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entire Little Rann of Kutch known as the "Indian Wild Ass
Sanctuary" is a featureless expanse of flat land - the sea bed - dotted with islands
known as "Baits" which form the core for the flora and fauna. This is the largest
wildlife sanctuary in India. In India the Indian wild ass represents
the horse tribe. In the Little Rann of Kutch, the asses are attracted by the flat
grass covered expanses known as bets or islands where coarse grasses spring up
In monsoon. With the advent of summer, the asses move to oilier bets in which
there is perennial supply of water and grass. As
for speed and stamina, there is no one in the animal kingdom to match the wild
ass as they are capable of marathon runs at a pace of about 24 km/h for as long
as two hours, reaching a top speed of 70 km/h over short distances. The wild ass
is a strong animal and a stallion will fight viciously for the possession of the
mare in the mating season. The combatants rear up on their hindlegs, and kick
and bite viciously. After mating one fowl is born between July and September.
Besides the wild ass, the wildlife consists of rare and endangered Ghudkhur
(Equs hemionus khur) not found anywhere else in the world. Others, such as the
Blue-Bull, Chinkara, Hedgehog and carnivores such as the Wolf, Jackal, Fox, Jungle
and Desert Cats can also be found here in large numbers. A variety of birds -
almost three hundred species, can be seen in and around the Rann during winter.
Cranes and Flamingos can be seen in thousands. Rare birds such as the Houbara
Bustard, Falcons, a large number and species of larks and other arid region birds
can be seen. Reptiles such as snakes, tortoises, lizards, are also found. Watch
towers, a tourist complex and other tourist related facilities are in place to
enhance wildlife viewing in this unique habitat.
The Safari Travelling on the vast Rann in an open jeep is a
refreshing and exciting experience. The sunrise and sunset are breathtaking, displaying
exotic hues. Viewing wildlife is an exciting and thrilling adventure. It is more
satisfying to observe animal behaviour than mere sighting. A minimum of three/four
day's stay is recommended. There are morning and evening excursions in Jeeps/Mini
coaches that seat a comfortable number of persons and are conducted at a leisurely
pace. The safaris, besides wildlife also include visits to ancient monuments
and inland salt works and other places of interest. Explanations and anecdotes,
during the whole safari will keep one, enthralled. Excursions
and other activities Excursions for viewing a typical Saurashtra village,
handloom weaving and dyeing units and the village potter are available.
For people interested in birds and photography; special rides and camouflaged
boats can be provided. Trekking and living with seasonally migrating
Rabari and Bharwad tribes. Camps on the edge of the Rann are operated between
July and September each year. Camel and Jeep safaris in and across the
Rann with tented camps on the Baits, lasting three to seven days can be arranged.
Distance from Ahmedabad 110 kms. 2
and ½ hours. Viramgam 45 kms. 1 hours. Rajkot 175
kms. 3 and ½ hours. Bhuj 268 kms. 6 hours Guests
can be taken care of, from the time they alight at Ahmedabad Airport/Railway Station
or Viramgam Railway Station. Transfers from any major city of Gujarat for groups
of over fifteen people can be arranged. Accomodation
and Catering Camp Zainabad offers "Kooba" accommodation. These
are traditional thatch-roofed huts comfortably furnished with beds and linen,
attached bath with running water, electricity and all essential amenities. And
it has been specially hand painted by local Banjania people. Hot tasty meals are
served buffet style with barbecues and open campfires. Boiled, filtered and refrigerated
drinking water, Bottled mineral water, soft drinks and beverages are provided.
Consumption of alcohol is prohibited in Gujarat State; however special permits
may be obtained. It is recommended to bring hats/caps, binoculars, flashlight,
and thorn proof shoes. To reach Camp Zainabad
The small town of Zainabad, is 110 kms north west of Ahmedabad, and is very close
to the Little Rann of Kutch. Phone: 02757-41333, 41334, 41335 By
Road There are direct Gujarat State Road Transport buses from all the major cities
in Gujarat. By train Viramgam is five hours from Rajkot and overnight from
Bombay. Contact Deputy Conservator of Forests, Wild Ass Sanctuary, Dhrangadhra.
Phone: 02754 -23016. Accomodation
Govt. Guest House at Dhrangadhra, Aaram Gruh at Dasada, Fatima Manzil
at Dasada. Phone: 0275782 - 40283. Hut Camp at Zainabad. Phone: 079 - 6465068.
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