All you need to know about the ‘Road to Heaven’ in the Rann of Kutch

Dholavira: The Rann of Kutch is a beacon for global tourists, renowned for its picturesque pure white deserts that extend as far as the eye can see, creating an ethereal landscape. Sitting on the edge of Western Gujarat and boasting India’s largest salt plain, the Great Rann of Kutch captivates visitors. Amidst this natural wonder, another attraction has now caught the eyes of travelers known as a “Road to Heaven.”

Unveiling the Road to Heaven:

Stretching across 30 kilometers of the 278 km long national highway from Ghaduli to Santalpur, the Road to Heaven takes you on a mesmerizing journey through the heart of the white desert, from Khavda to Dholavira, passing through the Rann of Kutch Lake.

People traveling to Dholavira, the largest Harappan site of the Indus Valley Civilization, which earned UNESCO World Heritage status in 2021, are seen enjoying this remarkable road.

While the highway is still under construction, it has already captured the eyes of travel enthusiasts worldwide. The journey offers breathtaking views, with the road passing through the Kutch Lake, presenting vistas of blue waters, white crystal beds against the blue sky, and more. As construction progresses, tourism in the region receives a boost, especially during the Rann Utsav, a vibrant festival attracting travelers from October to February.

A Unique Travel Experience:

The allure of the Road to Heaven has led to long queues of cars, causing traffic jams on this highway during the festive holiday season. Travel enthusiasts park their cars on the side to click pictures and make videos of this heavenly road. During the G20 Summit, held earlier this year in Gujarat, delegates from around the world witnessed the charm of this road, reinforcing its global appeal.

The Road’s Progress and Future Plans:

Commencing construction in 2019, the road is yet to be completed. Local villagers in Dholavira anticipate an additional two years for the project’s completion. While a one-way lane was completed for the G20 Summit, the entire road promises to be a spectacular route once finalized.

Planning Your Visit:

Those eager to experience the Road to Heaven and the beauty of the Rann of Kutch can take a road trip any time of the year. During this, they will be able to witness the rich heritage and culture of Rann, the history of Dholavira, and, to add to the convergence of nature, a promising road being called a Road to Heaven.

Here are reactions from some people who witnessed the Road to Heaven:

Former Niti Ayog CEO took to X, and said, “The most amazing road in the world. It’s the road to heaven from Tent City, Dhordo to Dholavira (the fountain head of Harappan Civilisation & a UNESCO world heritage site) Thanks to #G20 the Tourism Working Group members will have one of the greatest experiences of their lifetime”

One X user tweeted, “This is not a frozen lake or Ice. One of the most stunning sites of #WhiteRann were found on way to #Dholavira Unesco World Heritage Harappan Site. Amazing #Kutch !
The drive through the newly constructed / Under Work “Road to Heaven” is magical. ”

Another user wrote, “The Road to Heaven in the Great Rann of Kutch leads to Dholavira, in the island of Khadir Bet. This road was completed last year. The view of the Rann on both sides of the road is breathtaking. Flamingos, plovers, cranes, gulls and ducks were a common sight. ”

We have also brought to you glimpses into the Road to Heaven with videos from travel bloggers who have explored this scenic beauty. Here are some videos:

In the video below see drone view of this road: