Kutch or Rann of Kutch region in Gujarat is among the most visited places in the state by tourists, both national and international. Some come in large groups to witness the grand celebration of Rann Utsav and some simply with a motive to explore the tourist attractions in and around the district. No matter the reason you are visiting Kutch, Kutch Museum should be one of the places in your itinerary list.
Kutch Museum is Gujarat’s oldest museum constructed in the year 1877 by Maharao Khengarji. Earlier, it was called as the Fergusson Museum, after Sir James Ferguson, the then Governor of Bombay. The foundation stone was laid on 14 November, 1884 and total cost for the construction was INR 3300 (it was a lot of money at that time).
The museum is home to the largest collection of Kshatrapa inscriptions existing in the country, dating back to 1st century AD. The museum also houses Kutch scripts which are now extinct and a fascinating collection of coins of Kutch local currency, Kori. A part of the museum is dedicated to the culture and heritage of Gujarat as it includes examples of folk arts and crafts, examples of ancient artefacts, information about the tradition and lifestyle of tribal of the region.
If you are someone who finds interest in unveiling the historical stories of culture and heritage of a place, Kutch is a place to visit. This is why you should visit Rann of Kutch during Rann Utsav as it showcases the picture of Gujarat culture very well in form of its handcrafts exhibition and cultural performances.
Features of Kutch Museum
Located on the Hamirsar Lake banks, the Kutch Museum boasts its magnificent Gothic style architecture building. The double-tiered building features folk arts, embroidered clothes, ancient artifacts, crafts, arms, paintings, musical instruments, ammunition, precious metal work, sculptures and also has a picture gallery. The museum has a dedicated archaeological section, anthropological section and a shipping section.
Of all these, the main feature of the oldest museum of Gujarat is the sculpture of Airavat, a seven trunked snow-white elephant painted in Kamagiri style with creepers and flowers reflecting the Mandvi style from the 18th century. It is a masterpiece!
The museum also has various other features that will interest you such as the models of flamingo and wild ass, the ornamented doors from the 20th century, a round silver tray, nut-cutters and knives.
Timings: 10:00am-1:00pm & 2:30pm-5:30pm. Closed on Wednesdays and some public holidays
Entry fees: INR 5
How to reach the Kutch Museum?
By air: You can book cheap flights to Ahmedabad or Bhuj. Though Bhuj is the nearest airport to Kutch, you can also fly to Ahmedabad and take a train to Bhuj as per your convenience. From Bhuj, you can hire a cab and drive to Kutch.
By Rail: The nearest railway station to Kutch is Bhuj Railway Station. You can take the Kutch Express or Bhuj Express from Mumbai or Ahmedabad and drive to Kutch from Bhuj. You can also board a bus fro Bhuj.
By Road: Kutch is well-connected to the cities of Gujarat like Bhuj, Ahmedabad and othes. If you prefer traveling by road, you can take a bus from Ahmedabad to reach Bhuj. It is a one-night journey from the city and from Bhuj, you will get State Transport buses, private jeeps or cabs to reach Kutch Museum.
