If you’re planning a vacation now, you should definitely be at Gujarat’s Rann of Kutch, as the most awaited white desert festival in India, the Rann Utsav is back with its vibrance and splendour. The Tent City Kutch in the White Rann of Kutch had reopened its doors to tourists from November 12, 2020. The Rann Utsav will take place till February 28, 2021 on the white sands, under the moonlit sky. There are oodles of celebration in the line-up during January and February, as part of the grand festival. The Rann Utsav takes places at the Dhordo village, which is nearly 80 kilometres from Bhuj in Kutch. And here are 6 reasons why you should definitely attend the festival:
1. Camping Under The Starry Sky
Camping under the star-studded sky is one of the major attractions of the Rann Utsav. You can camp close to the desert for the genuine feeling of tranquillity in the midst of an enormous space. Most of these camps have all the modern facilities and there are swiss tents available in air-conditioned categories as well. The tents are comfortable with self-contained bathrooms. Taking a halt inside these tents, you can feast your eyes on the captivating sunrises and nightfalls. During sunsets, the white desert gradually transforms into an expanse of pink, orange and red.
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2. Experiencing The Local Culture
At Rann Utsav, you can get the flavour of the local culture, art and hospitality. The celebration is marked by several folk performances, singing, and dancing. A fair takes place during this time showcasing local handlooms, handcrafted decorative items and more.
The local huts too, with quaint motifs on the walls, speak of the rich rustic culture. You might also hoard some handicrafts as curios and this, in turn, will help the local economy.
3. Relishing The Desi Cuisine
Going to Kutch and not trying its authentic street delicacies will make your trip incomplete. Droolworthy desi food options at Kutch include Kutchi dabeli, thepla, locho and bhungra. You might also try out the elaborate Kathiyawadi Thali which incorporates bajra roti, ghee roti, bataka nu shaag, sev tameta nu shag, khichdi kadhi, chaas and more.
4. The Camel Cart Ride
A Camel cart is the best mode of transport at the Rann Utsav. A 30-minute ride from the tent city takes visitors through the breathtaking expanses of the salt mire. Only in India, you would find decked up camels walking on the white sands led by locals wearing traditional attires.
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5. The Magical View Of The Full Moon Over The Mirage
The white desert on a moonlit night is yet another dream come true. The silver moonlight touching the cold and white sands creates a view that can easily wash off the stresses of the eyes. The best way to experience the White Rann is to stare into the moon, sit by yourself and take it all in. For just a few minutes of soaking in the pearl moon bobbing overhead a spotless white scape extending before us, we can travel across the world.
6. The Adventure Zone, Spa Centre And Meditation Hall
At the festival, you can also take part in adventure activities like skyzilla, paramotoring, ATV, rifle shooting, archery, bicycles and more. You can also take part in indoor games like Chess and indulge in some therapy at the spa centre and meditation hall.
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The festival authorities are taking up all the precautionary measures amid the COVID-19 pandemic. According to a T+L India report, regarding the safety measures, Finance and Operation Manager, Lallooji & Sons, Bhavik Sheth, said, “New cleaning and disinfection procedures have been adopted, with an increased focus on common spaces such as vehicles, reception area, dining hall, haat area, adventure sports zone, and others. The entire staff has been trained in the COVID-19 protocols and has been asked to wear face masks and protective equipment at all times. The whole premises will be regularly sanitised. Measures have also been put to ensure social distancing. We have left no room for any error so that guests do not have any reason to be worried.” So, are you ready to book your tickets to Kutch?