Little Rann of Kutch……

Nothing Little

About It

Granted the status of a biosphere by the Indian Government under UNESCO’S Man and Biosphere program, it is one of the last few unique ecosystems of the country- an inimitable ecological masterpiece. The littleness of the Little Rann is often deceptive. Spread over 5100 sq. km. across the Gulf of Kachchh, almost 4954 sq. km. is the Indian Wild Ass Sanctuary, the largest wildlife sanctuary in India.

There are a variety of activities one can pursue when visiting:

• Go on a safari to witness the Wild Ass in its natural habitat

• Watch the Great Indian Bustard in one of its last natural habitats

• Photograph the many variety of birds that call this region home

• Spot the elusive Wolves, Desert Foxes and Jackals

• Experience the pink rush in the world’s largest breeding site of the Flamingos

• Experience authentic cuisine and handicrafts

• Visit ancient archaeological sites and interact with the local tribes

The Little Rann of Kachchh holds more secrets than you can discover in a lifetime.

A Rich Histological

Historically, this land finds mention in Greek writings. Back when Alexander invaded India, it was a diversion of the Arabian Sea. Over the years, sedimentation by a number of small and major rivers, in tandem with tectonic movements, led to the creation of the Little Rann. It was once considered to be a delta complex that received the silt and sediment from a number of Himalayan rivers.

This land with its unique geography can transform right in front of your eyes. What you saw as scrubland could change within hours into a shallow lake full with a variety of birds and other creatures.

A Unique Ecosystem

The name Kachchh is derived from ‘Kachbo’, or tortoise. Spread over 5100 sq. km. and being directly at sea level, it is not a conventional desert. In a span of just a few kilometres you can find, marshes, parched salt pans and scrublands.

Monsoon converts the Little Rann into a veritable paradise. Storms cause sea ingress into the Little Rann, and climatic conditions here have great bearing on the lay of the land, making it harder to survey. These fluid topographical changes make the Little Rann an ecological masterpiece.

A Wild Wonderland

The Little Rann is also home to a number of species of animals and birds. It also has the Indian Wild Ass Sanctuary, a finely balanced biosphere. Get up close and personal with the statuesque Nilgai, Chinkara, Small Indian Civet and other carnivores like Wolves, Leopards, the Golden Jackal, Striped Hyena and more.

Located at the crossroads of bird migration streams, the Little Rann is a bird paradise with species like Pelicans, Lapwings, and Raptors. It offers unique experiences like watching the pink-hued Flamingos descend upon the lake.

Accommodation

There are a variety of accommodation options here. Many private players operate Eco-tourism resorts to create a memorable experience. There are government guest houses to stay in and guides who can help you navigate the sanctuary. However, permissions need to be obtained to go deeper into the sanctuary. From safaris into the desert, dining under a canopy of stars, to waking up to a hundred different bird calls, the Little Rann of Kachchh has it all.

Little Rann of Kachchh

Little Rann of Kachchh is located 160 km from Ahmedabad. It takes 4½ hours to reach by road.

Dasada Zainabad Ahmedal

How to Reach

The region is well connected with other important places by the State Transport buses, as well as luxury coaches operated by private companies

Nearest railway station is Dhrangadhra at a distance of 18 km

The nearest airports are Ahmedabad (175 km), Rajkot (215 km) and Bhuj (200 km)