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Gujarat

Kalo Dungar

View of the hills at Kalo Dungar in Kutch, Gujarat, India
kalo-dungar-the-black-hills-kutch-gujarat-1-attr-hero
View of the hills at Kalo Dungar in Kutch, Gujarat, India
map

January

-6.3 - 16.2 °C

February

-4.0 - 18.2 °C

March

-1.2 - 23.3 °C

April

2.5 - 26.2 °C

May

5.2 - 29.9 °C

June

8.5 - 30.6 °C

July

12.0 - 29.6 °C

August

11.9 - 28.5 °C

September

7.7 - 27.3 °C

October

2.8 - 25.7 °C

November

-0.4 - 20.7 °C

December

-2.7 - 17.4 °C

Major Airports :

Bhuj Airport (BHJ)

Nearest Railway Station :

Bhuj Railway Station (BHUJ)

Major Airports :

Bhuj Airport (BHJ)

As far as the eye can see

Kalo Dungar, also known as Black Hill, stands as the highest elevation in Kutch at 462 metres above sea level. It is situated about 97 kms from Bhuj and 25 kms from the nearest town, Khavda. This location is unique in Kutch for offering a sweeping view of the Great Rann of Kutch. Due to its proximity to the Pakistan border, there is an army post at the summit, restricting access beyond this point. The arid landscape and the stark beauty of the white salt desert below create a striking contrast against the dark hills.

Legends and jackals

Local legend has it that Kalo Dungar was once a haven for ascetics. The hill is famous for hosting a 400-year-old Dattatreya temple, revered in local folklore. Legends narrate that Lord Dattatreya once stopped here, encountering starving jackals. He offered his body to feed them, which miraculously regenerated as they ate. This story has inspired a tradition where temple priests prepare food daily, feeding the jackals each morning and evening after the aarti ceremony.

A spectacular vista

The beauty of Kalo Dungar lies in its rugged terrain and the breathtaking views it offers of the desert below. On clear days, visitors can see all the way to the border of Pakistan. The hill is also a vantage point for witnessing spectacular sunsets, which paint the white salt desert in hues of orange and red.

View of the hills at Kalo Dungar in Kutch, Gujarat, India

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View of the hills at Kalo Dungar in Kutch, Gujarat, India
Experience
Rann Utsav guide: Where white desert sands meet vibrant Kutchi culture

Hike, shoot, fly

Visitors to Kalo Dungar can engage in sightseeing, photography, and hiking. The hill is also home to a famous 400-year-old Dattatreya temple, which attracts pilgrims and tourists alike. Paragliding and other adventure sports are becoming increasingly popular, taking advantage of the hill’s high elevation and open spaces.

Defying expectations

An interesting aspect of Kalo Dungar is the phenomenon where the gravitational force seems to defy expectations—vehicles in neutral gear appear to roll uphill. This optical illusion is a fascinating draw for science enthusiasts and casual tourists.

Do more

Around Kalo Dungar, visitors can explore:

India Bridge

A near military post that marks the beginning of the journey into the border zone.

Great Rann of Kutch

A seasonal salt marsh located nearby where the famous Rann Utsav is held, showcasing local culture, crafts, and music.

Bhirandiyara Village

Known for its mawa (milk cake), this is a must-visit for those looking to experience local Kutchi hospitality.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit is between October and March.