Rann Utsav – The Tent City will open its 2026–27 season on November 1, bringing upgraded accommodation, expanded cultural programming and new visitor experiences to Kutch. The festival, managed and operated by Evoke Experiences in collaboration with Gujarat Tourism, will run until March 7, 2027, with a greater focus on encouraging travellers to explore destinations beyond the White Rann.

One of the key additions this season is approximately 70 premium semi-permanent tents at Dhordo, replacing a portion of the conventional canvas accommodation. The upgrade aims to improve guest comfort while retaining the distinctive tented stay experience associated with Rann Utsav.

The Tent City will also expand its daily activity programme with craft workshops, live music, storytelling sessions, exhibitions, stand-up performances and dedicated activities for children. The additions are intended to offer more engagement for families and travellers planning multi-night stays.

Expanding the Kutch Experience Beyond Dhordo

Alongside the developments at the Tent City, Evoke Experiences is strengthening its broader 'whole-of-Kutch' approach, encouraging visitors to explore destinations such as Dholavira, Mandvi and the Road to Heaven.

The itineraries combine visits to the White Desert with local craft traditions, village interactions, cultural performances, coastal experiences and the archaeological heritage of the Indus Valley Civilisation. The approach aims to position Rann Utsav as a starting point for discovering the wider cultural and geographical diversity of Kutch.

At Dholavira, Evoke is adding approximately 50 tents to its existing inventory of 44 permanent cottages. A new interactive excavation experience for children is also being developed to introduce younger visitors to archaeological exploration and the history of the Harappan civilisation.

Focus on Longer Stays and Local Participation

Commenting on the upcoming season, Bhavik Sheth, Chief Operating Officer, Evoke Experiences, said, "Rann Utsav has evolved considerably over the years, and so have visitor expectations. Travellers are increasingly looking for comfortable accommodation, meaningful cultural engagement and experiences that extend beyond conventional sightseeing. This season, we are investing in both accommodation and programming, while encouraging guests to discover more of Kutch. Our larger objective is to increase the time visitors spend in the region and ensure that tourism creates opportunities for local communities, artisans and businesses."

Evoke Experiences expects to operate close to 500 accommodation units across Dhordo, Dholavira and its other Kutch operations during the season. With visitors currently spending an average of around two nights, the company is developing itineraries that combine multiple destinations and encourage longer stays.

The festival also provides a platform for Kutch's artisans, performers and local communities, bringing regional crafts, cuisine and cultural traditions to domestic and international visitors.

The expanded accommodation and programming for 2026–27 reflect an effort to develop Rann Utsav beyond a seasonal visit to the White Desert. By connecting Dhordo with destinations such as Dholavira and Mandvi, the festival aims to encourage longer journeys through Kutch while creating opportunities for businesses and communities across the region.

Event Details

• Event: Rann Utsav – The Tent City

• Season: November 1, 2026 – March 7, 2027

• Main Location: Dhordo, Kutch, Gujarat

• Additional Destinations: Dholavira, Mandvi and the Road to Heaven

• Managed and Operated by: Evoke Experiences, in collaboration with Gujarat Tourism