Road to Heaven

A Drive Through the Infinite

The 'Road to Heaven' is arguably India's most surreal highway—a 30km stretch of jet-black tarmac cutting perfectly straight through the blinding white expanse of the Great Rann of Kutch. Connecting Khavda to Dholavira, this engineering marvel offers the illusion of driving directly into the sky. With the white desert stretching infinitely on both sides and the blue horizon merging with the salt, it is a photographer's dream and a driver's paradise.

History

This strategic road was constructed recently to improve connectivity between the mainland and the island of Khadir Bet (home to Dholavira). Previously, reaching Dholavira required a long detour via Rapar. The construction of this causeway across the salt flats was an engineering challenge but has now unlocked one of the most stunning drives in the world.

Places of Interest

• The Straight Stretch: A 30km perfectly straight road with water/salt on both sides
• Selfie Point: Designated stops where you can safely park and walk onto the salt flats
• Ekal Mata Temple: A solitary temple located near the start of the stretch
• Flamingo Colonies: In winter, the water bodies alongside the road turn pink with thousands of flamingos
• Chipper Point: A popular spot for drone photography capturing the symmetry of the road

Food & Crafts

• Limited Options: There are NO restaurants on the 30km stretch itself
• Khavda Sweets: Try the famous 'Mavo' at Khavda town before entering the road
• Dholavira Crafts: Authentic embroidery and beadwork available at the destination end (Dholavira)
• Carry Snacks: It is highly recommended to carry water and dry snacks

How to Reach

• By Road: Drive north from Bhuj towards Khavda (70km), then take the right turn towards Dholavira
• Vehicle: Any car can handle the road, but a high-clearance vehicle is better for stopping on the shoulders
• Fuel: Fill up at Bhuj or Khavda; there are no pumps on the Road to Heaven

Travel Information

• Best Time for Photos: Sunrise or Sunset for the golden reflection on the water/salt
• Safety: Do not speed; strong crosswinds are common. Do not drive off-road onto the salt crust as vehicles can sink
• Mobile Network: Connectivity is intermittent or non-existent on the stretch
• Duration: Plan for 1 hour to enjoy the drive and take photos

Best Time to Visit

October to March. In winter, the water level is perfect—neither too dry nor flooded—creating the beautiful mirror effect. The flamingos arrive around November. Summer is brutally hot, and monsoon can sometimes submerge parts of the shoulders.

Accommodation & Local Tips

• Stay: Dholavira (at the end of the road) has homestays and the Toran Resort. Khavda (at the start) has basic facilities.
• Tip: Combine this drive with a visit to the Fossil Park and Chipar Point in Dholavira.