Places to Visit in Kutch

One of the most well-known tourist places in Kutch, the Great Rann is a defining feature of the region. For most people, Kutch means the Rann. Sandwiched between the Thar Desert and Arabian Sea, it is a big draw for visitors looking to experience a slice of other-worldly beauty. The Rann is definitely one of the must-visit places in Kutch. It really comes alive during the Rann Festival.

Kalo Dungar is among the most beautiful tourist places in Kutch. It is also the highest point of the region that gives you uninterrupted panoramas of the Rann. You’ll also be able to see the Indo-Pak border in the distance. Once here you can also visit the 400-year-old Dattatreya temple dedicated to Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. For its untamed beauty and spectacular views, it is one of the most-visited Rann of Kutch tourist places.

Founded in 1877 by Maharao Khengarji, it is the oldest museum in Gujarat. Gaze upon the ancient Kshatrapa inscriptions dating back to 1st century AD. Apart from musical instruments, sculptures, paintings, weapons and precious metalwork, you will also find tribal artefacts, beautiful examples of the extinct Kutchi script, and traditional arts and crafts in this museum. This is one of the best places to visit in Kutch for culture and history buffs.

Also known as the Kateshwar Buddhist Caves, they are among the most ancient places to go in Kutch. The Siyot Caves are said to have been carved out in 1st century AD. The caves are full of paintings, carvings and sculptures that depict an array of historical events like the Chinese migration into India. It is believed to be one of the eighty monastic sites around the mouth of the Indus River mentioned reported by 7th century Chines travellers.

Include the Bhadreshwar Jain Temple in your Kutch itinerary for its beautiful architecture and exquisitely engraved pillars. It is a part of the complex that has fifty-two other monuments and two mosques. While the temple was built in the 11th century, it has been recently renovated. It is one of the most ancient temples in Bhadravati.

Do visit Marine National Park for an up-close look at some of the most diverse aquatic life in India. It has the distinction of being India’s first marine reserve. It protects a unique, yet fragile ecosystem that is important to region’s ecology. This is your chance to see some rare creatures like the leatherback turtle, gangetic dolphins and beluga whales. It also hosts a variety of birds like kingfishers, ospreys, painted storks, phalaropes and black-necked ibis.

The Roha Fort was used as a jail during the British rule. In state of serious disrepair today, it has gained the reputation of being haunted. But legends and stories notwithstanding, it still displays a streak of regal mien that speaks volumes of its royal past. Built for the Rajputs of Chavda Vansh, it was mostly destroyed in the 2001 earthquake. The ruins are now a photographer’s paradise.

Surprisingly, Prag Mahal is one of the most serene places to visit in Kutch. Located near the Kutch Museum do visit this monument to marvel at its beautiful design. It was built in the 18th century and features an interesting style of architecture. Known for its slender bell tower, climb to the top for a majestic bird’s eye view of the surrounding area. You can also visit the sparkling Aaina Mahal, which is close by.

The Vijay Vilas Palace will seem familiar at first sight and you shouldn’t be surprised. It has been featured in many films over the years. This former summer palace of Jadeja Rajas of Kutch is now a bustling tourist destination. Boasting of its own private beach and surrounded by greenery, the palace is an architectural marvel. The large hallways, the intricate carved details and the dome shaped ceiling come together perfectly to afford it a rare beauty.