From Bhuj to Dhordo: Your Gateway to the White Desert

The Rann Utsav is Gujarat’s great fiesta of culture, music, dance, and the stunning beauty of the White Desert. Organized in Dhordo village, it welcomes tourists from all over the world. To go to the festival venue, your journey starts at Bhuj, the closest major town with railway and airport connectivity.

How to Reach Rann Utsav

By Train: Routes to Bhuj from Around India

Bhuj is well linked to much of India by train. The popular routes are:

From Delhi – Delhi Sarai Rohilla – Bhuj Express (14321/14322)
From Mumbai – Kutch Express (22955/22956) from Bandra Terminus
From Ahmedabad – Several daily trains (7–8 hrs journey)
From Bareilly & North India – Bareilly–Bhuj Express

Tip: Book train tickets in advance since Rann Utsav is peak season.

Bhuj to Dhordo (Festival Site)

After arriving in Bhuj, Dhordo lies 80 km away. You may opt for:

Private Taxis & Cabs – Most convenient, can be hired from station/airport.

Shared Transport & Local Jeeps – Cost-effective but time-consuming.

Rann Utsav Transfers – Shuttle/pickup services are often offered by organizers.

Best Time to Travel

November to February – Peak season with good weather.
Full Moon Nights – Enchanted observations on the white salt desert; book in advance as these nights get sold out fast.
December & January – Best for chilly weather, but also the most busy.

Itineraries to Reach Rann Utsav

By Train

Nearest Station: Bhuj (80–90 km from Dhordo).
From Mumbai: Kutch Express, Sayaji Nagari Express (~15 hrs).
From Ahmedabad: Kutch Express, overnight trains (~7 hrs).
From Delhi: Sarvodaya Express, BE Bhuj Express (~20–21 hrs).
From Kolkata: Shalimar–Bhuj Express (weekly, ~42 hrs).

By Air

Bhuj Airport (BHJ): Operates from Mumbai and Ahmedabad.
By road, Dhordo is ~2 hrs from Bhuj.

By Road

Good highways from Ahmedabad, Rajkot, and Bhuj.
Taxis, private cars, and buses are available.

Travel Hacks

Book Early: Trains and Tent City packages get booked quickly, particularly on full moon nights.
Plan Transfers: Make use of Rann Utsav’s free AC coaches from Bhuj station/airport to Dhordo for convenience.
Pack Wise: Bring warm clothing (nights can be chilly), power banks, and money (there are limited ATMs).
Local Flair: Take a detour at Bhujodi or Ajrakhpur villages on the way to buy Kutchi handicrafts.
Stay Adaptable: Maintain some buffer in travel duration; desert climate and traffic on roads may cause delays.

How to Reach Rann Utsav: Train Routes to Bhuj from Across India