Dhordo is a small village in the Banni area of Kutch, Gujarat, on the edge of the White Rann. It was named one of the UNWTO Best Tourism Villages in 2023 and is home to the Rann Utsav Tent City, where Rann Utsav 2026-27 runs from 1 November 2026 to 7 March 2027. Dhordo is about 85 km (around 1 hr 45 min) by road from Bhuj, the nearest airport and railway station.
| Location | Dhordo village, Banni area, Kutch district, Gujarat |
|---|---|
| Known for | White Rann of Kutch, Rann Utsav Tent City, Kutchi crafts and music |
| Award | UNWTO Best Tourism Village 2023 |
| Nearest city | Bhuj, about 85 km (1 hr 45 min by road) |
| From Ahmedabad | About 400 km (around 8 hours by road) |
| Rann Utsav 2026-27 | 1 November 2026 to 7 March 2027 |
| Tent City packages | From ₹6,300 per person + GST (twin sharing) |
Where is Dhordo?
Dhordo lies in the Banni grasslands of Kutch district, in western Gujarat, right at the edge of the Great Rann of Kutch, the vast white salt desert. Bhuj, the district headquarters, is about 85 km away. Because the White Rann is so close, Dhordo became the base for the Rann Utsav festival and its Tent City.
Dhordo: UNWTO Best Tourism Village 2023
In October 2023 the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) named Dhordo one of its Best Tourism Villages at a ceremony in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. Dhordo was the only village from India among the 54 villages recognised that year. The award highlights how the village has protected its culture and crafts while welcoming visitors, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated the recognition. Dhordo has also been declared Gujarat’s fourth solar village under the PM Surya Ghar scheme.
Things to do in Dhordo
- See the White Rann at sunset and sunrise: the salt desert glows pink and gold at dusk and turns silver under a full moon.
- Rann Utsav cultural evenings: Kutchi folk music, dance and performances at the Tent City during the festival.
- Crafts and shopping: mirror work, Kutchi embroidery, silver jewellery and other local handicrafts at the craft market.
- Adventure activities: paramotoring, ATV rides and more at the Tent City. See Activities & Facilities.
- Bird watching in Banni: the grasslands around Dhordo attract many migratory birds in winter.
- Nearby sightseeing: Kala Dungar, Gandhi Nu Gaam, the Road to Heaven and Dholavira are part of longer Rann Utsav packages.
What to eat in Dhordo
Try Kutchi Dabeli, the spicy potato-filled bun, crisp Kutchi Pakwan and Kutchi Samosa. For something sweet, look for Kutchi Peda and Mawa, both local specialities. Meals at the Tent City are included as per your package itinerary.
Where to stay in Dhordo
During Rann Utsav, most visitors stay at the Rann Utsav Tent City, a few minutes from the White Rann. Packages start from ₹6,300 per person on twin sharing basis, plus GST, and include the tent stay, meals, cultural programmes, White Rann visits and Bhuj transfers. Prices vary by date, tent type and availability; see Packages & Tariff. You can also stay in traditional bhungas (round mud houses) or at resorts near Dhordo.
How to reach Dhordo
Fly or take a train to Bhuj, then travel about 85 km (around 1 hr 45 min) by road to Dhordo. Ahmedabad is about 400 km away by road. Rann Utsav Tent City packages include pick-up and drop from Bhuj. Full details are on our How to Reach page.
Best time to visit Dhordo
Visit between November and February, when the weather is pleasant and the Rann is fully white. Full-moon nights (around 24 November 2026, 24 December 2026, 22 January 2027 and 20 February 2027) are the most popular and sell out first. See all special dates. Nights are cold, so pack warm clothes.
हिंदी में पढ़ें: कच्छ रण उत्सव 2026-27: तारीखें, टेंट का किराया और पूरी जानकारी | रण उत्सव टेंट सिटी पैकेज और कीमत 2026-27
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Dhordo village?
Dhordo is in the Banni area of Kutch district, Gujarat, on the edge of the White Rann of Kutch. It is about 85 km (around 1 hr 45 min) by road from Bhuj.
What is Dhordo famous for?
Dhordo is famous for the White Rann of Kutch, the Rann Utsav Tent City, Kutchi crafts and folk culture. In 2023 it was named one of the UNWTO Best Tourism Villages.
Which village in Gujarat won the UNWTO Best Tourism Village award?
Dhordo in Kutch, Gujarat, was named one of the UNWTO Best Tourism Villages in October 2023. It was the only village from India among the 54 recognised that year.
Where can I stay in Dhordo?
Most visitors stay at the Rann Utsav Tent City during the festival, with packages from ₹6,300 per person on twin sharing basis, plus GST. Traditional bhungas and resorts near Dhordo are other options.
When is the best time to visit Dhordo?
November to February, during Rann Utsav (1 November 2026 to 7 March 2027 this season). Full-moon nights are the most popular and sell out first.
