Kutch in Gujarat, India.
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The largest salt desert in Asia in India
The Salt Desert of India is recognized as the largest salt desert in the world (competing with the Bolivian salt flats) covering an area of about 10,000 square kilometers. This salty and brackish desert is the route for various tribes, especially Indian nomads and Kutch communities. What surprises every listener about the Indian salt desert is that during the monsoon season in India, it is completely submerged under water. However, for about 8 months of the year, it remains completely without water. During this time, if you visit the Indian salt desert and accompany the nomadic tribes of Kutch, you will be faced with a vast expanse of white land under the scorching sun. If you intend to travel to India and cities like Mumbai or Jaipur, you will be close to this attraction.
By following this article, you can plan a trip to visit this unique natural attraction in India, combined with one of the cultural attractions of this country.
Where is the route of the Nomadic Tribes of Kutch in India?
The dry and waterless route used by the nomadic tribes of Kutch is actually located above the Tropic of Cancer. In this route, you can even see the imaginary line of the Tropic of Cancer, which is another attraction on this route. To reach the Kutch district, it is better to move from the city of Bhuj. From this point, head to Dhordo in the north of Bhuj. After about 1.5 hours of driving to Dhordo, which is the gateway to the nomadic tribes of Kutch route designated by the Indian government, you will arrive.
Dhordo is the edge and border of the Indian salt desert. You can look for a hotel or hostel for accommodation in this area. Also, the village of Hodka near it is suitable for hotel and room reservations.
Where to Stay?
The Gateway to Rann Resort
This hotel is one of the best accommodation options in Dhordo, which is constructed from mud in traditional architecture of the region. All rooms are decorated with local handicrafts of the people and tribes of the area. For your overnight stay, you can choose all meals and have a room with air conditioning. All these costs are included in the initial room reservation price and will be charged upon your request.
Apart from this traditional accommodation, you can also explore government-run hotels.
The Toran Rann Resort
This hotel is built by the Gujarat government for the accommodation of tourists and travelers. This accommodation is located right at the inspection point at the entrance to the route of the Nomadic Tribes of Kutch and the Salt Desert of India. Therefore, proximity to these attractions is one of the advantages of this hotel. Include taxes and meals in addition to the room reservation price.
Shaam-e-Sarhad Village Resort
The word “Shaam-e-Sarhad” means sunset at the border and the last moment. This resort is located in Hodka and managed by local people. So if you enjoy interacting with the people of India, this resort is suitable for you. Travel tents along with rustic and traditional rooms can be your favorite choice for staying in the Salt Desert of India and accompanying the Nomadic Tribes of Kutch.
All tents and mud rooms in this resort have bathrooms and running water, but you need to request hot water. Visiting villages with local artists is one of the attractions of this region of India.
When is the best time to visit this attraction?
The route of the Nomadic Tribes of Kutch and the road they pass through begins to dry out from October (the month of Mehr in autumn). Gradually, this area turns into a dry and completely white desert of salt flats. From October to the end of March, the tourist season of this area is open. By the end of March, entry to this area is no longer allowed. If you want to avoid the massive crowds of tourists, it’s best to visit and stay in the Salt Desert of India during late March, coinciding with the Iranian New Year.
However, you can still visit this area until mid-June and participate in daily tours to Bhuj. Nevertheless, at this time, you will face a lack of tourist and accommodation facilities such as food, water, and towels. So, bring everything you need with you. The advantage of traveling to the Salt Desert of India at this time is the solitude and the enjoyment of solitude in the vast white expanse of the desert.
Best Visiting Hours
The best times to visit the desert and the route of the nomadic tribes of Kutch are early morning or sunset. Even at night, under the light of the white moon, this desert shines. If you are interested in camel riding and safari, you can participate in a camel safari in the Salt Desert of India at night. The full moon gives a magical and mysterious atmosphere to this area.
If you are participating in a tour to Mumbai and Goa, you can click on the name of the tour for more information.
Rann Utsav Festival
One of the festivals held in Gujarat is the Rann Utsav festival, which runs from November (mid-Aaban) to the end of February (mid-Esfand). In this festival, thousands of tents and canopies are set up, along with a large and royal canopy near the entrance of the Rann Resort in Dhordo. Tents are set up for selling various foods and handicrafts. If you enjoy excitement and entertainment, don’t miss this festival.
You can choose from a variety of activities for salt flat safari, including car rides, off-road driving, para-motors, rifle shooting, children’s play area, hot water and spa facilities, and local performances, all part of the attractions of the Rann Utsav festival (Nomadic Utsav) in this area.
While this festival attracts many people, it has become more commercialized today. Additionally, the huge crowds and environmental pollution have become an issue in the region. If you seek to escape the crowds in a natural environment, visit the Salt Desert of India and the route of the nomadic tribes of Kutch at times other than the festival period.
Attractions of the Rann Utsav Festival in the Salt Desert of India
The area and the route of the nomadic tribes of Kutch are very sensitive regions as they are close to the borders of Pakistan. Therefore, you must have a written permit to enter and visit them. Getting this permit is very easy and hassle-free. Head to the village of Bhirandiyara and the inspection point on your route.
This village is located 55 kilometers from Bhuj, and you must pay 100 rupees per person. For a motorcycle, it’s 25 rupees, and for a car entering the area, you need to pay 50 rupees. This station opens at 11 AM, so if you arrive earlier, you will have to wait. The documents needed for this are a copy of your passport and ID card. You will need this permit to enter the Salt Desert of India and visit the route of the nomadic tribes of Kutch.
How to get to this area?
Getting to this region in India is very easy and convenient. You can even request transfer services in advance by booking hotels and accommodations online to pick you up in Bhuj.
- If you are traveling by train, you can board a train from Mumbai to this area, which will take about 15 hours on the way.
- You can also take a flight from Mumbai to Bhuj.
- If you are not in Mumbai, the only way to reach this area is by bus. You can take a bus from anywhere in Gujarat and Ahmedabad to reach Bhuj.
- In Bhuj, you even have the option to reserve and rent a car or motorcycle. To reduce the cost of the tour, you can opt for small tours of the Kutch nomadic tribes’ route and the Salt Desert of India.
Other ways to visit the area
For photography or to see the entire Salt Desert of India area, you can reach the heights and hills of Kala Dungar village, 25 kilometers from Khavda village and ultimately 0 kilometers from Bhuj. This village is also another attraction of the region. The people of this village are among the artists who paint on black backgrounds. These paintings and handicrafts have now become one of the attractions of India.
Final words
The Salt Desert of India, known as the stunning Rann of Kutch, is a breathtaking showcase of nature’s creativity. Its expansive white salt flats, filled with fascinating wildlife and a lively culture, invite adventurers and explorers from all walks of life. In the center of this vast salt expanse, where the earth and sky blend in a beautiful display of colors and textures, you can’t help but feel a deep connection to the raw beauty of nature and the resilient spirit of people. The Salt Desert of India is a vibrant tapestry of dreams, ready to be discovered and treasured for years to come.
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FAQ
What is the Salt Desert of India?
The Salt Desert of India, also known as the Rann of Kutch, is a vast salt marsh located in the Thar Desert region of the Kutch district in the state of Gujarat, India.
When is the best time to visit the Salt Desert of India?
The best time to visit the Salt Desert is during the winter months, from November to February, when the weather is pleasant and the renowned Rann Utsav festival takes place.
What are the main attractions of the Salt Desert of India?
The main attractions include the vast white salt flats, unique wildlife such as the wild ass, cultural experiences with local tribes, and the mesmerizing landscape during sunrise and sunset.
How can I reach the Salt Desert of India?
You can reach the Salt Desert by various means such as train to Bhuj followed by a road trip, direct flights to Bhuj, or by bus from major cities in Gujarat like Ahmedabad.
Are there accommodations available near the Salt Desert of India?
Yes, there are accommodations available in nearby towns like Bhuj and during the Rann Utsav festival, luxury tents and temporary settlements are set up for visitors.
What activities can I participate in at the Salt Desert of India?
Visitors can enjoy activities like camel safaris, cultural performances, handicraft shopping, birdwatching, photography, and experiencing the local cuisine and traditions during their visit to the Salt Desert of India.