Little Rann of Kutch
Gujarat
A vast expanse of around 5000 sq km of arid and muddy salt-flats, inland from the Gulf of Kutch lies the Little Rann of Kutch – part of a geographical landscape which over 66 million years ago was a part of the Arabian Sea.
There are around 300 bird species recorded here, 42 species of mammals including the endemic Indian Wild Ass which can be found in the area of Dasada. The Little Rann of Kutch gets its name as it is a southern extension of the larger salt marsh which is the Greater Rann of Kutch, however, the protected areas of the Little Rann of Kutch are ecological hotspots and extremely fruitful for bird watching in India..
Best Time to Go
November – February
Flights
Bhuj (BHJ)
Avg. Climate
20°C – 35°C
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About Little Rann of Kutch
The Little Rann of Kutch until many centuries ago had large tracts of estuarine saline water, however over time through excessive silting by its seasonal rivers caused as a result of tectonic movements, it now lies as a semi-barren and unique ecological landscape which floods briefly during the monsoons and transforms itself into a marshland in which the resident and migratory bird species revel.
A birding tour in Little Rann of Kutch, combined with a tiger safari in Ranthambore National Park is sure to leave you spellbound. It will encompass a majority of Indian Wildlife like the Royal Bengal Tiger, Sloth Bear, Common Crane, Indian Wild Ass, Indian Gazelle, Desert Fox, Blue Bull, Indian Grey Wolf, and a lot more.
Geographical Details
Altitude: 181m above mean sea level
Vegetation: Tropical Dry Deciduous Forest
Water Resources: Gambhir River, Banganga River
Total Area: 28.73 sq. km
Coordinates: 27.166667°N to 77.516667°E
Rainfall: 662mm
Temperature: 20 –s30 degree Celsius
Little Rann of Kutch Safaris
Photographic Safari Tours
Photographic Safari Tours
Popular Fauna at Little Rann of Kutch
The Indian wild ass (Equus hemionus khur), also called the Ghudkhur, Khur or Indian onager in the local Gujarati language, is a subspecies of the onager native to Southern Asia. It is currently listed as Near Threatened by IUCN.
Indian gazelles, Gazella bennettii, are primarily found in the northwestern region of India in the state of Rajasthan. Their distribution extends from south of the Krishia River, as far east as central India, and into the north-central region of Iran.
The white-footed fox, also known as the desert fox, is a small, Asiatic subspecies of red fox. It is mostly found on sand-hills or in the broad sandy beds of semi-dry rivers, and only very rarely in fields, and then in the vicinity of sandy tracts.
Safaris at Little Rann of Kutch
Desert Safaris
A jeep safari in Little Rann of Kutch offers the best way to explore the vast, arid expanse of this unique salt desert. Typically lasting around three hours, the safari route is customised based on the interests of the visitors. Birdwatchers are drawn to the marshlands, while wildlife enthusiasts prefer the dry desert to spot mammals. For those interested in local culture, the safari often includes a visit to the traditional salt pans.
The marshlands and Nava Talao (lake) provide a haven for migratory birds, where flamingos and demoiselle cranes can be spotted in large numbers. Wildlife sightings often include the Indian wild ass and the elusive white-footed fox, which roam the golden desert landscape. Bird enthusiasts should keep an eye out for the hoopoe lark, whose brown plumage blends seamlessly with the ground, making it a rare and rewarding sight.
While visitors are permitted to drive their own vehicles into the sanctuary, it is strongly discouraged. The absence of roads and identifiable landmarks makes it easy to lose one’s way in this vast and desolate terrain. Opting for a professionally guided jeep safari ensures a safe and enriching experience while maximising the chances of spotting the region’s unique wildlife.
Accommodations at Little Rann of Kutch
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