Primeval temples, magnificent hills, and a deep sense of tranquility make the desert city of Bhuj, one of the favorite tourist destinations in India. Associated with the ancient history of kings and empires, Bhuj connects you to a range of civilizations and takes you through the prehistoric archaeological remnants of the Indus Valley Civilisation, places associated with the Mahabharata, and Alexander the Great. Excited already? Then don’t miss out on these best places to visit in Bhuj on your next trip!
21 Best Places To Visit In Bhuj
Some of the finest Bhuj places to visit have been listed here so that you can have a look and plan your getaway to Gujarat accordingly. All the major attractions in Bhuj and around it have plenty of accommodation and transport options around them, so it will be super easy, convenient, and comfortable for you to see them all during your trip.
- Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary – Largest Seasonal Saline Wetlands
- Aina Mahal – A Vibrant Collection Of Art
- Shri Swaminarayan Temple – An Architectural Masterpiece
- Mandvi Beach – A Peaceful Getaway From City
- Pirotan Island – Explore Your Love For Nature
- Kutch Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary – Stroll Around Nature’s Cradle
- Prag Mahal – The Architectural Wonders
- Hamirsar Lake – A Must Visit Place
- Banni Grassland Reserve – Last Remaining Inhabitants Of Cheetah
- Chari-Dhand Wetland Conservation Reserve – Explore The Serenity Of Nature
- Koteshwar Temple – The Last Outpost Of Human Construction
- Bhuj Hill Garden – The Hanging Garden
- Kutch Museum – Represents Gujarat’s history and culture
- Kutch Fossil Park – An Eco-friendly Park
- White Desert Of Kutch – Witness serenity of white sand
- Narayan Sarovar Sanctuary- Visit Distinct Ecosystem
- Mata No Madh- Encounter The Tranquillity
- Clock Tower Bhuj – Enjoy Spectacular Views
- Kranti Tirth – Cherish Memories Of Shyamji
- Bhartiya Sanskruti Darshan Museum – Delve In Art And Craft
- Bhujia Fort – For All History Buffs
1. Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary – Largest Seasonal Saline Wetlands
Situated on the Great Rann of Kutch, Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary has declared a sanctuary in February 1986. Being a part of Bhuj Tourism, it is one of the largest seasonal saline wetlands that has an average water depth between 0.5 to 1.5 meters. The sanctuary is home to the greater flamingos, Indian porcupines, spiny-tailed lizards, black-necked storks, and Indian cormorants. While the park is perfect to be explored in winters, one can also visit the buried Dholavira city of Harappan civilization. It is also one of the best things to do in Kutch during your travels.
Location: Rann, Dholavira, Kutch, India
Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
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2. Aina Mahal – A Vibrant Collection Of Art
One of the most popular places to see in Bhuj is Maharao Lakhpatji’s old palace – The Aaina Mahal or ‘Hall of Mirrors’. Built-in the traditional Kutchi style, Aina Mahal is now a vibrant collection of art and archaic pieces which is a treasure trove for all the history buff and art lovers. The Hall of Mirrors in the palace is the main attraction for the visitors as it has the most number of glass exhibits on the walls, ceilings, pillars, and even windows, adding to the overall charm of the glittering room.
Location: Maharao of Kutch, Darbargadh, Bhuj, Gujarat 370001
Timings: Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 11.45 AM, and 3 PM to 5.45 PM
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3. Shri Swaminarayan Temple – An Architectural Masterpiece
Shri Swaminarayan Temple is one of the most famous Bhuj tourist places. Initially built in the year 1822, it was the first of many Sampraday Swaminarayan temples. Located near the Hamirsar Lake in Bhuj, it is an architectural masterpiece built of marble and is a stunning place to visit. The completely white structure of the temple is among the best places to see in Bhuj and is surely going to be a visual treat for everyone.
Location: Tirth Dham, Shree Swaminarayan Road, Opposite City Police Station, Bhuj, Kutch, Gujarat 370001
Timings: All Days – 9 AM to 3 PM
4. Mandvi Beach – A Peaceful Getaway From City
One of the must-visit tourist places in Bhuj Gujarat is the Mandvi Beach that is situated in Kutch. Being gifted with pristine seashores, and a clean environment makes this place a peaceful getaway from the city. In addition to being a laid-back beach destination, Mandvi Beach is also popular for its camping and water sports facilities. It is one of the secluded and undiscovered beach destinations with clean water and beautiful views which makes it one of the most romantic places in Gujarat for couples.
Location: Vijay Vilas Palace Estate, Near Mandvi Airstrip, Mandvi, Bhuj, Kutch, Gujarat
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5. Pirotan Island – Explore Your Love For Nature
If you are in the desert city, you cannot afford to miss out on the famous Pirotan Island which is definitely one of the best places to visit around Bhuj, Kutch. Spanning across 3 square kilometres, the Pirotan Island is one of the forty-two islands in the marine park area that offers an undisturbed rendezvous with nature in its abode. Being one of the two islands in the area which is normally permitted for tourists and visitors, Pirotan is said to be one of the best Bhuj tourist places as it is among those rare coasts in the world where one can spot corals by just walking by the shore in low tides. It is also one of the best places to visit in Kutch during the month of December.
Location: Pirotan Island, Jamnagar, Gujarat, India
6. Kutch Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary – Stroll Around Nature’s Cradle
Among the many places to visit in Kutch, Bhuj, the Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary is one. Locally known as the Lala Prajan Sanctuary, the primary aim of this Sanctuary is to conserve the Great Indian Bustard. The best way to enjoy this retreat is by taking a stroll around nature’s cradle while befriending the various species of Bustards. Also, look around for the Black and Gray Francolin, the Spotted and Indian Sandgrouse, Quails, Larks, Shrikes, Coursers, and Plovers, which are also some of the best things to see in Bhuj other than the Indian Bustard.
Location: Near Jakhau Village, Nalia Taluka, Kutch District, Gujarat, India
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7. Prag Mahal – The Architectural Wonders
Situated in the suburbs of the ethnic town of Bhuj, Prag Mahal is one of the architectural wonders in India and is a pride of Bhuj Tourism. Constructed in the 19th century, the grand palace boasts of Gothic-style windows and Corinthian pillars. Built mostly out of red sandstone, one can find elaborate carvings on the walls and stunning art on the jharokhas at this magnificent palace. Other than that, the luxurious Mahal is one of the finest Bhuj famous places as it has the second tallest clock tower in the country which offers an amazing view from the top.
Location: Darbar Gadh Road, Old Dhatia Falia, Bhuj, Gujarat 370001
Timings: 9.30 AM to 12.15 PM, and 3 PM to 5.45 PM
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8. Hamirsar Lake – A Must Visit Place
The Hamirsar Lake tops among the best Bhuj sightseeing places. A man-made lake that is considered to be an oasis between saline and arid Kutch, the former kings built the lake to fulfill the domestic needs of the local people in ancient times. The lake is undeniable looks stunning, and is a must-visit for all the travelers.
Location: Near Mahadev Gate, Bhuj, Gujarat
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9. Banni Grassland Reserve – Last Remaining Inhabitants Of Cheetah
Spread across an area of 3,847 square kilometers, the Banni Grassland Reserve has been identified as one of the last remaining inhabitants of Cheetah by the Wildlife Institute of India. Being one of the must-visit places to visit around Bhuj Kutch, the grassland now is legally protected under the status of a Reserve Forest in India. The grassland is also home to mammals such as the Nilgai, Chinkara, Blackbuck, Wild boar, Golden Jackal, Indian Hare, Indian Wolf, Caracal, Asiatic Wildcat, and Desert Fox, etc. among others.
Location: Rajendra Nagar Gate, Near Block Factory, Bhuj, Gujarat, India
Timings: All Days – 7 AM to 6.30 PM
10. Chari-Dhand Wetland Conservation Reserve – Explore The Serenity Of Nature
Being one of the popular Bhuj tourist places, the Chari-Dhand Wetland Conservation Reserve is located on the edge of arid Banni grasslands and the marshy salt flats of the Rann of Kutch. It is spread over an area of 80 square kms and is home to nearly two lakh birds with migratory and endangered species of birds that flock in during monsoon and winters. Birdwatching at this delightful avenue is among the best things to do in Bhuj.
Location: Great Rann of Kutch, Kutch District, Gujarat
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11. Koteshwar Temple – The Last Outpost Of Human Construction
The famous Koteshwar Temple is located at a place where the vastness of dry land meets the unfathomable enormity of the sea. Koteshwar Temple is the last outpost of human construction at the westernmost limit of India and is one of the must-visit places to visit in Kutch, Bhuj. Koteshwar Shiva is said to be the Bhairava of Hinglaj Mata residing at Hingla.
Location: Narayan Sarovar, Bhuj, Gujarat 370601
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12. Bhuj Hill Garden – The Hanging Garden
Also called ‘Hanging Garden’ in Bhuj, the Hill Garden is among the best Bhuj places to visit for nature lovers and those who are seeking something unusual and creative in this city. This unique garden is located on top of a hill and is spread on an area of over 22 acres. The prime highlight of the garden includes an 85 feet long skeleton of a dead Blue Whale which lures thousands of tourists here every month. Other attractions include an enormous merry-go-round, a giant wheel, various Tom Tom games, as well as fun car and bike rides. There is also a vivid cactus garden bearing over 550 varieties of cactus that was recently opened for the public and made this park one of the best things to see in Bhuj.
Location: Airport Ring Road, Sanskar Nagar, Bhuj, Gujarat 370001
Timings: 10 AM – 11 PM
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13. Kutch Museum – Represents Gujarat’s history and culture
If you have a great interest in the history, heritage, and art of Gujarat, then the Kutch Museum located near Bhuj will prove to be one of the best Bhuj tourist places for your and your family. Located in the heart of the city, this museum has on display an array of articles and artifacts that represent Gujarat’s history and culture, including idols of gods and goddesses, knives, royal swords, as well as the skull of a flying dinosaur which was discovered at the Kutch Fossil Park nearby. The variety of ancient artifacts present here make it one of the best places to see in Bhuj with friends and family.
Location: Opposite Hamirsar Lake, Ghanshyam Nagar, Bhuj, Gujarat 370001
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
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14. Kutch Fossil Park – An Eco-friendly Park
This is an eco-friendly park that was founded and maintained by Mr. Mohansinh M. Sodha. Situated in the middle of the desert area a little distance away from Bhuj, this unique park with absolutely eco-friendly surroundings is among those Bhuj famous places that you cannot afford to miss. If you’re fascinated by dinosaurs and their history, then it’s a great place for you to check out. You’ll find here a number of Jurassic, Cretaceous, and Tertiary fossils that will simply blow your senses! This place is easily accessible as some of the best resorts in Gujarat are located nearby, making a visit to this park one of the easiest things to do in Gujarat.
Location: Po. Than Godhinodhar, Tal. Nakhatrana, Bhuj 370615
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
15. White Desert Of Kutch – Witness Serenity Of White Sand
Experience the world’s largest salt desert stretching its boundaries beginning from Indus river to Gulf of Kutch. Here, you will get to witness an immense massive area of desert covered with white salt. Tourists from all across the world visit Great Rann of Kutch to view natural beauty comprising wildlife, floral sanctuaries along with beautiful wetland preservation. White Desert of Kutch is regarded as one of the popular places to visit in Bhuj.
Location: Near Dhordo, Bhuj, Gujarat 370001
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16. Narayan Sarovar Sanctuary- Visit Distinct Ecosystem
Witness the wildness of Gujarat by planning a visit to Narayan Sarovar Sanctuary spread in an area of approx. 444 sq. km regarded as one of the renowned places to see in Bhuj. Narayan Sarovar Sanctuary provides shelter to diverse species of animals like desert foxes, wold boar, endangered Indian wolf, chinkara and large diversity of birds.
Location: Mudiya, Gujarat 370601
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17. Mata No Madh- Encounter The Tranquillity
Mata no Madh is one of the finest places to see in Bhuj devoted to Maa Ashapura. The temple is approx. 1200 years old constructed by Sunderji Saudagar with much more majesty and great dimensions. Temple is seen touching the skyline of Bhuj which offers a splendid view to the tourists. All the Hindu festivals are celebrated with great grandeur like Diwali, Navratri by the devotees.
Location: N.A
Suggested Read: 24 Places To Visit In Dandeli For Unforgettable Adventure
18. Clock Tower Bhuj – Enjoy Spectacular Views
Clock tower is one of the amazing places to visit in Bhuj which is a prominent aspect of Prag Mahal. It is as old as 19th century when the Gothic structure had inherited Italian style. Tourists find it as one of the remarkable places to visit in Bhuj. It is regarded as one of the marvels in the architecture world which is even filmed in Gujarati and Bollywood movies.
Location: Darbar Gadh Rd, Old Dhatia Falia, Bhuj, Gujarat 370001
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19. Kranti Tirth- Cherish Memories Of Shyamji
Kranti Tirth is one of the eminent Bhuj tourist places which is a huge complex constructed to reminiscence the memories of Shyamji. Shyamji’s full name was Shyamji Krishna Varma who is remembered in the pages of our Indian history as a great Freedom Fighter, Lawyer and journalist.
Location: Salaya-Maska Road, At & Post: Maska, Mandvi Taluk, Kutch, Gujarat 370465
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20. Bhartiya Sanskruti Darshan Museum – Delve In Art And Craft
Bhartiya Sanskruti Darshan Museum offers you an exquisite view of Indian art and craft like folk art, crafts, textile art, traditional architecture, archaeological remains which is great for knowing the cultural heritage of India at that time. This is why Bhartiya Sanskruti Darshan Museum is regarded as one of the incredible Bhuj tourist places. The museum is the storehouse of valuable articles for the people that would enhance their knowledge.
Location: Old Umed Nagar, Bhuj, Gujarat 370001
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21. Bhujia Fort – For All History Buffs
Image Credit: Prabhat for Wikimedia Commons
Bhujia Fort is a magnificent historical site located on the top of the famous Bhujia Hill. Rao Godji, the king of the Kingdom of Kutch from 1715 to 1718, ordered the construction of this stunning fort. Deshalji I was the son of Rao Godji and most of the fort was built during his time. Nag Panchami is celebrated in a grand way at this fort by the locals and you must attend it on your vacation. Bhujia Fort is one of the best places to visit in Bhuj for all history enthusiasts.
Location: Bhujio Dungar, Bhuj, Gujarat
Further Read: 7 Places To Visit Near Mandvi For A Bon-Voyage In Gujarat!
Bhuj offers a lot to experience which is beyond one’s imagination. And to discover the charm of such an incredible destination, include these amazing places to visit in Bhuj in your itinerary. Get ready to have an enticing vacation in Bhuj by having an encounter with the history and culture of the city. Happy traveling!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Bhuj
Is Rann of Kutch worth visiting?
Rann of Kutch is a salt marsh in the Thar desert and famous with tourists for the Rann Utsav festival which is held here annually. One can visit this salt marsh during the festival to enjoy the best of this area and attraction.
How can I go to Mandvi beach from Bhuj?
Mandvi beach is around 60 km from Bhuj and takes around 1.5 hours to reach. There are state run buses that one can take which run from Bhuj to Mandvi or one can hire a private taxi to go to Mandvi.
How far is Bhuj from Gandhidham?
Bhuj is at a distance of around 57 km from Gandhidham. One should add this to their list of places to visit in Gujarat for sure.
What is the best time to visit Rann of Kutch?
The best time to visit Rann of Kutch is during the Rann Utsav festival which is taking place from Nov 1st, 2021 to Feb 20th, 2022 this year. So, one can plan a trip to Bhuj and places near it during these months.
What is Rann Utsav?
Rann Utsav is a festival that is held in Kutch, Gujarat. It is a celebration and carnival with music, dance, and the beauty of the white salt desert.
What is Rann of Kutch famous for?
Rann of Kutch is famous for its white salt desert and the famous Rann Utsav festival that takes place here annually.
What can I buy in Bhuj?
One can buy sarees, Rogan art and handicraft items in Bhuj.
How many days are good for Bhuj?
2 to 3 days are good enough to explore Bhuj and the best time to head here is during the famous Rann Utsav.
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