Chhari Dhand

Chhari Dhand

Chhari Dhand is a birdwatchers' paradise located on the edge of the arid Banni grasslands and the marshy salt flats of the Rann of Kutch in Gujarat, India. It is a protected wetland conservation reserve under the status of a Protected or Reserve Forest.

The term "Chhari Dhand" comes from the Sindhi words where "Chhari" means salt-affected and "Dhand" refers to a shallow wetland. This seasonal desert wetland becomes swampy during a good monsoon, receiving water from north-flowing rivers and large catchment areas from surrounding hills. Covering an area of 80 km², it is situated in Nakhtrana Taluka, approximately 80 km southwest of Bhuj, about 7-8 km from Fulary village, and 30 km from Nakhtrana town.

The wetland is home to nearly 200,000 birds, including numerous migratory and endangered species that flock to the area during the monsoon and winter seasons. Due to their elusive nature, these birds often disappear when visitors are around. The best time to visit Chhari Dhand is early in the morning, before the local Maldhari herders begin moving their cattle in the Fulai-Wang Belt.