#places to see in dholavira

[evokedholavira]

A Traveller’s Guide to Mumbai to Dholavira

Embark on an adventure from Mumbai to Dholavira. Explore ancient ruins, unraveling the mysteries of the Harappan Civilization's rich history and culture.

[gujpreneur]

Delving into the White Rann of Kutch— Gujarat’s significant epicentre

The White Rann of Kutch has become a significant epicenter for everyone who seeks to travel Gujarat forming a meticulous sight of attraction. A perfect amalgamation of nature, culture and art is what we can see at -Rann of Kutch. The famous dialogue from GOT- ‘Winter is coming’; can be the best fit for describing the white desert of Kutch. The desert to turn white pearl alike giving eye-catching view setting the tone for the winter season.

The White Rann of Kutch- a significant epicenter

Unfurling the aesthetics of ‘Rann Utsav’ portrays an apt intersection of celebrating life and a source of employment generation. Moreover , Gujarat and Business goes hand-in-hand, every affair that takes place embarks into economic flow. As the winter season kick-starts, the local businesses of Kutch region blooms with its heritage onset. The craftsmen and indigenous community of the region seeks a direct source of employment via Rann Utsav. The colourful attires, jewellery and handicraft products showcased in the Rann of Kutch hold a legacy. The Rann of Kutch – the place enchanted with natural beauty is located in the Dhordo village. UNWTO has declared it as the ‘Best Tourism Village’. Kutch is located at a distance of 407 kms from Ahmedabad. Car, bus and trains are easily connected from there. It provides a canvas to float in, colours of experiences to fill, and more importantly embraces all the visitors. This mesmerizing sight is a go-to place for all kinds of tourists. With an increase in the trend of women solo-traveling specifically, female friendly traveling package has also been curated by the Gujarat tourism. It has encouraged women to travel solo and experience the beauty of the ‘Tent city.’ 

THE TENT CITY OF RANN OF KUTCH

From young chic influencers, Bollywood celebrities to international tourists, everybody adores ‘Rann of Kutch’. The place provides its authenticity and ethnicity, engaging numerous tourists on their voyage. They have developed Tent city in the form that gives everyone a luxurious stay as well as connects them to roots. Rajwadi, Darbari, many more such suites are the categories at the tent city. There are places such as Dholavira, Mandvi Beach, Kutch Museum, and many more along side to explore and worth visiting.

Catch the lifetime experience at the White Rann of Kutch with top-notch hospitality that contributes in curating tons of memories—one stop for all quests! The best and highly preferable time to visit such scenic beauty is during full moon day period. It is about to fall on 25-27th December 2023, 24-26th January 2024, and 23-25thFebruary 2024. It’s a call for each and every one ranging from photographers, solo travelers to vloggers, sky grazers, people urging for that “much needed vacation” can just dive into the amazing Rann of Kutch especially during the mentioned dates.

Even the to-do list for this exposure includes various interesting activities like experiencing the Kutchi form of live folk music, dance, lip-smacking food, camel safari, camp under stars & moon, renting terrain vehicles, village stay, hot air balloon ride, indoor-outdoor games, DJ & Garba nights, Paramotoring, Zipline, Bornfire and many more. Along with all these exciting activities, you can also celebrate your memorable days at the white dessert—be it your birthday, anniversary, or destination wedding.

ITS TIME TO WITNESS THE VIBRANCY OF KUTCH

The glorious Kutch Utsav is a go-to place not only for a staycation to get refresh out of mundane routine but also for an adventurous expedition. It’s a place to cherish the authentic craft bazaar of Kalamkari artworks, pottery and the jamming sessions. Uniquely, #RannKeRang offers numerous colours to experience each day with delighted soothing sunrise, sunset and full moon views. 

This is the marking of charismatic and fun loading experiences. In the thrive of preserving culture and heritage of the place, revenue generation for localities forms a noteworthy element. It’s time to celebrate, rejuvenate, relax, chill at the Rann Utsav by delving into the vibrancy of this winter festival. Catch the vibe to #RannKeRang and astonishingly welcome the new year at such refreshing place!

Keep reading Gujpreneur.com for more such interesting and informative articles.

[nadabetindo-pakborder]

The Best Places to Visit in Gujarat

Gujarat is a vibrant state in western India with a rich history and culture. It is home to a variety of tourist attractions, including ancient temples, forts, palaces, beaches, and wildlife sanctuaries. Some of the most popular places to visit in Gujarat include:

Nadabet Indo Pak Border

Nadabet is a border town between India and Pakistan, located in the Kutch district of Gujarat. It is one of the most important land border crossings between the two countries. Visitors can witness the daily Beating Retreat ceremony at the border, which is a must-see experience.

Statue of Unity

The Statue of Unity is the tallest statue in the world, dedicated to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Iron Man of India. It is located in Kevadia, Gujarat, and is a popular tourist attraction.

SOU Tent City 1

SOU Tent City 1 is a luxury camp located near the Statue of Unity. It offers a variety of accommodation options, including tents, cottages, and villas. The camp also has a restaurant, bar, swimming pool, and other amenities.

Dholavira

Dholavira is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest and most important Harappan cities. It is located in the Kutch district of Gujarat and is a popular tourist destination for those interested in history and archaeology.

Staying information

There are a few budget-friendly hotels and tent city located in Dholavira village. However, if you are looking for more comfortable accommodation, you can stay at one of the hotels in the nearby town of Bhuj.

Rann of Kutch

The Rann of Kutch is a vast salt desert that transforms into a white wonderland during the Rann Utsav (festival). The festival is held every year from September to February and is a popular tourist attraction for those who want to experience the unique beauty of the Rann.

Staying information

There are a number of tented camps set up in the Rann during the Rann Utsav. These camps offer a variety of accommodation options, as well as a variety of activities and entertainment.

Conclusion

Gujarat is a state with something to offer everyone. Whether you are interested in history, culture, nature, or adventure, you are sure to find a place to visit in Gujarat that you will enjoy.

[jastourism]

What is the best time to visit Kutch Rann Utsav?

Rann Utsav:

Rann Utsav is a festival that takes place in the Kutch district which is one of the best places to visit in Gujarat. It is held annually in the Rann of Kutch, a large salt desert in western India, and celebrates the culture and traditions of the region.

The festival typically runs from November to February and offers a variety of activities, including camel safaris, cultural performances, and handicraft exhibitions. Visitors can also participate in traditional games, such as kite flying and kabaddi, and try local food and handicrafts.

Rann Utsav is an opportunity for tourists to experience the unique culture and landscape of the Rann of Kutch, and it attracts visitors from all over the world. The festival also helps to promote economic development in the region by providing employment and business opportunities for local residents.

Overall, Rann Utsav is an exciting and vibrant festival that celebrates the rich culture and traditions of Gujarat and the Rann of Kutch.

Popular attractions of Rann Utsav:

There are several famous attractions included in the Rann of Kutch Packages, such as;

●    Cultural performances:

Rann Utsav features a variety of cultural performances, including traditional music and dance, puppetry, and theatre.

●    Handicraft exhibitions:

Rann Utsav features exhibitions of traditional handicrafts, such as embroidery, weaving, and pottery, and visitors can purchase these items as souvenirs.

●    Camel safaris:

Rann Utsav offers camel safaris through the Rann of Kutch, allowing visitors to explore the region's unique landscape and culture.

●    Traditional games:

Visitors can participate in traditional games, such as kite flying and kabaddi, during Rann Utsav.

●    Local food and handicrafts:

Rann Utsav features a variety of local food and handicrafts, including traditional snacks, jewellery, and clothing.

●    Cultural workshops:

Rann Utsav offers cultural workshops, such as cooking demonstrations and art classes, where visitors can learn about and participate in traditional activities.

●    Night sky viewing:

The Rann of Kutch is known for its clear night sky, and Rann Utsav offers the opportunity to view the stars and constellations.

●    Temple visits:

Rann Utsav includes visits to local temples, where visitors can learn about and experience the region's rich spiritual traditions.

Nearby places to visit in Rann Utsav:

Kutch hosts the Rann Utsav where tourists can also explore some of Gujarat best tourist places including;

●    Bhuj:

Bhuj is a city located in the Kutch district of Gujarat, and it is known for its rich cultural heritage and historical sites. Visitors to Rann Utsav can visit Bhuj to see the Aina Mahal, a palace built in the 18th century, and the Prag Mahal, a palace built in the 19th century.

●    Mandvi:

Mandvi is a town located on the coast of the Arabian Sea in the Kutch district of Gujarat. It is known for its beautiful beaches and historic shipbuilding industry. Visitors to Rann Utsav can visit Mandvi to see the Vijay Vilas Palace, a palace built in the 20th century, and Mandvi Beach, a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing.

●    Dholavira:

Dholavira is an ancient Indus Valley Civilization site located in the Kutch district of Gujarat. It is known for its well-preserved ruins, including a city wall, a citadel, and a series of reservoirs. Visitors to Rann Utsav can visit Dholavira to learn about the history and culture of the Indus Valley Civilization.

●    Narayan Sarovar:

Narayan Sarovar is a series of holy lakes located in the Kutch district of Gujarat. It is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus and is known for its beautiful temple complex. Visitors to Rann Utsav can visit Narayan Sarovar to see the temples and participate in religious ceremonies.

Overall, there are many nearby places to visit in Rann Utsav, each offering a unique cultural and historical experience.

The best time to visit Rann Utsav:

The best time to visit Rann Utsav depends on your interests and the type of experience you are looking for. Rann Utsav typically runs from November to February, and each month offers a different experience.

If you are interested in cultural performances and handicraft exhibitions, November and December are good times to visit, as these activities are typically held in the evenings. The weather is also cooler and more comfortable during these months.

If you are interested in camel safaris and exploring the landscape of the Rann of Kutch, January and February are good times to visit, as the weather is dry and the salt flats are more visible. If you are interested in booking the Rann Utsav Packages for dates 2022-2023, get in touch with Jas Tours and Travels.

Overall, the best time to visit Rann Utsav depends on your interests and the type of experience you are looking for. If you are interested in cultural activities, November and December are good times to visit, while if you are interested in exploring the landscape, January and February are good times to visit.

[abhishek78yadav]

Detailed information about Gujarat state.

Gujarat itself is a historical, art and diversified state of India. The land of Gujarat has given birth to many great sons, which include Mahatma Gandhi, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Morarji Desai, Narendra Modi, Vikram Sarabhai, Amit Shah and other names.in detailed information about gujarat state given below.

Gujarat, which is called the Manchester of India, is known for being a leader in its cotton textile production, industrial sector. Gujarat is a coastal state and the state of Gujarat has the longest coastline among the states.This lush green state boasts of many variations. Nature has made it wonderfully like river, lake, beach, forest, and Rann of Kutch. Gujarat has about forty sites in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The mountain of Gir itself boasts a new natural world, the Asiatic lion of Gir National Park is famous all over the world.

The history of Gujarat is very old. Twenty-three sites related to Harappan civilization have been found in Gujarat, which include Lothal, Dholavira, Goladhaura, etc. Most sites of Indus Valli Civilization have been discovered after India’s independence. Gujarat was ruled by many rulers, including Maurya Dynasty, Kshatrapa Dynasty, Satavahana Dynasty, Gupta Dynasty, Chalukya Dynasty, Rashtrakuta Dynasty, Pala Dynasty, and Gurjara Pratihara Dynasty.

Due to the rule of many dynasties, Gujarat’s culture, art, literature, language, way of life, is full of diversity. Despite this, people of every religion community like Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, Christian, Parsi, Jain, Buddhist etc. are living in harmony with their language and culture.

Let us now see the geographical, political, social, historical form of Gujarat such as the establishment, capital, total area, location, border states, total population, high court, male, female population, total literacy rate, male and female literacy. Rate, Density Sex-Ratio, Lagislature, Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha Seats, Current Affairs, Gujarat State Government and Council of Ministers, Festivals, Lakes, Reverse, Tourist Destination and Places, Religious Places of Gujarat State and Famous Personality.

visit more information click here- indiannovel.com

[xravelin]

Find Best Travel Places in India on Winter Days with your Best Travel Buddies

December is less than a week away and it’s time to firm up winter holiday plans. You can be torn between whether to still stay at home as the COVID-19 pandemic has forced the world to cancel vacations, reunions and business trips this year, or whether to embark on a new journey to explore new destinations with the correct covid precaution. You may also choose to use your work from home opportunity and opt for a staycation.

Here’s a list of destinations you may want to explore this winter within India providing the perfect getaway along with COVID Precautions:

Goa

Goa is everyone’s favourite beach destination all round the year, but December is peak season thanks to the balmy days and Christmas festivities. However, owing to the high demand, both airfare and accommodation costs tend to be high during this period.

It is recommended to dedicate a day each to explore North, South and Old Goa. Dine at beach side shacks for lip smacking seafood at cheaper rates.

2. Rajasthan

Winter is the perfect season to explore this beautiful state of forts and desert. Spend time in Jaipur, Jodhpur and Jaisalmer. It is recommended to stay at least one night in a desert camp in Jaisalmer. If you take a package, it will include camel rides and meals.

3. Kerala

Hills, beaches and backwaters— Kerala has it all. Road trips through the lush green mountains and picturesque little towns of Kerala will be an unforgettable experience. It is recommended to spend time in Munnar, famous for its tea plantations, in the jungles of Thekkady and in the backwaters of Alleppey.

4. Kashmir

The best time to visit Srinagar would definitely be in December when the cottages,the pine trees are all covered in snow and the Dal Lake looks serene. When you’re here, you can stay at a quaint houseboat.

Visit Gulmarg as it is among the top destinations for snow lovers and winter sports enthusiasts. It hosts skiing, sledging, snow scooter etc and the much talked about gondola rides. 

5. Gujarat

While most parts of Gujarat can be explored round the year, December is the best time to visit Rann of Kutch. We recommend taking the Rann Utsav package for your stay in Kutch and exploring the nearby ruined city of Dholavira or the beach city of Mandvi.

You may simply want a companion for independent travel- because you can’t embark on a journey to explore randomly with anyone, especially when you are a traveler and not just a tourist. You may also want a travel companion to avoid the single supplement.That is where websites, apps, social media comes handy. You may connect to new people and start new journeys to explore a new destination- or see your own city from a new perspective.

Among the many apps/ websites available, XRavelIN comes as a one stop solution when you want to Experience and Unravel India. Get the app from Google Playstore and all your travel worries will be taken care of.

Here is the Google Play Link https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=xravelin.com

Create a profile and begin your journey as a XRaveler. Get verified, following a simple process of ID Verification and earn a badge of XRaveler-Wiz. Get connected to XRavelers around the world, filter them according to your preference- age, gender, occupation or interests. While you may rightfully be cautious about cat fishing- because you never know who is real and who isn't on social media, XRaveler- Wiz badges comes handy. Know more about XRavelers following their feeds and go through their own posts/ pictures/ blogs/ vlogs.

XRavelIN helps your decision- making with an extensive list of Adventure Destinations, Cultural Festivals and encourages you to travel like a local. It also helps you to get connected to local XRavelers, lists available Hosts. Pictures of Amenities offered by Hosts are also made available for your convenience. Create/ Join a trip- be a Travel-Buddy or find a Travel-Buddy. Get all details/ discuss in our Group-Chat feature. XRavelIN encourages safety first, and you may choose to Opt-Out froma trip/event, even if you have an iota of doubt and Report for the benefit/ reference of the other members of the community. Even while on a trip, you may reach out to an XRaveler nearby, in case of any emergency by a single-tap on the Emergency Alert.

Grab more information about travel places in India with best travel buddies, explore our website https://xravelin.com/ & Download app on Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=xravelin.com

[prachivaru]

Kutch : Heart Of Gujarat

Kutch is an erstwhile princely state of India holding onto its grandeur nature from the past. Kutch is probably one of the most beautiful, yet surreal places in India with the vast expanses of the white salt desert.  The place comes to life during the winters when the Rann Festival is held from December to February every year in which there are huge camp settlements with cultural programs, functions and adventure activities like hot-air ballooning, bungee jumping and other outdoor sports.

Kutch is also among the largest district of India with a terribly low population density. Also, Kutch lies on the India-Pakistan border and you can see parts of Pakistan from Kutch. Kutch is also famous for crafts and embroidery works, Flamingo Sanctuary and Wild Ass Sanctuary. Bhuj is an ideal starting point to visit the Rann of Kutch. Beautiful beaches of Mandvi near Bhuj are also totally worth visiting during your trip to Kutch. The ancient town of Dholavira contains ruins of an ancient Indus Valley Civilization/Harappan city and its location is on the Tropic of Cancer.

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Kutch Trip Report 2021

2800 km in 9 days that is Kutch trip 2021 for us.  Started as only 4 persons while planning, it took off with 8 persons in two cars one Renault Duster and the other Honda Jazz.  It was to be Noel, Commander, me and Meera Madam from the Spiti Team.   But overhearing our conversation, my younger son said I will also come.  Navin from Delhi opted to join, then my son said let’s go in our car. That gave us some leverage. Anandhi my wife said I will also come.  Biren and Madhavi joined from Vadodara.  Unfortunately, Navin could not join due to Covid.  Hence, it was 8 persons in two cars.  I insisted on RT-PCR due to Covid so that there should not be any hiccups when we cross the state border either way, which was agreed upon.

Everything started rolling in, a group was formed to share the ideas, places to see, etc.  Few meetings took place in virtually.  It was loosely decided to have a 9 day trip.  Of which first 5 days were planned and booked.  Rest of the bookings, it was agreed to go as it comes.  The plan which was agreed upon went like this.

Kevadia, Ahmedabad, Patan, Dasada, Dhordo, Bhuj/Nakhatrana, Lakhpat, Narayan Sarovar, Mandvi, Vadodara and Dandi.  Biren insisted on staying with him on last day at Vadodara.

A week before D-day, it was finalised with a halt at Kevadia, stay in outskirts of Vadodara, pass Ahmedabad to Patan, and 2 night halts at Dasada, 2 night homestay at Chobari. That was upto 1st morning.  At Chobari, Ramji Meriya, the owner of Nature Zone referred us to Jugal Tiwari the owner of Centre for Desert and Ocean at Nakhatrana. 

Off went we 3 from Kalyan west on 24.2.2021, picked up Meera Madam from Kalyan east in the early morning and proceeded to meet the other group at Khaman junction on the highway.  Noel and Commander started from Powai and reached there. 

Day-1

Kevadia

After breakfast at Hotel Ahura, went to Kevadiya via Navsari-Rajpipla and reached Statue of Unity. We reached via Kevadiya railway station road and Noel reached the other way.  Parked our cars at Valley of Flowers car parking.  You can walk to the nearest gate also. Plenty of buses run for visitors to reach the gate, of course free of cost at frequent interval.  As we have booked the tickets online, we showed the booking in our mobile and went inside.  There are two types of tickets one for the gallery and the other to go in lift upto a certain level inside the statue to see the view from above.  You may require atleast 3-4 hours to see around.  Evening sunset near the dam and light show on the statue after sunset are additional attractions.  Then we went to Vadodara outskirts and stayed in Hotel Apple Grand. (a nice hotel on the highway)

The 182-metre (600 feet aprox.) statue is dedicated to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the architect of independent India. The colossal monument towers over River Narmada and overlooks the vast surrounds and the river basin and the sprawling Sardar Sarovar dam. The Sardar Sarovar Dam is the third highest concrete dam (163 metres) in India after Bhakra (226 metres) in Himachal Pradesh and Lakhwar (192 metres) in Uttar Pradesh. A Light and Sound show using laser technology projected on the Statue of Unity takes place every evening except Monday.  For further details about the Statue of Unity click here

Day-2

Biren and Madhavi joined us in the morning. At breakfast, we decided to skip Sabarmati as going in Ahmedabad would delay our journey. Instead we went to Adalaj Stepwell. 

Adalaj Stepwell

The flamboyant 15th-century stepwell, with intricate carvings on the pillars that support the five storeys are mostly intact; the beams work as pit stops for pigeons flying in and out and the structure still leaves jaws dropped for swarms of people. The step-well represents the Indo-Islamic fusion architecture that percolated through the many stepwells of the period. The opening in the ceilings above the landing allows light and air to enter the octagonal well, but direct sunlight never touches the steps except at noon. It is said that the temperature inside the well is six degrees cooler than outside. The stepwell has three entrances. The stairs lead to an underground storey, which has an octagonal opening on top. The walls are covered in ornamental carvings with mythological and village scenes. You can read about it more here

Rani-ki-vav, Patan

Next stop was Patan, the world heritage site of Rani-ki-Vav. This is one of the oldest and finest stepwells in Gujarat and is remarkably preserved. Steps lead down through multiple levels with lines of carved pillars and more than 800 sculptures, mostly on Vishnu-avatar themes, as well as striking geometric patterns. The stepwell is made in the form of an inverted temple. It showcases superior craftsmanship of the era, and the unique Maru-Gurjara architectural style. The stepwell was built in 1063 by Rani Udayamati of the Chaulukya Dynasty to commemorate her husband, Bhimdev I. The stepwell was commissioned in 1063 and was completed after 20 years. Archeologists Henry Cousens and James Burgess visited it in 1890s when it was completely buried under silt and only the shaft and few pillars were visible. The stepwell was rediscovered in 1940s, and the Archeological Survey of India restored it in 1980s. The stepwell has been listed as one of UNESCO's World Heritage Sites since 2014. Read more here

Sun Temple, Modhera

The guide we hired here told us to go to Modhera also. So we went to Modhera before the close of the site for the day. Modhera is an ideal destination for being away from the hustle-bustle of city life for a day. The unruffled peaceful landscape and the majestically welcoming temple complex will ensure to take you away from the mundane routines of daily. As you enter the historical complex, you first come across the magnificent kund known as the Ramakund, built in rectangular shape containing 108 shrines to various gods and demi-gods. There are three main shrines positioned on the three sides of the kund, dedicated to Ganesh and Vishnu and an image of Lord Shiva dancing the ‘tandav’ facing the temple of the sun which covers the fourth side. The twelve representations carved on the pillars represent the sun according to the twelve months. The statue of the sun god no longer exists. More about here

Reached Rann Riders, Dasada, Little Rann of Kutch in the night.  During the night you can miss the sign board, while reaching advised to go slow so that you can take a proper turn to reach the resort.  We met Cyclist Brajesh Sharma who was going live on YouTube from the Nature Zone.  He is on All India Tour on cycle to create awareness about dangers of using plastic in general and single use plastic in particular.  He regularly interacts with the schools, colleges on his tour which he started a year back.  Follow him here  

Day-3

Little Rann of Kutch

Morning after breakfast, went for the dry land safari in the Wild Ass Sanctuary and wet land safari in the evening.  Being the world’s only natural habitat for wild ass, the sanctuary of course draws people to watch these magnificent creatures. However, the sanctuary harbours a large variety of bird population. The Rann was a shallow part of the Gulf of Kutch earlier. It is formed through the process of siltation of marine estuary. During monsoon, the Rann becomes a vast shallow sheet of water which dries up by October, November. Flamingos, Pelicans, Spoonbills, Glossy Ibis and Painted Storks etc were seen by us. We saw Brahminy Duck, Sandgrouse, etc. also.

Day-4

Left for Dholavira for Harappan Excavation another UNESCO World Heritage site. This was the highlight of the trip.  As all you know, every such trip has a highlight and a place worth visiting, a lifetime achievement. Dholavira was one such place. You are reminded of the advance techniques used by people more than 4500 years ago. You will not believe until you see such place. Personally, I feel what you are taught in schools about history is nothing when you visit such places and hear from government guides.

Dholavira

Dholavira is the most remarkable excavations of the Indus Valley Civilization or Harappan culture, dating back to 4500 years ago. What Dholavira offers you, in the intense environment that comes with being surrounded by the Great Rann of Kutch, is a unique insight into the pioneering Harappan mind, with one of the world’s earliest and best planned water conservation systems and what might be the world’s first signboards, written in ancient Indus script. 

The excavation also tells the story of the 7 stages of the civilization, from development to maturity to decay, the last of which hints at a strange piece of history, with more questions than answers. After the peak of the civilization Dholavira was temporarily abandoned, after which it seems that the settlers returned with a markedly de-urbanized culture. There are hints that they willingly chose to simplify their lives, rather than try to ride the collapse of their once glorified civilization. Here, on the ruins, you will have a chance to contemplate what progress and civilization mean and what, if anything, is truly permanent.

Dholavira, known locally as Kotada (large fort), sprawls over 100 hectares of semi-arid land at the north-west corner of the island of Khadir. It is one of the islands in the Great Rann of Kutch that remain above the flood-plains in months when the rest of the desert is submerged by the monsoon. Dholavira has two seasonal nallahs, or streams: Mansar in the north, and Manhar in the south. The journey to Dholavira itself is beautiful, taking you through the saline desert plains of the Great Rann, where you can spot wildlife such as chinkara, nilgai, flamingos and other bird life.

The site was unearthed by the Archeological Survey of India (ASI) in 1967, but has been systematically excavated only since 1990. It has a museum where all the artefacts are on display.  Visit this website for more information.

Chobari

We started for Chobari, Nature Zone, our final stop of the day. The google map shows the wrong route at the last leg.  But follow your instincts and go, as the people nearby are helpful.  Ashwath drove through a village and people guided properly. When in the map it was showing the homestay is just across, I told him just take a turn instead of going ahead. Just then, I noticed a board showing the way. So, we went first, as the other car followed the google map and was helped by Ramji by sending a person to show the way.  It is very difficult in the night and if you are new in these areas.

Meriya Nature Zone is a homestay and bookings can be made through personal contacts.  It is yet to be on internet.  The homestay is very good with basic amenities.  As mobile network is available, no worries about internet connection. Ekal Rann is nearby and the full moon with Rann in background is something to be experienced. For bird lovers, the homestay itself is a heaven as Maharashtra’s state bird Yellow footed Green Pigeon, peacock, red vented bulbul, kingfisher, Domicile’s crane, etc are plenty.  Just outside the homestay, there is a water body, where lot of coots, cormorants, ducks, shag, etc can be seen.

Day-5

Ekal Rann

Noel and others went for nearby bird watching where hordes of peacock, common cranes, calves feeding takes place and came back.  The other group enjoyed the bird watching and village experience chitchatting under the tree in the homestay.  As we have not decided about our further stay at Nakhatrana/Bhuj, Ramji Meriya suggested us Jugal Tiwari at Nakhatrana.  We finalised the stay at Nakhatrana, Centre for Desert and Ocean (CEDO) for two nights.  In the evening we went to Ekal Rann for sunset and full moon.  We saw flamingos and cranes in thousands.  The slushy road in between leads to Dholavira but only when it dries. Ramji was telling that due to excessive rains this year, it has not dried up.  He also remembered his pioneering effort of bike rally from Ekal to Dholavira and back.

Day-6

Bhuj

After breakfast, we started off to Bhuj, and straight went to Aina Mahal but unfortunately, we reached around 12.30 pm. It is closed between 11.45 am and 3.00 pm.  Then, Noel suggested to go to his friend’s hotel (Hotel Annapurna, near Bhid Gate).  We thought of getting our RT-PCR done and enquired with Gor and Jugal Tiwari and agreed to do it in Bhuj before proceeding further to Mandvi and then to Nakhatrana.  Bhagat lab, Bhuj does the RT-PCR in Bhuj.

Mandvi Beach

We then went to Mandvi beach and spent time.  There must be some other point where seagull, spoon bill etc, are plenty.  The beach point is very crowded with camel ride, boat ride, joy ride etc.  and bustling with lot of people.  We were wondering where this corona went?

Reached Moti-Virani village, where CEDO is situated and here came to know about Jugal Tiwari is ex. BNHS person.  He was also pleasantly surprised to know about us being BNHS members.  The booking at CEDO is through internet only and some times through contacts known to him. In our case Ramji Meriya. No bookings on go and knock.

Day-7

Lakhpat, Narayan Sarovar

Mata-no-Madh, Ashapura Temple

After breakfast, we started for Lakhpat the fort town.  On our way we stopped at the Mata-No-Madh Ashapura Temple. This shrine is steeped in antiquity as far as its origin is concerned. Today there is no trace of any ancient records or writings which give any indications of the beginning of worship at this shrine. One fact firmly stands out that this deity was very much there in 9th century AD when the Samma clan of Rajputs from Sindh first entered western, or more correctly, north-western Kutch. They were followed in the later centuries by more families or this clan which eventually established them in the region and one of their line got control of the whole state of Kutch in the beginning of the 16th century.  Then we went to Siyot Caves. It is a small Buddhist cave as the name suggests. From Siyot to Lakhpat, the road after passing a village was only bushes and mud road. Though the google map shows it as Siyot-Lakhpat Road, it is a challenge to drive on this road which joins the Gaduli-Lakhpat Road at the end.

Lakhpat

Lakhpat Fort with a walled fort, was an important coastal trade node in the 18th century. At the mouth of the Kori creek, the large fort walls still offer testimony to a short but glorious past. One can climb the fort rampart, the only remaining structure of the fort, and look over at the placid sea. This spot is particularly stunning at sunset. Within the fort walls, also lies a 16th century gurdwara. It is believed that Guru Nanak stopped here twice during his second (1506–1513) and fourth (1519–1521) missionary journey called Udasis. The gurdwara is a soothing spot for travellers. The soft hymns play constantly in the background, as travellers visit the ancient Sikh place of worship to see relics like wooden footwear, palkhi (palanquin), manuscripts and markings of two important heads of Udasi sect.  We had prasad at the Gurudwara Langar.

More than 200 years old, the fort is named after Rao Lakha, who ruled in Sindh about the middle of the thirteenth century. It fell to ruins through the century, as trade depleted, and the people in the town migrated to fairer pastures.

Narayan Sarovar

Narayan Sarovar Temple has great spiritual significance. This is one of the 5 holy lakes of Hinduism, along with Mansarovar in Tibet, Pampa in Karnataka, Bhuvaneshwar in Orissa and Pushkar in Rajasthan, and is considered a coveted place for a holy dip. The origin of Narayan Sarovar dates back to the Puranas. It is said that there was a drought in the region, and Lord Vishnu appeared in response to ardent prayers by sages. When he touched the land with his toe, a lake was immediately created, alleviating the locals from their misery. An adjoining temple built by the wife of Maharao Desalji features shrines of Shri Trikamraiji, Laxminarayan, Govardhannathji, Dwarkanath, Adinarayan, Ranchodraiji and Laxmiji. Madhavi was excited to know about Vallabhacharya, who had baithak at this place. She interacted with the pujari of the temple to know more about it. 

A short drive from here, the Koteshwar Mahadev Temple is a grand sandstone structure that overlooks a marshy sea. Shrines dedicated to Shiva and Ganesha are the highlights here. Koteshwar Temple, at a place where the immensity of dry land meets the incomprehensible vastness of the sea. It is the last outpost of human construction and the temple at the westernmost limit of India. The story of Koteshwar begins with Ravana, who won a boon from Lord Shiva for an outstanding display of piety. This boon was the gift of a Shiva linga of great spiritual power, but which Ravana, in his arrogant haste, accidentally dropped and it fell to earth at Koteshwar. To punish Ravana for his carelessness, the linga turned into a thousand identical copies (some versions of the story say ten thousand, some a million; suffice to say it was quite a lot.) Unable to distinguish the original, Ravana grabbed one and departed, leaving the original one here, around which Koteshwar Temple was built. Visitors can see the temple, walk along the beach and on a clear night, even see the glow of light from Karachi, Pakistan, on the north-western horizon.  One more observation was that the flag is so long that it touches almost the sides. Never seen temple flag so long.

On our way back, we were looking for the tropic of cancer line which we could not find while going.  To our delight, we found the board but the markings on the road is not at all visible may be due to asphalting of roads and ignorance of the contractor who laid the road.

We skipped going to Nirona village for award winning rogan artistes, bell makers, Lacquer works due to paucity of time.

Day-8

We started after our breakfast for Vadodara.  Wait. Jugal Tiwari wanted to show us his fossil collections which was spellbound.  He explained patiently and offered his help those students for their academic purpose. He also showed us the bell works and rogan art which he sells to guests as promotion of cultural appreciation.  After exchanging pleasantries, we left for Biren’s house.  The drive was a long one.  We took a different route in which the road was not at all good as compared to arterial roads. Hence, we reached Vadodara at least 30-40 minutes after they reached. Noel went to his daughter in law’s place.  We had a on the go Vadodara darshan in Biren’s vehicle.  Meera Madam revisited her student days.  We purchased some sweets and savouries for our contacts and colleagues in Mumbai. Else you will be stuck for response for it will be like Returned and had dinner at Biren’s house.

Day-9

Left early around 7 am.  Biren dropped Commander and Meera at the designated spot to meet Noel.  Transferred the luggages accordingly.  Off we went to Dandi.

Dandi

The 'National Salt Satyagraha Memorial', Dandi, is conceived as an experiential journey recreating the spirit and the energy of the 1930 Dandi March led by Mahatma Gandhi and 80 of his fellow Satyagrahis, taking the visitors to the Monument step-by-step in order to visualize and understand the history of the historic Salt March and the methodology of Satyagraha, which finally led to India’s Independence. As Noel asked us to visit his factory at Vasai, off we went from Dandi to Vasai. We reached first and was waiting who joined after half an hour.  Noel showed us his factory and his award-winning instruments. We said good-bye with lot of memories of the fascinating trip. Dropped Meera Madam at her place and returned to Kalyan west at sunset.

Note:

In view of Corona, we followed the safe procedure like wearing mask always when stepping out, in car, etc.

Did RT-PCR for each person for crossing the state border even though there was no check. 

Thanks to Noel and Ashwath our excellent drivers. Commander for a brief change drove a portion of the trip.

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[evokedholavira]

Explore Dholavira: Journey from Delhi to Ancient Ruins

Embark on a journey from Delhi to Dholavira, an ancient Harappan city, and uncover its secrets. Also, discover places to stay and travel options.

[iasshikshalove]

Daily Current Affairs Dated on 07-Feb-2020

Daily Current Affairs Dated on 01-Feb-2020 Contents: 1. CEA sees growth rebounding to 6% 2. WHO declares coronavirus outbreak a global emergency 3. Crop dusting with drones is illegal, says Centre 4. Needed: fewer regulations for startups 5. A chance to chart China-like export trajectory 6. Thalinomics: the formula behind one square meal 7. Budget 2020: Archaeological Sites set to be developed CEA SEES GROWTH REBOUNDING TO 6% Why in news? The economic survey expects GDP growth to revive from the 5% estimated or this year to a range between 6%-6.5% next year. To make a point about how being pro-crony is different from being pro-business, the Survey refers to the gains made unfairly by stocks of connected companies before the CAG report on the 2G spectrum allocations came out in 2011, again rejuvenating UPA-era malfeasance memories. Daily Current Affairs Dated on 01-Feb-2020 Economic Survey on GDP Growth Rate WHO DECLARES CORONAVIRUS OUTBREAK A GLOBAL EMERGENCY  The last time WHO declared a global health emergency was in 2019 for the Ebola outbreak in eastern Congo that killed more than 2,000 people.  The WHO declares a Public Health Emergency of International Concern when there is “an extraordinary event which is determined… to constitute a public health risk to other states through the international spread of disease.”  The agency also declared global emergencies for the 2016 Zika virus, the 2009 H1N1 swine flu, and the 2014 polio and Ebola outbreaks. Daily Current Affairs Dated on 01-Feb-2020 What does it mean?  Countries are reminded that they are legally required to share information with WHO under the IHR.  Any detection of 2019-nCoV in an animal (including information about the species, diagnostic tests, and relevant epidemiological information) should be reported to the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) as an emerging disease  All countries should be prepared for containment, including active surveillance, early detection, isolation and case management, contact tracing and prevention of onward spread of 2019-nCoVinfection, and to share full data with WHO.  Countries must inform WHO about any travel measures taken. Countries are cautioned against actions that promote stigma or discrimination, in line with the principles of Article 3 of the IHR. CROP DUSTING WITH DRONES IS ILLEGAL, SAYS CENTRE Why in news? Use of drones for agrochemical spraying had increased of late. This would create a lot of problems. What are problems? Aerial spraying impacts a larger area, while decreasing the efficacy on the target pests. Eg. Kasargod in Kerala reeling under such impact due to aerial spraying of Endosulfan for over 25 years The Insecticide Act does not allow aerial spraying. Drones and unmanned machines can be hazardous tools for spraying hazardous chemicals in many ways. Allowing Daily Current Affairs Dated on 01-Feb-2020 aerial spraying, using drones and unmanned, remote controlled vehicles can be catastrophic, NEEDED: FEWER REGULATIONS FOR START-UPS India needs to work on improving the ease of doing business, especially the ease of starting business, registering property, paying taxes, or enforcing contracts, according to the Economic Survey. World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business Rankings Cumbersome norms “If you want to start up a firm in India, it takes 18 days on an average with 10 procedures that can be often cumbersome. If we contrast it with New Zealand, which is the best in business, it takes half a day to fill up one form Daily Current Affairs Dated on 01-Feb-2020 A CHANCE TO CHART CHINA-LIKE EXPORT TRAJECTORY Why in news? The Economic Survey says India has an unprecedented opportunity to chart a China like, labour Intensive, export trajectory by integrating “Assemble in India for the world” into the Make in India policy and thus can raise its export market share to 3.5 % by 2025 and 6% by 2030 THALINOMICS: THE FORMULA BEHIND ONE SQUARE MEAL For the average worker in India’s organised manufacturing sector, the affordability of a plate of vegetarian food — comprising rice or roti, dal and sabzi has improved 29% since 200607, according to Thalinomics, a take on the economics of food by the Economic Survey. For non-vegetarians, affordability has risen 18%. BUDGET 2020: KNOW ABOUT THE ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITES SET TO BE DEVELOPED Rakhigarhi, Haryana Daily Current Affairs Dated on 01-Feb-2020 Rakhigarhi, Haryana  Pre-Harappan Civilisation settlement, and later a part of the ancient civilisation itself, between 2600-1900 BCE.  What are found?: Remnants of a planned township with mud-brick houses and proper drainage system, along with terracotta jewellery, conch shells, vase and seals, things the Harappans were known for. Daily Current Affairs Dated on 01-Feb-2020 Hastinapur, Uttar Pradesh  We know Hastinapur as the ancient capital city of Pandavas and Kauravas from the epic Mahabharata.  Excavations at Hastinapur reportedly began in 1950-52  What are found?: Arrows, spearheads, shafts, tongs, hooks, axes and knives, amounting to about 135 iron objects.  Shri Digamber Jain Bada Mandir is one of the oldest temples at the site, among others like Jambudweep Jain temple, Shwetambar Jain temple, Prachin Digambar Jain Temple and Astapad Jain Temple. Daily Current Affairs Dated on 01-Feb-2020 Sivasagar, Assam  This place used to be the capital of the Ahom kingdom from 1699-1788, and was formerly called Rangpur.  The province was later conquered by the British.  Guwahati Circle Archaeological Survey of India mentions excavations conducted at the Karenghar (Talatalghar) complex, the citadel of Ahom power.  What are found?: Structural remains of pathways, long walls, terracotta pipes for drains, vase, and vessels, to name a few. The other important historical site is Rang Ghar, an amphitheatre for the Ahom kings, known to have been used for enjoying sports. Daily Current Affairs Dated on 01-Feb-2020 Dholavira, Gujarat  Ruins of the Harappan civilisation  Deemed the fifth largest Harappan site  What are found?: Artefacts excavated range from terracotta items and seals to urns and copper ornaments. About 10 large stone inscriptions have also been found at the site, written in Indus Valley script  Most importantly, it has one of the world’s earliest water conservation systems–a rainwater harvesting system–ever excavated Daily Current Affairs Dated on 01-Feb-2020 Adichanallur, Tamil Nadu  This is an archaeological urn-burial site in the Thoothukudi district  The objects yielded by these burial sites are finely made pottery of various kinds in great number; many iron implements and weapons; vessels and personal ornaments in bronze; a few gold ornaments; a few stone beads; bones; and some household stone implements used for grinding curry or sandalwood, besides the excavated urns which reportedly contained “complete skeletons”.

[bigyack-com]

Here is a list of 7 places you can visit under the Dekho Apna Desh campaign - travel

Travelling has never been more fun, or more lucrative! The Tourism Ministry of India has decided to fund those who travel to 15 destinations within the country in a year under the Dekho Apna Desh’ campaign. The initiative is on till 2022.The move will see the ministry fund the travel expenses of tourists who visit all the places and submit the photos on their website, revealed tourism minister Prahlad Singh Patel.The minister has said the condition to receive the funding is that the person should travel out of his/her own state, reported PTI. Come let's be a part of our Prime Minister's vision of '#DekhoApnaDesh' & take a pledge to visit at least 15 destinations by 2022 and dive deeper into India's art,culture,history & heritage.Take a pledge : https://t.co/S6P8fxfome#EkBharatShreshthaBharat #IncredibleIndia (2/2) pic.twitter.com/MQvmM6cLCf— Ministry of Tourism (@tourismgoi) January 24, 2020 Here’s how one can take a pledge in ‘Dekho Apna Desh’ campaign.• Visit pledge.mygov.in• Choose the language, either Hindi or English• Take a pledge• A certificate will be given via mobile text or e-mailHere are a few places to help you choose from a list of iconic tourist sites:Mahabodhi Temple: Spread over an area of 12 acres, the complex at Bihar’s Bodh Gaya had its first temple built by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BC. Other temples were built in the complex between 5th and 6th centuries AD. The site is said to be the place where Gautam Buddha received enlightenment in 531 BC at 35 years of age.Bodh Gaya is about 90 km from Patna. The temple complex is open from 5am to 9pm. While there is no entry fee, those carrying cameras or video cameras must pay Rs 100 and Rs 300 respectively.Kumarakom: A popular tourist destination near the city of Kottayam in Kerala, Kumarakom is popular for backwater tourism.Kumarakom is set in the backdrop of the largest lake in Kerala, Vembanad. A cluster of little islands, it is also a bird sanctuary and offers boating facilities.The nearest railway station is Kottayam, which is about 13 km away. The closest airport is in Kochi.Kaziranga National Park: Located in Assam on the south bank of the Brahmaputra river, it was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1985. The park is home to the largest population of the Indian one-horned rhinoceros.Visitors can reach Kaziranga via Furkating, which is the nearest railway station connected to major cities like Guwahati, Kolkata and New Delhi. The nearest airports to the park are Guwahati airport and Jorhat airport, located at a distance of 217 km and 97 km respectively.Mahabalipuram: Built between the 7th and 8th centuries, the group of monuments at Mahabalipuram in Tamil Nadu is around 58km from Chennai. The temples were built by the Pallava kings. It was listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage site in 1984.The nearest airport to Mahabalipuram is Chennai, while the nearest railway station is Chengalpattu, which is 29 km away.Hampi: Located in the Ballari district of Karnataka, the town of Hampi on the banks of the Tungabhadra river has the ruins of the kingdom of Vijayanagara. There are a number of temples and palaces built between the 14th and 16th centuries that are popular among tourists and photographers.Located approximately 350 km from Bengaluru, the closest railway station is Hospet, which is half an hour away. The nearest airports are Hubli and Belgaum.Humayun’s Tomb: It was built between 1569 and 1570 by Mughal emperor Akbar. The tomb has a raised dome of 139 feet and is covered by marble slabs.Humayun’s Tomb was the first garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent and is considered to be an inspiration for the Taj Mahal, which was built a century later.Located opposite Nizamuddin Dargah in Delhi, JLN Stadium on the Purple Line is the closest metro station to the Humayun’s Tomb. One can take an autorickshaw or a cab from the station to reach the place. The other close metro is the Jorbagh station on the Yellow Line, which is around 5 km from the tomb.The nearest railway station is Nizamuddin, which is 2.2 km away.Somnath temple: Located in Prabhas Patan in Saurashtra on the coast of Gujarat, it is considered to be one of the 12 jyotirlinga shrines in India. Built and razed several times in history, the present architecture was completed in 1951.Somnath is well connected to other major cities in the country via trains and one can also get buses to reach the place.Diu airport is 63 km from Somnath while the Porbandar airport is located 114km away.Other iconic places that have been identified by the Ministry of Tourism include Taj Mahal and Fatehpur Sikri (Uttar Pradesh), Ajanta and Ellora (Maharashtra), Red Fort and Qutub Minar (Delhi), Colva (Goa), Amer Fort (Rajasthan), Dholavira (Gujarat) and Khajuraho (Madhya Pradesh).Tourism Minister Prahlad Singh Patel has said the Sun Temple at Konark would also be included in the list of ‘iconic sites’.(This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text.)Follow more stories on Facebook and Twitter Read the full article

[justwravel-blog]

Top 10 Things That You Must Do On Your Trip To Rann Of Kutch

If you wish to spend your next holiday away from the crowd and in the, what we call, land of delusions, then Rann of Kutch is your place to be!

In this Kutch tour, you would not get the conventional mountains or sea-shores but would be able to witness a vast stretch of whites. This northern part of Gujarat is enriched with a rich history and would offer you an experience of a lifetime.

Here are what you must surely visit in Rann of Kutch.

1.       Great Rann of Kutch - This vast expanse of salt marshland offers mesmerizing views and that attracts tourists from all over the world. Here you would be able to relax in peace watching a beautiful aspect of nature that you might not have experienced before. The place is equipped with aesthetic beauty and that’s what makes this place the choice for shooting many Bollywood films. You can witness mirage in this region which makes the journey more thrilling.

How to reach- The nearest railway station is Bhachau Railway Station which is around 80km from Rann of Kutch. The nearest airport Kandla Airport is 100Km away from this place.

2.       Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary- This is one of the largest seasonal saline wetland areas and preserves multiple species of flamingo bird. You would also see many other animals and rare birds’ species here. You can visit here during the winters to get the best views. Some parts of this sanctuary share international borders with Pakistan which are restricted for the tourists.

How to reach- The place is located 350km of Ahmedabad and 100Km of Bhuj in Gujarat.

3.      Dholavira- If you love indulging yourself into the wonderful world of ancient history then Dholavira is your place to be. This is one of the most remarkable excavations of the Indus Valley Civilization. You can witness some of the best ancient architectural brilliance here along with some mesmerizing scenic beauty that you would find really hard to resist.

How to reach- The nearest airport is Bhuj which is 220km away and the nearest railway station is also Bhuj which is 219km away. The nearest city to Dholavira is Rapar which has access to many railway stations like Samkhiala Junction and Bachau.

4.      Kutch Museum- This is the oldest museum in Gujarat and has some of the amazing collections of extinct Kutchi Scripts and artefacts. One can also see beautiful embroidery, paintings, sculptures etc. put to display here. So, if love the feel of going through history and exploring the world of brand-new possibilities, then this museum is your place to be.

How to reach- You can reach here through Kutch road trip in buses or private transport from Bhuj which has the nearest airport and railway station.

5.      Mandvi Beach- This is one of the most popular holiday destinations in your kutch tour. This beautiful seashore is endowed with a calm and clean environment which is definitely a peaceful getaway from the hustles and bustles of the city. Taking a walk along the beach, you would not only be able to witness the beauty of nature and its fauna. You can take a camel ride along the shore and have an experience that you would cherish throughout your life.

How to reach- You would get State transport buses that go to Mandvi Beach in every 30 minutes. You can hire jeeps from the towns for local excursions.

6.      Aina Mahal- Also known as ‘Halls of Mirror’, this place is a classic example of traditional architecture. Located in the Northeast corner of Hamirsar Lake, along with the interiors, the exterior of the building is also worth mentioning. You can see beautifully carved doorways, window boxes, balconies etc. here. The interior consists of art and archaic pieces where the hall of mirrors attracts most of the tourists. You can also see international paintings, local crafts and various other royal possessions inside the property.

How to reach- In this trip to Rann of Kutch you can either take a local bus or private transport from Bhuj to reach here.

7.      Narayan Sarovar- This is one of the distinct ecosystems in the Kutch district of Gujarat. This place is the home to many endangered animals and many distinct species of bird. You can also see many flora species here like gorad, kerdo, babul etc. Along with all the natural attractions, the place bears a great religious significance. You would find multiple temples here dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The lake here is considered as sacred as Mansarovar and it is one of the Panch Sarovar pilgrimage places in India.

How to reach- You can either take a local bus or private transport from Bhuj to reach Narayan Sarovar on Kutch road trip.

8.      Prag Mahal- This is located on the outskirts of Bhuj and is a true example of ancient architectural brilliance. This is located just beside the famous Aina Mahal and is equipped with multiple Gothic-style windows and Corinthian Pillars. This beautiful palace attracts many people due to its charm and thus one can see it in different Bollywood and Gujarati movies. If you are someone who loves history, then a visit to this place is a must.

How to reach- You can get many state bus and sleeper buses to reach here from Bhuj. You can also take a private transport in case you prefer that.

9.      Mata No Madh- This temple is dedicated to Maa Ashapura and is located 138km from Bhuj. The place offers a peaceful pilgrimage to the visitors. The structure of the temple is grand and has great dimensions. The original temple was 1200 years old and was demolished during earthquakes. The main temple offers a breath-taking view of the city.

How to reach- You can reach here through buses or private transport from Bhuj which has the nearest airport and railway station (101km).

10.   Rann Utsav of Kutch- This festival in the trip to Rann of Kutch would show you the true colours and rich heritage of the place. The tradition, the artwork, and natural beauty are indeed praiseworthy. This celebration is held between November to February each year where one can witness art, craft, music, and dance. The festival is packed with delicious food, leisure, adventure and lots of fun.

Plan to visit this amazing piece of land for your next trip and you would go back with an experience that you never had before.

[airfarebooking-blog]

Top 6 Destinations for Your Winter Vacation in India

India is a beautiful subcontinent with several tourist destinations. No matter what season you choose to visit, the place has plenty of destinations to help you with an adventurous and a happening vacation.

It is very important to visit India with all the planning correctly done. You can start by making cheap flight bookings to India. Survey the things that you might need during your stay in the country.

Take a look at the destinations mentioned below before making your itinerary:

1.Auli, Uttarakhand

Auli is a beautiful hill station in Uttarakhand and attracts a large number of tourists during the winter season. The snow-covered hilly terrains of Himalayas surround the place.

Also, it is called as the haven for skiing activities. The sylvan peaks, snowy valleys, and frosty storms make perfect surroundings for the skiers.

Other than skiing, one can try other adventurous activities like trekking and river rafting. When you visit this place between December and February, you can witness greenery and snow at the same time.

Also, you can enjoy the view of Nanda Devi range from here along with the rivers flowing through it. It is an ideal location for your future winter vacation.

Some of the nearby locations that you can explore while you visit Auli are Gurso Bugyal, Chattarkund, Kwani Bugyal, Chenab Lake, and Joshimath.

2.Jaipur, Rajasthan

Your love for palaces and the interest to know more about Indian history will get a wonderful treat when you plan a visit to this Pink City of the country.

Forts and the architecture perfectly flaunt the talents of the expert artisans of ancient times. This capital city of Rajasthan speaks of art, courage, and peace.

Most of the tourists visit this place during January. It is because of the Literature festival that attracts history buffs from across the globe.

There are many world-famous forts and palaces in the city that include Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar, Birla Mandir, City Palace, and more. The list of activities in this place is endless; you can enjoy the camel fair at Bikaner, jeep safari, hot air balloon rides, and the like.

Other than this, the palaces and forts of the place are a perfect destination for weddings. In case you are planning a winter wedding most traditionally, Jaipur in Rajasthan is the place for you.

3.Zanskar, Jammu, and Kashmir

If you plan to spend a perfect winter vacation in the laps of nature, Zanskar is the place for you. The place is famous for a lake that is covered with snow, that you can walk on it. This lake offers a splendid experience to all the visitors, especially in winter.

One must carry light luggage and adopt a penguin walk to be able to walk on the snow comfortably. Also, you must carry sunglasses along during the trek as it can prevent snow blindness.

During the month of January and February, the entire valley is covered with snow and gives alluring look weather. Some of the famous places that one must never miss are Patnitop, Buddhist Monasteries, The Rongkhul, the glaciers, etc.

You can also indulge in activities like trekking, paragliding, river rock rafting, etc.

4.Kutch, Gujarat

Kutch is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful yet surreal places in the country. The location is famous for its white dessert. As far as the eyesight goes, one can see the vast expanse of the white salt.

The major attraction of the place is the Rann festival that starts in the month of December and lasts till February. The festival witnesses a huge camp settlement along with cultural programs and adventure activities.

When you visit this place, you will see the beautiful handicrafts and embroidery work that speaks of the talent of the locals.

Some of the famous places that one can visit near Kutch are The Great Runn of Kutch, Dholavira, Kutch desert wildlife sanctuary, Mandvi beach in Bhuj, the Kutch Museum, and Kutch Bustard Sanctuary.

5.Delhi

This capital city of the country is present in the heart of the country and can be rightly called as a mini India. The place has a glimpse of the entire nation with varied cultures and traditions.

The diversity of the country is perfectly reflected in the food and the dressing of the people in Delhi. Although Delhi is a place where fashion begins, and trends are set, but it also successfully preserves the age-old traditions in their most original form.

You can visit here during any season and explore the historical monuments like the Jama Masjid, Red Fort, Purana Qila, and Humayun’s Tomb. Other than this, the place has temples scattered all across the city, namely the Akshardham temple, ISKON temple, and the Lotus Temple.

And when it comes to shopping, Delhi has Karol Bagh and Sarojini Nagar for the cheapest and the best shopping for clothes and accessories. Also, for food lovers, the exotic flavors of Delhi will give you all the mouth-watering delicacies.

Being the national capital, you can get your cheap flights to New Delhi booked well in advance for easy availability.

6.Amritsar, Punjab

Amritsar is the home of the glorious Golden temple and is an iconic city in the heroic history of Punjab. A trip to Punjab is incomplete without paying a visit to this beautiful destination.

Golden Temple, in fact, attracts the maximum number of tourists in the country that counts to around a maximum of 1 lakh during festivals. You can also visit Sada Pind, a beautifully designed area that demonstrates life in Punjab in a miniature view.

Wagah Border is another attraction of the place. You can witness the valor presented by the Indian Army during the evening Parade. All in all, a trip to Amritsar gives you a memory for life.

Also, the Punjabi food that you will get to eat here is exotic in its own way. Enjoy the flavor of delicious street food from Parantha and Naan to Pani Puri and Pav Bhaji.

Other than the Golden temple, you can also visit Jalliawala Bagh, Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum, Hall Bazar, and Guru Ke Mahal after you have booked flights to Amritsar.

All you need to do is to book cheap flights to India and enjoy a relaxing winter vacation in this diverse subcontinent.

[hellorannutsavonline-blog]

Best Location for Your Diwali Vacation: Rann Utsav

The Great Rann of Kutch is a salt marsh which is located in the Thar Desert in the Kutch District of Gujarat. The temperature variation is significantly great. Winter months are usually cozy as the temperature falls to 12°C compared to 48°C during the summer season. This perfect weather allows tourist to indulge themselves in the alluring landscapes.

 The winter in Kutch commences from October and lasts until February. To avoid the excruciating summer heat, you should prefer these months for your tour. Moreover, the great Rann Utsav also takes place during these months which adorns the beauty of Kutch even more. This festival of Kutch focuses on showcasing the color of the region, providing a stage for the arts and crafts of the entire Gujarat state. The colorful Rann of Kutch during this time looks no less than magic. Rann Utsav is an ideal location to spend your Diwali Holidays but if you aren’t still fully convinced then let’s see what actually festival of Rann is!

  Rann Utsav - A Festival at White Rann

 Rann Utsav is a beautiful festival of Kutch, Gujarat where a carnival of Music, Dance, and Natural Beauty of White Rann is greatly experienced. There is nothing quite like spending a night under the full Moon during this festival. On the full moon night, moon emerges to be as bright as the sun but it certainly has no intention to rouse you of your slumber. It is advised to be visited from November to March during the winter season.

 The beauty of Rann is not only experienced during a full moon but all the landscapes during sunrise and sunset are also phenomenal. The view of the sun and white sand looks too pretty that cannot be expressed through words.

 It’s a Family holiday destination to explore fun moments and store memories into cameras for a lifetime. Besides beautiful landscapes, there are many activities as well.

  Breathtaking Rann Utsav Activities:

 SKYZILLA - The Adventure Tower

 The Skyzilla is a staggering 60 feet tower where one can enjoy a range of adventure- activities. Zip-lining, rock climbing, sky fall, pendulum swing and a rappelling wall, these activities allow you to face your fears and conquer them.

 ·        Rock Climbing

·        Rappelling Wall

·        Pendulum Swing

·        Zipline Tower

 Adventure Sports

 ·        ParaMotoring

·        ATV

·        Rifle Shooting

·        Bungee Run Basketball

·        Trikke

 Activities 

 ·        Pool

·        Chess

·        Star Gazing

·        Spa

·        Archery

·        Kid’s Zone

 Amenities

 ·        Club House

·        Golf Cart

·        Conference & Meditation Hall

 Beauty of Kutch

 There are some beautiful sites which are within the few kilometers of Rann Utsav. These spectacular tourist attractions won’t fail to amaze you by its beauty:

 Hodka

 Hodka is an example of how these people around Kutch have incorporated color into their lives. The village is jeweled with Bhungas, circular mud huts with conical thatch roofs, some of which serve as home-stays.

Here a community depends upon handicrafts for a living and people like ‘Umra Kana’ can turn a piece of leather into artistic footwear.

 Nirona

 Nirona village is located around 40 km north of Bhuj. You can find three very unique local art forms whereas one of which was even made its way to ‘The White House’.

The Rogan Art which is placed at The White House is a legacy art form for the past 300 years by the Khatri family of Nirona.

 In the culture of Nirona handicraft work, there are categories in which the following things are concluded as their traditional and regional work:

●      Embroidery

●      Wood Carving

●      Mudwall Painting

●      Silver Work

●      Sea-Shell Toys

●      Hand Block Printing

●      Pen-Knives / Nut- Crackers

●      Iron Bell with Copper Coating

 Dasada Bird Sanctuary

 Dasada is a small village which is located in the Little Rann of Kutch where the birds are migrated.

Dasada is the only place where you will find Indian Wild Ass. The famous bird here has a watching sight of just 90 kilometers away from Dasada. This village has emerged as one of the major bird watching sites all over India. Also, there is a beautiful art and crafts area where you can purchase handicrafts.

 Dholavira

 Dholavira is a popular weekend getaway in Gujarat for people seeking peace and thrill. With such a unique geographic location, it is Rustic, beautiful and charming.

Dholavira is a paradise on the earth which is located 250 km away from Bhuj district, near Khadir bet in the great Rann of Kutch. It is an ancient town that contains the fascinating and historic ruins of the Indus Valley Civilization.

 Flamingo City

 It is believed that the beautiful flamingos migrate from the cold regions to India in winter. These birds move to the island in October. Around 10 lakhs flamingos were noted in 2011 on this island, according to forest officers.  This is why the island has become one of the largest nesting sites of the species in the country. These flamingos are found only in the Great Rann of Kutch.

 Mandvi

 It is the town that is easily explored on foot, well worth wandering the narrow streets to check out the mix of old architecture. Many wealthy barons during the city's heyday had flamboyant houses built.

Many houses in Mandvi were built with lots of European influence; it is not uncommon to see carved angels or stained-glass windows. Moreover, the Bandhani textiles of Mandvi is one should not miss out!

 Now if you are convinced enough then let’s see how to proceed further because a stunning Diwali vacation is waiting for you.

   Book Your Packages Here:

 This year, Rann Utsav will be running from 28th October 2019 to 23rd February 2020.  The festival includes accommodation & various form of art.

To have an amazing Diwali vacation, just follow the three simple steps:

1. Go to https://www.rannutsavonline.com/

2. Select your package and convenient time.

3. Fill in your details and mention the pickup spot.

Get your reservation summary and that’s it, you’re all set for your Diwali trip.

[templetouronline-blog]

PLACES TO VISIT IN KUTCH TOUR

Kutch Desert Tour

Kutch is historic district. Many places in Kutch which are must to visit once in life. Visiting places of Kutch covered historic places, holly temples, beautiful eye catching nature view and many more. Contact us for booking inquiry.

 Vijay Vilas Palace

This palace located in Mandvi. Vijay Vilas palace was built by Maharao Shri Khengarji for his Son, Yuvraj Shri Vijayraji as a summer house. Therefore, it was known as Vijay Vilas palace. Vijay Vilas palace started in 1920 and completed in 1929. It has all the elements of Rajput Architecture. Dome and pillars which are in center, Bengal domes placed in every sides, Colored glass of the windows, Carved stone Jali, and many more architecture improve the glory of Vijay Vilas Palace. Also improve the worth to visit value. Vijay Vilas Palace has own private beach. Many bollywood movies shoot their scene here. From this one of “Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam”. And now it is great place to visit.

Distance From Bhuj : 65 KM

 Mandvi Beach

Without enjoying or visiting Mandvi beach your Kutch tour can not be complete. Mandvi Beach is most high priority place where you can enjoy beach festival during November to February. This is amazing festival where many big celebrities and politician come. Here you can also enjoy the camel ride, horse ride, rock climbing and water sports. But that is not enough. Many big wind farm at the Mandvi beach. Wind Farm increase the beauty of Mandvi beach. In Mandvi city here many private beaches are also available. Private public both beach water are safe and pure white. You can enjoy sunset at Mandvi beach with street food, Kutch famous food Double Roti (DABELI) and enjoy the beautiful nature scene of Mandvi Beach.

Distance From Bhuj : 60 KM

 Dholavira

Dholavira is an olden metropolitan city and known as Kotada Timba Prachin Mahanagar. Dholavira is one of the largest and most important architecture sites in India. It is belong to the Indus Vally Civilization. Dholavira located in the Khadir Island in the Kutch, India. In monsoon season, Harappan and mahenjo-daro, Indus Vally Civilization were well known for water harvesting.

Distance From Bhuj : 218 KM

 Black Hill

Black hill is known as Kalo Dungar in local language. It is the highest point of Kutch from where you can see beautiful view of the nature. Black hill has its own history. God Dttatreya came to this place and fed to the fox. From that time Fox came every day at specific place and got food. Here you can take worship from Dattatrey Temple and Enjoy Attractive scene of nature beauty from top of the Hill.

Distance From Bhuj : 89 KM

 Wild Life Sanctuary

Wild Life Sanctuary is located in the Great Rann Of Kutch. It was declared as Sanctuary in February 1986. Largest seasonal saline marshland view raised during October to November each year. There is average water depth between 0.5 to 1.5 meters. In Wild Life sanctuary, you will see variety of water birds and wild animal. It is one of the most important tourist places from Kutch Tourism.

Distance From Bhuj : 160 KM

Rann of Kutch | White Desert | Great Rann of Kutch

White Desert is most important and high priority place for tourist. The huge area of white and salty marshland is known as Rann of Kutch. Best timing to visit this Great Rann Of Kutch is October to February. And Full Moon time is too best to visit. Because full moon add the glamour in white desert beautiful look. Desert look like silver at this day. Here you will not only enjoy white desert but in the evening time here you can enjoy folk dance of kutch, camel ride, horse ride. Tent city are stand out during October to February time period. Without visit Rann of Kutch your tour will be become incomplete.

Distance From Bhuj : 85 KM