Exploring Kutch: A Journey Through Landscape and Astro Photography Workshop
- Nilakkhya Dutta
- Dec 19, 2025
- 13 min read
The Kutch region in India offers a mesmerising landscape that is a paradise for photographers, particularly those interested in astro landscape photography. The unique topography, characterised by vast salt flats, rock formations, and expansive desert vistas, creates an otherworldly backdrop that is particularly striking at twilight. As night falls, the clear skies of Kutch become a canvas for celestial wonders, making it an ideal location for capturing the Milky Way and other astronomical phenomena. The interplay of the arid terrain and the starry sky allows photographers to experiment with long exposure techniques, resulting in stunning images that highlight both the natural beauty of the landscape and the grandeur of the cosmos. This combination of terrestrial and celestial elements makes Kutch a captivating destination for those looking to explore and document the enchanting relationship between the earth and the stars.
Photography Partner for the Tour Specialising in Landscape Photography
NILAKKHYA DUTTA
Nilakkhya, an Official Nikon Creator is a published Landscape Photographer of India from Delhi and has been in the photography arena for the last 11 years. To talk of some of his accomplishments, he has been published on all major platforms of photography including some of the top photography magazines of India. Above all he has been leading Landscape and Astro Photography Workshops for 3 years now and holds a rich experience in teaching the concepts to the participants. For his complete set of works, do visit
Key Features of our Trip
The group size will range from a minimum of 5 participants to a maximum of 9 participants, all mentored by one landscape photographer, based on a first-come, first-served basis.
Embark on a meticulously planned 3-night/4 -day journey to explore the corners of Kutch thoroughly, ensuring that every opportunity to capture its beauty is seized without rushing through.
Participants will have the chance to use the latest high-end Nikon cameras and lenses and tripods, as Nikon and Leofoto are our equipment partners.
Engage in the concept of Travel, Share, and Learn about Landscape Photography with Nilakkhya Dutta. Nilakkhya is an experienced landscape photographer known for showcasing the purest form of a place's beauty. Nilakkhya, a published photographer in various platforms and magazines worldwide, will guide the group and has been now conducting workshops for the last 4 years across India.
Post-processing sessions will be conducted on-field every evening after photography sessions, with additional online sessions if required. Participants will be encouraged to develop their own style and vision, rather than imitating others, fostering individual artistic growth.
The trip departs from Bhuj, with participants transferred in comfortable Tempo Traveler throughout the tour and the drop will be at Bhuj. Bhuj is well-connected by rail and roads.
Accommodation in Kutch will be provided in a guest house on a twin sharing basis.
All meals, including breakfast, lunch, tea, and dinner, will be provided from breakfast on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 4.
An experienced professional tour leader will accompany the group throughout the journey.
All necessary permits/ILP for travel on the route will be arranged.
First aid kits will be available for any emergencies.
Strict adherence to COVID protocols will be ensured, following the guidelines of the state of Gujarat at the time of the tour.
Detailed Itinerary Day Wise
23rd April - Day -1 (Thursday) - Arrival at Bhuj and transfer of participants in Tempo Traveler to our hotel. Sunset and Astro at Kadiya Dhrow.
24th April - Day -2 (Friday) - Sunset and Astro and Liyari River Bed. Overnight in Bhuj.
25th April - Day -3 (Saturday) - Sunset and Astro at Dholavira. Overnight in Bhuj.
26th April - Day -4 (Sunday) - Drop off at Bhuj Railway Station after breakfast.
Astro photography relies entirely on clear night skies.
Package Cost
Rs. 35,000 per person
(Ex-Airports Twin sharing in Hotels and Home Stays)
Prices quoted above are exclusive of GST of 5%.
Single Supplement - 30% Extra
What is included
All accommodations in Bhuj in Guest House in Twin Sharing Basis
All transfers will be in one Tempo Traveler.
All meals from Bhuj will be provided, including breakfast, lunch, evening tea, and dinner from breakfast on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 4.
An experienced tour leader will accompany the group for the entire tour.
A first aid kit will be available.
Permits for the entire tour are included.
Participants will have the opportunity to use Nikon high-end camera gears and Leofoto tripods for taking pictures.
Photography assistance will be provided for day time landscapes and night astroscapes on all days, including image critique.
Participants will be guided on camera settings for capturing the sceneries.
Post-processing sessions will be conducted for participants during the tour.
Exclusions
Travel to Bhuj and return journey from Bhuj to your destination.
Accommodation and meals during transit from your destination to Bhuj and back from Bhuj.
Lunch and Dinner on Day 4.
Any additional meal expenses incurred during the tour, such as delayed meals due to photography or travel requirements, where participants opt to purchase food from an external source.
Personal expenses like tips, laundry, or similar.
Costs of any food or beverages purchased by participants during travel between locations.
Mineral water bottles. (We recommend participants to avoid plastic bottles and carry their own refillable insulated bottles).
Additional expenses for extra food or beverages.
Any medical emergency costs for participants.
Any additional costs incurred due to unforeseen circumstances like civil unrest, weather disruptions, or other events beyond our control that result in an increased duration of the tour.
FAQ's
1. What are the terms of Payment and Booking Procedure?
Booking Amount - Rs. 10,000 +5% GST(Rs. 500) = Rs. 10,500 at the Time of Confirmation.
Final Payment - Rs. 25,000 +5% GST(Rs. 1250) = Rs. 26,250 30 days before the Departure Day, i.e. by 23rd March, 2026.
The prices mentioned above include a 5% GST and may be adjusted in case of any change in the GST rate due to a government directive. An invoice will be issued for every payment made by the participants.
If you wish to make a booking using the Razorpay Payment Gateway, kindly contact us to receive a payment link. Please note that gateway charges of 2% of the transaction fee plus 18% GST on that 2% amount will apply.
2. Payment Policies:
50% refund of advance for cancellations ≥45 days pre-departure (by Apr 27, 2026); no refund after that.
Fee increase if minimum threshold of 5 participants not met.
Full refund if canceled by organizers for COVID, lockdowns, or insufficient sign-ups.
No refund of the GST component or flight costs. Refunds processed one month after tour ends.
3. What are the precautions to be kept in mind as it's post monsoons in Kutch. Will it be too wet?
Firstly, a tour specifically for Landscape Photography is designed for participants solely interested in Photography. Reaching the river beds requires some walking, so strong determination is necessary. Staying hydrated and wearing appropriate attire are essential. Additionally, due to weather or other reasons, if we need to alter the itinerary or skip a location for the participants' well-being and their physical and mental health, the tour leader's decision will be final, and the team must comply with it. No refunds will be issued in such cases. We will embark on this tour with a strong mind and passionate heart, and I'm confident the team will succeed and capture remarkable Landscape Photography of Kutch.
4. What can be anticipated regarding Logistic Support? How challenging will it be and are there any specific details in the itinerary?
Considering this as a Landscape and Astro Landscape Photography Tour, we classify it as a Photography Workshop for participants rather than a leisure trip or vacation. Below are some key points to help you comprehend what to expect and the level of difficulty of the tour-
Since the emphasis will be on locations, there will be day-long travels. Nights will be dedicated to Astro Photography whenever feasible, so sleep may become secondary at times. Therefore, participants are expected to rest when designated as a group.
Despite factors beyond our control, we strive to maintain consistent sleep and wake times to capture the optimal light for Photography. Participants are required to adhere to these timings.
This is a group tour where sharing rooms with strangers, often meeting them for the first time, is common. Participants should approach this situation with a sporting attitude.
Most stays in unique locations will be in Home Stays/Guest House with basic facilities, such as beds or mattresses on the floor and village-style linen. It is important for participants to value the location for photography rather than focus on the accommodation. Keep in mind that the accommodations provided are the best available for that specific location during that season. Participants are expected to appreciate and respect this. However, participants have the option to bring their own linen or sleeping bags.
Food served in remote offbeat locations or based on seasonal availability will be basic. Mainly comprising simple vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes as per what's locally available. The menu decision lies with the travel partners who understand the terrain and can quickly serve suitable meals.
Participants are advised to set realistic expectations and comprehend the tour's level of difficulty. This tour is exclusively focused on Landscape and Astro Landscape Photography. Failure to adhere to the guidelines and rules of the tour, creating a negative atmosphere for others, the group leader, or the local support system, will result in a warning and expulsion from the tour without a refund. Approach this tour with a positive and open mindset, and excel in the realm of Landscape Photography.
5. What are the rules and protocols to be followed during the tour?
During the tour, the group leaders traveling in the Tempo Traveler will determine the stops for photography. While participants can take photos from their windows, the decision to stop and disembark for capturing specific scenes will be made by the group leaders.
The group leaders will inform every one of the time allocated for capturing images after leaving the vehicle, based on the scene being photographed. It is essential for all participants to adhere to the given time frame. If it's 10 minutes, everyone must return to the vehicle within 10 minutes, and if more time is needed, it will be granted. Sufficient time will be provided to capture each scene effectively.
All participants must follow the waking and sleeping times communicated by the group leaders. Individuals are responsible for waking up on time, as missing the specified time will result in missing out on photography opportunities. Ensuring the right lighting conditions for images, especially during sunrise and sunset, is crucial on a photography tour.
While photographing at a location, it's important not to obstruct each other's shots. If someone wishes to capture the same scene as another participant, it is recommended to allow the first person to complete their shot before taking a turn.
Participants must avoid conflicts during the tour. Any issues with other participants, whether related to photography or otherwise, should be addressed to the tour organizers for resolution.
For logistical concerns, participants are advised to follow the standard procedure of contacting the hotel helpdesk or the Travel Partner during the tour. If issues persist, participants can seek assistance from the organizers for resolution.
Littering, such as leaving plastic bottles or wrappers, is strictly prohibited during the tour. Participants are expected to dispose of waste appropriately at designated locations.
Participants are responsible for handling their camera equipment, including cameras, lenses, tripods, and memory cards. Any damage to equipment provided by Nikon India will be the participant's responsibility to cover the costs.
Every evening, there will be a review session where participants can receive feedback on their images. It is encouraged to accept feedback positively and use it to enhance photography skills.
Participants should be prepared for unconventional and challenging travel and accommodation arrangements, with a focus on photography. Any delays in meals or facilities should be understood, and any negativity or complaints that disrupt the photography spirit will not be tolerated.
Individuals choosing to venture away from the group for photographs do so at their own risk, and the tour organizers will not be liable for any mishaps.
Personal visits during the tour, typically undertaken by tourists, are discouraged as this is a Landscape Photography tour.
In the event of skipping any destinations due to factors beyond control, such as roadblocks or weather conditions, alternative arrangements will be provided. Any additional costs incurred will be the responsibility of the participants.
6. What are the minimum and maximum participant requirements, and what is the consequence if the minimum number of participants is not met for the tour?
We require a minimum of 5 participants for the tour. If the minimum number is not met, we will proceed with the tour but there will be an additional cost per participant.
7. What happens if a participant needs to leave the trip due to an emergency? Will the fee be refunded, and arrangements be made for their return to Bhuj and their destination?
If a participant needs to leave the trip unexpectedly, there will be no refund provided. Additionally, the participant will be responsible for covering the cost of arranging transportation back to Bhuj and their original destination.
8. What Photography Equipment are participants expected to bring?
The trip is primarily a Landscape Photography tour, but it also welcomes individuals interested in creating art in the mountains through painting or creative writing for potential publication in an anthology. Camera equipment expected from all participants:
One DSLR/Mirrorless camera with wide and telephoto lenses
Tripod
Filters for those interested in Long Exposures: ND10 and ND6 and Polariser
Memory Cards
Shutter Release remote, particularly for Long Exposures
L-bracket for those wanting to capture vertical long exposures and panoramas
While this is a comprehensive list, it is not mandatory for everyone to carry all items. Participants interested in simple landscape photography during golden and blue hours, as well as learning Astro photography, can bring a DSLR/Mirrorless, lenses, and a tripod. For long exposures, filters and a shutter release remote are essential.
Given the remote nature of the trip with uncertain electricity supply, participants are advised to bring extra battery sets in case of depletion. An extension board for additional chargers could be useful if participants choose to bring it. To prevent batteries from losing charge in cold weather, participants can keep them close to their bodies inside their clothing. Painters and writers are expected to bring their creative kits, including notebooks, pens, painting materials, canvas, and colors.
9. Can a participant bring a Non-Photographer Friend or Companion or a Non-Photographer or a Non-Artist Join?
We welcome two types of individuals: those who have a passion for Landscape Photography and those who appreciate art. Additionally, if someone wishes to join the tour for sightseeing purposes, they are also welcome, provided they adhere to the following conditions:
There will be no reduction in the fee cost.
Photography and art tours proceed at a leisurely pace, with frequent stops for artistic endeavors. Non-art participants are expected to be respectful of the artists' time and adjust to their pace.
10. What level of fitness is necessary for this trip? Does it involve Trekking or Long Walks?
Visitors to the river beds and rock formations, especially photographers, should possess a basic level of fitness for daily activities during the tour. Although our trip primarily involves driving and does not include full-day hikes or treks, reaching the vantage points would require some walks down and up, so participants must be physically prepared. In addition to this fitness level, participants are responsible for managing their medications throughout the trip and bringing sufficient quantities to prevent any issues. If any problems arise, they should rest and proceed at a pace comfortable for their body. Participants are also expected to bring their medical and first aid kits. It is the participant's responsibility to inform the staff of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disabilities that might impact their ability to travel on this trip.
11. What Age Group is Suitable for the Trip and Can Participants Bring Children?
Given that this is an Art trip focused on Photography, it is recommended to bring children only if they can keep up with the pace of the trip and appreciate the artists' attention to detail. Children under 15 years old will not be permitted on the tour due to its altitude and artistic focus.
12. Will the organizers use the photos taken by the participants or of the participants for Promotional Purposes?
Yes, by signing up for the trip, participants also agree to allow thEscape to use certain images captured of or by them, as well as any artwork, with proper credit given to the artists, on their website and social media platforms.
13. Under what circumstances does the organizer have the right to cancel a member's participation during the trip?
If any participant engages in misbehavior or misconduct during the trip, such as causing distress to fellow travelers, damaging property, sexual harassment, or any form of misconduct, they will be removed from the trip without a refund and will be responsible for their own return costs. The Group Leader's decision is final in these cases to maintain the group's reputation. Participants are expected to be respectful to hotel staff, drivers, and support personnel. Disrespectful behavior towards them will result in a warning from the group leader, with repeated offenses leading to expulsion from the tour. We have a strict policy against misbehavior under the influence of alcohol. Participants should maintain discipline and avoid spreading negativity among fellow travelers. Violations will result in warnings and potential expulsion from the tour without a refund, with the participant covering their return expenses.
14. In the event that odd numbers result from the Male Female Ratio when assigning twin sharing to participants, what should be done?
If this situation arises, the organizer will provide the most suitable solution, ensuring that twin sharing is never allocated to individuals of the opposite sex.
15. Is there any Mobile connectivity in Kutch?
Mobile connectivity in Kutch is on and off. Airtel and Jio postpaid services are available.
16. What is the total number of individuals accompanying the tour participants?
Nilakkhya will be the photography partner, in addition to the support staff.
17. Policy on the Use of Psychotropic Substances, Alcohol, and Smoking During the Tour
The use of psychotropic substances (drugs) is strictly prohibited during the tour. Anyone found in possession of or consuming these substances will be immediately dismissed from the tour. Smoking is permitted, but participants are asked to ensure that it does not disturb others. For those who have not opted for a Single Supplement, it is recommended that all participants discuss smoking with their roommates.
18. Are there any other Terms and Conditions that need to be considered?
It is essential for participants to understand that this is a photography tour, requiring a degree of flexibility. The daily itinerary serves as a general guide only, and we cannot be held liable for delays due to factors such as international or domestic flight issues, strikes, government regulations, weather conditions, or natural disasters. In such instances, we will offer suitable alternatives through mutual agreement, with any additional costs to be covered by the participants.
If a participant fails to arrive in Bhuj by 10 AM on April 23rd, 2026, it will be assumed that they have canceled the tour, resulting in a "No Show" status with no refund provided.
We reserve the right to adjust pricing on our website due to external factors beyond our control. However, we strive to maintain the current rates. Minor increases in hotel prices or related expenses will not affect confirmed bookings made with a deposit.
We strongly advise participants to obtain medical and unforeseen event insurance before embarking on this or any trip.
The tour dates and itinerary are fixed, tailored for Landscape Photography needs, with no alterations possible to accommodate individual preferences.
Participants must adhere to photography restrictions in certain areas and present government-issued IDs at checkpoints. It is essential to keep documents readily available for inspection by authorities throughout the trip.
Participants are required to comply with document checks by authorities and deposit a signed indemnity bond along with their Aadhar Cards before the trip commences.
Participants acknowledge the potential risks of the journey, including accidents, illnesses in remote areas, political instability, and natural disasters, and agree to assume all associated risks to the fullest extent allowed by Indian law.
If you have any booking inquiries, please email us at thescapebiz@gmail.com or call +91 9717960028 to speak with Nilakkhya.
For transferring the advance booking amount and final payments, we will provide you with the necessary bank account details, contract, and trip acknowledgment. Alternatively, you can opt for Razorpay Payment Gateway for payment through Debit Cards, Credit Cards, UPI, Wallets, or EMI.
Let's make this trip unforgettable with plenty of memories and artwork. We look forward to hearing from you soon.
Disclaimer: The photographs featured here are all mobile captures of my travel partner as this is thEscape's maiden journey to Kutch.
By making a booking payment, you agree to the cancellation policy and the Terms and Conditions stated above.
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