The Ghulatis On The Go family began their second day of travel from Sanchore, Rajasthan, at approximately 7:00 AM, with their destination set for Dholavira in the Rann of Kutch. The initial part of their journey was still in the pre-dawn hours, with vehicle headlights illuminating the road. They encountered a small herd of cows on the road, which briefly slowed their progress before they could continue.
Their route involved entering the Amritsar-Jamnagar Expressway, a significant infrastructure project. At the toll barrier, they noted that the toll was active for trucks, indicating it was operational for all vehicles. The distance to Dholavira from this point was estimated at 277 kilometers, with an anticipated travel time of five hours, suggesting an arrival around noon. The expressway itself was described as a smooth, six-lane highway, offering a comfortable driving experience.
Transitioning from Rajasthan to Gujarat
As the sun began to rise, the family crossed from Rajasthan into Gujarat, marking a new phase of their journey. The landscape shifted, and they continued on the well-maintained expressway. Along the way, they passed a sign board indicating distances to various cities: Jamnagar (356 km), Samakhiali (226 km), and Santalpur (100 km). The smooth highway conditions allowed for steady progress.
An exit for Tharad was noted, and the family observed that the expressway extended beyond what they had initially expected. They soon pulled into an HP Hindustan Petroleum fuel station, which also featured a dhaba (roadside restaurant). They needed to refuel their car, having last filled up 30 kilometers before Bikaner. At the dhaba, they found only tea available, highlighting the limited dining options on this stretch of the expressway. A tip was shared to carry one's own food when traveling this route.
The Scenic Route to Dholavira
By 8:20 AM, they had covered a significant portion of the journey, with 184 kilometers remaining to their destination. Google Maps indicated a left turn after 12 kilometers, suggesting the expressway would end there, leading them onto a state highway. Indeed, the expressway transitioned to a less developed road, which was initially damaged in sections but generally manageable. They observed numerous trucks, many coming from Kandla Port, entering the Jamnagar Expressway, indicating its importance for commercial transport.
After navigating the end of the expressway and a toll, they turned right onto a rural road, which was narrower but offered pleasant scenery. A sign indicated Dholavira was 114 kilometers away, and Bhuj 235 kilometers. This rural road, part of NH 754K, was described as a beautiful, straight stretch, promising an enjoyable drive. They made a brief stop in the small village of Bela for tea, where they interacted with locals, expressing gratitude in Gujarati.
Encountering Wildlife and the Road to Heaven
Continuing their journey, they encountered a large herd of cows on the narrow road, a common sight in rural India. They carefully navigated through the cattle, sharing a moment of amusement. Further along, another sign indicated Dholavira was 58 kilometers away, and White Rann 57 kilometers. They passed a Nayara fuel station, another option for refueling on this route.
The landscape gradually transformed, with the road flanked by water bodies, creating a stunning visual. This marked the beginning of the much-anticipated 'Road to Heaven.' The family stopped at a viewpoint, where they observed numerous birds, including flamingos, in the expansive lake-like environment. This picturesque stretch of road, approximately 30 kilometers long, was described as a truly heavenly experience, with water on both sides of the road extending as far as the eye could see. They expressed immense joy and recommended this unique drive to others.
Arrival at White Rann and Accommodation Options
Upon reaching the end of the 'Road to Heaven,' they arrived at the White Rann parking area. They noted that private vehicles were not allowed beyond this point, and visitors needed to take designated buses after obtaining a BSF (Border Security Force) permit and bus tickets, which they had pre-booked online. This streamlined the process and avoided potential delays.
Before reaching the White Rann, they had passed various accommodation options. In Dholavira, they saw 'The Heaven Resort,' offering cottages for approximately 8,000 rupees per night, providing a comfortable stay near the historical site. Closer to the White Rann, they visited the 'White Rann Camp,' a tent city offering tented accommodations. The manager informed them that rates varied seasonally, typically ranging from 6,000 to 8,000 rupees, and that bookings were often full, especially during peak season. The tents were equipped with coolers and proper washrooms, and the camp also hosted evening cultural programs with bonfires.
Practical Takeaways
- Early Start: Starting the journey early in the morning allows for cooler temperatures and the chance to cover significant distances before the heat of the day.
- Fuel Planning: Fuel stations can be sparse on certain expressway stretches and rural roads, so it is advisable to refuel whenever possible.
- Food Preparation: Dining options may be limited to basic dhabas, so carrying packed meals and snacks is recommended.
- Expressway Conditions: The Amritsar-Jamnagar Expressway offers a smooth and efficient travel experience, but be aware of its endpoints and transitions to state highways.
- Rural Road Navigation: Be prepared for narrower roads and potential encounters with livestock in rural areas. Drive cautiously.
- Permit and Booking: For destinations like the White Rann, pre-booking BSF permits and bus tickets online is crucial to save time and ensure entry.
- Accommodation Variety: Dholavira and the Rann of Kutch offer a range of accommodations, from resorts with cottages to tent cities, catering to different preferences and budgets. It is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
- Enjoy the Scenery: The 'Road to Heaven' is a unique and highly recommended scenic drive, offering breathtaking views of the salt flats and water bodies.
Watch the Original Journey
This article is connected to the original Ghulatis On The Go video below. Watch it for the complete visual experience and conversations from the road.