Kutch is the Ideal Destination for Your Next Girls’ Trip
Home to the Great Rann of Kutch, the white desert of India, this place is a wonderland and a great option for your next vacation.
Going on a vacation to somewhere new is always a gamble. You never really know what you’re going to get until you’re there, whether it’s the weather, the people or the activities. But sometimes, that unpredictability is part of the fun.
Recently, a group of my girlfriends and I took a last-minute trip to Kutch that turned out to be one of the best vacations ever. We didn’t have any plans except for some vague ideas about where we wanted to go, and we let the rest of our trip unfold as we went along. It was definitely a risk, but it ended up being an amazing trip thanks to some great surprises and chance encounters.
My friends and I embarked on this trip knowing we have very different backgrounds, but what we all share is a love for adventure and pushing ourselves outside of our comfort zones. We learned that it’s okay to be scared, but you have to take the leap anyway. You never know what you might find on the other side. These lessons can be applied not just to travel, but also to our everyday lives. When we face difficult terrain—whether it’s a new job or trying something new in our relationships—we can learn from these experiences and grow stronger.
If you and your girlfriends are looking for a unique and beautiful place to vacation, look no further than Kutch, India. Kutch is a district of Gujarat in western India, with its headquarters at Bhuj. From the stunning temples to 19th-century architecture, there’s something for everyone in Kutch. Here are just a few of the highlights that you don’t want to miss on your trip.
The Temples of Bhuj
One of the most beautiful things about Kutch is the temples, which are known for their ornate architecture. Nestled in the heart of the city, these temples are a testimony to the rich culture and history of this region. They’re adorned with intricate carvings and beautiful architecture, and each one has its own unique story to tell.
Visitors from all over the country come to marvel at the beauty of these temples and to receive the blessings of the gods. The temples of Bhuj are truly an experience that cannot be missed. The temples usually have a very peaceful and calming atmosphere, which can be a nice break from the hustle and bustle of city life. They will be less crowded during the week and in the morning, as opposed to weekends or evening. However, if you are looking for a more spiritual experience, visiting during the evening, when the temple is illuminated by lanterns might be a better option.
If you’re looking for a place to reflect and recharge, the temples of Bhuj are a must-visit.
Dholavira
Dholavira is an archaeological site located in Kutch and was once a thriving city of the Indus valley civilization. The site is known for its well-preserved remains of an ancient Indus valley civilization city, including a complex irrigation system. The reservoirs of Dholavira were an important part of the city’s irrigation system, which allowed the community to thrive in the desert climate.
The city was built around 2600 BCE and was one of the largest of its time. It covers an area of approximately 100 hectares (250 acres) and was home to around 10,000 people. The site was discovered in 1967 and has since been excavated by archaeologists. Some helpful tips for visiting the archaeological site of Dholavira include bringing plenty of water, wearing sun protection and being respectful of the ancient ruins.
There is an on-site museum where visitors can learn about the history and significance of the site. We hired a guide, who provided us with information about the history of the site and also pointed out interesting features that we might have missed.
Flamingos are a common sight near the archaeological site, as the area is home to a large population of the pink birds. The Rann of Kutch is a prime habitat for flamingos, as it is a salt marsh that is rich in the algae and the shrimp that the birds feed on.
The road to Dholavira can be a little difficult to navigate as it is located in a remote area of Kutch. It is recommended to hire a driver and a guide who is familiar with the area.
Prag Mahal
For a taste of 19th-century luxury, be sure to check out Prag Mahal. This beautiful abode was once home to the king and is now open to tourists. Even if you’re not normally interested in history, the architecture and opulence of Prag Mahal are sure to impress.
Named after its commissioner Rao Pragmalji II, the construction of the palace began in 1865. The palace was designed by Colonel Henry St Clair Wilkins in what has been described as the Italian Gothic style. It also has one of the tallest clock towers in India. If you are interested in photography, visit during the daytime when the sun is out.
Have you ever seen a photo of someone in traditional dress against a beautiful backdrop and just thought, “wow, I wish I could have been there to see that?” Many people may not know that you can rent traditional Kutchi dress shops near the palace. Traditional attire is so colourful and vibrant, and Prag Mahal is the perfect setting for a stunning photoshoot. Imagine posing in front of the magnificent palace – it’s definitely a dream come true!
Aina Mahal
Imagine being able to walk through the doors of a centuries-old palace, originally built for an Indian princely family. That’s exactly what you can do at Aina Mahal.
Aina Mahal was built in the 18th century and is known for its ornate mirror work and architecture. The palace was badly damaged in the 2001 Gujarat earthquake.
Prag Mahal is located very close to Aina Mahal. If you’re anything like me, then the first thing you do when planning a trip is to map out all of the craft shops in the area. I can’t help it, I’m a craft hoarder! So when I found out that there were shops right next to the palace, I was thrilled. If you’re ever in town, be sure to check it out!
Photography is not allowed inside the palace, so I couldn’t take any picture of Aina Mahal
Cenotaphs of Kutch
No trip to Kutch would be complete without paying your respects at the cenotaphs. A cenotaph is a monument that is built to honour a person or group of people who have died. These beautiful monuments are a tribute to those who have passed away, and they provide an incredibly moving experience.
Cenotaphs are a fitting way for rulers to achieve immortality, as they are seen and used long after the person has died. Cenotaphs were particularly common in mediaeval Hindu kingdoms, where they filled the role of both funeral markers and tombs. The Chhatardis of Bhuj is among the most ornate and beautiful examples of this type of cenotaph, with their fine carvings and elaborate designs. The Chhatardis were built by the Jadeja rulers, who ruled over Kutch in Gujarat. These cenotaphs served as a reminder of their reign, even long after their death.
If you’re looking for a place to connect with your roots, the cenotaphs are definitely worth a visit.
Vijay Vilas Palace and Mandvi Beach
Vijay Vilas Palace is a breathtaking landmark located near Mandvi Beach. It was built in the early 20th century and is known for its grand architecture and stunning garden.
Vijay Vilas Palace was built by Maharao Shri Khengarji III, the Maharao of Kutch, in the early 20th century. It is made of red sandstone and has an architectural style that was popular in India during the Rajput period, which is known for its grandiose designs. It has a large round dome that is located in the centre of the building and smaller domes on the sides, decorated with intricate designs. Carved stone Jalis (perforated stone), windows with coloured glass and an extended porch make it worth visiting.
If you are planning to visit Mandvi Beach, it’s better to stay at Vijay Vilas Palace Resort as it offers access to a private beach and its stunning scenery.
Mandvi beach is a hidden gem of Kutch. It is a lesser-known beach destination, which makes it a great place to avoid crowds. The way the setting sun reflected off of the water and created a beautiful spectrum of colours is not something I will forget soon.
I was thinking about why the sunset was so colourful at the beach. Another possibility could be that the air near the beach may be clear, allowing the sun’s rays to pass through unobstructed and creating a more vivid sunset.
The beach is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a relaxing and cost-effective vacation. The sunset is simply stunning, and the long stretch of sand is perfect for a stroll or a fun game of Frisbee.
The Great Rann of Kutch
Rann of Kutch is a salt marsh located at the southern tip of the Kutch district. It is known for its white salt flats that contrast sharply with the surrounding desert. Rann in Hindi means desert. The best time to visit Rann of Kutch is from November to February when the weather is cooler and the salt flats are visible. It is worth visiting for its unique beauty and its rich history. During monsoons, the Rann of Kutch can be covered in water, making it inaccessible to visitors.
Closed-toe shoes are recommended when visiting the Rann, as the salt can be sharp and uncomfortable to walk on barefoot. If you are the adventurous type, who wants to take it to the next level, paragliding is a popular activity at the Rann, as it allows you to see the salt flats from a unique perspective.
Craft Villages of Kutch
The villages of Kutch are a great place to learn about the traditional arts and crafts of the region. There are many different villages to choose from, each with its own speciality, so it really depends on what you’re interested in. You can find anything from block printing to metalwork. Some notable villages include Nirona for metalwork and Bhujodi for block printing. The skilled artisans of these villages have a lot of knowledge and experience in their respective fields. You can gain a better understanding of the traditional arts and crafts of the region. Many big brands buy from local artisans. Also, you can often find blankets and sarees at a cheaper rate when you buy from them. This is a great way to support the traditional arts and crafts of the region and to get a beautiful product at a great price.
Kutch is one of the most difficult places to live on earth. It’s a harsh and unforgiving landscape with little vegetation, scant water resources, and extreme temperatures. And yet, the people who call this place home have learned to thrive in spite of these challenges. What can we learn from their experience? Lessons about perseverance, ingenuity, and community spirit, that are as relevant in our own lives as they are in the tough terrain of the Kutch desert. If you’re looking for a life lesson or two, look no further than this rugged corner of the world.
What we learned from this trip will stay with us for a lifetime. We faced challenges, both physically and mentally, but persevered. Each day we woke up excited to see what the new landscape would bring, and each night we retired exhausted but happy. Our sense of accomplishment was immense. This trip has shown us that we are capable of so much more than we ever imagined; if we put our minds to it, we can do anything. And that is a lesson worth learning – no matter where you live or what your circumstances may be.
There’s so much to see and do in Kutch that it’s impossible to list everything here. Whether you’re looking for temples, beaches, or simply a place to relax, Kutch has something for everyone. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to Kutch for your next girls’ trip!
