Onboard the traditional Kachchhi ship in Mandvi, Gujarat

Mandvi, a city located in the Kutch district in Gujarat, is easily one of the least-visited places in India, and one that needs to be on traveller’s bucket list. Mandvi is situated on the banks of the Rukmavati River, about 56 km southwest of the district headquarters Bhuj.

Did you know that Mandvi is a great place to see traditional ship building practices, beautiful beaches and historical monuments?


Mandvi is famous for its traditional shipbuilding practices, which date back more than 400 years. The town has a rich history of shipbuilding, and is known for its traditional wooden sailing vessels called dhows. The construction of these dhows is carried out by skilled craftsmen, using traditional methods that have been passed down through generations. As a visitor, you can even watch this shipbuilding process!


Kachchhi ships, also known as Kutchi boats or Kutchi ships, are traditional wooden sailing vessels that have been built and used in the Kutch region of Gujarat for centuries. They are known for their unique design, which is well-suited for navigating the shallow waters of the Gulf of Kutch and the Arabian Sea.



Kachchhi ships are typically built using locally sourced wood, such as teak and sal. The shipbuilders use traditional techniques to shape the wood into planks, ribs, and other required components. Kachchhi ships were traditionally used for fishing and transportation along the coast of Gujarat. They were also used for trading, and some of the larger ships were used for long-distance voyages to countries like Oman and Bahrain.


Today, Kachchhi ships are still used for fishing and transportation in the region, and they are also a popular tourist attraction. Visitors to the Kutch region can take a ride on one of these beautiful traditional sailing vessels and experience the rich maritime heritage of the region. Also, when here, do not forget to buy sailing compasses, made by some of the most skilled craftsmen in the world.