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| About Kachchh
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Kachchh is a fascinating land and no visit to Gujarat is complete without a sojourn to this peninsular district, which is well known for its wild ass sanctuary. It is known for producing exquisite handicrafts like embroidery, tie die fabrics, enameled silverware and other handicrafts. The great Rann of Kachchh is also a breeding ground for the flamingo, pelican and avocet species of birds.
Its remoteness has kept it a place apart for centuries. It is the state's biggest district and is most sparsely populated. It is a sandy, barren area over half of which is desert and marshland. It has a remarkably heterogeneous population belonging to 18 different tribes, each with its own language and culture.
The Great Rann covers an area of about 18,000 sq kms and lies almost entirely within the state of Gujarat, along the border with Pakistan.
The Little Rann of Kachchh extends northeast from the Gulf of Kachchh and occupies about 5,100 sq kms in Gujarat.
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| A bit of information
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Originally an extension of the Arabian Sea, the Rann of Kachchh has been closed off by centuries of silting. During the time of Alexander the Great it was a navigable lake, but it is now an extensive mudflat, inundated during monsoon seasons.
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| Attractions around
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Aina Mahal: This beautiful museum, built in the 18th century as the palace of Maharao Lakhpatji, has a Hall of Mirrors with white marble walls covered with mirrors and gilded ornaments. Its floor is lined with tiles with a platform above it surrounded by a series of fountains. The room also has a chandelier of Venetian glass.
Kachchh Mahotsav: Aptly called the 'Mahotsav' (great festival) is a guided tour of the life and times of Kachchh, its beauty, nostalgia, ethos, traditions, culture and spirit. The Tourism Corporation of Gujarat usually organizes it during February and March each year.
Prag Mahal: The Prag Mahal is a magnificent building made of ornate Italian marble and sandstone. Its Corinthian pillars and 'jali' work depicting European flora and fauna are worth observing.
Cenotaphs Complex: Built of red stones, the Cenotaph Complex is a popular site at Chattaradi. The largest and the finest tomb is that of Rao Lakha built in 1770. It is polygonal in shape with balconies and an intricately carved roof.
Mandvi: Mandvi is an ancient seaport, well known for its production of handicraft items. It also has unspoilt beaches.
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