Anand Mahindra called this place in India a “phenomenal sight deserves a spot on every bucket list”—here’s why
Anand Mahindra, the #SundayWanderer, took to his X handle and described this Indian beauty as a “phenomenal sight” which “deserves a spot on every bucket list”. And when someone like Mr. Mahindra praises a place, it means something. And the place he is talking about is a hidden gem in Gujarat’s Kutch district called Lyari. If you are looking for an offbeat adventure to begin your 2026 travel, you must definitely plan a trip to this lesser known geological wonder which has left the social media mesmerised with its rugged, raw and dramatic beauty. The destination looks so surreal that it feels digitally enhanced. More about LyariFor those who don’t know, Lyari is situated in Gujarat’s Kutch district and is among one of the lesser-known Indian beauty. The place was spotted by ace industrialist Anand Mahindra and he shared a post along with some gorgeous and other-worldly pictures of the place. He wrote the following:I’ve shared before about the ancient, rugged beauty of the Gandikota gorge in AP. But I just discovered its younger sibling: the remarkable stratified formations of Lyari, Kutch. (Courtesy a post by @gujarat_plus_ )Some quick online research told me that while Gandikota is a billion-year-old fortress of quartzite, Lyari is geologically “younger,” dating back ONLY roughly 200 million years to the Jurassic era!Even though they look post-processed, these photos capture a landscape that beautiful and surreal. It’s still very much off the beaten track & while we definitely want to preserve that, this phenomenal sight deserves a spot on every bucket list (with regulated, sustainable travel, of course!)#SundayWandererThe images shared show remarkable stratified rock formations which look almost “post-processed,” but are completely natural. These rocks are shaped by time, tectonics, and erosion some 200 million years ago.
@anandmahindra (X)
He also called them a younger cousin of Andhra Pradesh’s famed Gandikota Gorge. But the thing is that Gandikota’s quartzite cliffs date back nearly a billion years! Lyari belongs to the Jurassic era, when dinosaurs still walked the Earth. Why visit Lyari Lyari’s landscape is surreal. It is defined by layered sedimentary rock formations. These are arranged in dramatic horizontal bands of earthy reds, browns, greys, and ochres, among others. These strata tell a silent story of prehistoric seas, shifting climates, and ancient tectonic activity. Over millions of years, wind and water erosion sculpted the rocks into sharp ridges, flat-topped plateaus, and rippling walls that resemble abstract art.Unlike polished tourist destinations, Lyari remains raw and untouched. The best part, there are no cafes, restaurants or your regular rush here. Just being there and enjoying the view truly defines the beauty of the place. open terrain and uninterrupted views. It is an untouched beauty and that is why you must visit Lyari and explore its haunting beauty.Best time to visit
@anandmahindra (X)
The best time to visit Lyari is between October and February. The weather remains pleasant during this time, daytime temperatures range between 20°C and 30°C. Early mornings and late afternoons are spectacular because of the sun. The sun rays highlight the rock layers, creating a burst of colours!How to reach LyariWell, reaching Lyari requires little planning.By Air: The nearest airport is Bhuj Airport, well-connected to major Indian cities like Mumbai and Delhi. Taxis and other private vehicles are available.By Train: Bhuj Railway Station is the closest railhead, with regular trains from Ahmedabad and other cities.By Road: From Bhuj, Lyari can be reached via a private taxi or self-drive. Roads are mostly motorable, but the final stretch may involve unpaved terrain. A local guide is highly recommended.Things to know
@anandmahindra (X)
There are no tourist facilities here so do carry a bottle of water, some snacks. Do apply sunscreens, and first-aid boxes.Wear sturdy and comfortable shoes because it is a rocky terrainPhotography: This place is a dream for photographers! Do not litter and behave responsiblyThis place is a paradise for travellers seeking unconventional beauties—something historic, dramatic, and profoundly humbling. Lyari is one of those few places which offer a rare chance to walk through Earth’s deep past.
