"Lakhpat: Kutch’s Forgotten Fort Town"

Hidden in the vast expanse of Kutch’s salt plains lies Lakhpat, a near-forgotten fortified town that echoes stories of prosperity, spirituality, and resilience. Once a bustling port city, Lakhpat today is a surreal blend of crumbling architecture, deep-rooted faith, and haunting silence—a perfect destination for history lovers, photographers, and peace-seekers.

A Brief History

Lakhpat was named after the belief that it generated one lakh (100,000) Koris (old currency) in daily revenue from maritime trade and agriculture. In the early 19th century, the Sindhu River (now dried up in this region) flowed into the Arabian Sea near Lakhpat, making it a vital trade center. But after a massive earthquake in 1819 altered the river’s course, the town’s fortunes dwindled.

What remains today is a fortified town, with high walls built in the early 1800s by Fateh Muhammad—one of the most respected military generals in Kutch history.

Top Attractions in Lakhpat

Lakhpat Fort: The 7 km long stone fort walls are remarkably well-preserved. From the ramparts, you get panoramic views of the Great Rann of Kutch, making it a favorite for photographers and sunset lovers.

Gurudwara Lakhpat Sahib: This serene gurudwara holds spiritual significance as Guru Nanak Dev Ji is believed to have visited this place during his second Udasi (spiritual journey). It’s a clean, peaceful sanctuary offering free meals and lodging to pilgrims.

Sayyed Pir Shah Dargah: A beautiful white marble structure with intricate carvings, this shrine is revered by locals of all faiths.

Tomb of Gosh Muhammad: Known for its stunning Indo-Islamic architecture and detailed stone latticework.

Why Visit Lakhpat?

Heritage and Spirituality: A place where Sikhism, Islam, and Hinduism coexist peacefully.

Peace and Solitude: Ideal for those seeking silence, reflection, or meditation.

Architecture: A visual treat of Kutch’s forgotten grandeur and craftsmanship.

Proximity to Other Spots: Located near Narayan Sarovar, Koteshwar Mahadev Temple, and the Indo-Pak border.

How to Reach

From Bhuj: About 135 km by road (around 3.5 hours). Private taxis or bikes are the best way to reach.

Nearest Airport and Railway: Bhuj.

Best Time to Visit

The best months are October to February, when the desert climate is cool and pleasant. Try visiting during sunrise or sunset for magical views of the Rann.

Tips for Travelers

Carry snacks and water—facilities are minimal.

Respect the religious sites—remove shoes and dress modestly.

Ideal for a one-day trip from Bhuj, especially when paired with Narayan Sarovar and Koteshwar.

---

Lakhpat may have faded from the trade maps, but for those who venture here, it leaves an everlasting imprint on the soul.

Narayan Sarovar – A Sacred Oasis in the Desert of Kutch

Tucked away in the arid landscape of Kutch, Gujarat, Narayan Sarovar is one of the most revered and picturesque pilgrimage sites in Western India. Surrounded by legends, spirituality, and stark natural beauty, this sacred lake is a tranquil retreat for devotees and travelers alike.

History and Significance

Narayan Sarovar, meaning "Lake of Narayan" (another name for Lord Vishnu), is one of the five holy lakes in Hinduism, collectively known as the Panch-Sarovar. These include Mansarovar, Bindu Sarovar, Pampa Sarovar, Pushkar Sarovar, and Narayan Sarovar.

According to Hindu mythology, this lake was formed during a drought when Lord Vishnu appeared and touched the earth with his toe, giving rise to this sacred water body. The site has since been a spiritual destination for Hindus, particularly those following Vaishnavism.

Temples Around the Sarovar

The complex around Narayan Sarovar includes several ancient temples. The most notable ones are:

Lakshminarayan Temple

Trikamray Temple

Kalyanray Temple

Adinarayan Temple

Govardhannath Temple

Dwarkanath Temple

Each temple is architecturally unique and holds immense religious importance. Pilgrims often take a holy dip in the lake before proceeding with prayers at the temples.

Location and Natural Beauty

Narayan Sarovar is located in Lakhpat Taluka, around 153 km from Bhuj, near the westernmost tip of India. The area is close to the Kori Creek, with Pakistan visible across the border on clear days.

Despite its remote desert setting, the lake maintains water throughout the year, making it an ecological wonder. The region is also near the Narayan Sarovar Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to species like the chinkara (Indian gazelle), desert cats, and various migratory birds.

How to Reach

By Road: Easily accessible via Bhuj with well-maintained roads.

By Train: Nearest railway station is in Bhuj.

By Air: Bhuj Airport is the nearest, connected to major cities like Ahmedabad and Mumbai.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit is October to February, when the weather is cool and pleasant. During religious festivals, especially Sharad Purnima, the place is buzzing with pilgrims and local festivities.

Travel Tips

Carry essentials, as amenities are limited in the area.

Dress modestly and respect local customs.

Visit the nearby Koteshwar Mahadev Temple, another important spiritual site just a few kilometers away.

Koteshwar – The Last Shore of Devotion in Kutch

Introduction:

Tucked away at the western edge of India, near the India-Pakistan border, lies Koteshwar, a serene and spiritually significant village in the Kutch district of Gujarat. Known for its ancient Shiva temple and breathtaking sunset views over the Arabian Sea, Koteshwar offers a unique blend of divinity, history, and natural beauty.

---

Location & Access:

District: Kutch, Gujarat

Nearest Town: Lakhpat (approx. 35 km)

From Bhuj: Around 150 km via NH-41

Roads are well-connected and scenic, especially during monsoon and winter.

---

Koteshwar Mahadev Temple:

This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to be one of the last outposts of Hindu pilgrimage in the western part of India. According to legends, Ravana once worshipped Shiva here.

Specialty: Located right on the sea coast with panoramic ocean views.

Spiritual Atmosphere: Peaceful, less crowded, and ideal for meditation or reflection.

---

Why Visit Koteshwar?

Sunset Point: The sun setting into the Arabian Sea with temple bells echoing in the background is a surreal experience.

Tranquility: A perfect break from touristy noise.

Historical Value: Close to Lakhpat Fort and Narayan Sarovar — making it a complete spiritual and heritage circuit.

---

Nearby Attractions:

Narayan Sarovar – One of the five sacred lakes of Hinduism.

Lakhpat Fort – Historical fort with ancient architecture.

India-Pakistan Border Check Post – Just a few kilometers ahead (ID required to visit).

---

Best Time to Visit:

October to March — pleasant weather and clear coastal skies.

Tip: Carry snacks and water, as the area is remote and facilities are limited.

---

Closing Thought:

Koteshwar isn't just a temple – it's a journey to the edge of the land, where devotion meets silence and history meets the horizon. A must-visit for seekers of peace, photographers, and lovers of offbeat travel

Mata no Madh Desh Devi Ashapura

Mata no Madh is a village in Lakhpat Taluka of Kutch ,Gujarat, India. The village lies surrounded by hills on both banks of a small stream and has a temple dedicated to Ashapura Mata (Desh Devi). The village is located about 100 km from Bhuj-Kutch, the headquarters of Kutch district.

The temple was built in the 14th century by two Karad vanias, Ajo and Anagor. They were the ministers in the court of the father of Lakho Phulani. The temple was damaged by the Earthquake (ભૂકંપ) 1819. The temple was rebuilt by Sundarji Shivji and Mehta Vallabhaji, two Brahmakshatriya in 1823 (સવંત ૧૮૮૦).The temple is 58 ft. long, 32 ft. wide and 52 ft. tall.

Dhirnodhar

Dhinodhar Hills are located near Nani Aral village, in Nakhatrana Taluka, Kutch District, Gujarat, in India. Dhinodhar Hill is a tourist and pilgrimage spot

ROGAN PAINTING

Rogan painting was initially practiced in several locations in the Kutch region. The painted fabric was mostly purchased by women of the lower castes who wanted to decorate clothing and bed coverings for their weddings.Therefore, it was a seasonal art, with most of the work taking place during the several months when most weddings take place. During the rest of the year, the artisans would switch to other forms of work, such as agriculture.

With the rise of cheaper, machine-made textiles in the late 20th century, rogan-painted products became relatively more expensive, and many artists turned to other occupations. Ultimately, only one family, the Khatris of Nirona, Gujarat, continued the craft

Sample