Indian temples, with their grand architecture and great religious and spiritual significance, have always attracted travelers who set out on the journey of discovering the real Bharat. These places of worship turned out to be India’s best attractions, drawing in history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, pilgrims and spiritually inclined travelers alike. Gujarat’s Somnath Temple, the first of the 12 Aadi Jyotirlingas (the places where Lord Shiva appeared in the form of a radiant, infinite light) and a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus, is one of the most-visited temples in India.

The glorious history of Somnath Temple, one of the richest Indian temples, has been marred by the malevolence of Muslim marauders who raided, looted, and sabotaged this temple no less than 17 times. Try as they might, they couldn’t erase its existence as it rose like a phoenix from the ashes every time it was razed to the ground. Let’s delve into the history of Somnath, the myths, legends, and other interesting facts about this Shrine Eternal.

History of Somnath Temple – A Saga of Vile Demolition and Wilful Resurrection:

Much like the history of Bharat, the Somnath temple’s past is also fraught with depredations and destructions, but this temple survived them all. Standing firm on the western coast of India, this indestructible temple reflects the resilient character of Bharat.

According to Indian mythology, this age-old shrine was first built in gold by Somraj (Moon God), then in silver by Ravana, in sandalwood by Lord Krishna, and much later, in stone by Bhimdeva (one of the rulers of Gujarat).

Historical records state that the Somnath temple was pillaged and vandalized multiple times by various Muslim monarchs like Mahmud Ghazni, Khilji, Muzaffar Shah, Zafar Khan, Ahmed Shah, Mahmud Begada, Aurangzeb, etc., who looted the temple’s riches and reduced the pious site to a wreck. But every time the foreign invaders knocked the temple down, our ancient rulers like Shri Vikramaditya of Ujjaini, the Vallabhi kings, Bhimadeva of Anhilawada, and Khangara (the king of Junagadh) among others resurrected it, bringing back its glory.

This cycle of demolition by Muslims and reconstruction by Hindus continued for some centuries. But when Aurangzeb ruined it in 1702 for the last time, the temple wasn’t rebuilt until 1950.

Mahmud Ghaznavi’s attack on Somnath temple during the 11th century is the most heinous one. He not only attacked and looted the temple but also took away the lives of thousands of pilgrims and burnt away the temple.

Destruction they did, but their intention was never fulfilled because ‘the power of creation is always more than the power of destruction,’ as noted by Dr. Rajendra Prasad, the first President of India, during the pran pratishtha ceremony at the modern Somnath Temple in 1951.

Reconstruction of Somnath Temple by the Iron Man of India:

The temple we see today is a result of the iron will of the great freedom fighter Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, who initiated the reconstruction of Somnath Temple during his visit to Prabhas in 1947. The mosque that Aurangazed replaced the temple with, was shifted to a new place, and Jyotirling Pratishthan was done by Dr. Rajendra Prasadon on 11th May in 1951.

The new Somnath temple was designed in Chalukya style temple architecture by the Sompara community, under the auspices of Prabhashankar Sompura. The exquisite carvings on the honey-colored temple speak volumes about the exceptional craftsmanship of our artisans. Well-maintained temple gardens, an ornate gateway called Digvijay Dwar, intricate artwork on walls and ceilings, and a beautiful Sabha Mandap (Assembly Hall) and Nritya Mandap (Dance Hall) are some of the notable features of Somnath Temple. There is also a statue of Shri Vallabhbhai Patel at the main gate of the temple.

Sitting solemnly at Triveni Sangam, the place where the three holy rivers – Kapila, Hiran and Saraswati – meet, Somnath Jyotirlinga temple imbues the surroundings with an air of tranquility and spirituality.

Who built the original Somnath Temple?

The construction of the original Somnath Temple is associated with the legend of Daksha’s curse on the Moon (Chandra Deva), the lore that explains the waxing and waning phenomena of the moon.

When Chandra Deva favored Rohini more than his other wives (who were all daughters of Daksha) as opposed to his promise that he would love all his 27 wives (the 27 nakshatras) equally, an infuriated Daksha puts a curse of Kshay (gradual degeneration of the body) on him. Gutted, Chandra Deva rushes to Lord Brahma, who advises him to bathe in Triveni Sangam at Prabhas Teerth and worship Lord Shiva, the ultimate savior. As instructed, Chandra Deva recites Mahamrityunjaya Mantra invoking Lord Shiva, who offers Chandra refuge in his dreadlocks (Lord Shiva thus came to be known as Chandrashekara). Lord Shiva also releases Chandra Deva from the curse inflicted on him for his unjust behavior, but without completely revoking it. Chandra Deva would wither, as cursed, however, Lord Shiva blesses him that he would steadily grow in size and radiance during the next 15 days of shrinking to a charming crescent, thus shining in full glory on Poornima.

Having received this boon, Chandra Deva constructs a beautiful temple in gold for Lord Shiva, which is the Somnath Temple (Soma meaning moon) and installs the first Jyotirlinga which he names Somnath Mahadev. Chandra also began to spend equal time with each of his 27 wives (1 day in each nakshatra) ever since.

Interesting Facts About Somnath Temple:

Also known as Prabhas Kshetra or Prabhas Patan, Somnath temple is the pious place where Bhagavan Shree Krishna took his divine journey to Neejdham.

• Lord Krishna’s funeral rites were performed at Triveni Sangam, the confluence of Hiran, Kapila and Saraswati Rivers.
• Ancient Holy texts such as Rig Veda, Shiv Puran, Shreemad Bhagavad Geeta, and Skanda Purana mention Somnath Temple.
• Skanda Purana states that the original Somnath temple was built some 7, 99, 25,105 years ago.
• According to the Skanda Purana, the name of this temple will be changed every time Lord Brahma recreates the world. So, Somnath temple will be known as Pran Nath Temple in a new world that replaces the world that we are living in right now.
• Ancient texts also say that the ‘Pran Pratistha’ of the first Somnath Jyotirlinga was done on the auspicious third day of the brighter half of Shravan month during the tenth Treta Yug of Vaivasvata Manvantara.
• The Jyotirlinga enshrined here is said to possess alchemic and radioactive properties and the magnetic field it creates around itself is the reason why it levitates above the ground.
• Can you believe there exists no piece of land along the straight line between Somnath seashore and Antarctica? The Baan-Stambh (Arrow Pillar) erected on the sea toward the south of the Somnath temple has an inscription in Sanskrit attesting to this fact.
• A one-hour light and sound show is organized at the Somnath temple every day, narrating to devotees the history and importance of this age-old temple.

How to Reach Somnath Jyotirlinga Temple?

Somnath Temple is situated near Prabhas Patan in Saurashtra. Here’s how you can reach this temple by air, rail, or road.

By Flight: Keshod Airport and Diu Airport are the two closest airports, located at a distance of about 50 and 90 km from Somnath respectively. You can take buses from the airport or hire a taxi or cab to reach Somnath Temple. Sardar Vallabhai Patel Airport in Ahmedabad is the nearest international airport. Indian Eagle offers the best deals on international flights. So, hurry up, plan your trip and fly over to Gujarat to experience the mystical aura of Somnath temple yourself!

By Train: Somnath has its own railway station. Trains ply to Somnath from Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Pune, Jabalpur, and other major cities regularly. Veraval railway station located nearby is another option you have.

By Bus: Several public and private buses connect Somanth with cities like Rajkot, Porbandar, Ahmedabad, etc.

Places to See around Somnath Temple:

• Old Somnath Temple
• Prabhas Patan Museum/ Somnath museum
• Triveni Sangam
• Krishna Paduka
• Somnath Beach
• Sarada Math
• Surya temple & Mata Hinglaj Mataji Gufa
• Geeta Temple
• Baldev Ji Gufa
• Veneshvar Mahadev temple
• Laxminarayan Mandir
• Junagadh Gir Safari

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Rann Utsav, also called the White Desert Festival, is an important part of Gujarat tourism today. The carnival of music, culture and dance is celebrated with great zeal and enthusiasm by not just the people of Gujarat but tourists and travelers from all across the world. It is a 3-month long celebration in the Rann of Kutch, Gujarat. It begins in November and continues until the time of Holi, every year. People who have visited Kutch during Rann Utsav can’t resist convincing co-travelers, friends and relatives to witness the grand celebration of Rann Utsav.

The white desert looks all the more spectacular on a full moon night during the 3-month festive celebration.. The white sand landscape turns into a glittering land as the moonlight flashes on the white sands of the desert. The view is heavenly with those white luxurious tents lined by the desert for tourists – the artists performing folk music & dance at a distance and the camel rides under the bright moon. Nothing could be more beautiful, isn’t it?

Here is all you need to know about the festival before you visit the Rann of Kutch for the Rann Utsav 2022-2023.

What is the history of Rann Utsav?

Rann Utsav was the vision of our esteemed Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, in 2006 when he was the Chief Minister of Gujarat. He inaugurated the first Rann of Kutch Festival in 2006 to signify the culture of Gujarat and promote an important hub of Gujarat Tourism, the Kutch Tourism. The festival attracted lots and lots of global travelers to Gujarat and they became a part of the three day celebration of the culture and tradition of the state. The first year of the Rann of Kutch Festival observed a 3-day celebration which was later increased on demand and now celebrated as a 100-day celebration.

Where is the White Desert Festival celebrated?

Rann Utsav is organized in Dhordo, a village in Kutch situated 85 kilometers from Bhuj. It is the desert region of Rann of Kutch spread over 3800 square miles. The White Desert is situated to the north of Tropic of Cancer in the district of Kutch. The district is known for promoting and preserving the tradition and culture of Gujarat. This area is the official border of India and Pakistan. Rann Utsav includes a lot of recreational activities and attractions for the tourists which we will discuss in the article but one of the most popular attractions here is the tent city set up near the Dhordo village with almost 400 AC and Non-AC tents for accommodation of the tourists from far off lands.

What are the places you can visit on the Rann of Kutch Tour?

There are several reasons to visit Rann of Kutch during Rann Utsav, one of which is a complete tour of the Rann of Kutch area. There are several attractions surrounding the white desert area which you can visit on your Kutch tour.

Check out these places to visit below:

• Kutch Museum
• Mandvi Beach
• Swaminarayan Temple
• Black Mountain
• Vijay Vilas Palace
• Crafts village in Kutch region

What are the recreational and cultural activities offered in Rann Utsav 21-22?

When visiting Rann of Kutch during Rann Utsav 2022-2023, you can be a part of several exciting recreational activities such as:

• Camel Cart Rides
• Yoga & Meditation Centre
• Spa Centre
• Shopping Handicraft items, Bandhni sarees and other traditional items
• Tasting delicious local cuisine
• Live Music Concerts
• Adventurous activities like biking and parasailing
• Kids Zone Area (If you are with kids)
• Gaming Zone
• Special folk dance shows like Garba and Dandiya Raas
• Camel rides

What are some special festive activities to be organized during Rann Utsav 2021-22?

Here are the dates of the scheduled festive activities in Rann of Kutch during Rann Utsav 2021-22:

• 31 Dec, 2021: New Year Celebration (A Gujarati traditional celebration of New Year’s)
• 14 Jan, 2022: Kite Flying Festival on Makkar Sankranti
• 26 Jan, 2022: Special Republic Day celebration
• 14 Feb, 2022: Special Gala Dinner on Valentine’s Day on the White Desert.

How to Reach Rann of Kutch for Rann Utsav?

To reach Rann of Kutch for Rann Usav 21-22, the nearest airport you can fly to is Bhuj Airport, at a distance of 86 kilometers from Dhordo village, the venue of the white desert festival. In case you want to travel by rail, Bhuj is the nearest railway station connected to various major cities of India. You can even book cheap flights to Ahmedabad, then travel by rail to Bhuj, followed by a 2-hour drive.

Another route for travelers from Mumbai is to take the Kutch Express to Gandhi Dham. Dhordo is 135 kilometers away from Gandhi Dham. A 3-4hours drive to the tent city is also a mesmerizing experience as you cross the beautiful landscape en route. If you want to board a bus to reach Dhordo, the village is well connected to many cities in Gujarat by the state transport buses.

Where to stay when visiting Kutch for Rann
Utsav?

For the best experience of the Rann Utsav, stay in one of the tents at Rann Utsav tent
city in Dhordo. Apart from the tent city, here are some of the best accommodations
options you can choose from when visiting Kutch for the Rann Utsav

• Rann Village Resort
• Bhanni Village Stay
• Rann Bhumi
• Mahefeel E Rann Resort
• Kutir Village Resort
• Rann Home Stay Resort
• Kutch Classic Rider Camp
• Rann Kandhi Resort

What are some important things to keep in mind when visiting Rann of Kutch during Rann Utsav?

When you are traveling to Rann of Kutch for the first time during Rann Utsav, there are some useful tips you should follow, such as:

• Remember to book your accommodations at least 45 days prior to the departure.
• Pack sufficient woolens as the temperature is chilled both during day and night.
• To visit Kutch, you need a Government pass (due to its proximity to the India-Pakistan border). You can get the passes from Bhirandiriya check post by producing your original government-issued Identity card (Aadhar Card and Pan Card for Indian visitors and a valid Passport in case of foreign visitors). We would suggest you carry I-cards all the time.
• If you have time, go for a sunset view at Mandvi Beach, it is a spectacular sight.

People Also Ask 

What is Little Rann of Kutch?

The Little Rann of Kutch is a part of the famous Rann of Kutch in Gujarat. This region is a salt marsh and is home to khur, the India wild ass. 

When will the Rann of Kutch festival 2022 end?

The popular Rann of Kutch festival began on 26th Oct 2022 and will end on 20th Feb 2023.

What is the distance between Ahmedabad and Rann of Kutch?

The distance between the city of Ahmedabad and Rann of Kutch is approximately 272 km.

Can I reach Rann of Kutch via Ahmedabad to Bhuj flights?

Yes, you can reach the Bhuj airport via flights from Ahmedabad and travel by road to Rann of Kutch. 

Can I still visit the Rann Utsav 2022?

Yes, you can still be a part of the Rann Utsav 2022 as it will continue until 20th Feb 2023. 

What is the distance between Bhuj and Rann of Kutch?

The distance between Bhuj and Rann of Kutch is around 85 km.

We hope you are now ready for a memorable trip to Rann of Kutch for the White Desert Festival. If you have any queries, you can write it in the comment section below. We would be happy to help you.

–Travel Diary

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Rann Utsav is recognized as one of the most popular festivals observed in the state of Gujarat. Organized in the White Desert, Rann of Kutch in Kutch, Rann Utsav attracts visitors from all across the world to its fantastic displays of dance, music, art and the surrounding natural beauty of the glowing salt desert. Like every year, Rann Utsav 21-22 is also welcoming large group of travelers from across the nation and world, most travelers taking the Ahmedabad-Kutch route. Keeping this in mind, we have got you all the information about how to reach Rann Utsav from Ahmedabad. If you are planning to travel to Rann from Ahmedabad this Rann Utsav, we have all the answers to your confusions here! Let’s begin with the Rann Utsav 2021-22 dates.

When is Rann Utsav 2021-22?

This year, the Kutch Rann Utsav starts on 1 November 2021 and the 100-day-long
celebrations come to an end on 20 February 2022.

How to reach Rann Utsav from Ahmedabad?

There are plenty of options to travel from Ahmedabad to Rann of Kutch. Choose the most convenient for you from the list below:

Drive to Rann of Kutch

It is the easiest and fastest way to reach Rann Utsav from Ahmedabad. It will take you 7 hours to drive to Rann via NH 947. If you take several stops, the ravel might increase. The advantage of driving to the destination is that you can take as long as you want to cover the distance from Ahmedabad to Rann of Kutch. The total amount you will be spending this way are the fuel costs which will be around INR 3000 at the maximum.

Book a taxi

If you are not a local of Ahmedabad or do not own a car, you have the option of booking a taxi to reach Rann Utsav from Ahmedabad. This way you will have a private vehicle and will also have a comfortable ride as you need not drive the long distance. Traveling in a taxi will also take you around 7 hours. The cost of one-way journey will be somewhere around INR 7000 (depends how you talk to the owner or taxi driver). You can always negotiate.

Take a bus to Bhuj and then book a taxi to Rann Utsav

Buses are also a good option for travelers going to Rann Utsav from Ahmedabad. However, there are no direct buses from Ahmedabad to Rann Utsav. You will have to board a bus to Bhuj and then take a taxi to reach Rann Utsav. There are buses running every hour from Ahmedabad to Bhuj. The journey to Bhuj takes almost 8 hours. A bus ticket ranges from INR 550 to 800 per person. On reaching Bhuj, you can book a taxi to Rann Utsav. It will approximately cost you INR 1000. It takes around 1 hour from Bhuj to Rann Utsav.

Take a train to Bhuj and then book a taxi to Rann Utsav

You can book train tickets from Ahmedabad to Bhuj and then travel by taxi to Rann Utsav. It will also cost you the same amount as it will for a bus-taxi journey.

Fly to Kandla and take a taxi from the airport to Rann Utsav

If you are flying to Ahmedabad for the Rann Utsav, you can also book another flight from Ahmedabad to Kandla, the nearest airport to the venue of Rann Utsav. The flight will cost you around INR 5500 to INR 27000 based on the travel class, the time and day of booking. From Kandla Airport, book a taxi to reach Rann Utsav which will take almost 2 hours to cover the distance. The taxi will cost you around INR 1500 to INR 2000. It is the most expensive travel option to reach Rann Utsav from Ahmedabad.

Questions travelers ask while planning a trip to Rann Utsav from Ahmedabad

What is Rann of Kutch famous for?

Known to be one of the largest salt deserts in the world, Rann of Kutch located in the
Thar Desert is famous for its surreal natural beauty. Offering serenity and a variety of
leisure and adventure activities, Kutch draws nature lovers, photographers, adventure
enthusiasts, wildlife lovers, and holidaymakers among others. Rann Utsav is the best
time to experience Rann of Kutch and its diversity.

What is the cheapest way to get from Ahmedabad to Rann Utsav?

The cheapest way to reach Rann Utsav from Ahmedabad is via bus-taxi or train-taxi route. The total cost per person will not be more than INR 2000.

How far is it from Ahmedabad to Rann Utsav?

The exact distance between Rann Utsav and Ahmedabad is 413.3 kilometers.

How long does it take to get from Ahmedabad to Rann Utsav?

It depends on the route you choose. Self-driving and hiring a taxi will take you around 7 hours, bus and train ride will take almost 9 hours and flight-taxi route around 7 hours.

Can I drive from Ahmedabad to Rann Utsav?

Yes, you can drive from Ahmedabad to Rann Utsav. It can be one of the best road trips you have ever had. The landscape en route is worth capturing.

Where can I stay near Rann Utsav?

There are several kinds of tents set up for accommodation of tourists visiting Rann Utsav. You can choose one in your budget. You can also book hotels or resorts located at a short distance from the festival venue based on your budget.

The post How to Reach Rann Utsav from Ahmedabad – All you need to Know appeared first on Travel Blog | Travel Inspiration, Tips and News | Travel Diary.

A tour exploring places rich in culture and history is always an exciting journey and when the place is in India, you have the most to reveal as a history buff. The presence of local craft and art forms, mostly the ones passed on from one generation to another makes the journey more interesting and unforgettable. If you are keen to know about the local art and craft forms of various places in India, start the tour from Kutch in Gujarat.

Kutch is an amazing hub of everything related to crafts and craftsmen. The region is replete with craft villages preserving the local arts for years now. You will find locally made goods by the villagers which define the exquisite way of the art of life. From Copper Bell & lacquer Art to Rogan Art, Kutch is famous for everything that resembles the unique art culture and historical significance of the state. The vibrant and distinctive handicrafts of Kutch are a treasure chest where each village has a unique way of adding ornamentation to their barren landscape. So, if you are an explorer and want to see this rare craft, check out these fantastic handicrafts villages in Kutch you must visit.

Khavda – Famous for Clay Pottery and Ajrakh Prints

When it comes to Kutch handicrafts, Khavda tops the list. Khavda is one of the unique handicrafts villages in Kutch, located close to the Indo-Pak border. The village is known for producing Ajrakh clothes and clay pottery. As soon as you see a Rabari or Khandaru wearing an Ajrakh cloth, be it a turban, a lungi, or just a cloth wrapped around the shoulder, understand you have reached the region of Khavda. The making of the fabric is a 16-step method that involves decorating it with different geometric patterns by considering the Islamic architecture as an inspiration.

Talking about the clay pottery in Khavda, Saraben’s family is popular for making bowls, small urns, plates, pots and glasses out of local clay. You can find the clay utensils in different colors such as red color collected from geru. Geru is a natural dye applied using a cloth on the clay objects. The locals make blue black and white designs on the pottery, bringing it to life. You can buy and see these beautiful clay items at the showroom in Saraben’s house in Khavda Village. The village is located only 72 kilometers from Bhuj, a distance easily covered by car or bus.

Hodka – Famous for Leather Bags and Quilts

Have you ever been to Rann of Kutch? If you have seen young girls roaming around wearing embroidered hand-made clothes, you are in Hodka of the Kutch district. In this craft village, men go out to graze cattle while women and young girls invest their time in making beautiful embroidered fabric that is sold as bedspreads, quilts, hair accessories or Kanjiris or long blouses.

You will find many people from the pastoral community living here and leather is available in abundance in this small crafts village. To stand by the demands of shoes and harnesses, the local men of the village belonging to the Meghwal community started making leather goods with a Kutchi touch (the geometrical pattern designs and color of leather). You can meet these groups of leather craftsmen moving ahead from the houses of the working ladies in Hodka. Buy mirrors, file holders, mobile covers and shoes from the village. You can reach the village, Hodka without any hassle because of its good-connectivity with various cities of the state by road.

 Ajrakhpur – Famous for Ajrakh Designs

Ajrakhpur, as the name suggests, is the origin of the Ajrakh work in the state. It is one of the most famous art and crafts villages in Kutch. The art form involves block printing and tie-dye with beautiful contrasting colors with dull hues of the desert. It was by the Sind Muslims, that the now popular traditional art form was introduced in this village 400 years ago. It has been growing ever since teaching Kachchi women and men residing here the art of Ajrakh designs. On visiting this crafts village, you will get to know various stories from the locals of how sometimes a cloth is washed over 20 times to bring out the finest Ajrakh work. You can see them making Ajrakh designs on clothes and can also buy some for yourself.

Nirona – for Kitchen Ware, Copper Bells and Rogan

Nirona first got the spotlight for being an important crafts village in Kutch when our Prime Minister Shri Narendra Damodardas Modi gifted a Rogan to the US President Barack Obama. Rogan is an art of cloth printing or painting that reflects fine craftsmanship from the state. You can witness the culture in Gujarat in these crafts villages and Nirona is one significant place you must visit on your Kutch tour.

Rogan painting or printing involves special kinds of paints made from castor seeds’ oil and other kinds of vegetable dyes found in the area. The village is also known for producing copper bells or Ghantadi that is usually used to tie around the neck of cattle as an identification mark to help the herders. The village is situated at a distance of around 50 kilometers from Bhuj. So, if you are planning a trip to Rann of Kutch in the time of Rann Utsav, you can easily cover Nirona to know about the interesting art forms and you can also buy yourself a Rogan!

Bhujodi – Famous for Handloom Textiles

Everyone knows Gujarat is a hub of handloom textiles and Bhujodi is a village on the outskirts of Bhuj that produces the finest fabrics in the region. Vankar Community is the maker of handloom textiles in the village of Bhujodi in Kutch. These people do weaving, block printing and tie-and-dye. You will also come across the Rabaris here who supply fleece to Vankars for making shawls. The Vankars are friendly hosts who welcome all kinds of visitors, the ones who buy handlooms and also the ones who are keen enthusiasts to know about the art form. You are going to love their live demonstrations! Bhujodi is located just 15 kilometers to the east of Bhuj.

Conclusion

If you are planning a trip to the Rann of the Kutch Festival 2023, do plan a visit to these craft villages in Kutch. The unique crafts of Kutch villages will blow your mind. It will give you an amazing experience of learning about various art forms of the state and knowing about the lifestyle of the locals. Moreover, you can do the Kutch handicrafts online shopping too in case you miss out on anything.

You can make your trip to India even more memorable by saving on your international flight tickets. For the cheapest air ticket from USA to India, visit indianeagle.com. It is an online company that offers budget-friendly airfare. You can take Indian Eagle flights and save money on your itinerary. 

–Travel Diary

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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.

–Travel Diary

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Ahmedabad is one of the oldest cities of India, existing for over 600 years now and is the first World Heritage City declared by UNESCO. What made the city get the privileged honor is the rich history, culture, art and heritage. If you want to get amazed and awestruck by the indescribable architecture and medieval art of India, Ahmedabad is the place. The city has been under the rule of several emperors and dynasties that have made it possess a strong heritage and legacy. The lifestyle of the locales, their food, their possessions, everything is much worthy of an experience. Our city guide of Ahmedabad will help you unveil the true side of the city on your visit.

Note: The best time to explore Ahmedabad is between the months of October and March. Planning a trip during this period will help you get away with the intense summers.

 Ahmedabad – To and From the Airport

The Ahmedabad International airport is situated 9 kilometers to the North of the central city and booking a prepaid taxi from the airport will cost you 600INR approximately. However, the exact amount depends on your destination. Hiring auto rickshaws from the airport will cost you an average amount of 250INR to reach the old city (again, it depends on your exact destination).

Some Auto rickshaw drivers do not tend to use the meters for fare calculation so better learn the art of negotiation before you set off for the city.

Ahmedabad – Getting Around in the city

Transportation facility within the city is accessible from every corner. You can rely on the public transport as the AMTS buses have covers almost all the major areas of the city. The prices are also cheaper, somewhere between INR3 to INR25 based on the distance sought to be traveled.

If you are in need of booking a taxi in Ahmedabad, it will cost you a nominal price of INR 40 for meter drop then almost INR 20 for each subsequent mile. The prices might vary as per the latest rate charts. In case you want to travel keeping your privacy reserved you can book a car for a fixed price per day.

Ahmedabad – Where to Stay

The city has all types of accommodation options starting from a luxurious room in a 5-star hotel, a mid-range hotel room at affordable price to a backpacker hub for solo budget travelers. Being the biggest city in the state of Gujarat, Ahmedabad has both an old and new side for the tourists to explore. Likewise, there are hotels suitable for each kind of travelers suiting to every budget. You can choose the luxurious suite type room at Le Meridian and Taj Gateway or choose from the comfortable budget hotels like Hotel Royal Highness and Hotel Ambassador. There are several others that you can find in the city.

Ahmedabad – Places to eat

To all the foodies planning a travel to the city, you are going to love the food during your Ahmedabad city tour. The city has some of the fantastic restaurants in the state, right from the traditional, authentic Gujarati Thali to molecular cuisine and Mughlai curries. You will find food stalls selling mouth-watering street food in the old city at Law Garden and Manek Chowk area. There are several upmarket restaurants inside hotels in the west of the city. To name a few, check out the succulent food at Vishala, Agashiye, Nautanki – Gastronomical Drama, Zen Café, Green House and New Lucky Restaurant.

Ahmedabad – Things to do and see

Welcome to Ahmedabad! The city is replete with tourist attractions for the enthusiastic tourists traveling from far off lands. From museums, handicraft centers and art galleries to the well-defined architectural structures, Ahmedabad is known to preserve its legacy and culture of Gujarat since years. If you are a Gandhi follower, pay a visit to the historic Gandhi Memorial Museum and Library to know about the man better. Established in the year 1949, the Calico Museum is a mandatory stop for shoppers before they head towards buying clothes. The museum has all the information about the history of textile industry in India. It has exhibited the finest collection of modern Indian textiles and antiques.

As you study the detailed map of Ahmedabad city, you will realize there’s no dearth of incredible tourist spots around. Visit the enchanting temples and pacifying mosques, intriguing museums and high-held skyscrapers. Some of the most important places to visit in Ahmedabad are the architectural marvel Jama Masjid, Sarkhej Roza Mosque, Sidi Sayyed Mosque in Khanpur, Sabarmati Ashram and the Swaminarayan Temple. As you discover the beauty of Ahmedabad, you will fall in love with the city’s charm.

Ahmedabad – Places to Shop

There are some exclusive markets in the city of Ahmedabad like Sarkhej, CG Road and Lal Darwaja. You need to learn the art of haggling to get the alluring craft items and textiles from Lal Darwaja. It is the biggest bazaar (market) in the city with textile stands, food stalls, jewelry vendors and anything that you can think about.

In CG Road, one can find the most trusted jewelry shops and even comfortable hotels to stay and dine. CG Road has been the all-time favorite of travelers upmarket.

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Situated in Civil Aerodrome in Rajkot, Gujarat, Rajkot Airport (RAJ) is a domestic public airport placed about 2 km from the city’s railway station. Flight operations at this relatively small airport are dominated by airlines Air India and Jet Airways. If you check the Rajkot Airport map, you will see that it has a runway of 1600 m and there are plans to extend it in the near future to 1800 m. The airport is the third busiest one in Gujarat serving from its base the cities of Mumbai, New Delhi, and Chennai. Rajkot Airport (RAJ) is situated 3 km east of the city of Rajkot which is a popular tourist destination in Gujarat famous for its rich heritage and exotic wildlife.

Rajkot Airport Terminal:

Rajkot Airport (RAJ) has only terminal and it has the capacity to handle 125 people at a time. Apart from the cities mentioned above, the airport connects to various places within the state as well. While Rajkot Airport name is one that not many have heard of, it is still one of the most important airports in Gujarat. Rajkot Airport has the capacity for parking not more than 65 cars at a time. If you wish to have more details on this, you can get Rajkot Airport number from their official website and contact them directly.

Passenger services at Rajkot Airport:

• Baggage Services

Rajkot Airport (RAJ) has 2 sophisticated X-ray baggage scanners at the facility. Passengers can easily get their baggage checked without having to wait in serpentine queues. Owing to its small size, Rajkot Airport flight schedule can be checked fairly easily as well. There are 2 security checks at Rajkot Airport (RAJ) in addition to 2 check-in counters as well.

• Food and Shopping at Rajkot Airport

For departure as well as arrival passengers, there are plenty of food and shopping opportunities. Both sections are home to a wide number of duty-free shops, cafeterias, tea/coffee stalls, juice counters, and snack counters among other things. Passengers can also buy authentic Gujarati handicrafts and other items among other things.

• Lost and Found Counter

Rajkot Airport (RAJ) offers this service for passengers who need assistance to track lost or delayed baggage. They can approach the desk and all possible assistance will be offered to track their belongings at the earliest.

• Transport to and from Rajkot Airport

Right outside the domestic terminal passengers will find several taxi service counters where they can book taxis and travel to any part of Rajkot. To get to Rajkot Airport (RAJ), Rajkot bus stand is at a distance of 4 km from the airport. Alternatively, Rajkot railway station which is about 2 km from the airport is another option. Booking Uber or Ola cabs to and from Rajkot Airport is also a convenient option.

• Medical Services

Rajkot Airport (RAJ) offers medical and first-aid assistance to passengers in need of it. They have a well-equipped room and able staff to treat any case of a medical emergency that may occur. Passengers can, therefore, be assured that there will be medical assistance provided should they require it.

• Special Assistance

Special assistance is offered by Rajkot Airport (RAJ) to disabled passengers, those traveling with infants, and elderly passengers among others. Apart from a medical aid room, there is also the facility of a child care room for the convenience of travelers with kids.

• Other Services

Apart from the services mentioned above, Rajkot Airport (RAJ) offers several more to make travel a comfortable experience for passengers. There are snack counters available at arrival and departure terminals and free trolley services are offered among other things. Also, Rajkot Airport is well-equipped to handle any aircraft emergency that may unexpectedly come up.

Nearby Airports:

There are other airports near Rajkot you can consider flying out of or into as well. The nearest domestic airport to Rajkot is Jamnagar Airport about 81 km away. However, about 221 km from Rajkot is the Ahmedabad Airport which is the closest international one. Other options include Kandla Airport about 113 km away, Porbandar Airport about 137 km away as well as Bhuj Airport and Bhavnagar Airport both 157 km away. You can fly into these airports from any of the major cities they are connected to. In addition to Rajkot, these are great places to explore as well and will make your Gujarat trip that much more exciting.

–Travel Diary

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