Overview
The Rann of Kutch is a vast salt marsh located in Gujarat, India, near the India-Pakistan border. It is divided into the Great Rann and Little Rann, covering around 30,000 square kilometers, making it one of the largest salt deserts in the world. The region was once a shallow part of the Arabian Sea but transformed into a dry, marshy land due to geological shifts over time. The Rann is famous for its seasonal transformation-during monsoons, it gets submerged in water, while in winter, it becomes a surreal white salt desert. It is home to the Rann Utsav, a cultural festival showcasing Gujarat’s folk music, crafts, and traditions. The Little Rann is also a wildlife sanctuary for the endangered Indian Wild Ass. Despite its extreme climate, local communities like the Kutchi people have adapted, preserving their unique culture. The Rann’s ecological and cultural significance makes it an important site for tourism and research.