Bhuj served as the capital of Kutch from the 16th century until the princely state merged into an independent India in 1948. The medieval town is a mishmash of narrow, noisy streets, Hindu temples, and royal palaces. The town is renowned for producing world class textiles and silverwork as well as being an excellent springboard for the remote villages and natural beauty of the Great Rann.
The town was at the epicentre of a large earthquake in January 2001 resulting in great loss of life and destruction and damage to a large proportion of the medieval city. While recovery has been slow, thankfully it has been successful with many of the historic buildings now restored to their former glory.