Gujarat Tourism is set to launch a new ‘Tourist Circuit Bus’ service aimed at enhancing travel convenience for visitors exploring various attractions in Kutch. This initiative comes in response to the increasing influx of tourists, both domestic and international, attending the Kutch Rann Utsav, which has seen a steady rise in attendance over the past four years. The bus service will connect key destinations, including Mata no Madh, Mandvi, Narayan Sarovar, Dhordo, and Dholavira, according to sources from the Gujarat Tourism Department.
In recent years, tourist numbers have surged significantly. Approximately 181,000 visitors attended the Rann Utsav in 2021-22, with that figure climbing to 345,000 in 2022-23 and reaching 742,000 in 2023-24. Officials project that this number could hit 1 million during the 2024-25 season.
A department source noted that there is a growing interest among tourists from other states, as well as NRIs and international visitors. Many express a desire to explore additional sites in Kutch beyond the Rann Utsav 2024 - 2025. However, transportation challenges have hindered their plans. The introduction of the ‘Tourist Circuit Bus’ in collaboration with GSRTC aims to provide a comfortable and accessible option for those wishing to visit these attractions.
Four specific bus routes have been established:
- Dhordo – Mata no Madh – Dhordo
- Dhordo – Mandvi – Dhordo
- Dhordo – Dholavira – Dhordo
- Dhordo – Mata no Madh – Narayan Sarovar – Dhordo
The buses will be 2x2-seater Volvo models. Ticket prices are set at Rs 700 per person plus tax for the first two routes and Rs 800 per person plus tax for the latter two routes.
During the Rann Utsav festival, Kutch attracts lakhs of visitor’s eager to experience its unique cultural offerings.
Summing Up
The ‘Tourist Circuit Bus’ service is a significant enhancement to Kutch's tourism infrastructure, making popular destinations more accessible. Gujarat Tourism Department. aims to improve the visitor experience and promote attractions beyond the Rann Utsav. This initiative supports regional economic growth and enriches cultural exchange, allowing travelers to explore Kutch’s rich heritage and stunning landscapes comfortably.
