The Gujarat Trail An Ultimate Road Trip To The Rann of Kutch

As you set foot in the sundry landscapes of Gujarat, the different places reveal different stories of the glorious past that made them the rich cultural heritage that they are today You can&rsquot help but wonder how these magnificent structures got lost in time. Crossing the winding streets of the state, more often than not, your mind is overtaken by the emotions of intrigue and curiosity because of the so many different cities the state envelops in its embrace.

Rann Utsav is a splendid time to travel to Gujarat. The state is reveling in the colours of this festival, and the weather perfectly complements the spirit of celebration. But here&rsquos an idea, why not club this visit to the Rann with possibly the most exciting road trip in Gujarat From the famous Ahmedabad to the historically significant Dholavira, this road trip is filled with scenic views, adventure and everything in between. Hop on

Hello, Ahmedabad

Let this be the starting point of a fantastic road trip Make your way to Ahmedabad via a flight or train, or you can just drive to the city. Hire a car here and begin exploring the exciting points of interest in Ahmedabad. From beautifully carved step-wells to the Sabarmati Ashram, the city is rich in historic structures that keep you enticed with their beauty. Stop for the most popular bites at Agashiye or Vishala to binge on some authentic Gujarati cuisine. Spend the night in Ahmedabad before you head to your next destination.

Must-Visit Attractions Adalaj Stepwell, Sabarmati Ashram, Kankaria Lake, Calico Museum of Textiles 

Next Stop, Dholavira 

Distance From Ahmedabad 358 km

Probably the longest leg of your road journey, take on Dholavira next, the sight of the ancient Harappan Civilization. Not a quintessential tourist spot, this place may not have found its position on the tourism map of India but it is definitely worth your attention. After about 8 hours of driving from Ahmedabad, reach here to look in awe and amazement at the remnants of the Indus Valley Civilisation. Abandoned citadels and ruins of the town transport you back in time and it is left to your imagination to build what a day in the life of Harappa must have looked like. Spending some hours exploring this place, you should prepare for the next step of your trip, much closer to the final destination, the Rann of Kutch. Not exactly spoilt for choice, you can indulge in a fulfilling meal at one of the local shops here before moving.

Must-visit attractions- Kutch Fossil Park, about 10 km from Dholavira

Note You can also visit Dhordo, the sight of the Rann Utsav from here directly, which is at a distance of about 300 km. This can be the alternate route of your road trip, where you can spend time at the Rann Utsav and then visit Bhuj while returning from there.

The Wondrous Bhuj

Distance From Dholavira 215 km

Like a phoenix risen from the ashes, Bhuj is the story of faith and power that has led to it being one of the most loved tourist spots in Gujarat now. Whether it is the Hall of Mirrors at the Aina Mahal or the bell tower at Prag Mahal or even the beautiful artefacts at the Kutch Museum, this place has something for everyone. After having driven for about 5 hours, once you reach here, spend some time relaxing before you head out to see its most popular places.

Bhuj is a vegetarian's paradise Step into any restaurant and you will have a hard time choosing the best food from the extensive menu that each of these food joints will offer.

Must-visit attractions Aina Mahal, Prag Mahal, Kutch Museum, Shri Swaminarayan Mandir and the Hiralaxmi Memorial Craft Park in the village of Bhujodi

The Final Destination- Rann of Kutch

Distance From Bhuj 102 km

The final leg of your road trip, takes you to the Rann of Kutch. It is a beautiful marsh of salt located in the heart of the Thar Desert. En route, you will spot the location of the Rann Utsav, Dhordo, where you can stop by and check in to your tents before moving forward. Get ready to be smitten by the glorious views of the White Rann and spend time in the desert, experiencing its varying weather based on the position of the sun and the moon.

Must-visit attractions The Rann Utsav, White Rann, Kalo Dungar and the Nadeshwari Mata Temple