By THE NEWSMAN OF INDIA.COM| by Abul Hasan|As winter settles over western India, the vast salt plains of Kutch are once again alive with colour, rhythm and global attention. The ongoing Rann Utsav 2025–26 has reaffirmed its place as one of India’s most iconic cultural tourism experiences, drawing visitors from across the country and abroad to the mesmerising White Desert.

Running from October 23, 2025 to March 4, 2026, the festival has transformed the stark beauty of the Great Rann into a living celebration of Gujarat’s heritage, creativity and hospitality. Carefully curated by the Tourism Department of the Government of Gujarat, this year’s edition reflects maturity, scale and a deeper commitment to sustainable and community-driven tourism.

The White Desert Comes Alive Again

What appears desolate for most of the year becomes extraordinary during Rann Utsav. Near Dhordo village, the salt flats stretch endlessly, glowing softly under winter skies and turning magical on full moon nights. The desert, once silent, now resonates with folk melodies, vibrant dances and the hum of cultural exchange.

The Tent City at Dhordo continues to be the nucleus of the festival. Designed to blend comfort with tradition, the accommodation reflects Kutchi aesthetics through local textiles, colours and craftsmanship. Eco-conscious planning, use of renewable energy and thoughtful waste management underline Gujarat Tourism’s focus on responsible tourism in a fragile landscape.

An Experience Shaped by Culture and Community

Rann Utsav has evolved beyond a festival into a platform that celebrates people as much as place. Artisans from across Kutch showcase centuries-old crafts such as Rogan art, Ajrakh printing, Bandhani, leatherwork and embroidery. Live demonstrations allow visitors to witness skill passed down through generations, turning each interaction into a cultural exchange.

Local participation remains at the heart of the event. Folk musicians, dancers and craftsmen not only find a global audience but also sustainable livelihoods. The recognition of Dhordo as one of UNESCO’s Best Tourism Villages has further strengthened this model, highlighting how tourism can uplift communities while preserving authenticity.

Moonlit Nights and Timeless Memories

Full moon nights continue to be the defining highlight of the festival. As moonlight reflects off the white salt crust, the desert transforms into a natural stage of rare beauty. Cultural performances under the open sky, combined with the stillness of the Rann, create moments that linger long after the visit ends.

Gujarat Tourism’s planning around lunar cycles has allowed visitors to experience this spectacle at its most enchanting, reinforcing Rann Utsav’s reputation as a once-in-a-lifetime journey rather than a routine holiday.

Beyond Culture: Adventure and Flavours of Kutch

The ongoing edition of Rann Utsav caters to diverse interests. Adventure seekers enjoy activities such as camel safaris, all-terrain vehicle rides and paramotoring, while others explore nearby heritage sites and villages. Evening haats, cultural workshops and open-air performances ensure that every day offers something distinct.

Cuisine plays a quiet yet powerful role in the experience. Traditional Gujarati meals, Kutchi specialities and locally sourced ingredients warm the winter nights, offering visitors a taste of the region’s culinary heritage alongside its cultural richness.

A Reflection of Gujarat Tourism’s Vision

The smooth conduct and growing popularity of Rann Utsav 2025–26 reflect meticulous planning and coordination. Infrastructure, safety, sanitation and visitor services have been strengthened year after year, positioning the festival as a benchmark for experiential tourism in India.

By balancing scale with sensitivity, Gujarat Tourism has demonstrated how large cultural events can thrive without compromising ecological balance or local identity.

A Festival That Belongs to the World

As Rann Utsav continues through the season, it stands as a reminder of how imagination, governance and tradition can come together to create something timeless. The White Desert of Kutch is no longer just a landscape; it is a shared experience that connects cultures, stories and generations.

Under the winter moon, amid salt and song, Rann Utsav 2025–26 continues to invite the world to witness a desert that celebrates life, legacy and the enduring spirit of Gujarat.