The flat, dry face of the Rann, pockmarked by marshy areas and stunted, thorny bushes, holds little attraction for most travellers. But this is the home of the rare Indian Wild Ass and the Houbara Bustard. Tucked into the western edge of India, the Rann of Kutch is more famous for its natural salt plains.

Although the Wild Ass Sanctuary is at Dhrangadhra, it is more convenient to visit the Rann from Zainabad, only 105 kilometres from Ahmedabad. A private tour operator Desert Coursers has some excellent package tour arrangements, highly suitable for various interest groups like game-viewing, bird-watching, photography etc. The outfit has its own accommodation facilities right on the Rann, quite an upmarket place with a reasonable price tag.

BASICS

STD Code: 02757.

How to go: Zainabad is 105 kilometres from Ahmedabad. There are regular buses till Dasada, 12 kilometres ahead of Zainabad. Desert Coursers will arrange for pickups if informed beforehand. Or you can take a taxi from Ahmedabad.

Best time: November to March. December, though best suited for getting around, is quite cold and windy at night.

Accommodation: Desert Coursers' Camp Zainabad (Tel: 41333).

Local transport: not necessary. Desert Coursers can arrange for jeeps for local travel.

Contact: Desert Coursers Camp Zainabad Tel: 41333.