There is nothing "Little" about the Little Rann of Kutch (LRK). It sprawls across 5000 sq kms, and it is only small compared to the Great Rann of Kutch, which occupies 7500 sq kms. The LRK is an arid desert flat land, with salt marshes in the summers and winters that transform into a wetland in the rains. It is located in the Kutch District of Gujarat.
India's Largest Wild Life Sanctuary
The LRK is home to the last herd of Asiatic Wild Ass, and the area is pronounced as a Sanctuary for it. The animal is also locally called Gudkar. The image of the herd of wild ass galloping in silhouette on the horizon, with the setting sun in the background, is one of Little Rann's iconic photographs. Amongst the other animal populations are:
Our Guests of the Feathered Variety
There is something magical and spectacular about the flocks of flamingos packed together in the wetlands, taking to the sky together and filling the air with the beat of their feathered wings. It is an orchestration that only nature can accomplish. This is certainly a bird lovers paradise and a must visit for sheer variety and beauty.
The LRK is home to various birds and is the temporary home of several migratory species. The Little Rann hosts over 250 species of resident and migratory birds. Several factors make the LRK a preferred destination - including proximity to a migratory corridor, the presence of wetlands, proximity to the nutrient-rich Gulf waters, etc.
In LRK, you will find large flocks of the Lesser and Greater Flamingos, Sandgrouses, Lapwings, Houbara or McQueen's Bustard, various Wheatears and Greater Hoopoe-Lark, Peregrine Falcons, Short Eared Owls & Pallied Scopes Owls, Nightjars etc.
LRK's Desert People - Communities relatively untouched by modernity
Tucked away on the edge of the LRK are communities that are relatively untouched by the passage of time. This little region, some 24 villages around the town of Dasada, is called Kharapat - ‘The Salty Strip’ in English.
Even today, Dasada remains as they were over generations, populated by ethnic communities who have retained their culture and ways of earning a living. They are a blend of Gujarat, Saurashtra and Kutch. They are delightfully distinct.
The main communities of Dasada are nomadic pastoralists - the Rabaris, Mirs, Bharvads, and Jats - who migrated from the north to the west. The Kanbi farmers came from the south, and the Kolis are indigenous to Dasada.
A Visual Journey into the Life & Habitats of Little Rann’s dwellers
The word ‘Safari’ has an interesting origin - It is a Swahili word that traces its root to the Arabic term – ‘Safar’ meaning to travel or go on a journey. It’s original meaning in East Africa was to go on a hunt, but over time, the blood sport has given way to capturing images with one’s camera.
The Little Rann offers you a variety of Journeys to view Wildlife, Birds and more.
Journeys and Cultural Exposures that define the LRK experience
Besides the animals and the birds, there are interesting places to visit and insightful experiences to gain.
You could visit the Modhera Temple, or travel back in time to the Harrapan ruins of Dholavira, or visit the handicraft canters of the Mirs, Rabaris and other tribes with their exquisite embroidery, beadwork, appliques and more.
The One of a kind LRK Experiences
Dasada & the Rann Riders is the ideal place to have these experiences. So, when you visit us, why not experience them? We fondly call them our memory makers!
Experience a Bush Dinner, Breakfast or a Bonfire Dinner
Depending on whether you are a morning or a night person - you can choose to have a specially catered Dinner or Breakfast.
Imagine Dining under a billion stars with the cuisine and meal you choose. Look into the LRK and away from the Resort, and you can be reasonably sure you will be the only couple speaking that night!
In the early mornings, we can prepare breakfast of your choice while you watch the sunrise in the Rann. These are spectacular experiences that will remain with you for a long time.
Bonfire Dinners
If you are in a group and would like some revelry around a bonfire set against a dark backdrop, try one of our Bonfire Dinners. You will be hard-placed to decide if the culinary or night experience is better!
Experience made for Off-Roading Terrain
It is difficult to say if the terrain is made for the Off-roader or vice versa. The Rann is a great place to go off-roading, see the sights, and experience the flora, fauna, and nature's wild creations while you hang on to your seat! It is a great experience, especially with our expert drivers and naturalists.
