The Rann Utsav is a celebration unlike any other. Hosted annually by Gujarat Tourism, this iconic festival takes place in the heart of the Rann of Kutch, a white salt desert that stretches as far as the eye can see. Set in The Tent City, Dhordo, the festival offers an immersive experience in Kutch’s vibrant culture, local crafts, and stunning natural landscapes, all under a blanket of stars. For aspiring travelers, this is a golden opportunity to enjoy Gujarat’s unique blend of natural beauty, tradition, and hospitality.

Below, you’ll find a complete itinerary to make the most of this experience over three memorable days.

Day 1: Arrival and Cultural Immersion

Morning – Transfers to Rann Utsav, Dhordo

For travelers arriving by train or flight, transfers from Bhuj Railway Station and Bhuj Airport are provided at fixed timings. Choose a departure time that fits your schedule:

• 08:15 AM
• 10:00 AM
• 01:30 PM
• 03:30 PM

The scenic journey to Dhordo, approximately 85 km away, takes about an hour and 45 minutes. Once you arrive, the magic of the Rann Utsav truly begins.

12:30 PM – Check-in and Welcome Lunch

On arrival at The Tent City, you’ll be greeted with a warm welcome and directed to your assigned tents. After settling in, head to the dining area for a delightful lunch from 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM. The meal showcases authentic flavors of Gujarat, setting the tone for your culinary journey.

2:30 PM – Afternoon Leisure and Activities

This is the perfect time to unwind and explore the activities available. Options include a variety of cultural and adventure activities designed to cater to every interest. Take a leisurely stroll, snap photos, or try traditional attire to get into the festive spirit.

4:00 PM – Hi-Tea and Sunset at the Rann

Enjoy hi-tea from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM before boarding a bus or a camel cart for a sunset viewing excursion. The sight of the setting sun casting a golden glow over the vast white desert is an experience that stays with travelers long after they leave.

7:30 PM – Cultural Evenings and Dinner

Back at The Tent City by 7:30 PM, it’s time to indulge in a sumptuous dinner. The evening continues with traditional music, dance performances, and cultural displays that reveal the soul of Kutch. Let the melodies of folk songs and the rhythms of Garba dance whisk you into a different world.

Day 2: Sunrises, Yoga, and Sightseeing

6:00 AM – Sunrise Point and Morning Yoga

Wake up early to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the white sands of the Rann. As the morning sun illuminates the desert, the scenery transforms into a surreal landscape. Afterward, join a yoga session from 6:30 AM to 7:30 AM to refresh your body and mind.

7:30 AM – Breakfast and Leisure

A delicious breakfast is served from 7:30 AM to 10:00 AM, after which you have time to relax or explore more activities around the tent city.

12:30 PM – Lunch and Afternoon Tour to Kala Dungar

Following a delightful lunch, the afternoon holds an exciting excursion to Kala Dungar, or Black Hill, the highest point in Kutch. The journey takes you through “Gandhi Nu Gaam,” a handicraft village where you can see local artisans at work and purchase souvenirs. As you make your way to Kala Dungar, savor complimentary tea or coffee and other refreshments.

The view from Kala Dungar is absolutely mesmerizing, offering a panoramic vista of the Rann and a look into the expansive desert.

7:30 PM – Dinner and Cultural Festivities

After returning to The Tent City, freshen up and get ready for a traditional dinner. The night comes alive with performances and cultural activities, a beautiful way to wrap up another magical day.

Day 3: Dholavira and Local Explorations

6:00 AM – Morning Tea and Yoga

Begin your final day with morning tea and a rejuvenating yoga session, helping you unwind before the day’s adventures.

8:30 AM – Departure to Dholavira

An hour’s journey will take you to Dholavira, an ancient Harappan site that sheds light on India’s rich historical heritage. Located approximately 90 km from The Tent City, Dholavira offers visitors a chance to step back in time and explore a world of archeological wonders.

11:00 AM – Exploring Dholavira

Upon arrival at Dholavira, dive into the story of this ancient civilization at the museum (closed on Fridays) and the excavation site. Marvel at age-old artifacts and relics, imagining life in one of the world’s oldest known cities.

12:30 PM – Return to The Tent City for Lunch

After your journey through history, return to Rann Utsav for lunch, ready to experience more of the magic of Kutch.

4:30 PM – Evening Activities and Hi-Tea

Enjoy hi-tea back at The Tent City before taking part in the evening’s leisure activities. This is your chance to try things you may have missed on previous days, from camel rides to handicraft shopping.

7:30 PM – Farewell Dinner and Last Cultural Evening

The final dinner is as grand as the previous ones, with authentic Gujarati dishes to enjoy. The cultural activities continue, leaving you with memories of Rann Utsav’s vibrant atmosphere and incredible performances.

Travel Tips for Rann Utsav: Making the Most of Your Visit

1. Pack for the Weather: The desert climate can be harsh, with chilly nights and warm days. Be sure to bring warm clothing, comfortable shoes, and sunscreen.
2. Respect the Culture: The Rann Utsav is deeply connected to local traditions. Engaging with the craftspeople and performers respectfully enhances the experience for everyone.
3. Plan Ahead: Book your tickets early, as Rann Utsav is a popular festival that attracts visitors from around the globe.
4. Stay Hydrated: While exploring the desert, it’s easy to get dehydrated. Keep water handy throughout your trip.
5. Capture the Moment: The breathtaking landscapes and colorful festivities are truly photogenic. Don’t forget your camera to capture these unforgettable sights.

Why Visit Rann Utsav?

The Rann Utsav is not just a festival; it’s a celebration of life, a unique blend of Gujarat’s natural beauty and cultural richness. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a family looking for a holiday, or a couple in search of a romantic escape, this festival promises memories that will last a lifetime.

From thrilling adventure activities to serene yoga sessions, from witnessing sunsets and sunrises over an endless salt desert to exploring ancient history at Dholavira, every moment here is packed with wonder and excitement. Rann Utsav is Gujarat at its finest—an experience that not only captivates but stays etched in your heart forever.

Due to prohibitory orders issued by the district collectors of Valsad, Navsari, and Surat, seven beaches in South Gujarat will remain closed to the public until June 7. These orders follow a forecast by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicting strong surface winds along the north and south Gujarat coasts due to a steep pressure gradient.

The temporarily closed beaches include Dumas and Suvali in Surat, Ubharat and Dandi in Navsari, and Tithal, Umargam, and Nargol in Valsad. Security measures at these beaches have been heightened.

An alert has been issued in approximately 90 coastal villages in Valsad. Valsad District Collector Ayush Oak stated, “We have deployed police staff on the beaches and alerted fishermen not to venture into the sea.”

Travel Alert: If you are planning a beach trip in Gujarat in the next seven days, we advise you to follow real-time notifications.