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{{Short description|Salt marsh in the Thar Desert}}
{{Distinguish|Rann of Kutch|Little Rann of Kutch}}
{{Distinguish|Rann of Kutch|Little Rann of Kutch}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2019}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=June 2025}}
{{Use Indian English|date=July 2013}}
{{Use Indian English|date=June 2025}}
{{Designation list
{{Designation list
  | designation1 = Ramsar
  | designation1 = Ramsar
  | designation1_offname = Runn of Kutch
  | designation1_offname = Kutch
  | designation1_date = 5 November 2002
  | designation1_date = 5 November 2002
  | designation1_number = 1285<ref>{{Cite web|title=Runn of Kutch|website=[[Ramsar Convention|Ramsar]] Sites Information Service|url=https://rsis.ramsar.org/ris/1285|access-date=25 April 2018}}</ref>
  | designation1_number = 1285<ref>{{Cite web|title=Runn of Kutch|website=[[Ramsar Convention|Ramsar]] Sites Information Service|url=https://rsis.ramsar.org/ris/1285|access-date=25 April 2018}}</ref>
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[[File:Tropic of Cancer - a few miles from Rann of Kutch.jpg|thumb|[[Tropic of Cancer]] – a few miles from Rann of Kutch]]
[[File:Tropic of Cancer - a few miles from Rann of Kutch.jpg|thumb|[[Tropic of Cancer]] – a few miles from Rann of Kutch]]


The '''Great Rann of Kutch''' (or '''Rann of Kutch seasonal salt marsh''') is a [[salt marsh]] in the [[Thar Desert]] in the [[Kutch District]] of [[Gujarat]], [[India]]. It is about 7500&nbsp;km<sup>2</sup> (2900 sq miles) in the area and is reputed to be one of the largest salt deserts in the world.<ref>{{cite web|title=Gujarat Tourism Document|url=http://www.gujarattourism.com/downloads/nov_2008.pdf|publisher=Gujarattourism.com|access-date=22 November 2013|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101212123416/http://gujarattourism.com/downloads/nov_2008.pdf|archive-date=12 December 2010}}</ref> This area has been inhabited by the [[Kutchi people]].<ref name=ILRV>{{cite book|title=INTERNATIONAL LAW REPORTS VOLUME 50|publisher=Cambridge University Press|page=464|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=9F1l4CKaYdMC&q=Great+Rann+of+Kutch&pg=PA464|isbn=9780406876522|year=1976}}</ref>
The '''Great Rann of Kutch''' ({{ipa|gu|ɾən...kət͡ːʃʰ|ipa}}) is a [[salt marsh]] in the [[Thar Desert]] in the [[Kutch District]] of [[Gujarat]], [[India]]. It is about 7500&nbsp;km<sup>2</sup> (2900 sq miles) in area and is reputed to be one of the largest salt deserts in the world.<ref>{{cite web|title=Gujarat Tourism Document|url=http://www.gujarattourism.com/downloads/nov_2008.pdf|publisher=Gujarattourism.com|access-date=22 November 2013|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101212123416/http://gujarattourism.com/downloads/nov_2008.pdf|archive-date=12 December 2010}}</ref> This area has been inhabited by the [[Kutchi people]].<ref name=ILRV>{{cite book|title=INTERNATIONAL LAW REPORTS VOLUME 50|publisher=Cambridge University Press|page=464|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=9F1l4CKaYdMC&q=Great+Rann+of+Kutch&pg=PA464|isbn=9780406876522|year=1976}}</ref>


The Hindi word is derived from [[Sanskrit]]/[[Vedas|Vedic]] word ''{{IAST|iriṇa}}'' (इरिण) attested in the [[Rigveda]] and [[Mahabharata]]. It is an extension of the [[Thar Desert]].
The Gujarati word ''Rann'' and Sindhi word ''Rinn'' are derived from the [[Sanskrit]]/[[Vedas|Vedic]] word ''{{IAST|iriṇa}}'' (इरिण), meaning the [[Salt pan (geology)|salt flat]] or barren ground, attested in the [[Rigveda]] and [[Mahabharata]]. It is the southern extension of the [[Thar Desert]].


==Location and description==
==Location and description==
{{see also|Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary|Rann of Kutch Wildlife Sanctuary}}
{{see also|Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary|Rann of Kutch Wildlife Sanctuary}}
Sanctuthe [[Little Rann of Kutch]] and the [[Banni grasslands]] on its southern edge, is situated in the district of Kutch and comprises some {{convert|30000|km2|sqmi|-4}} between the [[Gulf of Kutch]] and the mouth of the [[Indus River]] in southern [[Pakistan]]. The marsh can be accessed from the village of [[Kharaghoda]] in [[Surendranagar District]].<ref>{{cite book|last=Negi|first=S.S.|title=Biosphere reserves in India : landuse, biodiversity and conservation|year=1996|publisher=Indus Pub. Co.|location=New Delhi|isbn=978-81-7387-043-9}}</ref> The Great Rann of Kutch together with the Little Rann of Kutch is called [[Rann of Kutch]].
The Great Rann of Kutch, including the [[Banni grasslands]] on its southern edge, is situated in the district of Kutch and comprises some {{convert|30000|km2|sqmi|-4}} between the [[Gulf of Kutch]] and the mouth of the [[Indus River]] in southern [[Pakistan]]. The marsh can be accessed from the village of [[Khavda]] in [[Kutch District]].<ref>{{cite book|last=Negi|first=S.S.|title=Biosphere reserves in India : landuse, biodiversity and conservation|year=1996|publisher=Indus Pub. Co.|location=New Delhi|isbn=978-81-7387-043-9}}</ref> The Great Rann of Kutch together with the [[Little Rann of Kutch|Little Rann of Kutch]] is called [[Rann of Kutch]].


In India's summer [[monsoon]], the flat semi-desert of salty clay and [[mudflat]]s, which average 15 meters above sea level, fills with standing water. In very wet years, the wetland extends from the [[Gulf of Kutch]] on the west through to the [[Gulf of Cambay]] on the east.<ref>''At its greatest extent, the Gulf of Kutch on the west (visible in the image directly below the salt marshes) and the Gulf of Cambay on the east (the brown, sediment-tinged body of water on the lower right) are both united during the monsoon.'' {{cite web|title=Rann of Kutch, India|page=2|publisher=Earth Snapshot|date=6 November 2008|url=http://www.eosnap.com/image-of-the-day/rann-of-kutch-india-november-6th-2008/|access-date=22 November 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite EB1911|wstitle=Cutch, Runn of |volume=7 |page=670}}</ref>
In India's summer [[monsoon]], the flat semi-desert of salty clay and [[mudflat]]s, which average 15 meters above sea level, fills with standing water. In very wet years, the wetland extends from the [[Gulf of Kutch]] on the west through to the [[Gulf of Khambhat]] on the east.<ref>''At its greatest extent, the Gulf of Kutch on the west (visible in the image directly below the salt marshes) and the Gulf of Cambay on the east (the brown, sediment-tinged body of water on the lower right) are both united during the monsoon.'' {{cite web|title=Rann of Kutch, India|page=2|publisher=Earth Snapshot|date=6 November 2008|url=http://www.eosnap.com/image-of-the-day/rann-of-kutch-india-november-6th-2008/|access-date=22 November 2013|archive-date=2 December 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131202235439/http://www.eosnap.com/image-of-the-day/rann-of-kutch-india-november-6th-2008/|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite EB1911|wstitle=Cutch, Runn of |volume=7 |page=670}}</ref>


The area was a vast shallow of the [[Arabian Sea]] until continuing [[Tectonic uplift|geological uplift]] closed off the connection with the sea, creating a vast lake that was still navigable during the time of [[Alexander the Great]]. The [[Ghaggar River]], which presently empties into the semi-desert of northern [[Rajasthan]], formerly emptied into the [[Rann of Kutch]], but the lower reaches of the river dried up as its upstream tributaries were captured by the [[Indus River|Indus]] and [[Ganges]] thousands of years ago. Traces of the delta and its [[distributary]] channels on the northern boundary of the Rann of Kutch were documented by the [[Geological Survey of India]] in 2000.
The area was a vast shallow of the [[Arabian Sea]] until continuing [[Tectonic uplift|geological uplift]] closed off the connection with the sea, creating a vast lake that was still navigable during the time of [[Alexander the Great]]. The [[Ghaggar River]], which presently empties into the semi-desert of northern [[Rajasthan]], formerly emptied into the [[Rann of Kutch]], but the lower reaches of the river dried up as its upstream tributaries were captured by the [[Indus River|Indus]] and [[Ganges]] thousands of years ago. Traces of the delta and its [[distributary]] channels on the northern boundary of the Rann of Kutch were documented by the [[Geological Survey of India]] in 2000.


The [[Luni River]], which originates in [[Rajasthan]], drains into the semi-desert in the northeast corner of the Rann. Other rivers feeding into the marsh include the [[Rupen River|Rupen]] from the east and the [[West Banas River]] from the northeast.<ref name="WWF">{{WWF ecoregion|id=im0901|name=Rann of Kutch seasonal salt marsh}}</ref> [[Nara Canal]] or Puran river which is a [[Distributary channel|delta channel]] of [[Indus River]] empties during floods into [[Kori Creek]] located in the Great Rann of Kutch.
The [[Luni River]], which originates in [[Rajasthan]], drains into the semi-desert in the northeast corner of the Rann. Other rivers feeding into the marsh include the [[Rupen River|Rupen]] from the east and the [[West Banas River]] from the northeast.<ref name="WWF">{{WWF ecoregion|id=im0901|name=Rann of Kutch seasonal salt marsh}}</ref> [[Nara Canal]] or Puran river which is a [[Distributary channel|delta channel]] of the Indus River empties during floods into [[Kori Creek]] located in the Great Rann of Kutch.


There are sandy islets of thorny scrub, forming a wildlife sanctuary<ref name="WWF" /> and a breeding ground for some of the largest flocks of [[Greater flamingo|greater]] and [[lesser flamingo]]s.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Gandhi|first=Divya|url=https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/energy-and-environment/how-mumbais-residents-fought-and-won-a-battle-on-behalf-of-flamingos/article25799289.ece|title=How Mumbai's residents fought, and won, a battle on behalf of flamingos|date=2018-12-22|work=The Hindu|access-date=2020-02-23|language=en-IN|issn=0971-751X|quote=Flamingos — lesser and greater — are found across the country, and migrate from as far as Iran. Many of those that flock to Mumbai come from sites closer home, such as Gujarat’s Rann of Kutch, where they breed and nest on mudflats}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|last=Kannadasan|first=Akila|url=https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/energy-and-environment/flocktails-and-friendship/article30782808.ece|title=Flocktails and friendship|date=2020-02-10|work=The Hindu|access-date=2020-02-23|language=en-IN|issn=0971-751X|quote=The flamingoes come from the Rann of Kutch in Gujarat in December and leave towards the end of March.}}</ref> Wildlife, including the [[Indian wild ass]], shelter on islands of higher ground, called ''bets'', during the flooding.
There are sandy islets of thorny scrub, forming a wildlife sanctuary<ref name="WWF" /> and a breeding ground for some of the largest flocks of [[Greater flamingo|greater]] and [[lesser flamingo]]s.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Gandhi|first=Divya|url=https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/energy-and-environment/how-mumbais-residents-fought-and-won-a-battle-on-behalf-of-flamingos/article25799289.ece|title=How Mumbai's residents fought, and won, a battle on behalf of flamingos|date=22 December 2018|work=The Hindu|access-date=23 February 2020|language=en-IN|issn=0971-751X|quote=Flamingos — lesser and greater — are found across the country, and migrate from as far as Iran. Many of those that flock to Mumbai come from sites closer home, such as Gujarat’s Rann of Kutch, where they breed and nest on mudflats}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|last=Kannadasan|first=Akila|url=https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/energy-and-environment/flocktails-and-friendship/article30782808.ece|title=Flocktails and friendship|date=10 February 2020|work=The Hindu|access-date=23 February 2020|language=en-IN|issn=0971-751X|quote=The flamingoes come from the Rann of Kutch in Gujarat in December and leave towards the end of March.}}</ref> Wildlife, including the [[Indian wild ass]], shelter on islands of higher ground, called ''bets'', during the flooding.


==Climate==
==Climate==
This is one of the hottest areas of India – with summer temperatures averaging and peaking at 49.5&nbsp;°C. Winter temperatures reduce dramatically and can go below {{convert|0|°C|°F}}.<ref>{{cite web|title=Encyclopaedia of Earth|url=http://www.eoearth.org/article/Rann_of_Kutch_seasonal_salt_marsh|publisher=Eoearth.org|access-date=22 November 2013}}</ref>
This is one of the hottest areas of India – with summer temperatures averaging and peaking at 49.5&nbsp;°C. Winter temperatures diminish dramatically and can drop to below {{convert|0|°C|°F}}.<ref>{{cite web|title=Encyclopaedia of Earth|url=http://www.eoearth.org/article/Rann_of_Kutch_seasonal_salt_marsh|publisher=Eoearth.org|access-date=22 November 2013}}</ref>
 
==Religions==
Many religions are found here, including [[Hinduism]], [[Islam]], [[Jainism]] & [[Sikhism]].


==Threats and preservation==
==Threats and preservation==
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[[File:Sir-Creek-map.svg|270px|thumb|Creeks in Great Rann of Kutch area]]
[[File:Sir-Creek-map.svg|270px|thumb|Creeks in Great Rann of Kutch area]]


In India the northern boundary of the Greater Rann of Kutch forms the [[Borders of India|International Border]] between India and [[Pakistan]], it is heavily patrolled by India's [[Border Security Force]] (BSF) and the [[Indian Army]] conducts exercises here to acclimatize its troops to this harsh terrain.<ref>{{Cite journal|year=1971|title=Cease Fire and After: Better Security in Western India|journal=Link|location=New Delhi|publisher=United India Periodicals|volume=14|issue=2|page=13}}</ref>
In India the northern boundary of the Greater Rann of Kutch forms the [[India–Pakistan border|International Border]] between India and [[Pakistan]], it is heavily patrolled by India's [[Border Security Force]] (BSF) and the [[Indian Army]] conducts exercises here to acclimatise its troops to this harsh terrain.<ref>{{Cite journal|year=1971|title=Cease Fire and After: Better Security in Western India|journal=Link|location=New Delhi|publisher=United India Periodicals|volume=14|issue=2|page=13}}</ref>


This inhospitable salty lowland, rich in [[natural gas]], was one scene of [[Indo-Pakistani wars and conflicts|perennial border disputes]] between India and Pakistan that, in April 1965, contributed to the [[Indo-Pakistani War of 1965]]. Later the same year, [[Prime Minister of the United Kingdom]] [[Harold Wilson]] persuaded the combatants to end hostilities and establish a [[tribunal]] to resolve the dispute. A verdict was reached in 1968 which saw Pakistan getting 10% of its claim of {{convert|9100|km2|sqmi|-2}}. 90% was awarded to India, although India claimed 100% of the region. Tensions spurted again in 1999 during the [[Atlantique incident]].<ref>{{cite book|editor=Verinder Grover|title=50 years of Indo-Pak relations – the initial phase : partition of India, Indo-Pak wars, the UNO.|year=1998|publisher=Deep & Deep Publ.|location=New Delhi|isbn=978-81-7629-057-9}}</ref> Elements of dispute remain in [[Sir Creek#Dispute|Sir Creek]], since 1969, there have been twelve rounds of talks between the two nations, without a breakthrough. The twelfth round was completed in June 2012.<ref>{{cite web|title=Talks on Sir Creek begin between India-Pak|url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/India-news/NewDelhi/Talks-on-Sir-Creek-begin-between-India-Pak/Article1-874368.aspx}}</ref>
This inhospitable salty lowland, rich in [[natural gas]], was one scene of [[Rann of Kutch conflict|perennial border disputes]] between India and Pakistan that, in April 1965, contributed to the [[Indo-Pakistani War of 1965]]. Later the same year, [[Prime Minister of the United Kingdom]] [[Harold Wilson]] persuaded the combatants to end hostilities and establish a [[tribunal]] to resolve the dispute.<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Wetter |first=J. Gillis |date=1971 |title=The Rann of Kutch Arbitration |url=https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/american-journal-of-international-law/article/abs/rann-of-kutch-arbitration/F7969E80C0F9E51D47FC7E4F94B2D32C |journal=American Journal of International Law |language=en |volume=65 |issue=2 |pages=346–357 |doi=10.2307/2199243 |issn=0002-9300|url-access=subscription }}</ref> A verdict was reached in 1968 which saw Pakistan getting almost (780sq km) 10% of its claim of {{convert|9100|km2|sqmi|-2}}.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Pendharkar |first=Rajesh |title=The Lahore Declaration and Beyond: Maritime Confidence-Building Measures in South Asia |url=https://www.stimson.org/wp-content/files/file-attachments/MaritimeCBMs.PDF |website=www.stimson.org}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Pakistan - Geography |url=https://countrystudies.us/pakistan/23.htm |access-date=15 May 2025 |website=countrystudies.us}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Mugnier |first=Clifford J. |title=Grids & Datums ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF PAKISTAN |url=https://www.asprs.org/a/resources/grids/07-2009-pakistan.pdf |website=www.asprs.org}}</ref> and almost 90% was awarded to India. Tensions spurted again in 1999 during the [[Atlantique incident]].<ref>{{cite book|editor=Verinder Grover|title=50 years of Indo-Pak relations – the initial phase : partition of India, Indo-Pak wars, the UNO.|year=1998|publisher=Deep & Deep Publ.|location=New Delhi|isbn=978-81-7629-057-9}}</ref> Elements of dispute remain in [[Sir Creek#Dispute|Sir Creek]], since 1969, there have been twelve rounds of talks between the two nations, without a breakthrough. The twelfth round was completed in June 2012.<ref>{{cite web|title=Talks on Sir Creek begin between India-Pak|url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/India-news/NewDelhi/Talks-on-Sir-Creek-begin-between-India-Pak/Article1-874368.aspx|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120620185706/http://www.hindustantimes.com/India-news/NewDelhi/Talks-on-Sir-Creek-begin-between-India-Pak/Article1-874368.aspx|url-status=dead|archive-date=20 June 2012}}</ref>


==Indus River floods==
==Indus River floods==
The [[Indus river]] had been flowing into [[Rann of Kutch]] area and Rann of Kutch used to be its catchment area forming part of its delta.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.akshardhool.com/2013/09/two-disasters-that-changed-indias-south.html|title=Two disasters that defined India's south-west border with Pakistan for ever|access-date=22 December 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url= http://floodobservatory.colorado.edu/Publications/MetamorphosisofIndus.pdf|title=Anthropocene Metamorphosis of the Indus Delta and Lower Floodplain|access-date=22 December 2015}}</ref> Indus river delta branch/channel called [[Koree river]] shifted its course after an [[1819 Rann of Kutch earthquake|earthquake in 1819]] isolating Rann of Kutch from its delta.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/indus-river-re-enters-india/1/158976.html|title=Indus re-enters India after two centuries, feeds Little Rann, Nal Sarovar|access-date=22 December 2015}}</ref> Pakistan has constructed the [[Left Bank Outfall Drain]] (LBOD) project to bypass the saline and polluted water which is not fit for agriculture use to reach the sea via Rann of Kutch area without passing through the [[Indus delta]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://lubpak.com/archives/58775|title=Revisiting the LBOD issue|access-date=22 December 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160209183256/https://lubpak.com/archives/58775|archive-date=9 February 2016|url-status=dead}}</ref> The 500&nbsp;km long LBOD, begins from northern [[Ghotki District|Ghotki district]] in [[Sindh|Sindh province]] of Pakistan and joins [[Rann of Kutch]] in the [[Badin District|Badin district]] of Sindh.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://tribune.com.pk/story/299802/sindh-floods-lbod-was-a-mistake-experts-finally-agree-with-residents/|title=Sindh floods: LBOD was a mistake, experts finally agree with residents|access-date=22 December 2015}}</ref> Rann of Kutch is the joint water body of India and Pakistan.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://tribune.com.pk/story/263570/lbod-the-culprit-behind-recurring-floods-in-sindh/|title=LBOD the culprit behind recurring floods in Sindh|access-date=22 December 2015}}</ref> Water released by the LBOD is enhancing the flooding in India and contaminating the quality of water bodies which are the source of water to [[salt farm]]s spread over a vast area. The LBOD water is planned to join the sea via disputed [[Sir Creek]] but LBOD water is entering Indian territory due to many breaches in its left bank caused by floods<ref>{{cite web|url= http://siteresources.worldbank.org/EXTINSPECTIONPANEL/Resources/PAKNDPProgressRepANNEXES.pdf|title=Evolution of the Delta, the LBOD outfall system and the Badin dhands – chapters 3 & 4|access-date=22 December 2015}}</ref>
The Indus River had been flowing into [[Rann of Kutch]] area and Rann of Kutch used to be its catchment area forming part of its delta.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.akshardhool.com/2013/09/two-disasters-that-changed-indias-south.html|title=Two disasters that defined India's south-west border with Pakistan for ever|access-date=22 December 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url= http://floodobservatory.colorado.edu/Publications/MetamorphosisofIndus.pdf|title=Anthropocene Metamorphosis of the Indus Delta and Lower Floodplain|access-date=22 December 2015}}</ref> Indus river delta branch/channel called [[Koree river]] shifted its course after an [[1819 Rann of Kutch earthquake|earthquake in 1819]] isolating Rann of Kutch from its delta.<ref>{{cite web|url= https://www.indiatoday.in/india/west/story/indus-river-re-enters-india-145091-2011-11-06|title=Indus re-enters India after two centuries, feeds Little Rann, Nal Sarovar|date=7 November 2011 |access-date=22 December 2015}}</ref> Pakistan has constructed the [[Left Bank Outfall Drain]] (LBOD) project to bypass the saline and polluted water which is not fit for agriculture use to reach the sea via Rann of Kutch area without passing through the [[Indus delta]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://lubpak.com/archives/58775|title=Revisiting the LBOD issue|access-date=22 December 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160209183256/https://lubpak.com/archives/58775|archive-date=9 February 2016|url-status=dead}}</ref> The 500&nbsp;km long LBOD begins from northern [[Ghotki District|Ghotki district]] in [[Sindh|Sindh province]] of Pakistan and joins [[Rann of Kutch]] in the [[Badin District|Badin district]] of Sindh.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://tribune.com.pk/story/299802/sindh-floods-lbod-was-a-mistake-experts-finally-agree-with-residents/|title=Sindh floods: LBOD was a mistake, experts finally agree with residents|date=29 November 2011 |access-date=22 December 2015}}</ref> Rann of Kutch is the joint water body of India and Pakistan.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://tribune.com.pk/story/263570/lbod-the-culprit-behind-recurring-floods-in-sindh/|title=LBOD the culprit behind recurring floods in Sindh|date=29 September 2011 |access-date=22 December 2015}}</ref> Water released by the LBOD is enhancing the flooding in India and contaminating the quality of water bodies which are the source of water to [[salt farm]]s spread over a vast area. The LBOD water is planned to join the sea via disputed [[Sir Creek]] but LBOD water is entering Indian territory due to many breaches in its left bank caused by floods.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://siteresources.worldbank.org/EXTINSPECTIONPANEL/Resources/PAKNDPProgressRepANNEXES.pdf|title=Evolution of the Delta, the LBOD outfall system and the Badin dhands – chapters 3 & 4|access-date=22 December 2015}}</ref>


==Chir Batti==
==Chir Batti==
At night, an unexplained strange dancing light phenomenon known locally as [[Chir Batti]] (ghost lights) occurs in the Rann,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.intoday.in/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&issueid=&id=313&Itemid=&sectionid=8&secid=48&completeview=1 |title=INDIA TODAY GROUP: India Today, Business Today, Aaj Tak, Care Today, Mail Today, Cosmopolitan, Reader's Digest, India Today Conclave |publisher=Intoday.in |access-date=22 November 2013}}</ref><ref>[http://webcache.googleusercontent.com/search?q=cache:lwfhB0pbTwYJ:www.intoday.in/index.php%3Foption%3Dcom_content%26task%3Dview%26id%3D313%26Itemid%3D1%26issueid%3D%26sectionid%3D8%26secid%3D48%26limit%3D1%26limitstart%3D1+cheer+batti,+ghost+lights,+Rann+of+Kutch&cd=4&hl=en&ct=clnk&gl=ca&client=firefox-a]{{dead link|date=November 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.intoday.in/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&issueid=&id=313&Itemid=&sectionid=8&secid=48&completeview=1 |title=In Today – Blogs, Photos, Videos, sports and Business |publisher=Archive.is |date=3 August 2012 |access-date=22 November 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120803102541/http://www.intoday.in/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&issueid=&id=313&Itemid=&sectionid=8&secid=48&completeview=1 |archive-date=3 August 2012 }}</ref> the adjoining [[Banni grasslands]], and the seasonal wetlands.<ref>[http://cities.expressindia.com/fullstory.php?newsid=253114]  {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090114034106/http://cities.expressindia.com/fullstory.php?newsid=253114|date=14 January 2009}}</ref>
At night, an unexplained strange dancing light phenomenon known locally as [[Chir Batti]] (ghost lights) occurs in the Rann,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.intoday.in/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&issueid=&id=313&Itemid=&sectionid=8&secid=48&completeview=1 |title=INDIA TODAY GROUP: India Today, Business Today, Aaj Tak, Care Today, Mail Today, Cosmopolitan, Reader's Digest, India Today Conclave |publisher=Intoday.in |access-date=22 November 2013}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date= |title=INDIA TODAY GROUP: India Today, Business Today, Aaj Tak, Care Today, Mail Today, Cosmopolitan, Reader's Digest, India Today Conclave |url=https://www.indiatodaygroup.com/?option=com_content&task=view&id=313&Itemid=1&issueid=&sectionid=8&secid=48&limit=1&limitstart=1 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220328232542/https://www.indiatodaygroup.com/?option=com_content&task=view&id=313&Itemid=1&issueid=&sectionid=8&secid=48&limit=1&limitstart=1 |archive-date=28 March 2022 |access-date=15 May 2025 |website=www.indiatodaygroup.com}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.intoday.in/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&issueid=&id=313&Itemid=&sectionid=8&secid=48&completeview=1 |title=In Today – Blogs, Photos, Videos, sports and Business |publisher=Archive.is |date=3 August 2012 |access-date=22 November 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120803102541/http://www.intoday.in/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&issueid=&id=313&Itemid=&sectionid=8&secid=48&completeview=1 |archive-date=3 August 2012 }}</ref> the adjoining [[Banni grasslands]], and the seasonal wetlands.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Maheshwari |first=D. V. |date= |title=Ghost lights that dance on Banni grasslands when it's very dark |url=http://cities.expressindia.com/fullstory.php?newsid=253114 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090114034106/http://cities.expressindia.com/fullstory.php?newsid=253114 |archive-date=14 January 2009 |access-date=15 May 2025 |website=cities.expressindia.com}}</ref>


==Tourism==
==Tourism==
{{Advert|date=August 2022}}
[[File:Kutch White Rann Tents (8335851293).jpg|thumb|City of tents during Rann Utsav.]]
[[File:Kutch White Rann Tents (8335851293).jpg|thumb|City of tents during Rann Utsav.]]
[[File:Sunset at Rann of Kutch, Dhordo, Gujarat.jpg|thumb|Sunset at Rann of Kutch]]
[[File:Sunset at Rann of Kutch, Dhordo, Gujarat.jpg|thumb|Sunset at Rann of Kutch]]


The Government of [[Gujarat]] hosts an annual 3-month long '''"Rann Utsav"''' festival from December to February every year near [[Dhordo|Dhordo village]] in this 500&nbsp;km<sup>2</sup> pristine white salt desert landscapes during winter where tourists can see the various sights of the Rann. Rann Utsav can be visited by anyone but Tent City with 400 tents allows entry only to those who are staying there. Rann Utsav has cultural programs such as the [[Border Security Force|BSF Camel show]] held at 5 pm, adventure activities like [[Hot air balloon|hot-air ballooning]], many stalls selling trinkets, handicrafts, food, etc. as well as [[Camel train|camel cart excursion]], [[paramotor]]ing, golf carts, [[All-terrain vehicle|ATV rides]], yoga and meditation. During the festival 3 to 4-day events are also held at many other exotic locations around the larger Kutch area to expose tourists to the native culture and food, for example, [[Banni Grasslands Reserve|semi-arid grasslands of the Banni reserve]] exhibits folk architecture, arts and crafts of the area, and folk dance and dance music events are held at several locations with a bonfire under the moon.<ref name=fem1>[https://www.femina.in/life/travel/all-the-excitement-of-gujarats-rann-utsav-141333.html All the excitement of Gujarat'ss Rann Utsav], Femina, 29 November 2019.</ref>
The [[Government of Gujarat]] hosts an annual 3-month long Rann Utsav festival from December to February every year<ref>{{cite news |last=Gautam |first=Shikha |title=Rann Utsav this year - all that you need to know |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/travel/things-to-do/rann-utsav-this-year-all-that-you-need-to-know/articleshow/66360584.cms |date=25 October 2018 |work=India Times |access-date=26 August 2022}}</ref> near [[Dhordo|Dhordo village]] in a 500&nbsp;km<sup>2</sup> white salt desert. Rann Utsav has cultural programs such as the [[Border Security Force|BSF Camel show]] held at 5 pm, adventure activities like [[Hot air balloon|hot-air ballooning]], many stalls selling trinkets, handicrafts, food, etc. as well as [[Camel train|camel cart excursion]], [[paramotor]]ing, golf carts, [[All-terrain vehicle|ATV rides]], yoga and meditation. During the festival 3 to 4-day events are also held at many other exotic locations around the larger Kutch area to expose tourists to the native culture and food, for example, [[Banni Grasslands Reserve|semi-arid grasslands of the Banni reserve]] exhibits folk architecture, arts and crafts of the area, and folk dance and dance music events are held at several locations with a bonfire under the moon.<ref name=fem1>[https://www.femina.in/life/travel/all-the-excitement-of-gujarats-rann-utsav-141333.html All the excitement of Gujarat'ss Rann Utsav], Femina, 29 November 2019.</ref>
   
   
Rann Utsav gives visitors not only a chance to experience a full moon on salt deserts but also get a taste of the local culture, cuisine, and hospitality. Specially built local houses are also used to house tourists to give them a taste of local traditions<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gujarattourism.com/showpage.aspx?contentid=511 |title=Rann Utsav &#124; Fairs & Festivals &#124; Home |publisher=Gujarat Tourism |date=13 November 2013 |access-date=22 November 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120118073306/http://www.gujarattourism.com/showpage.aspx?contentid=511 |archive-date=18 January 2012 }}</ref> Many adventure clubs and travel clubs organize expeditions.<ref>[https://www.rannutsav.net/ Rann Utsav Official Website]</ref>
Rann Utsav gives visitors not only a chance to experience a full moon on salt deserts but also get a taste of the local culture, cuisine, and hospitality. Specially built local houses are also used to house tourists to give them a taste of local traditions.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gujarattourism.com/showpage.aspx?contentid=511 |title=Rann Utsav &#124; Fairs & Festivals &#124; Home |publisher=Gujarat Tourism |date=13 November 2013 |access-date=22 November 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120118073306/http://www.gujarattourism.com/showpage.aspx?contentid=511 |archive-date=18 January 2012 }}</ref> Many adventure clubs and travel clubs organise expeditions.


==Handicrafts==
==Handicrafts==
Some women and young girls make their living by selling different types of [[Kutch Embroidery|Kutch embroidered]] cloths. The embroidery is of various styles such as [[Rabari]], [[Ahir]], [[Culture of Sindh|Sindhi]], [[Banni Grasslands Reserve|Banni]], [[Mutwa]], [[Koli people|Ari]] and [[Kutch Embroidery|Soof]], some of which include mirror or bead inlays.
Some women and young girls make their living by selling different types of [[Kutch Embroidery|Kutch embroidered]] cloths. The embroidery is of various styles such as [[Rabari]], [[Ahir]], [[Culture of Sindh|Sindhi]], [[Banni Grasslands Reserve|Banni]], [[Mutwa]], [[Koli people|Ari]] and [[Kutch Embroidery|Soof]], some of which include mirror or bead inlays.
<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gujarattourism.com/showpage.aspx?contentid=1668&lang=English |title=Rann Utsav 2009 &#124; Fairs & Festivals &#124; Home |publisher=Gujarat Tourism |access-date=22 November 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120109012437/http://www.gujarattourism.com/showpage.aspx?contentid=1668&lang=English |archive-date=9 January 2012 }}</ref>
<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gujarattourism.com/showpage.aspx?contentid=1668&lang=English |title=Rann Utsav 2009 &#124; Fairs & Festivals &#124; Home |publisher=Gujarat Tourism |access-date=22 November 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120109012437/http://www.gujarattourism.com/showpage.aspx?contentid=1668&lang=English |archive-date=9 January 2012 }}</ref> Rogan work also.


==Popular culture==
==Popular culture==
[[J. P. Dutta]]'s [[Bollywood]] film ''[[Refugee (2000 film)|Refugee]]'' was shot in the Great Rann of Kutch along with other locations in the [[Kachchh district]]. It is said to have been inspired by the story by [[Keki N. Daruwalla]] based around the Great Rann of Kutch titled ''Love Across the Salt Desert''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://learnhub.com/lesson/8204-love-across-the-salt-desert|title=LOVE ACROSS THE SALT DESERT – binaljavia|publisher=Learnhub.com|access-date=22 November 2013|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131202222431/http://learnhub.com/lesson/8204-love-across-the-salt-desert|archive-date=2 December 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://cns.bu.edu/~sat/satblog/fotos/lasd.pdf |title=Love across The Salt Desert |publisher=Cns.bu.edu |access-date=23 November 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110719155552/http://cns.bu.edu/~sat/satblog/fotos/lasd.pdf |archive-date=19 July 2011 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://learnhub.com/lesson/8205-love-across-the-salt-desert-know-more|title=LOVE ACROSS THE SALT DESERT know more – binaljavia|publisher=Learnhub.com|access-date=22 November 2013|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131202231316/http://learnhub.com/lesson/8205-love-across-the-salt-desert-know-more|archive-date=2 December 2013}}</ref><ref>[http://cicmanipur.nic.in/html/hr_c_syll_enggen.asp]  {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110129003324/http://cicmanipur.nic.in/html/hr_c_syll_enggen.asp|date=29 January 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&q=cache:7ntDKDdv7C8J:www.cisce.org/data/Syllabus%2520for%2520ISC%25202011/ISC%2520Appendix%2520-%2520I%2520-%2520List%2520of%2520Prescribed%2520Text%2520Books.pdf+love+across+the+salt+desert+school+book&hl=en&pid=bl&srcid=ADGEESgJ2u5Zn9VJb8UC3LXk1MDsfBERX-6E1YnXt26Zlk-U0eZUQUcI9sYBSYRsT0kWnjkODYtCiUrkQ5FFA0zNmU2iH6SusNqJp69XsZRKb9NGE5CbIDuH7jKqGHt-5Zq1ohU1Ese-&sig=AHIEtbTRkblCLszaeaAoijZrBVDt84XjRA |title=Google Drive Viewer |access-date=22 November 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.cisce.org/data/Syllabus%20for%20ISC%202011/ISC%20Appendix%20-%20I%20-%20List%20of%20Prescribed%20Text%20Books.pdf |title=Indian School Certificate (Year-12) : List of Prescribed Textbooks |access-date=23 November 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121122052628/http://www.cisce.org/data/Syllabus%20for%20ISC%202011/ISC%20Appendix%20-%20I%20-%20List%20of%20Prescribed%20Text%20Books.pdf |archive-date=22 November 2012 }}</ref><ref>[http://www.education.nic.in/cd50years/q/6J/B3/6JB30202.htm] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090410164431/http://www.education.nic.in/cd50years/q/6J/B3/6JB30202.htm|date=10 April 2009}}</ref>
[[J. P. Dutta]]'s [[Bollywood]] film ''[[Refugee (2000 film)|Refugee]]'' was shot in the Great Rann of Kutch along with other locations in the [[Kachchh district]]. It is said to have been inspired by the story by [[Keki N. Daruwalla]] based around the Great Rann of Kutch titled ''Love Across the Salt Desert''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://learnhub.com/lesson/8204-love-across-the-salt-desert|title=LOVE ACROSS THE SALT DESERT – binaljavia|publisher=Learnhub.com|access-date=22 November 2013|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131202222431/http://learnhub.com/lesson/8204-love-across-the-salt-desert|archive-date=2 December 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://cns.bu.edu/~sat/satblog/fotos/lasd.pdf |title=Love across The Salt Desert |publisher=Cns.bu.edu |access-date=23 November 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110719155552/http://cns.bu.edu/~sat/satblog/fotos/lasd.pdf |archive-date=19 July 2011 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://learnhub.com/lesson/8205-love-across-the-salt-desert-know-more|title=LOVE ACROSS THE SALT DESERT know more – binaljavia|publisher=Learnhub.com|access-date=22 November 2013|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131202231316/http://learnhub.com/lesson/8205-love-across-the-salt-desert-know-more|archive-date=2 December 2013}}</ref><ref>[http://cicmanipur.nic.in/html/hr_c_syll_enggen.asp]  {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110129003324/http://cicmanipur.nic.in/html/hr_c_syll_enggen.asp|date=29 January 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&q=cache:7ntDKDdv7C8J:www.cisce.org/data/Syllabus%2520for%2520ISC%25202011/ISC%2520Appendix%2520-%2520I%2520-%2520List%2520of%2520Prescribed%2520Text%2520Books.pdf+love+across+the+salt+desert+school+book&hl=en&pid=bl&srcid=ADGEESgJ2u5Zn9VJb8UC3LXk1MDsfBERX-6E1YnXt26Zlk-U0eZUQUcI9sYBSYRsT0kWnjkODYtCiUrkQ5FFA0zNmU2iH6SusNqJp69XsZRKb9NGE5CbIDuH7jKqGHt-5Zq1ohU1Ese-&sig=AHIEtbTRkblCLszaeaAoijZrBVDt84XjRA |title=Google Drive Viewer |access-date=22 November 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.cisce.org/data/Syllabus%20for%20ISC%202011/ISC%20Appendix%20-%20I%20-%20List%20of%20Prescribed%20Text%20Books.pdf |title=Indian School Certificate (Year-12) : List of Prescribed Textbooks |access-date=23 November 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121122052628/http://www.cisce.org/data/Syllabus%20for%20ISC%202011/ISC%20Appendix%20-%20I%20-%20List%20of%20Prescribed%20Text%20Books.pdf |archive-date=22 November 2012 }}</ref><ref>[http://www.education.nic.in/cd50years/q/6J/B3/6JB30202.htm] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090410164431/http://www.education.nic.in/cd50years/q/6J/B3/6JB30202.htm|date=10 April 2009}}</ref>


[[Amitabh Bachchan]] in his promotions for Gujarat Tourism titled ''Khushboo Gujarat Ki'' has also extensively shot in the Rann of kutch.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SvcTGlGrepY&hd=1 |title=Akshar Travels khushboo gujarat ki..call us 1800 233 9008 |publisher=YouTube |date=27 August 2010 |access-date=22 November 2013}}</ref> Several scenes in [[Salman Rushdie]]'s [[Booker Prize]] winning novel ''[[Midnight's Children]]'' take place in the Rann of Kutch, including a scene where the protagonist faints from heatstroke in the Rann's brutal climate. Some scenes or song sequences in Indian films like ''[[Magadheera]]'', ''[[D-Day (2013 film)|D-Day]]'', ''[[R... Rajkumar]]'', ''[[Gori Tere Pyaar Mein]]'', ''[[Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela]]'', ''[[Lagaan]]'', ''[[The Good Road]]'', ''[[Dookudu]]'', ''[[Sarvam]]'', ''[[Sarrainodu]]'' and ''[[Roberrt]]'' were shot in the area.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2013-09-26/news-interviews/42425534_1_rann-official-entry-lucky-charm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131007214710/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2013-09-26/news-interviews/42425534_1_rann-official-entry-lucky-charm|url-status=dead|archive-date=7 October 2013|title=The Rann of Kutch is emerging as the favourite with filmmakers|last=Mishra|first=Abhimanyu|date=26 September 2013|work=[[The Times of India]]|access-date=3 February 2014}}</ref>
[[Amitabh Bachchan]] in his promotions for Gujarat Tourism titled ''Khushboo Gujarat Ki'' has also extensively shot in the Rann of kutch. Several scenes in [[Salman Rushdie]]'s [[Booker Prize]] winning novel ''[[Midnight's Children]]'' take place in the Rann of Kutch, including a scene where the protagonist faints from heatstroke in the Rann's brutal climate. Some scenes or song sequences in Indian films like ''[[Magadheera]]'', ''[[D-Day (2013 film)|D-Day]]'', ''[[R... Rajkumar]]'', ''[[Gori Tere Pyaar Mein]]'', ''[[Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela]]'', ''[[Lagaan]]'', ''[[The Good Road]]'', ''[[Dookudu]]'', ''[[Sarvam]]'', ''[[Sarrainodu]]'' and ''[[Roberrt]]'' were shot in the area.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-interviews/The-Rann-of-Kutch-is-emerging-as-the-favourite-with-filmmakers/articleshow/23053826.cms|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131007214710/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2013-09-26/news-interviews/42425534_1_rann-official-entry-lucky-charm|url-status=live|archive-date=7 October 2013|title=The Rann of Kutch is emerging as the favourite with filmmakers|last=Mishra|first=Abhimanyu|date=26 September 2013|work=[[The Times of India]]|access-date=3 February 2014}}</ref>


==See also==
==See also==
{{col-begin}}
 
{{col-break|width=25%}}
* General
* [[Little Rann of Kutch]]
** [[Arid Forest Research Institute]] (AFRI)
* [[Kutch district]]
** [[Chir Batti]]
* [[Kori Creek]]
** [[Kutch district]]
{{col-break|width=35%}}
** [[Atlantique incident]]
* [[Atlantique incident]]
 
* [[Banni Grasslands Reserve]]
* [[Chir Batti]]
* [[Chari-Dhand Wetland Conservation Reserve]]
{{col-break}}
* [[Arid Forest Research Institute]] (AFRI)
* [[Salt marsh]]
* [[Salt marsh]]
* [[Salt pan (geology)]]
** [[Salt pan (geology)]]
{{col-end}}
** [[Little Rann of Kutch]], smaller adjacent marshy salt desert
** [[Kori Creek]]
** [[Banni Grasslands Reserve]]
** [[Chari-Dhand Wetland Conservation Reserve]]
 
* Deserts
** [[Thar Desert]], sand desert of Western India
** [[Teri (geology)]], red sand desert of South India
** [[List of glaciers in India|Glacial desert of India]]


==References==
==References==
{{Reflist|30em}}
{{Reflist}}
 
* {{NatGeo ecoregion|id=im0901|name=Rann of Kutch seasonal salt marsh}}


==External links==
==External links==
{{commons category|Rann of Kutch}}
{{commons category|Rann of Kutch}}
*[https://web.archive.org/web/20120118073306/http://www.gujarattourism.com/showpage.aspx?contentid=511 Gujarat Tourism official website]
*[https://web.archive.org/web/20120118073306/http://www.gujarattourism.com/showpage.aspx?contentid=511 Gujarat Tourism Official Website (Archived)]
*[https://web.archive.org/web/20131016064736/http://rannutsav.net Rann Utsav]
*[http://www.panda.org/who_we_are/wwf_offices/pakistan/news/?uNewsID=5741 Desert (Rann of Kutch) wetlands; 6 February 2003; WWF Global website]
*[http://www.indiaenvironmentportal.org.in/taxonomy/term/164 Archived news articles from the India Environmental Portal on: Rann of Kutch]
*{{WWF ecoregion|name=World Wildlife Fund:|id=im0901}} Terrestrial [[Ecoregion]]s: Rann of Kutch
*{{WWF ecoregion|name=World Wildlife Fund:|id=im0901}} Terrestrial [[Ecoregion]]s: Rann of Kutch
*[http://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/NaturalHazards/natural_hazards_v2.php3?img_id=11750 Satellite views comparing summer and winter conditions in the Rann of Kutch]
*[http://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/NaturalHazards/natural_hazards_v2.php3?img_id=11750 Satellite views comparing summer and winter conditions in the Rann of Kutch] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050906081902/http://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/NaturalHazards/natural_hazards_v2.php3?img_id=11750 |date=6 September 2005 }}
*[http://www.panda.org/who_we_are/wwf_offices/pakistan/news/?uNewsID=5741 Desert (Rann of Kutch) wetlands; 6 February 2003; WWF Global website]
*[https://web.archive.org/web/20110721162346/http://www.portal.gsi.gov.in/portal/page?_pageid=127,693641&_dad=portal&_schema=PORTAL KACHCHH PENINSULA AND THE GREAT RANN; The Geological Survey of India, Ministry of Mines, Government of India]
*[https://web.archive.org/web/20110721162346/http://www.portal.gsi.gov.in/portal/page?_pageid=127,693641&_dad=portal&_schema=PORTAL KACHCHH PENINSULA AND THE GREAT RANN; The Geological Survey of India, Ministry of Mines, Government of India]
*[http://www.indiaenvironmentportal.org.in/taxonomy/term/164 Archived news articles from the India Environmental Portal on: Rann of Kutch]
*{{NatGeo ecoregion|id=im0901|name=Rann of Kutch seasonal salt marsh}}
*[http://www.indiaenvironmentportal.org.in/search/apachesolr_search?keys=Banni%20grasslands&op=Search Archived news articles from the India Environmental Portal for a Search made for: Banni grasslands]{{dead link|date=November 2016 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}


{{GeoSouthAsia}}
{{GeoSouthAsia}}
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[[Category:Ramsar sites in Pakistan]]
[[Category:Ramsar sites in Pakistan]]
[[Category:Geography of Kutch district]]
[[Category:Geography of Kutch district]]
[[Category:Former disputed land areas]]

Latest revision as of 21:16, 10 March 2026


Not to be confused with Rann of Kutch or Little Rann of Kutch.

Designations
Template:Infobox designation list/entry
Rann of Kutch on the top left in turquoise colour. The Gulf of Kutch is further down below the Kutch region. Image: NASA Earth Observatory
Map of Gujarat showing the Greater Rann of Kutch and Little Rann of Kutch
Rann of Kutch – Highest Point
Rann of Kutch – White Desert
Rann of Kutch – White Desert 2
Tropic of Cancer – a few miles from Rann of Kutch

The Great Rann of Kutch (Template:Ipa) is a salt marsh in the Thar Desert in the Kutch District of Gujarat, India. It is about 7500 km2 (2900 sq miles) in area and is reputed to be one of the largest salt deserts in the world.[1] This area has been inhabited by the Kutchi people.[2]

The Gujarati word Rann and Sindhi word Rinn are derived from the Sanskrit/Vedic word iriṇa (इरिण), meaning the salt flat or barren ground, attested in the Rigveda and Mahabharata. It is the southern extension of the Thar Desert.

Location and description[edit | edit source]

See also: Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary and Rann of Kutch Wildlife Sanctuary

The Great Rann of Kutch, including the Banni grasslands on its southern edge, is situated in the district of Kutch and comprises some 30,000 square kilometres (10,000 sq mi) between the Gulf of Kutch and the mouth of the Indus River in southern Pakistan. The marsh can be accessed from the village of Khavda in Kutch District.[3] The Great Rann of Kutch together with the Little Rann of Kutch is called Rann of Kutch.

In India's summer monsoon, the flat semi-desert of salty clay and mudflats, which average 15 meters above sea level, fills with standing water. In very wet years, the wetland extends from the Gulf of Kutch on the west through to the Gulf of Khambhat on the east.[4][5]

The area was a vast shallow of the Arabian Sea until continuing geological uplift closed off the connection with the sea, creating a vast lake that was still navigable during the time of Alexander the Great. The Ghaggar River, which presently empties into the semi-desert of northern Rajasthan, formerly emptied into the Rann of Kutch, but the lower reaches of the river dried up as its upstream tributaries were captured by the Indus and Ganges thousands of years ago. Traces of the delta and its distributary channels on the northern boundary of the Rann of Kutch were documented by the Geological Survey of India in 2000.

The Luni River, which originates in Rajasthan, drains into the semi-desert in the northeast corner of the Rann. Other rivers feeding into the marsh include the Rupen from the east and the West Banas River from the northeast.[6] Nara Canal or Puran river which is a delta channel of the Indus River empties during floods into Kori Creek located in the Great Rann of Kutch.

There are sandy islets of thorny scrub, forming a wildlife sanctuary[6] and a breeding ground for some of the largest flocks of greater and lesser flamingos.[7][8] Wildlife, including the Indian wild ass, shelter on islands of higher ground, called bets, during the flooding.

Climate[edit | edit source]

This is one of the hottest areas of India – with summer temperatures averaging and peaking at 49.5 °C. Winter temperatures diminish dramatically and can drop to below 0 °C (32 °F).[9]

Threats and preservation[edit | edit source]

Although most of the marsh is in protected areas, the habitats are vulnerable to cattle grazing, firewood collection, and salt extraction operations, all of which may involve transportation that disturbs wildlife. There are several wildlife sanctuaries and protected reserves on the Indian side in the Rann of Kutch region. From the city of Bhuj, various ecologically rich and wildlife conservation areas of the Kutch/Kachchh district can be visited such as Indian Wild Ass Sanctuary, Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary, Narayan Sarovar Sanctuary, Kutch Bustard Sanctuary, Banni Grasslands Reserve and Chari-Dhand Wetland Conservation Reserve.

Indo-Pakistan international border[edit | edit source]

Creeks in Great Rann of Kutch area

In India the northern boundary of the Greater Rann of Kutch forms the International Border between India and Pakistan, it is heavily patrolled by India's Border Security Force (BSF) and the Indian Army conducts exercises here to acclimatise its troops to this harsh terrain.[10]

This inhospitable salty lowland, rich in natural gas, was one scene of perennial border disputes between India and Pakistan that, in April 1965, contributed to the Indo-Pakistani War of 1965. Later the same year, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Harold Wilson persuaded the combatants to end hostilities and establish a tribunal to resolve the dispute.[11] A verdict was reached in 1968 which saw Pakistan getting almost (780sq km) 10% of its claim of 9,100 square kilometres (3,500 sq mi).[12][13][14] and almost 90% was awarded to India. Tensions spurted again in 1999 during the Atlantique incident.[15] Elements of dispute remain in Sir Creek, since 1969, there have been twelve rounds of talks between the two nations, without a breakthrough. The twelfth round was completed in June 2012.[16]

Indus River floods[edit | edit source]

The Indus River had been flowing into Rann of Kutch area and Rann of Kutch used to be its catchment area forming part of its delta.[17][18] Indus river delta branch/channel called Koree river shifted its course after an earthquake in 1819 isolating Rann of Kutch from its delta.[19] Pakistan has constructed the Left Bank Outfall Drain (LBOD) project to bypass the saline and polluted water which is not fit for agriculture use to reach the sea via Rann of Kutch area without passing through the Indus delta.[20] The 500 km long LBOD begins from northern Ghotki district in Sindh province of Pakistan and joins Rann of Kutch in the Badin district of Sindh.[21] Rann of Kutch is the joint water body of India and Pakistan.[22] Water released by the LBOD is enhancing the flooding in India and contaminating the quality of water bodies which are the source of water to salt farms spread over a vast area. The LBOD water is planned to join the sea via disputed Sir Creek but LBOD water is entering Indian territory due to many breaches in its left bank caused by floods.[23]

Chir Batti[edit | edit source]

At night, an unexplained strange dancing light phenomenon known locally as Chir Batti (ghost lights) occurs in the Rann,[24][25][26] the adjoining Banni grasslands, and the seasonal wetlands.[27]

Tourism[edit | edit source]

City of tents during Rann Utsav.
Sunset at Rann of Kutch

The Government of Gujarat hosts an annual 3-month long Rann Utsav festival from December to February every year[28] near Dhordo village in a 500 km2 white salt desert. Rann Utsav has cultural programs such as the BSF Camel show held at 5 pm, adventure activities like hot-air ballooning, many stalls selling trinkets, handicrafts, food, etc. as well as camel cart excursion, paramotoring, golf carts, ATV rides, yoga and meditation. During the festival 3 to 4-day events are also held at many other exotic locations around the larger Kutch area to expose tourists to the native culture and food, for example, semi-arid grasslands of the Banni reserve exhibits folk architecture, arts and crafts of the area, and folk dance and dance music events are held at several locations with a bonfire under the moon.[29]

Rann Utsav gives visitors not only a chance to experience a full moon on salt deserts but also get a taste of the local culture, cuisine, and hospitality. Specially built local houses are also used to house tourists to give them a taste of local traditions.[30] Many adventure clubs and travel clubs organise expeditions.

Handicrafts[edit | edit source]

Some women and young girls make their living by selling different types of Kutch embroidered cloths. The embroidery is of various styles such as Rabari, Ahir, Sindhi, Banni, Mutwa, Ari and Soof, some of which include mirror or bead inlays. [31] Rogan work also.

Popular culture[edit | edit source]

J. P. Dutta's Bollywood film Refugee was shot in the Great Rann of Kutch along with other locations in the Kachchh district. It is said to have been inspired by the story by Keki N. Daruwalla based around the Great Rann of Kutch titled Love Across the Salt Desert.[32][33][34][35][36][37][38]

Amitabh Bachchan in his promotions for Gujarat Tourism titled Khushboo Gujarat Ki has also extensively shot in the Rann of kutch. Several scenes in Salman Rushdie's Booker Prize winning novel Midnight's Children take place in the Rann of Kutch, including a scene where the protagonist faints from heatstroke in the Rann's brutal climate. Some scenes or song sequences in Indian films like Magadheera, D-Day, R... Rajkumar, Gori Tere Pyaar Mein, Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela, Lagaan, The Good Road, Dookudu, Sarvam, Sarrainodu and Roberrt were shot in the area.[39]

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ "Gujarat Tourism Document" (PDF). Gujarattourism.com. Archived from the original (PDF) on 12 December 2010. Retrieved 22 November 2013.
  2. ↑ INTERNATIONAL LAW REPORTS VOLUME 50. Cambridge University Press. 1976. p. 464. ISBN 9780406876522.
  3. ↑ Negi, S.S. (1996). Biosphere reserves in India : landuse, biodiversity and conservation. New Delhi: Indus Pub. Co. ISBN 978-81-7387-043-9.
  4. ↑ At its greatest extent, the Gulf of Kutch on the west (visible in the image directly below the salt marshes) and the Gulf of Cambay on the east (the brown, sediment-tinged body of water on the lower right) are both united during the monsoon. "Rann of Kutch, India". Earth Snapshot. 6 November 2008. p. 2. Archived from the original on 2 December 2013. Retrieved 22 November 2013.
  5. ↑ Chisholm, Hugh, ed. (1911). "Cutch, Runn of" . Encyclopædia Britannica. Vol. 7 (11th ed.). Cambridge University Press. p. 670.
  6. ↑ 6.0 6.1 "Rann of Kutch seasonal salt marsh". Terrestrial Ecoregions. World Wildlife Fund.
  7. ↑ Gandhi, Divya (22 December 2018). "How Mumbai's residents fought, and won, a battle on behalf of flamingos". The Hindu. ISSN 0971-751X. Retrieved 23 February 2020. Flamingos — lesser and greater — are found across the country, and migrate from as far as Iran. Many of those that flock to Mumbai come from sites closer home, such as Gujarat's Rann of Kutch, where they breed and nest on mudflats
  8. ↑ Kannadasan, Akila (10 February 2020). "Flocktails and friendship". The Hindu. ISSN 0971-751X. Retrieved 23 February 2020. The flamingoes come from the Rann of Kutch in Gujarat in December and leave towards the end of March.
  9. ↑ "Encyclopaedia of Earth". Eoearth.org. Retrieved 22 November 2013.
  10. ↑ "Cease Fire and After: Better Security in Western India". Link. 14 (2). New Delhi: United India Periodicals: 13. 1971.
  11. ↑ Wetter, J. Gillis (1971). "The Rann of Kutch Arbitration". American Journal of International Law. 65 (2): 346–357. doi:10.2307/2199243. ISSN 0002-9300.
  12. ↑ Pendharkar, Rajesh. "The Lahore Declaration and Beyond: Maritime Confidence-Building Measures in South Asia" (PDF). www.stimson.org.
  13. ↑ "Pakistan - Geography". countrystudies.us. Retrieved 15 May 2025.
  14. ↑ Mugnier, Clifford J. "Grids & Datums ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF PAKISTAN" (PDF). www.asprs.org.
  15. ↑ Verinder Grover, ed. (1998). 50 years of Indo-Pak relations – the initial phase : partition of India, Indo-Pak wars, the UNO. New Delhi: Deep & Deep Publ. ISBN 978-81-7629-057-9.
  16. ↑ "Talks on Sir Creek begin between India-Pak". Archived from the original on 20 June 2012.
  17. ↑ "Two disasters that defined India's south-west border with Pakistan for ever". Retrieved 22 December 2015.
  18. ↑ "Anthropocene Metamorphosis of the Indus Delta and Lower Floodplain" (PDF). Retrieved 22 December 2015.
  19. ↑ "Indus re-enters India after two centuries, feeds Little Rann, Nal Sarovar". 7 November 2011. Retrieved 22 December 2015.
  20. ↑ "Revisiting the LBOD issue". Archived from the original on 9 February 2016. Retrieved 22 December 2015.
  21. ↑ "Sindh floods: LBOD was a mistake, experts finally agree with residents". 29 November 2011. Retrieved 22 December 2015.
  22. ↑ "LBOD the culprit behind recurring floods in Sindh". 29 September 2011. Retrieved 22 December 2015.
  23. ↑ "Evolution of the Delta, the LBOD outfall system and the Badin dhands – chapters 3 & 4" (PDF). Retrieved 22 December 2015.
  24. ↑ "INDIA TODAY GROUP: India Today, Business Today, Aaj Tak, Care Today, Mail Today, Cosmopolitan, Reader's Digest, India Today Conclave". Intoday.in. Retrieved 22 November 2013.
  25. ↑ "INDIA TODAY GROUP: India Today, Business Today, Aaj Tak, Care Today, Mail Today, Cosmopolitan, Reader's Digest, India Today Conclave". www.indiatodaygroup.com. Archived from the original on 28 March 2022. Retrieved 15 May 2025.
  26. ↑ "In Today – Blogs, Photos, Videos, sports and Business". Archive.is. 3 August 2012. Retrieved 22 November 2013.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: deprecated archival service (link)
  27. ↑ Maheshwari, D. V. "Ghost lights that dance on Banni grasslands when it's very dark". cities.expressindia.com. Archived from the original on 14 January 2009. Retrieved 15 May 2025.
  28. ↑ Gautam, Shikha (25 October 2018). "Rann Utsav this year - all that you need to know". India Times. Retrieved 26 August 2022.
  29. ↑ All the excitement of Gujarat'ss Rann Utsav, Femina, 29 November 2019.
  30. ↑ "Rann Utsav | Fairs & Festivals | Home". Gujarat Tourism. 13 November 2013. Archived from the original on 18 January 2012. Retrieved 22 November 2013.
  31. ↑ "Rann Utsav 2009 | Fairs & Festivals | Home". Gujarat Tourism. Archived from the original on 9 January 2012. Retrieved 22 November 2013.
  32. ↑ "LOVE ACROSS THE SALT DESERT – binaljavia". Learnhub.com. Archived from the original on 2 December 2013. Retrieved 22 November 2013.
  33. ↑ "Love across The Salt Desert" (PDF). Cns.bu.edu. Archived from the original (PDF) on 19 July 2011. Retrieved 23 November 2013.
  34. ↑ "LOVE ACROSS THE SALT DESERT know more – binaljavia". Learnhub.com. Archived from the original on 2 December 2013. Retrieved 22 November 2013.
  35. ↑ [1] Archived 29 January 2011 at the Wayback Machine
  36. ↑ "Google Drive Viewer". Retrieved 22 November 2013.
  37. ↑ "Indian School Certificate (Year-12) : List of Prescribed Textbooks" (PDF). Archived from the original (PDF) on 22 November 2012. Retrieved 23 November 2013.
  38. ↑ [2] Archived 10 April 2009 at the Wayback Machine
  39. ↑ Mishra, Abhimanyu (26 September 2013). "The Rann of Kutch is emerging as the favourite with filmmakers". The Times of India. Archived from the original on 7 October 2013. Retrieved 3 February 2014.

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