From Mount Abu to Rann of Kutch: Road trippin' through Gujarat

[button path="my-way-on-highway-day-7/" color="theme" size="medium" padding:"14px" target="_blank"]DAY 7[/button][button path="my-way-on-highway-day-9/" color="theme" size="medium" padding:"14px" target="_blank"]DAY 9[/button]

Yes! An exciting week has passed and it’s already Day 8 as we reach the beautiful state of Gujarat.

Drive Me To Bhuj!

We were headed in this direction for one sole reason – to witness the grandeur of the Rann of Kutch.

It was a day of long drives and arid landscapes on the 432.9 kilometres that connect Mount Abu to Bhuj, the second largest district in the country that caught the world’s attention after the massive earthquake in 2002. The moment we stepped in to Gujarat, Gulabo was stopped for checking. Apparently, folks try to sneak in alcohol in this western state even though the law does not allow it. Don’t worry, we weren’t carrying any!

Trip Stop At Hotel Savera

And here I give a Trip Stop Recommendation to Hotel Savera!

It is customary for us Road Trippers to stop midway for a meal. This time it was around lunch that we decided to take a break from the highway. Hotel Savera was like an oasis in the Gujarati desert of sorts since it was very hot and dry. Clean and hygienic, it offered a good list of Punjabi, Rajasthani, Gujarati food. We ordered paneer tikka, which was authentic North Indian, chilli paneer that I absolutely loved; and dal to go with roti. After a shared glass of chaach, the Trip Stop deal was sealed for us. Thus followed the recommendation!

Little Rann of Kutch

Can you see the amazing Little Rann of Kutch?

Our route to Bhuj went past Adesar, which offered us a glimpse of the brilliant Little Rann Of Kutch. A treat to the eyes, the landscape was such that we decided to park the car for a few minutes to soak in its raw beauty. Several high voltage electric lines surrounded it and we could even hear the crackling sound of electricity passing through.

Kutch Safari Lodge

The Kutch Safari Lodge where we stayed the night

Just a few kilometers before the city of Bhuj, we took a detour to reach our base camp for the next four days. The Kutch Safari Lodge has been running packed to Kutch enthusiasts from all over the world. This remarkable eco-tourism property next to the Rudramata Dam is run by Mike Vaghela, a gentleman who has so many fascinating stories to share that you could sit listening to him for hours. You will be tempted to park yourself by the waters but be careful of the crocodiles that venture out during the summer. We really wanted to spot one but had little luck. We got a charming little cottage, embellished with Gujarati mirror work on the white walls. There is no TV in our room calling in for digital detox. Well, almost!

We have an exciting day ahead of us tomorrow. Come back for more…

Saba Shaikh

Saba is a nomad at heart. Having lived in 12 cities, she looks to experience different cultures and is dying to trot all over the world in more than 80 days (what’s the rush!). Daydreaming and baking are her other love interests!