- Duration 6 Nights / 7 Days
- Price 0 INR
Route: Bhuj – Banni Villages – Hodka – White Rann – Mandvi – Bhuj
Upon arrival in Bhuj, the vibrant heart of Kutch, begin your journey with a visit to the Aina Mahal (Hall of Mirrors) and Prag Mahal, both former royal palaces offering stunning Indo-European architecture. Take a stroll through Bhujodi Village, a handloom weaving center where artisans create exquisite bandhni, ajrakh, and woolen shawls. Stop by the Kutch Museum, Gujarat’s oldest museum, known for tribal artifacts and rare musical instruments. In the evening, attend the local markets or enjoy sunset at Hamirsar Lake. Overnight stay in Bhuj.
After breakfast, begin your cultural trail through the Banni Grasslands, home to some of Gujarat’s most skilled artisans and pastoral communities. Stop in the villages of Nirona, Dhordo, Ludiya, and Sumrasar, each specializing in unique crafts like Rogan art, lacquerwork, leather embroidery, and mud mirror work (lippan). Interact with local families and witness their rich traditions. Arrive at Hodka, a charming village known for handcrafted homes and warm hospitality. Check in to a traditional eco-resort or bhunga hut, surrounded by desert peace. Overnight in Hodka.
This day is dedicated to the magical White Rann of Kutch, where the vast salt desert stretches endlessly under the sky. Spend the afternoon exploring the vibrant Rann Utsav, a celebration of Kutch culture with folk music, traditional dance, camel rides, local food, and artisan stalls. Don traditional attire and immerse yourself in the festivities. As the sun sets, witness the surreal transformation of the salt flats under moonlight—an unforgettable experience. Return to Hodka or stay at the Rann Utsav tent city (optional upgrade). Overnight near White Rann.
Today, take a scenic drive to Kala Dungar (Black Hill), the highest point in Kutch. From here, enjoy panoramic views of the Great Rann and, on a clear day, even glimpses of the India–Pakistan border. Stop at the magnetic field viewpoint en route, where vehicles appear to defy gravity. Visit the Dattatreya Temple and interact with BSF officers at the military post (with prior permit). Return to Hodka for a relaxing evening under the stars or attend a cultural dance performance in the village. Overnight in Hodka.
Leave the desert behind and drive to Mandvi, a historic port town along the Arabian Sea. Upon arrival, visit the grand Vijay Vilas Palace, a Rajput summer retreat with Indo-European design and a romantic film history. Spend your afternoon relaxing at Mandvi Beach, known for its soft golden sand and camel rides. Visit the Shipbuilding Yard, where traditional dhow boats are still handcrafted. In the evening, walk along the windmill-lined beach and enjoy fresh seafood. Overnight stay in Mandvi.
After a relaxed breakfast by the coast, return to Bhuj, stopping at Mundra or Tunda Vandh villages to see more textile craftsmanship, especially Mashru silk weaving and block printing. In Bhuj, spend your final afternoon exploring artisan boutiques or visiting Smritivan Earthquake Memorial—a thoughtful, scenic tribute to the victims of the 2001 earthquake. Enjoy a peaceful evening and consider purchasing authentic Kutch handicrafts as souvenirs. Overnight in Bhuj.
After breakfast, transfer to Bhuj airport or railway station for your onward journey. Depart with unforgettable memories of folk traditions, desert landscapes, craft villages, and the moonlit salt plains of Kutch.
