Bhunga Development

In 2015–2016, an ambitious tourism and cultural heritage initiative was launched in Dhordo, a desert village located in the heart of the Kutch district, Gujarat. The project involved the construction of 30 traditional Bhungas—iconic circular dwellings that have been a symbol of Kutch architecture for centuries. The Bhungas were developed across a vast 11,000 sq.m plot, strategically positioned to serve as a cultural hospitality hub for the Rann Utsav and year-round tourism.

Our firm was appointed as the Project Management Consultant (PMC), entrusted with end-to-end planning, coordination, quality control, and execution supervision. The Bhungas were carefully crafted using locally sourced materials, combining traditional techniques with modern construction standards. Their distinctive circular form, conical thatched roofs, and mud-relief interiors are emblematic of the region’s resilience to harsh climatic conditions such as strong winds and high temperatures.

While maintaining the authentic aesthetic character of Kutch, each Bhunga was thoughtfully equipped with modern comforts to enhance the visitor experience. These include attached bathrooms, compact kitchens, private dining spaces, and air-cooling systems, ensuring a seamless blend of cultural authenticity and contemporary living standards.

Landscaping around the Bhungas was also integrated with native vegetation and traditional outdoor features like courtyards and sit-out spaces, enhancing the ambience and fostering a sense of community living. The overall site layout encourages interactive cultural experiences, supporting local artisans, folklore performances, and traditional cuisine services.

This project not only contributed to the promotion of rural tourism and sustainable development but also played a vital role in preserving the architectural heritage of Kutch. It offered employment opportunities to local craftsmen, supported community-driven tourism models, and became an exemplary case of vernacular design adapted for modern hospitality.