The Rann of Kutch in Gujarat is one of the most unique landscapes in India. To experience it fully, knowing the best time to visit Kutch is essential. Famous for its White Salt Desert, the vibrant Rann Utsav festival, and magical full moon nights, it attracts travelers from across the world. But to truly enjoy its beauty, you must pick the right season to visit Kutch.
Best Time to Visit Kutch
The best time to visit Kutch is October to March, during the winter season. This is when the desert is dry, the weather is pleasant, and cultural festivals like Rann Utsav and the International Kite Festival make the region come alive.
- Summer (April–June): Not suitable. The desert is extremely hot with temperatures between 38°C and 43°C, making travel uncomfortable.
- Monsoon (July–September): Unsafe. The region experiences unstable weather, heavy rainfall, and even tornadoes, often leading to flooding. Roads become difficult to access, and the White Rann disappears under water.
- Winter (October–March): The only ideal season. With calm weather (12–25°C), cultural events, and full moon nights, this is the perfect time for sightseeing and enjoying the desert.
If you want the best experience, knowing the best time to visit Kutch is crucial. Plan your trip around December to February when the Rann Utsav is in full swing.
Rann Utsav 2025–26 Dates: Best Time to Visit Kutch
- Festival Duration: 23 October 2025 to 4 March 2026
- Venue: Tent City, Dhordo, Kutch, Gujarat
During this period, you can enjoy Kutchi folk music, dance, handicrafts, camel rides, desert adventures, and the unforgettable moonlight desert view.
Full Moon & Dark Moon Dates 2025–26
Full Moon Nights (most magical for desert views):
- 4–6 November 2025
- 3–5 December 2025
- 2–4 & 31 January 2026
- 1–2 February 2026
- 2–4 March 2026
Dark Moon Nights (best for stargazing):
- 20 November 2025
- 19 January 2026
- 18 February 2026
Tip: Full Moon nights get booked quickly, so reserve tents early.
Festivals in Winter
- Rann Utsav (Nov–March): The biggest festival in Kutch.
- International Kite Festival (14 January 2026): Celebrated in Mandvi, Bhuj, and Dhorlo with colorful skies.
- Diwali Week (23–26 Oct 2025): Desert illuminated with lights and celebrations.
- Christmas Week (19 Dec 2025 – 1 Jan 2026): Special festive atmosphere at Tent City.
Weather in Kutch by Season: Best Time to Visit Kutch
| Season | Temperature Range | Travel Experience | Recommendation |
| Summer (Apr–Jun) | 38–43°C | Harsh heat, dry desert | ❌ Avoid |
| Monsoon (Jul–Sep) | 25–35°C, heavy rain | Flooding, tornado risk, desert inaccessible | ❌ Avoid |
| Winter (Oct–Mar) | 12–25°C | Cool, pleasant, festivals, perfect desert views | ✅ Best time |
Tent City Tariff Snapshot (2025–26)
| Tent Category | 1 Night | 2 Nights | 3 Nights |
| Non-AC Swiss Cottage | ₹5,900 | ₹11,500 | ₹16,000 |
| Deluxe AC Swiss Cottage | ₹7,900 | ₹15,500 | ₹22,000 |
| Premium Tent | ₹8,900 | ₹17,000 | ₹25,000 |
| Super Premium Tent | ₹9,900 | ₹19,000 | ₹27,500 |
| Darbari / Rajwadi Suite (Luxury) | ₹70,000 | ₹1,40,000 | ₹2,10,000 |
Note: Rates are higher during Diwali, Christmas, and Full Moon dates. Note: The above prices are approximate and may vary depending on availability, seasonal demand, or special dates.
How Many Days Are Enough for Kutch?
- 2–3 days: White Rann + Bhuj sightseeing
- 4–5 days: Add Mandvi Beach, Kalo Dungar, Hodka, and Nirona craft village
- 6–7 days: Complete Kutch circuit including Dholavira (UNESCO Harappan site)
How to Reach Kutch
- Nearest Airport: Bhuj (85 km from Tent City Dhordo)
- Nearest Railway Station: Bhuj Junction
- Transfers: Complimentary AC coach transfers from Bhuj are included in most Rann Utsav packages.
Is Rann of Kutch Worth Visiting?
Yes, The White Desert under the moonlight is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Combined with folk culture, handicrafts, desert safaris, and traditional food, Kutch offers a unique travel experience you won’t find anywhere else.
FAQs
Q1. Which is the best month to visit Rann of Kutch?
December to February — for the best weather, cultural events, and moonlit views.
Q2. What is the coldest month in Kutch?
January, with night temperatures around 12°C.
Q3. When can we see the White Rann?
From November to March, when the salt desert is fully formed and dry.
Q4. Can we visit in March?
Yes, but days are slightly warmer. Nights remain pleasant.
Q5. How much does a Rann of Kutch trip cost?
Budget trips start from ₹8,000–10,000 (3 days). Rann Utsav packages range from ₹5,900 per night to ₹70,000+ for luxury suites.
Final Word
The best time to visit Kutch is winter (October–March). Summers are too hot, monsoons are unpredictable and unsafe, but winters bring calm weather, full moon magic, and cultural festivals like Rann Utsav and the Kite Festival.
If you’re planning a trip in 2025–26, aim for the official Rann Utsav dates (23 Oct 2025 – 4 Mar 2026), and try to experience at least one full moon night in the White Rann — it’s an unforgettable journey.