Rann for it

HIT THE ROAD

Kutch in Gujarat is the second largest district in India after Ladakh and covers an area of 45,612 sq km Faintly resembling a tortoise (hence the name "� from 'kachbo' in Gujarati) and comprising mainly salty, dry flats, both the Rann of Kutch and the Little Rann are completely uninhabitable. Don't let that deter you, though.

There is raw, primal beauty in this hostile terrain and wildlife enthusiasts will be especially happy. On a good day, you are likely to see the Asiatic Wild Ass (only found here), black buck, neelgai, wolves, flamingos, waterfowl, raptors and any number of other birds.

Kutch is also known for its tribes "� the Rabaris, the Bajanias and the Kolis "� and their intricately embroidered clothes and silver jewellery.

The Rann of Kutch is about 160 km from Ahmedabad and around 650 km from Mumbai. The best way to visit is to stay in Zainabad and make day trips into the Rann from there. Desert Coursers Camp Zainabad (Ph: 02757-241333, Rs 850 onwards, per person per day) is an excellent place to stay.

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