Road to Heaven Kutch and Dholavira
Table of Contents
You’ve probably come across stunning pictures of the Road to Heaven Kutch on Instagram or YouTube. It’s that long, straight road stretching between shimmering salt plains and clear blue water — so surreal it almost feels like something out of a dream.
Let me tell you: this road is real, it’s in Kutch, Gujarat, and it’s one of the most breathtaking drives in India.
What is the Road to Heaven?
The Road to Heaven is a nearly 30 km long perfectly straight stretch of road in Kutch that connects Khavda to Dholavira, though the actual journey begins at Adhav village, about 22 km from Khavda. This road is famous not just for its scenery, but also because it runs between salt marshes and lakes, giving it the illusion of floating on water during certain seasons. Thanks to its rising popularity on social media, it has become a symbol of Kutch’s natural beauty and an emerging tourist magnet.
Strategic Purpose of the Road
This isn’t just a pretty road — it serves a purpose.
The Road to Heaven connects two historically and culturally important locations:
Khavda, a village known for its handicrafts and proximity to the White Rann Dholavira, an ancient city from the Indus Valley Civilization
In fact, this route gained even more importance during the G20 Summit in 2023, when it was showcased as a key tourist and heritage connector. After that, the government opened it up for public use — and people from all over India began to flock here.
Why It’s Called the Road to Heaven
People often ask: “Why is it called the Road to Heaven?”
The answer lies in the visual experience.
People often wonder, “What is the meaning of ‘Highway to Heaven’?” In the context of Kutch, it refers to the almost spiritual, otherworldly experience of driving on a perfectly straight road through the vast white salt desert, creating the illusion of a path leading directly into the sky. Imagine a flawless stretch of road flanked on both sides by brilliant white salt marshes and blue seasonal lakes, with the sun rising or setting in the background, painting the landscape in hues of gold and pink. During the winter and post-monsoon months, the ground reflects the sky so vividly that it feels as if you are driving into heaven itself. Drone shots taken from above capture this road as a floating ribbon weaving through water and salt, perfectly capturing why it is known as the “Road to Heaven
Drone photos taken from above make it look like a floating ribbon through water and salt, which is why the name stuck.
Best Time to Visit the Road to Heaven Kutch
The best time to visit the Road to Heaven and the Rann of Kutch is from November to February. Kutch is a warm region, and these winter months offer the most pleasant weather for travel, with cool mornings and evenings ideal for exploring the vast white desert. Summers in Kutch are extremely harsh, with temperatures often soaring above 45°C, while the monsoon season is unpredictable and can make the salt desert muddy and inaccessible.
Visiting during winter not only ensures comfortable travel conditions but also allows you to experience the Rann Utsav, which is in full swing during these months. This vibrant festival brings the desert to life with cultural performances, handicraft markets, local cuisine, and tent stays under the stars, making your trip to the Road to Heaven even more memorable. Additionally, clear skies during winter provide excellent opportunities for photography, capturing stunning sunrises and sunsets over the white salt flats, and if you’re lucky, views of migratory birds that visit the region during this season.
Why avoid summer?
I made the mistake of visiting in May with a friend. We were on bikes, and not only was the heat intense, but the salt had dried up, and there was barely any water left. The air was full of salt particles, sticking to our skin and clothes. Parts of the road were even slippery, as salt melted and created a thin layer on the asphalt.
If you’re thinking about going during April–June, I’d highly advise against it.
What About Monsoon?
If you’re planning to go in July or August, let me be honest — don’t.
During monsoon, Kutch’s salt plains flood, and the road becomes not just messy but dangerous. In some places, the water covers the road completely. Vehicles can get stuck, and the terrain becomes extremely slippery because of the mix of water and salt. It’s not only unpleasant but risky.
This is why the locals themselves advise avoiding the area during monsoon.
How to Reach Road to Heaven Kutch
Let me simplify the route for you.
Road to Heaven Distance From Bhuj:
Distance to Road to Heaven from Major Indian Cities
Bhuj is the main city in Kutch.
Drive to Khavda (approx. 72 km).
From Khavda, head towards Adhav village (22 km), where the road officially begins.
Road to Heaven Kutch Distance From Ahmedabad:
Take a direct train or bus to Bhuj (approx. 330 km).
Then follow the above route.
Road to Heaven Kutch Distance From Mumbai:
Bhuj is around 850 km from Mumbai.
Direct trains and buses are available, and the journey takes about 12–14 hours. Once you reach Adhav, the adventure begins. The 30 km drive from Adhav to Dholavira on the Road to Heaven is one you’ll never forget.
What’s in Dholavira?
Dholavira is more than just the endpoint of a scenic drive — it’s one of the most significant archaeological sites in India.
Dating back over 4,500 years, Dholavira was one of the most advanced cities of the Indus Valley Civilization, with intricate urban planning, drainage systems, and water reservoirs. Walking through the ruins gives you a glimpse into ancient life — and it’s surprisingly well-preserved.
A visit here is a must for anyone interested in history, archaeology, or just curious travelers.
Visit During Rann Utsav
If you’re planning to visit between October and March, you’ll also get to experience the Rann Utsav, Kutch’s world-famous cultural festival.
During this time, the White Desert comes alive with:
- Folk music and dance
- Local crafts and food
- Tent stays under the stars
- Cultural performance and camel rides
- Combining the Road to Heaven with Rann Utsav makes for a truly once-in-a-lifetime trip.
Don’t Miss the Wildlife Side of Kutch– The Chhari Dhand
Not many know this, but Kutch is also home to the Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary, especially the Chhari Dhandh wetland, which is a birdwatcher’s paradise.
During certain seasons, you’ll see migratory birds, flamingos, and rare species. If you’re into photography, this place is nothing short of heaven itself.
Most Googled Questions – Answered
Is there an entry fee to the Road to Heaven?
No. The road is open to the public and free to use.
Where does it start and end?
Starts at Adhav village, ends at Dholavira.
Should I visit the Road to Heaven in Kutch during the monsoon?
No — it becomes unsafe and flooded due to monsoon. Best to avoid July and August.
Where can I find the best photos?
Check out Sai Chintala’s blog — it has some of the best drone shots and angles of this road.
Can I visit in July?
No, you must not visit the Road to Heaven — or even Kutch — in July. For the past 2 to 4 years, the rainfall in the Kutch region has been unpredictable, and visiting such places during this time can be risky.
Final Thoughts
Kutch has always been known for the White Desert, Black Hills, and the Rann of Kutch. But now, thanks to this stunning 30 km stretch of road, it has a new identity — the Road to Heaven.
Whether you’re going for the photos, the peaceful drive, the history of Dholavira, or the vibrant Rann Utsav — one thing’s for sure: this journey will stay with you forever.
Make sure to check local weather and road conditions before planning, and visit in winter to truly enjoy the magic of this heavenly road.
| City | Approx Distance (by Road) | Recommended Route |
|---|---|---|
| Mumbai | ~825 km | Mumbai → Surat → Ahmedabad → Bhuj → Road to Heaven |
| Delhi | ~1000 km | Delhi → Udaipur → Ahmedabad → Bhuj → Road to Heaven |
| Ahmedabad | ~450 km (via Bhuj) | Ahmedabad → Bhuj → Khavda → Road to Heaven |
| Rajkot | ~222 km (via Rapar) | Rajkot → Rapar → Khavda → Road to Heaven |
| Surat | ~550 km (via Radhanpur) | Surat → Radhanpur → Bhuj → Road to Heaven |
| Gandhinagar | ~460 km | Gandhinagar → Ahmedabad → Bhuj → Road to Heaven |
| Bhachau | ~70 km | Bhachau → Khavda → Road to Heaven |
| Bangalore | ~1790 km (via Surat, Radhanpur) | Bangalore → Pune → Mumbai → Surat → Radhanpur → Bhuj → Road to Heaven |
| Kolkata | ~2200 km | Kolkata → Raipur → Nagpur → Indore → Ahmedabad → Bhuj → Road to Heaven |
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thanks for the great article, keep up the good work