About Kutch
Unlike other parts of India, Kutch's geographic location in the extreme west protected it from extraneous influences allowing its many splendored arts and culture to continue and evolve with certain insularity. With the water filled Great Rann and Little Rann in the north & east, and the Gulf of Kutch, the Arabian Sea and tidal marshes in the south and West, the 'island' of Kutch in the ancient times was the marine gateway to India. The rich merchants and traders carried on extensive sea trade with many foreign countries. The sea faring Kutchis were master boat builders and the country crafts they built sailed as far as Europe.
The word 'Kutch' instantly brings to mind the 'Dessert' which is the distinctive feature of this area - the Great Rann & the Little Rann of Kutch. But there is much more to Kutch other than the dazzling White Rann. It is a land with wide horizons, remote settlements inhabited by people of diverse races and religions, picturesque landscapes and diverse eco-systems.
It is not only an interesting place historically & archeologically, but also has a rich cultural heritage, varied wildlife, pilgrimage centers, customs, traditions, handicrafts, textiles, folk art and much more. The vibrant colours of this semi arid land come from the clothes its people weave, embroider and wear.
Kutch, the largest district of India, is well connected to Mumbai by air and to major cities of India by rail and road. Gandhidham, Kandla & Bhuj are the gateways to Kutch and internal travel has to be done by road with an excellent road network and good taxis & buses available.
Good hotels, guest houses, luxurious tents and home stays with clean comfortable rooms and sanitation are available in Kutch. Hygienic local food and drinking water is available at most places in Kutch. Multi-cuisine restaurants are available in cities like Bhuj and Gandhidham.
July to February is a good time to visit Kutch as the season is pleasant (Decembers & Januarys can be cold). Advance planning and booking is a must for air & rail travel, stays, nature trails, nature cure centers and craft workshops.
