Tuesday, 06 October 2009 04:55

Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary -Kutch

About:

Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary of Gujarat has vast area of sun-baked mud flats that are salt impregnated. Some of the area around Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary in Gujarat have small patches of uplands and the hilly islands of the sanctuary are called bets. Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary has marine calcareous grit and oyster bed in the shore bordering the Arabian sea.Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary in Gujarat houses some of the rare wild animals like striped hyena, porcupine, fox, small Indian civet, Indian pangolin and a large number of reptiles. You will find both venomous and non-venomous snakes, monitor lizards, star tortoise in the Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary at Gujarat. Some of the rare species of birds are found in the Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary at Gujarat.

 

The sanctuary has some other attractions as well. Embedded below the Jurassic and Cretaceous rocks on Khadir, Kuvar and Pachchham bets, are plenty of fossils of vertebrates, invertebrates and plants. There are records of recovery of fossils of dinosaurs, crocodiles (of Dinosaurian period) and whales (of tertiary period). Fossilised forests have also been found in the rocks belonging to Jurassic and Cretaceous eras. The fossils of invertebrates include those of amonites, sea urchins and such others.

“The Little Rann of Kutch is the most desolate place on earth,” says Malek. “When you’re in the desert, you feel as thought you’re standing in the middle of a plate. You can hear the silence. There’s not a stone, not a tree, nothing at all…just the horizon, stretching for 360 degrees.”Malek is also a talented naturalist. He explains a little about the endangered Wild Ass, the khur species of which is found only in the Little Rann of Kutch. “The wild ass is the only animal that can survive in these harsh conditions,” he says. “It can survive on forage that wouldn’t sustain even a goat, with a conversion rate of food to energy of over 95 per cent.”

Buried city Dholavira of Harappan civilization was excavated here, which attracts hordes of archeologists here from all across the world. Equally enticing is the Flamingo City located in the mud flats of the Rann, about 10 km. from Nir out post on Kala Dungar. It is the only area where flamingoes breed regularly.Kachchh Desert Wildlife Sanctuary represents one of the largest seasonal saline wetland areas having water depth between 0.5 to 1.5 metres. But, after October-November, water dries up and the entire area turns into saline desert. The sanctuary supports wide variety of water birds and bewildering range of mammalian wildlife.



Besides the Indian Bustard, some of the other wild animals that you can feast your eye upon during your tour to Bustard Sanctuary, Kutch include Harriers, Eagles, Jungle Cat, Desert Cat, Chinkara and migratory birds. The best season to visit the Kutch Bustard Sanctuary is from late monsoon to winter. The nearest airport is at Bhuj which is at 110 km and the nearest railhead is the Naliya Railway Station which is 20 km from the sanctuary.

Location info:

Address:Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary ,Kutch,Gujarat,India
District: Kutch
Nearest City: Bhuj
Best time to visit: October to March

Climate/Weather:

Weather of Kutch is tropical monsoon with an average annual rainfall of approximately 14 inches. In Summer temperature can reach up to 48°c. In Winter temperature ranges from 12 °c to 27 °c.

History:

Set up in the year 1986, the Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary is the largest of all the wildlife reserves of Gujarat and is a treat to the traveler on his tour to Gujarat. Spread over a sprawling 7506.22 sq.km it serves as shelter to a number of wild animals and birds. The Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary is located on parts of the Great Rann of Kutch which is primarily extremely hot, dry and dusty zone.

Interesting things to do:

  • An interesting feature for adventure lovers is a jeep or camel safari in and across Rann of Kutch with tented camps on the baits. These trips add more thrill as they last for about a week.
  • For photography enthusiasts, special rides and camouflaged boats are provided
  • A trip to a typical Saurashtra village and an insight into the art of handloom weaving and Dyeing Units can be enticing due to the vibrantly colored dyes and the exquisite craftsmanship. The age old craft of pottery can also be viewed from close quarters.
  • Tribal life is best experienced with the tribal people and there is no substitute for a stay at the typical tent. These camps are organized between July and September.
  • Around the Wild Ass Wildlife Sanctuary, you may shop for Patola Silk Sarees, Bandhanis, Ghagra-cholis and marriage costumes. You will also find interesting wall hangings, embroidered quilts, cradle clothes,

Interesting things to Visit:

Animals:
The Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary is inhabited by a wide variety of wild animals like hyenas, foxes, wolves, and chinkaras. Most of the mammals like the Nilgai, Wild Ass and the Black Buck which are seen in the Wild ass Sanctuary are also found here.

 

 

  • Hyenas
  • Jackals
  • Birds
  • Nilgai
  • Chinkara
  • Sambhar
  • Wild Boar
  • Indian Hare
  • Pale Hedgehog
  • Small Indian Civet
  • Indian Porcupine
  • Indian Fox
  • Jackal

Birds:
The Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary not only houses animals but birds as well. It is famous for being a home to the colorful flamingos in large numbers. Flamingos sporting a riot of rich and vibrant colors of dark red, yellow, blue are to be seen here. In fact the site is called Flamingo City near the Solanki Bet. Also, the reserve houses the White Pelican and the Avocet which have made this their breeding grounds. The Great Indian Bustard, Stolzca's Bushcat, painted sandgrouse, larks, tits, raptors, steppe eagle, tawny eagles and various water-fowls can be seen here.

  • Stork
  • Crow
  • Spoonbill
  • Sparrow
  • Osprey
  • White backed vulture
  • Black vultures and more.

Flora:
There are two hills named- Kala Dungar and Goro Dungar. On this hilly island exist several microhabitats. They include grassland, scrubland, barren wasteland, agricultural land, village ponds, irrigation reservoir etc. All of them provide habitat to the fauna of one or the other type. Both the hills represent rocky habitats, with or without scrubs like-Prosopis chilensis, kahri jar, mithi jar, gugal, thor, lai, khijado, gorad, hermo baval, kerdo, bokhano etc

Wildlife:
Rann of Kutchh Wildlife Sanctuary of Gujarat is the only abode of Asiatic Wild Ass in India. The chestnut-brown animal is the last survivor of wild horse family of the Indian subcontinent and is found nowhere in the country except the Thar Desert of Gujarat. The other wildlife attractions of the Little Rann of Kutch Wildlife Sanctuary include Gazelle, Blue Bull, Wolf, Indian Foxes, Jackal, Jungle Cat, Hare, etc.

Kutch Desert Festival:
A visit to Kutch Desert Festival, offers access to the interior and beautiful recesses of the region of Kutch, situated in Gujarat, India. A visit to Kutch Desert Festival, offers an insight into the region which comprises of expansive wastelands and eerie landscapes to the excitement of a large number of tourists who come to visit Gujarat, situated in India. Kutch is a large inundated section of land bearing similarities with the American Wild West. Kutch, situated in Gujarat, India, can also be equated with a Desert in some terrains.

Mobile range info:

How to reach?

Nearest Railway Station:Ballarpur railway station
Nearest Airport:Bhuj and Kandla airports.
Road Transport:The sanctuary is well connected to the other important places in the state by State Transport Corporation buses as well as luxury coaches operated by private companies.The Rann of Kutch is accessible via Dasada village, 93 kms from Ahmedabad.

Nearest Visiting places:

Bhuj:
This is known as the famous walled city of the state, Bhuj has its great importance of ancient values and historical backgrounds to denote that it is one of the ancient spots in the country. The town wall is measured as 35ft high and 4ft thick, an unimaginable mega structure engineering those days have taken place, is now a history and talk of the town too. previously , Bhuj was the capital of the native state of Kutch, and this city was under the rule of Jadeja Rajputs till Independence.As this spot has various places of historical values such as old palaces and museums around, namely the museum of Gujarat, Prag Mahal, Aina Mahal, Sarad Bagh palace, Kutch museum. The most heart felt hall mark of this town is the 2001 earthquake the devastation that demolished almost all hope and pride of this town. Yet, Bhuj has its tourist values to be visited.

Anjar:
The major spots of tourist visit is the shrine of Jesai Toral and the bungalow of James Mcmurdo and the other spots of visit is Ajaypal temple and the holy shrine of Pinjora Pir are the locations of spirituality and serenity. The famous Jesai-Toral fair is organized here for a celebration of colorful culture in the district. Anjar is famously known for its block printing works, nutcrackers, scissors and penknives manufacturing

Bela:
This spot is in the borders of Rann of Kutch which is a famous for its wild ass sanctuary. It is a hill station named Nilva. Nature and nature everywhere would mesmerize everyone in a visit.

Chitrod:
This place evoked into regular inhabitance during the separation and displacement of the people India. The name of this place reveals the great Mahatma’s ashes which are immersed at Kandla Creek. Kandla is the only free trade region of the country and is situated 12 km to the southeast of Gandhidham. The other important tourist interests are Khavada, Bhardeshwar, and Purneshwar.

Kera:
This town is known to be the ancient place of Gujarat, the famous 10th century holy shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva is situated here, Kera was once the capital of the famous ruler Lakho Fulani, this ancient ruler have left back a marvelous monument during his reign, namely kapilkot fort, this is one of the tourist attraction here. Apart from this the major annual event of Urs celebrations at the shrine of Gulam Ali Shah, pulls in thousands and thousands of devotees from various spots of the country.

Lakhpat:
Today, this spot is noted to be a remote area with less inhabitants sojourn right here, perhaps! The erstwhile living was massive during the year 1851 and known to be as the important trade zone. It is said that by Rao Lakha who founded this place , therefore they name Lakhpat and also there are other reasons to define the name, such as, during the greenish days of living ,the people of Lakhpat made 1,00,000 kori a day ( an old currency of Kutch state) this spot is exactly situated at the junction of Kori Creek and Rann of Kutch on the Pakistan borders, this fortified town is noted for its high walls and gates and bastions of hard stone, of course almost everything around here is perished and looks deserted.

Mandvi:
This spot is said to be the biggest tourist location of the state, the town is famously known for its historical values dates back even before 18th centuries. This town is a port of Maharao of Kutch and it is located on the banks of Rukmavati River in the Gulf of Kutch, at the west coastal in India. The major tourist spot of visit is the Mandvi port which is known to be very ancient and trade zone of handicraft items. The docks at the beach is also a famous spot, where you watch ship building, then the ancient temple of Mulnayak devoted to Bhagawan Shantinath is also an attraction at this port. The Vijay Vilas Palace situated around 8km were once the retreat centre of Maharaos of Kutch during summer, this palace ages from 1940 and exhibits great architectural values and textures designs of great workmanship. The next best landmarks are the famous Aina mahal built in the mid -18th century by Ram Singh and the tomb of Gosh Mohammad, Gurdwara and some more Hindu based temples are the added attractions nearby. The Kalyaneshwar temple and the Narayan Sarovar situated 49 km near and Koteshwar adds an enlighten trip over here, this town of old age offers a splendid trip on sight seeing enrolls old buildings of princely times, chronological palaces and temples, apart from this the town offers valuables of silverware, shell work items, Kutch embroideries, tie- dye sarees, block prints and Bandhini- a form of cloth printing for purchase.

Mundra:
This is another coastal city of the state, and famously known as ‘the Paris of Kutch’ which was founded during the reign of Rao Bhojraji (1633-1645). The famous attraction here is the high fortified stone wall constructed of huge massive blocks taken from the ruins of Bhadreshwar, a holy city of Jains. The major produces of products are the handicrafts of Mundra, tie-dye, block prints and Namda works of Mansoori people are famous and awesome.

Tera:
This is a Teerth and an ancient temple situated here as the major attraction of tourist. The Tera fort known as Darbargarh is situated here as an added attraction, this place is surrounded by ancient temples, havelis, forts and lakes as tourist trips at serene… the temple of Shri Shymala Parshwanath Bhagvan and Shri Naliya Teerth are the another major tourist attractions nearby.

Narayan Sarovar:
This spot is considered to be the unique location of the country for its arid zone and uncommon ecosystem. This arid zone is a splendid space of 444 sq’km filled in with thorny jungle and great habitat of chinkara and Indian Gazelle. The other species and animals found here are caracal, ratel, wolf, desert cat, and desert fox, great Indian bustard, lesser florican, blue bull, spotted deer, wild boar and a variety of water fowls. The best season of visit is September to January.

Dholavira:
Above all the Harappan sites, the site of Dholavira nearby known as Kotada, in the Khadir island of Kutch stands separately. It is memorable for its wonderful planning and vastness of area and deposit. Currently, we can say that it is one of the two largest arrangements in India and the fourth or fifth largest in the subcontinent. The others arrangements are: Mohenjo-daro, Harappa, Gharo Bhiro (all in Pakistan) and Rakhigarhi (in India).Dholavira enjoys the exclusive characteristic of elastic a dedication of ten large sized signs of the Harappan script that is indeed the oldest sign-board of the world. A variety of used funerals structures is yet another feature of greater than importance throwing new light on the socio-religious beliefs by this means representative the presence of compound national groups in the Indus population of Dholavira.

Jakhau Port:
Jakhau Port in Kutch Jakhau Port is also one of the oldest ports of Kutch. Today, this port is only used for fisher men. Jakhau Port has its own importance. This is a very beautiful Port of Kutch. There is a centre for coastguard and water department of B.S.F. in Jakhau Port.

Kandla Port:
Kandla Port, a national port, is one of the eleven most important ports of India. This port is situated on Kandla stream. The first investigation of this stream was undertaken by the British Royal India Navy in 1851 and a detailed survey done in 1922. This port is developed by Joint project of Maharao Shree Khengarji-III and British Government in the 19th century. Standard dry cargo treatment capacity of Kandla Port is 24,000 metric tons per day.

Koteshwar:
In the district of Lakhpat is situated the temple of Koteshwar which is a holy place of pilgrimage in Kutch. There is an ancient story attached with it. They say that King Ravana wanted to be immortal and did tapasya of God Shiva. Lord Shiva gifted him with Ling which he could worship and become immortal. But in arrogance he dropped the ling, which on touching the ground turned into a thousand Lings. King Ravana could not recognize the original ling, and so the boon was lost. There were a thousand lings at that place so the Gods of heaven decided to build this temple and name it Koteshwar.

Bhadreshwar Jain Temple:
Bhadreshwar Jain Temple in Kutch There are a number of temples built by Jain followers in Kutch. The Bhadreshwar temple, one of the most ancient temples situated in Bhadrawati, considered a very holy place is one such. Bhadrawati was ruled by King Sidhsen in 449 B.C (according to the Hindu calendar) who renovated the place. Later it was ruled by The Solankies who were Jains, and they changed the name to Bhadreshwar. Then in 1315, a great famine struck Kutch, after which the place was renovated by Jagadusha.

Nearest Petrol Pump:

Reliance Petrol Pump::Bhuj,Kutch,Gujarat,India

Pragpar Petrol Pump:Kutch,Gujarat,India

 

IBP Petrol Pump:Gandhidham,Kutch,Gujarat,India

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation:

Hotel Prince:College Road,Mirzapar Highway,Bhuj,Gujarat,India

 

Hotel Mahir: Mandvi,Kutch,Gujarat,India,ph:02834 222090

Things to carry:

Tips & Suggestions:

Help Line/Phone Number:

Police Station:100
Nearest Hospital:
Mental Hospital:Bhuj,Kutch,Gujarat,India
Velani Hospital:Bhuj, Kutch, Gujarat,India
Society/Community Phone Number:
Link:www.gujaratguideonline.com

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Shree Swaminarayan Mandir
The temple will have an easy access by public transport and will serve as a permanent place of assembly for worship and Gujrati classes of Melbourne have had to use various Scout halls and School halls previously.These halls have not always been available when needed and thus a decision was made by the Mandir to search for an appropriate place that may be available to us when needed,The model of Swaminarayan temple, that will come in existence in sort time, with the hearty help of holy devotees of supreme god Swaminarayan. This mandir falls in Uttar Desh.....more
Kutch Mandvi Beach
Mandvi beach isone of the finest beach of Gujarat and a historic port town of the Maharao of Kutch. The port of Mandvi was an important sea trade post between the near East and the far East which brought prosperity to the Royal family. Mandvi town was an important city for the Maharaos of Bhuj being endowed with some splendid palaces and buildings. The region surrounding the Kutch Mandvi beach was once very active and significant, and one may come across many ruins and historical sites. Some distance away from the pristine Kutch Mandvi Beach is an ancient dock and port, which is still functional today. Though not historically significant, as the dock/port is completely recent, it is unique in that here, the vessels are made using wood and by hand....more
Prag Mahal Bhuj
The Prag Mahal in Bhuj is one of the most interesting palaces amongst the famous monuments in Gujarat India. The Prag Mahal also called the New Palace, was constructed in the year 1979. Every year tourists from far and wide come to see the splendors of this beautiful architectural structure which stands intact till date to narrate the tales from the bygone era.The Prag Mahal in Bhuj is an example of magnificent architecture. The decor of ornate Italian marble and golden sandstone give the palace a unique look and leaves one spellbound. The attractive Corinthian pillars of Prag Mahal, Bhuj and the detailed Jaali work depict the European flora and fauna. You can spend hours after hours studying and admiring the beautiful art work of Prag Mahal, one of the major tourist attractions in Gujarat....more
Aina Mahal Bhuj
Aina Mahal was constructed by Rao Lakhpatji, is situated in historic city of Bhuj, Gujarat. The mid eighteenth century Palace was built in traditional Kutchi style showing strong European influence as well. Aina Mahal is part of a large palace complex, with a darbar hall, a hall of mirrors and suites for the royal members. The Hall of Mirrors which is a blend of Indian and European creativity is the main attraction of the palace. The walls of this hall are built of white marble and are covered by mirrors surrounded by gilded decorations.The Aina Mahal in Bhuj is an old palace that was built in the 18th century. The erstwhile palace which belonged to Maharao Lakhpatji has now been transformed into a museum that is one of the chief tourist attractions in Bhuj.....more
Durbar Gadh Bhuj
Durbar Gadh is one of the most beautiful tourist attractions in Bhuj, Gujarat. The monument is located in the heart of the old town of Bhuj. It has immense historical importance. Every year, tourists flock to Durbar Gadh, Bhuj that happens to be one of the most remarkable landmarks in the city.Durbar Gadh is the place where the Maharaja of Nawanagar used to hold meetings with the public audiences. It falls under the headquarters of the Kutch District in Gujarat. This historical building was affected by the massive earthquake of 2001. Some of the distinct features of the fort are the beautiful latticed windows and intricate carvings that adorn its exteriors and interiors. A tour to Durbar Gadh in Bhuj is a must during your visit to Gujarat....more

 

Tomb of Jesal Toral
Anjar, which is one of the most beautiful cities in Gujarat, houses some of the most attractive forts and monuments. The Tomb of Jesal Toral is one of the famed tourist attractions in Anjar. It is basically a samadhi of Jesal Toral. There is also a bungalow of James Mcmurdo here. It has now been converted into a veritable museum that displays Kutch art.Anjar is also famed for its beautiful block printing work, scissors, nutcrackers and penknives. These are some of the artworks which you will come across in the museum at the Tomb of Jesal Toral in Anjar. On your visit to the city, a tour to Jesal Toral Tomb is highly recommended as it is one of the premier attractions of Gujarat. The tomb is also a centre for fairs.....more
Dholavira Ruins Kutch
Kutch is spelt as Kachchh also, It is a beautiful district of western state of Gujarat in India. It is said to be the most extensive district in the state of Gujarat and the 2nd largest district of India succeeding Leh. The meaning of the word Kutch stands for something that becomes wet and dry intermittently. On tour to Gujarat you must stop at this magnificent travel destination for a while. Here you will get to see various types of interesting sites of which forts and monuments top the chart. In fact Dholavira Ruins in Kutch has been acclaimed massively among all the forts and monuments in Gujarat.Dholavira is an ancient town situated in the state of Gujarat. It lies on the North West corner of the Khadir Island and stands surrounded by water in the monsoons. It was discovered in the year 1967 AD.....more
Vijay Vilas Palace Mandvi
Mandvi was earlier popular as the Paris of Kutch. This is because the Maharajas of Kutch made this place their summer resort because of its pleasant climate. With its rich traditional history a tour to Mandvi is a must on your visit to the forts and monuments in Gujarat. The Vijay Vilas Palace in Mandvi is one of the best examples of the city glamorous historical background.The Vijay Vilas Palace rises from a multi acre estate along the coast near the town. This palace of His Highness Maharao Vijay Singhji who ruled over Kutch in the 1940s is an eclectic blend of architectural styles. Umbrella domes like those seen in palaces of Bengal cupolas that would not look out of place in Mughal buildings jarokhas and cusp arches like those seen in Rajput palaces of Rajasthan, Victorian Gothic arches and classical columns make up the ensemble. Yet the architects were skilled enough to make the entire complex look harmonious....more
Tomb of Ghosh Mohammed Kaba
he tomb of Ghosh Mohammed Kaba in Lakhpat is amongst the best tourist attractions in Gujarat, India. The town of Lakhpat is at a distance of 151 km from the Bhuj airport. The town has an amazing landscape. It is also known for its rich historical splendors, which you can see in the form of old temples, gurudwaras and mosques. The tomb of Ghosh Mohammed Kaba is very famous and attracts a lot of tourists.From the vantage point on the wall of the tomb, a breathtaking view of the sea and the Rann of Kutch can be enjoyed. The town of Lakhpat is now deserted and uninhabited. Amongst the ruins of the town, the one that stands prominent is the Gurudwara or the holy shrine of the Sikhs. The tomb of Ghosh Mohammed Kaba is about 200 years old. It is a gigantic tomb that still stands to narrate stories from the bygone era....more
Kutch Museums
Kutch Museum, formerly known as the Fergusson Museum, is situated in the ancient city of Bhuj, in Kutch , it is the oldest of its kind in Gujarat. The museum, constructed in the Italian Gothic style, is located in the picturesque surroundings on the bank of Hamirsar Lake just opposite to the Nazar Bagh Garden.The Kachchh Museum in Bhuj, India, is one of the famous Tourist Attractions in Bhuj. Built during the period of British Rule in India, the Museum of Kachchh in Bhuj is the most significant among all other Museums in Bhuj as it displays the articles that take the visitors to those ages to which they belonged....more
Folk Museum Bhuj
The Folk Museum in Bhuj, India, is also known as Bharatiya Sanskruti Darshan, Bhuj.This museum has an interesting collection of artifacts including textiles which are displayed at typical village habitat. The Bhuj area has tribal people namely the Rabaries,Jats and Ahir to name a few. Therefore the museum here is rich in folk culture and art and is a must see.One of the chief attractions of Folk Museum, Bhuj which you will hardly find in any of the other Museums in Bhuj, is a rare fossil of a Crocodilian which is which is an extinct species of the crocodile of the modern age. This creature was double the size of a crocodile of today measuring as much as 9 meters as compared to the modern species which measures only 3 to 4 meters in length.Apart from this, a wide range of textiles and artifacts belonging to the members of the royal families of Bhuj have been elaborately displayed in Folk Museum, Bhuj. These timeless items have become hallmark of the glorious past when Bhuj was under the rule of the Rajputs. The private collections of the rulers arouse interest and amazement among visitors of all ages. The Museum also houses models of villages of this part of the world....more
Narayan Sarovar Sancuary
Located about only 2 kms away from the Kutch district in Gujarat, the Narayan Sarovar Chinkara Sanctuary is considered as one of the most unique wildlife sanctuaries in India. The sanctuary is also known as the Narayan Sarovar Wildlife Sanctuary and is mainly dedicated at preserving and conserving the endangered species of Chinkara or the Indian Gazelle. The sanctuary was established in April, 1981 and has been holding a special place among the nature lovers all over the world, since then.It covers a huge area of 444 sq. km.The Narayan Sarovar Chinkara Sanctuary has a unique eco-system. A part of the sanctuary is a seasonal wetland in the arid zone that play mother to 15 threatened wildlife species.....more
Kutch Bustard Sanctuary
The Kutch Bustard Sanctuary is one of the great wonders of wildlife in Gujarat. With amazing geographical features, flora and fauna, the sanctuary simply leaves you spellbound with its wild splendors. Spread over an area of 2 sq km, Kutch Bustard Sanctuary is located in proximity to Naliya which is under the district of Kutch in Gujarat India. The sanctuary was established with an aim to protect the great Indian Bustard.The total population of the species of Indian Bustards has reduced considerably since the last few years due to various reasons like poaching, hunting and others.....more