Some journeys arrive quietly and then stay forever. Rann Utsav unfolded in exactly that manner, gently drawing me away from the rush of everyday life and into a world where space felt infinite and moments felt unhurried.
Tripti Jain
From the first step into Bhuj, there was a distinct sense of arrival, a feeling that this land was ready to reveal its stories at its own pace. Kutch did not rush to impress. It allowed experiences to bloom naturally, and that is what made this journey an experience of a lifetime.
Welcome wrapped in warmth
Dhordo’s Tent City became home almost instantly. The tents were gorgeous, expansive and thoughtfully curated, offering comfort without losing the essence of the land they stood upon. Soft lighting, tasteful interiors and generous spaces made each return after a long day feel deeply reassuring. Mornings arrived gently through filtered desert light, and nights carried a calm silence rarely found elsewhere. Hospitality stood out as something extraordinary. Every member of the team observed, understood and responded with care. Needs were anticipated with sincerity, creating a sense of being truly looked after. The warmth here surpassed many luxury hotels I have visited, simply because it felt heartfelt and human.
Flavours that tell a story
Food at Rann Utsav formed a beautiful rhythm to the days. Each meal celebrated Gujarat’s culinary pride with generosity and flair. Traditional flavours carried depth, comfort and familiarity, even when experienced for the first time. The variety ensured that every dining experience felt distinct, from leisurely breakfasts to vibrant dinners that brought people together. There was a quiet joy in watching local delicacies being enjoyed by travellers from different corners, united by shared appreciation. Meals here nourished far beyond the plate.
Where craft becomes conversation
Kutch revealed its soul most vividly through its artisans. The handicrafts here demanded attention, admiration and respect. Watching Rogan art take shape felt mesmerising, knowing that this rare craft survives through dedication and patience. Copper bell making resonated with rhythm and tradition, each bell crafted with care and purpose. Pottery told stories through texture and form, and block printing showcased precision perfected over generations.
The artisans themselves were the true highlight. Their eyes carried pride, their hands carried heritage, and their voices carried stories worth preserving. Every interaction felt like a lesson in resilience and creativity. These crafts were expressions of identity, deeply rooted in land and community. Gujarat’s cultural wealth stood proudly on display, inviting admiration without pretence.
White horizons and gentle stillness
The white salt desert introduced me to silence in its purest form. Standing there during sunrise felt meditative. Soft pastels painted the horizon, and the vastness seemed to slow thoughts and steady emotions. Sunset brought a different magic, as warm hues danced across the salt, reflecting light in a quiet spectacle. Each visit to the Rann felt unique, each moment carried its own emotion. The desert did not overwhelm. It embraced gently, offering calm and clarity in equal measure.
Flamingoes and the Road to Heaven
The journey towards Dholavira unfolded like a dream sequence. The Road to Heaven lived up to its poetic name, with flamingoes appearing gracefully along the way. Their presence felt symbolic, adding movement and colour to the stark beauty of the landscape. Watching them through the window felt surreal, as if nature itself had chosen to perform. This drive became one of the most visually rewarding experiences of the trip, reminding me of how unexpectedly beautiful the in-between moments can be.
When history breathes again
Dholavira awakened memories of school lessons, transforming them into tangible experiences. Walking through the ancient remains of the Indus Valley Civilisation stirred deep fascination. The town planning, water management systems and architectural vision reflected intelligence far ahead of its time. A guided tour enriched the experience, connecting facts with stories that made history feel alive and relevant. Standing there felt grounding, offering perspective on time, progress and human ingenuity.
Evenings alive with rhythm
As daylight softened, cultural evenings brought colour and sound into focus. Folk performances celebrated Gujarat’s artistic traditions with energy and pride. Music flowed effortlessly, dances carried stories, and the atmosphere felt joyful and inclusive. These evenings created space for connection, laughter and shared appreciation. Watching performers perform under the open sky added authenticity, making each moment feel rooted in place and purpose.
A sky that redefined wonder
Stargazing became the most profound and unforgettable part of this journey. Under the vast Kutch sky, the universe revealed itself in breathtaking clarity. Stars appeared countless, brighter and closer than ever before. Witnessing Saturn and Jupiter through the telescope felt surreal, as if space itself had leaned closer. Sharing a quiet moment with the moon brought an overwhelming sense of peace.
Time dissolved during these hours. The sky demanded attention, and my gaze grew stronger with each passing moment. Thoughts softened, silence deepened and wonder took over completely. Hours passed unnoticed as I stood there, captivated and humbled. This experience felt deeply personal, rare and transformative. It reminded me of how small we are and how expansive the world truly is.
Bhuj and the colours that travelled home
Bhuj added its own layer of charm to the journey. The city revealed itself through vibrant textiles, cultural landmarks and quiet resilience. Colours appeared everywhere, in markets, murals and everyday life. The visit felt grounding, offering glimpses into the spirit of the region. Bhuj carried stories of strength, creativity and continuity. These impressions stayed with me long after departure, becoming memories I carried back home.
A pause that healed
This journey offered something deeply precious. It offered pause. Days flowed gently, guided by experiences rather than schedules. Each interaction felt meaningful, each moment felt present. The care shown by the people, the richness of the land and the balance between comfort and authenticity created an environment where relaxation came naturally. Rann Utsav did not feel like an event. It felt like a celebration of life, culture and connection.
Carrying the Rann within
Leaving Kutch felt emotional. The white desert, the warmth of the people, the artistry, the history and the sky stitched themselves quietly into my being. Gujarat revealed countless reasons to feel proud, and I felt grateful to witness them firsthand. Rann Utsav became more than a destination. It became a memory that continues to glow softly, reminding me that some journeys change you gently and forever. This was a journey where time slowed, senses awakened and wonder returned. A journey I will always carry with me.
