Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary
Tuesday, 06 October 2009 04:55
Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary -Kutch |
About: |
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The Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Great Rann of Kutch in Gujarat, is one of the largest seasonal saline wetlands in India. Spanning over 7,500 sq km, it becomes submerged underwater during the monsoon and transforms into a sprawling desert landscape in the dry season. This sanctuary is a unique blend of arid land, saline mudflats, and marshy swamps, making it an exceptional habitat for diverse wildlife. Buried city Dholavira of Harappan civilization was excavated here, which attracts hordes of archeologists here from all across the world. Equally enticing is the Flamingo City located in the mud flats of the Rann, about 10 km. from Nir out post on Kala Dungar. It is the only area where flamingoes breed regularly.Kachchh Desert Wildlife Sanctuary represents one of the largest seasonal saline wetland areas having water depth between 0.5 to 1.5 metres. But, after October-November, water dries up and the entire area turns into saline desert. The sanctuary supports wide variety of water birds and bewildering range of mammalian wildlife. .jpg) Besides the Indian Bustard, some of the other wild animals that you can feast your eye upon during your tour to Bustard Sanctuary, Kutch include Harriers, Eagles, Jungle Cat, Desert Cat, Chinkara and migratory birds. The best season to visit the Kutch Bustard Sanctuary is from late monsoon to winter. The nearest airport is at Bhuj which is at 110 km and the nearest railhead is the Naliya Railway Station which is 20 km from the sanctuary. |
Location info: |
| Proximity:Around 100 km from Bhuj, the nearest major town. |
| District: Kutch |
| Nearest City: Bhuj |
| Best time to visit: October to March |
Climate/Weather: |
| Summer (March to June): Very hot, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 45°C. Monsoon (July to September): Wet season with heavy rainfall and waterlogging in the sanctuary. Winter (October to February): Pleasant and the best time to visit, with temperatures ranging between 12°C to 25°C. |
History: |
| The sanctuary was established in 1986 and is known for its rich biodiversity and unique desert ecosystem. It was once a part of the Arabian Sea but evolved into its current form due to geological changes over time. |
Interesting things to do: |
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Interesting things to Visit: |
| Flamingo City: A breeding ground for flamingos located within the sanctuary. Fossil Park: Located in the sanctuary, it houses fossilized remains of various animals and plants. Kala Dungar (Black Hill): The highest point in Kutch offers a panoramic view of the Rann. Wildlife: |
Mobile range info: |
| Mobile connectivity can be spotty within the sanctuary, especially in remote areas. It is advisable to inform someone about your visit and keep emergency contacts handy. |
How to reach? |
| Nearest Railway Station:Ballarpur railway station |
| Nearest Airport:Bhuj and Kandla airports. |
| Road Transport:The sanctuary is well connected to the other important places in the state by State Transport Corporation buses as well as luxury coaches operated by private companies.The Rann of Kutch is accessible via Dasada village, 93 kms from Ahmedabad. |
Nearest Visiting places: |
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Great Rann of Kutch: Mandvi Beach: Bela: Chitrod: Kera: Lakhpat: Mandvi: |
Nearest Petrol Pump: |
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The nearest petrol pump is located in Bhuj, around 100 km from the sanctuary. It’s advisable to fill your tank before entering the sanctuary. |
Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation: |
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Tent City in Dhordo: Offers luxury tents and cottages during the Rann Utsav (December to February). Hotel Mahir: Mandvi,Kutch,Gujarat,India,ph:02834 222090 |
Things to carry: |
| Binoculars and camera Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses Comfortable clothing and walking shoes Water bottles and light snacks First-aid kit |
Tips & Suggestions: |
| Visit during winter (November to February) for the best experience. Carry enough cash, as ATMs might not be available near the sanctuary. Respect wildlife and avoid littering. Hire a local guide to make the most of your visit. |
Help Line/Phone Number: |
| Police Station:100 |
| Forest Department Office, Bhuj: +91-2832-220639 |
| Society/Community Phone Number: |
| Link:www.gujaratguideonline.com |
Photo Gallery
Video
Dynamic View
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| Shree Swaminarayan Mandir |
| The temple will have an easy access by public transport and will serve as a permanent place of assembly for worship and Gujrati classes of Melbourne have had to use various Scout halls and School halls previously.These halls have not always been available when needed and thus a decision was made by the Mandir to search for an appropriate place that may be available to us when needed,The model of Swaminarayan temple, that will come in existence in sort time, with the hearty help of holy devotees of supreme god Swaminarayan. This mandir falls in Uttar Desh.....more |
| Kutch Mandvi Beach |
| Mandvi beach isone of the finest beach of Gujarat and a historic port town of the Maharao of Kutch. The port of Mandvi was an important sea trade post between the near East and the far East which brought prosperity to the Royal family. Mandvi town was an important city for the Maharaos of Bhuj being endowed with some splendid palaces and buildings. The region surrounding the Kutch Mandvi beach was once very active and significant, and one may come across many ruins and historical sites. Some distance away from the pristine Kutch Mandvi Beach is an ancient dock and port, which is still functional today. Though not historically significant, as the dock/port is completely recent, it is unique in that here, the vessels are made using wood and by hand....more |
| Prag Mahal Bhuj |
| The Prag Mahal in Bhuj is one of the most interesting palaces amongst the famous monuments in Gujarat India. The Prag Mahal also called the New Palace, was constructed in the year 1979. Every year tourists from far and wide come to see the splendors of this beautiful architectural structure which stands intact till date to narrate the tales from the bygone era.The Prag Mahal in Bhuj is an example of magnificent architecture. The decor of ornate Italian marble and golden sandstone give the palace a unique look and leaves one spellbound. The attractive Corinthian pillars of Prag Mahal, Bhuj and the detailed Jaali work depict the European flora and fauna. You can spend hours after hours studying and admiring the beautiful art work of Prag Mahal, one of the major tourist attractions in Gujarat....more |
| Aina Mahal Bhuj |
| Aina Mahal was constructed by Rao Lakhpatji, is situated in historic city of Bhuj, Gujarat. The mid eighteenth century Palace was built in traditional Kutchi style showing strong European influence as well. Aina Mahal is part of a large palace complex, with a darbar hall, a hall of mirrors and suites for the royal members. The Hall of Mirrors which is a blend of Indian and European creativity is the main attraction of the palace. The walls of this hall are built of white marble and are covered by mirrors surrounded by gilded decorations.The Aina Mahal in Bhuj is an old palace that was built in the 18th century. The erstwhile palace which belonged to Maharao Lakhpatji has now been transformed into a museum that is one of the chief tourist attractions in Bhuj.....more |
| Durbar Gadh Bhuj |
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Durbar Gadh is one of the most beautiful tourist attractions in Bhuj,
Gujarat. The monument is located in the heart of the old town of Bhuj. It
has immense historical importance. Every year, tourists flock to Durbar
Gadh, Bhuj that happens to be one of the most remarkable landmarks in the
city.Durbar Gadh is the place where the Maharaja of Nawanagar used to hold
meetings with the public audiences. It falls under the headquarters of the
Kutch District in Gujarat. This historical building was affected by the
massive earthquake of 2001. Some of the distinct features of the fort are
the beautiful latticed windows and intricate carvings that adorn its
exteriors and interiors. A tour to Durbar Gadh in Bhuj is a must during your
visit to Gujarat....more
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| Tomb of Jesal Toral |
| Anjar, which is one of the most beautiful cities in Gujarat, houses some of the most attractive forts and monuments. The Tomb of Jesal Toral is one of the famed tourist attractions in Anjar. It is basically a samadhi of Jesal Toral. There is also a bungalow of James Mcmurdo here. It has now been converted into a veritable museum that displays Kutch art.Anjar is also famed for its beautiful block printing work, scissors, nutcrackers and penknives. These are some of the artworks which you will come across in the museum at the Tomb of Jesal Toral in Anjar. On your visit to the city, a tour to Jesal Toral Tomb is highly recommended as it is one of the premier attractions of Gujarat. The tomb is also a centre for fairs.....more |
| Dholavira Ruins Kutch |
| Kutch is spelt as Kachchh also, It is a beautiful district of western state of Gujarat in India. It is said to be the most extensive district in the state of Gujarat and the 2nd largest district of India succeeding Leh. The meaning of the word Kutch stands for something that becomes wet and dry intermittently. On tour to Gujarat you must stop at this magnificent travel destination for a while. Here you will get to see various types of interesting sites of which forts and monuments top the chart. In fact Dholavira Ruins in Kutch has been acclaimed massively among all the forts and monuments in Gujarat.Dholavira is an ancient town situated in the state of Gujarat. It lies on the North West corner of the Khadir Island and stands surrounded by water in the monsoons. It was discovered in the year 1967 AD.....more |
| Vijay Vilas Palace Mandvi |
| Mandvi was earlier popular as the Paris of Kutch. This is because the Maharajas of Kutch made this place their summer resort because of its pleasant climate. With its rich traditional history a tour to Mandvi is a must on your visit to the forts and monuments in Gujarat. The Vijay Vilas Palace in Mandvi is one of the best examples of the city glamorous historical background.The Vijay Vilas Palace rises from a multi acre estate along the coast near the town. This palace of His Highness Maharao Vijay Singhji who ruled over Kutch in the 1940s is an eclectic blend of architectural styles. Umbrella domes like those seen in palaces of Bengal cupolas that would not look out of place in Mughal buildings jarokhas and cusp arches like those seen in Rajput palaces of Rajasthan, Victorian Gothic arches and classical columns make up the ensemble. Yet the architects were skilled enough to make the entire complex look harmonious....more |
| Tomb of Ghosh Mohammed Kaba |
| he tomb of Ghosh Mohammed Kaba in Lakhpat is amongst the best tourist attractions in Gujarat, India. The town of Lakhpat is at a distance of 151 km from the Bhuj airport. The town has an amazing landscape. It is also known for its rich historical splendors, which you can see in the form of old temples, gurudwaras and mosques. The tomb of Ghosh Mohammed Kaba is very famous and attracts a lot of tourists.From the vantage point on the wall of the tomb, a breathtaking view of the sea and the Rann of Kutch can be enjoyed. The town of Lakhpat is now deserted and uninhabited. Amongst the ruins of the town, the one that stands prominent is the Gurudwara or the holy shrine of the Sikhs. The tomb of Ghosh Mohammed Kaba is about 200 years old. It is a gigantic tomb that still stands to narrate stories from the bygone era....more |
| Kutch Museums |
| Kutch Museum, formerly known as the Fergusson Museum, is situated in the ancient city of Bhuj, in Kutch , it is the oldest of its kind in Gujarat. The museum, constructed in the Italian Gothic style, is located in the picturesque surroundings on the bank of Hamirsar Lake just opposite to the Nazar Bagh Garden.The Kachchh Museum in Bhuj, India, is one of the famous Tourist Attractions in Bhuj. Built during the period of British Rule in India, the Museum of Kachchh in Bhuj is the most significant among all other Museums in Bhuj as it displays the articles that take the visitors to those ages to which they belonged....more |
| Folk Museum Bhuj |
| The Folk Museum in Bhuj, India, is also known as Bharatiya Sanskruti Darshan, Bhuj.This museum has an interesting collection of artifacts including textiles which are displayed at typical village habitat. The Bhuj area has tribal people namely the Rabaries,Jats and Ahir to name a few. Therefore the museum here is rich in folk culture and art and is a must see.One of the chief attractions of Folk Museum, Bhuj which you will hardly find in any of the other Museums in Bhuj, is a rare fossil of a Crocodilian which is which is an extinct species of the crocodile of the modern age. This creature was double the size of a crocodile of today measuring as much as 9 meters as compared to the modern species which measures only 3 to 4 meters in length.Apart from this, a wide range of textiles and artifacts belonging to the members of the royal families of Bhuj have been elaborately displayed in Folk Museum, Bhuj. These timeless items have become hallmark of the glorious past when Bhuj was under the rule of the Rajputs. The private collections of the rulers arouse interest and amazement among visitors of all ages. The Museum also houses models of villages of this part of the world....more |
| Narayan Sarovar Sancuary |
| Located about only 2 kms away from the Kutch district in Gujarat, the Narayan Sarovar Chinkara Sanctuary is considered as one of the most unique wildlife sanctuaries in India. The sanctuary is also known as the Narayan Sarovar Wildlife Sanctuary and is mainly dedicated at preserving and conserving the endangered species of Chinkara or the Indian Gazelle. The sanctuary was established in April, 1981 and has been holding a special place among the nature lovers all over the world, since then.It covers a huge area of 444 sq. km.The Narayan Sarovar Chinkara Sanctuary has a unique eco-system. A part of the sanctuary is a seasonal wetland in the arid zone that play mother to 15 threatened wildlife species.....more |
| Kutch Bustard Sanctuary |
| The Kutch Bustard Sanctuary is one of the great wonders of wildlife in Gujarat. With amazing geographical features, flora and fauna, the sanctuary simply leaves you spellbound with its wild splendors. Spread over an area of 2 sq km, Kutch Bustard Sanctuary is located in proximity to Naliya which is under the district of Kutch in Gujarat India. The sanctuary was established with an aim to protect the great Indian Bustard.The total population of the species of Indian Bustards has reduced considerably since the last few years due to various reasons like poaching, hunting and others.....more |