The Rann Utsav is the celebration of Rann’s most special time. Held from December to March. the event sees a huge footfall from all around the world. The enthusiasm is as much for seeing the Rann Utsav, as it is for witnessing the majestic Rann of Kutch itself. The land, known as one the largest salt marshlands in the world, is famous for its beautiful landscape and its flora, fauna and avifauna.
Not only is the Rann of Kutch in Gujarat an exquisite piece of land bracing shoulders against the sea with the most interesting local communities and cottage industries, as a tourist place, it has much to offer. The Narayan Sarovar is a treat in itself and the lake makes a picturesque spot for everyone to visit. The numerous wildlife sanctuaries, especially the Indian Wild Ass Sanctuary have gained popularity for their prominent display of the flora and fauna. Further, the Banni Grasslands have been known to harbour the most exotic plants in their folds. The historical roots of the Rann of Kutch run deep, all the way into the Harappan Civilization, with the Dholavira site of the civilization located here.
However, what the Rann of Kutch in Gujarat has gained most prominence for, just like the Rann Utsav, is the Salt Desert. The white expanse of the land is a salt marshland, which gives it its characteristic white colour and hence the name, White Rann. The White Rann is a breathkaing sight in itself. In the soft glow of the clandestine moonlight, the entire place lights up like a shy maiden with a soft glow reflecting off the tiny crystals of salt, making it an ideal under-the-moon light evening walk. None can ignore the draw of the White Desert, its simplistic and yet extravagant beauty and its singularly unique nature as one of the largest salt marshlands in the world.
The Rann of Kutch is a must see for every travelling enthusiast and must figure on their itinerary. The ideal time to visit, although it is the peak time, is during the Rann Utsav, when the entire land is decked like a bride-to-be, in all its glory. After all, Kutch nahi dekha to Kuch nahi dekha.