Spanning across 7,000 sq km, world’s largest salt desert Rann of Kutch provides varied experiences in numerous ways, especially for the little ones. Those visiting Kutch anytime from November to February, the Rann Utsav is considered a must-experience event. A unique manifestation of the ethnic flavours and creative ingenuity of the local craftsmen, the festival gives children an insight into some of India’s finest handicrafts, along with textiles featuring exquisite embroidery and mirror work. Along with that, children can also enjoy horse rides, camel rides, net cricket, table tennis and other activities, while adults get an opportunity to try their hands at activities like paramotoring, archery, star gazing, rifle shooting and trikee.
Following the festival experience is the White Rann – a span of pure white crystals of salt that stretches endlessly for miles, with sunset in the distance.
The unique wildlife is also worth exploring. The little Rann Of Kutch is home to Flamingo City, the only place in India, where pink flamingos regularly gather every year in order to breed, and also a sanctuary for the Indian Wild Ass, one of the three surviving species of Wild Ass in the world. Apart from this, visitors also get a chance to see rare and endangered animal species like the Chinkara, Desert Fox, jackal, Desert Cat, Caracal, Blackbuck, Striped Hyena, and over 350 unique bird species.
There are also other notable destinations nearby, that provide kids a unique perspective into the history of the area. For instance, Dholavira is an excavation site, containing the ruins of one of the five most prosperous cities from Harappan times and the Aina Mahal, a 250-year-old palace is a blend of Indian and European artistry, with walls of white marble, covered by mirrors. Additionally, the Mandvi beach is ideal end to the vacation.
“We believe that Gujarat has not received its due credit as a tourist destination, and still has plenty to show to the world, especially as a kid-friendly destination,” opined Nidhi Batra, co-founder, Little Nirvana Explorers.
