Explore the unique craft villages of Kutch

In the state of Gujarat, Kutch is a treasure trove of hidden gems. From grasslands to wetlands, the terrain has a hypnotic appeal. Along with the main towns, 969 villages call Kutch their home—each rooted in its unique culture and craft. Needless to say, tribal cottage industries thrive in the region. Traditional handicrafts by skilled artisans are trademarks here and reason enough to explore the unique craft villages of Kutch. Here are some that you definitely include on this craft-y trail.

Khavda Village

Khavda Village in Bhuj is best known as the gateway to the famous flamingo colony at the Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary. However, the local village community is noted for skilled potters who produce their wares using the soft clay found in the Rann. With unique and distinct designs created using red, black and white paint to decorate, this traditional art form is kept alive by local artisans in the area.

Hodka Village

Quaint thatched-roofed mud huts scattered in Hodka Village are home to a select group of artisan families who produce colourful Banni embroidery. Characterized by bright hues of red, green, yellow and myriad other shades along with chain-stitched mirror, each piece is unique from the other. Patchwork appliques, home furnishings, apparel, jewellery and trinkets boasting of ornate designs are carefully handcrafted by local artisans.

Jura Village

Unique to Jura Village is the art of copper-bell making. The skill, which was brought to Gujarat by the Lohar community from Sindh in what is today, Pakistan, is kept alive by Huser Sidhik and his family. Made from scrap metal, the copper is moulded and crafted into bells of all shapes and sizes. No two bells are alike in their chimes, which is truly remarkable.

Nirona Village

A few kilometres from Jura is Nirona Village where the delicate art form known as Rogan Art originated. The technique, which was traditionally used to adorn bridal wear, involves dipping a metal needle in vibrant oil-based paints to create designs on fabric.

Ajrakhpur Village

Ajrakhpur Village is the home of the traditional Ajrakh block printing style that uses natural dyes made from turmeric, pomegranate, ink and mud to create endless yards of fabric. The printing blocks are often shaped and carved by hand using absolute precision and skill. Almost every family in the village contributes to this complex art form in some way.

Getting there:

By road: While some state and privately run busses operate through the Kutch region, the best option is to hire a private taxi to the villages. The distance from Bhuj are – Khavda (75 kilometres), Hodka (65 kilometres), Jura and Nirona (60 kilometres) and Ajrakhpur (15 kilometres).

Read more: 10 Must Visit Places In Gujarat

Where to stay:

Bhuj is the nearest town to all these villages were accommodation is available. Budget and mid-range options include Hotel Oasis (Rs. 1,397 per night), Grand 3D (Rs. 1,707 per night and Hotel 7 Sky (Rs. 2,240 per night); luxury options include Kutch Safari Resort (Rs. 2,752 per night), Regenta Resort Bhuj (Rs. 2,814 per night) and City The Village Resort (Rs. 9,600 per night).

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