A jeep safari in India's last stronghold of the Indian wild ass across the Little Rann's salt flats.
The Little Rann of Kutch Wildlife Sanctuary protects the only significant population of the Indian wild ass (khur). Safaris leave from villages such as Dasada, Zainabad and Bajana, roughly 90-130 km from Ahmedabad, and cover a mix of dry mud, salt pans and grassy bets where herds gather. Flamingos and pelicans appear in winter at the wetlands, along with desert fox, nilgai and Macqueen's bustard. Jeeps must be registered with the forest department and the sanctuary closes for the monsoon, roughly June to September. Sunrise departures give the best animal activity and cooler temperatures.
| Price | Roughly INR 3,000-5,500 (USD 31-57) per jeep for up to 6, plus entry fees; foreign-visitor fees are higher |
|---|---|
| Duration | 3 to 4 hours per safari |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Season | October to March |
| Address | Little Rann of Kutch Wildlife Sanctuary, Dasada (Patdi), Surendranagar, Gujarat 382765 |
Activity facts
- Where
- Dasada, Surendranagar district
Equipment
- Binoculars and long-lens camera
- Sun hat, scarf and sunglasses
- Water and snacks
- Closed shoes
Location
Little Rann of Kutch Wildlife Sanctuary, Dasada (Patdi), Surendranagar, Gujarat 382765
23.3167, 71.8667 View on map
Highlights
- Herds of Indian wild ass on open salt flats
- Flamingos and pelicans at winter wetlands
- Desert fox, nilgai and raptors
- Salt-pan workers' villages (agariya) nearby
Tips for visiting
- Book a jeep through the hotel or at Dasada or Zainabad the day before; dawn departures are best.
- Ahmedabad is the nearest airport (about 100 km); reach Dasada by taxi or state bus.
- Roads across the Rann can flood; ask the forest office at Dasada about closures before setting out.
- Salt glare is intense; carry sunscreen and eye protection.