Ahmedabad : Where Happiness Emerged in Heritage - Traveller Media

Ahmedabad, often referred to as the “Manchester of India”, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, historical significance, and thriving textile industry. The city pulsates with life during vibrant celebrations such as Navratri, known for its energetic Garba dances, and the International Kite Festival, which fills the skies with color. Ahmedabad is also a haven for food lovers, offering a wide array of delicious local cuisine, from khaman and dhokla to fafda-jalebi and Gujarati thali.

In 2017, Ahmedabad was designated as India’s first UNESCO World Heritage City. Ahmedabad is the Largest City in Gujarat. Being an important economic and industrial hub, Ahmedabad is well-connected to the rest of India through a variety of transport options.

By Air :

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (AMD – Airport Code) is the closest airport to Ahmedabad city, located approximately 9 kilometers (5.5 miles) from the city center. The travel time from the airport to central Ahmedabad is around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Upon arrival, you can choose from various transport options such as local buses and private cabs (including app-based services like Uber and Ola). If you wish to rest before heading into the city, there are several hotels near the airport, including popular choices like Comfort Inn Sunset and The Ummed Hotel.

By Train :

Kalupur Railway Station (Ahmedabad Junction – ADI – Station Code) is one of the busiest railway stations in western India, linking the city to nearly every part of the country, located approximately 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) from the city center. Upon arrival, you can choose from various transport options such as local buses, Auto-rickshaws and private cabs (including app-based services like Uber and Ola). If you wish to rest before heading into the city, there are several hotels near the Railway Station, including popular choices like Sarovar Portico Kalupur Ahmedabad and Marshall The Hotel.

By Road :

Ahmedabad enjoys excellent road connectivity, making it accessible from major cities and neighboring states (Rajasthan, MP, and Maharashtra) via a network of national and state highways.

How many days are enough to visit Ahmedabad?

🗓️ 2 to 3 Days is generally enough to explore the city’s key attractions.

Best time to visit Ahmedabad

The best time to visit Ahmedabad is during the winter months, from November to February, when the weather is most pleasant and suitable for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

✅ Travel Tip:
If you’re planning a cultural visit, January is ideal due to the Kite Festival and the overall festive atmosphere.

🏛️ Best Places to Visit / Things to do in Ahmedabad

1. Sabarmati Ashram

Mahatma Gandhi’s residence and center for the Indian independence movement. Peaceful riverside setting with historical exhibits.

🕰️ Timings & Fees :
8:30 AM to 6:30 PM, open all days of the week
Entry Fee: Free

2. Heritage Walk of Ahmedabad (Mandir to Masjid)

Kavi Dalpatram Chowk Ahmedabad

The Heritage Walk of Ahmedabad is a guided walking tour through the city’s Old Walled City, offering a deep dive into its rich architectural, cultural, and religious heritage. It’s one of the most celebrated ways to explore Ahmedabad, which was declared India’s first UNESCO World Heritage City in 2017.

🕰️ Timings & Fees :
In Morning around (7:30 AM to 10:00 AM) , open all days of the week
Entry Fee: ₹100–₹200 (for Indian nationals), ₹300+ (for foreigners) – Booking from On Swaminarayan Temple or Online via AMC

3. Sidi Saiyyed Mosque

Famous for its intricate stone latticework (jalis), especially the Tree of Life window. one of the most iconic landmarks of Ahmedabad and a masterpiece of Indo-Islamic architecture.

🕰️ Timings & Fees :
Open from sunrise to sunset, all days
Entry Fee: Free

4. Adalaj Stepwell

Ornate, 5-story stepwell with beautiful carvings—an architectural marvel located just outside the city.

🕰️ Timings & Fees :
6:00 AM – 6:00 PM, open daily
Entry Fee: Free

5. Calico Museum of Textiles

The Calico Museum of Textiles in Ahmedabad is renowned as one of India’s premier textile museums, celebrated for its extensive collection of Indian fabrics and artifacts. Established in 1949 by industrialists Gautam Sarabhai and Gira Sarabhai, the museum was inspired by art historian Ananda Coomaraswamy.

🕰️ Timings & Fees :
Morning Tour: 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM (Haveli Galleries)
Afternoon Tour: 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM (Chauk Galleries)
Garden Tour: Thursdays, 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM

Note: The museum is closed on Mondays and public holidays.

Entry Fee: Free
Booking: Advance booking is mandatory and operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Photography: Not permitted within the premises.

6. Auto World Vintage Car Museum

The Auto World Vintage Car Museum in Ahmedabad is a must-visit destination for automobile enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Located within the expansive Dastan Estate, this museum showcases one of India’s most extensive collections of vintage and classic automobiles.

🕰️ Timings & Fees :
Operating Hours: Daily from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
Entry Fee:
Adults: ₹50
Children: ₹20
Photography: ₹100
Vintage Car Ride (3.5 km): ₹500–₹1000

7. Hutheesing Jain Temple

The Hutheesing Jain Temple in Ahmedabad is a remarkable example of Jain architecture and a significant religious site. Constructed in 1848, it was commissioned by Sheth Hutheesing Kesarisinh, a prosperous merchant, and completed by his wife, Shethani Harkunwar, after his untimely death. The temple is dedicated to Dharmanatha, the 15th Jain Tirthankara.

🕰️ Timings & Fees :
Temple Timings: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Entry Fee: Free for temple entry. A nominal fee of ₹20 applies for the museum section.
Aarti: Held at 8:00 AM daily.

🍽️ Must-Try Food & Dining Spots

Manek Chowk (Night Market): Try pav bhaji, kulfi, dosas, and more at this buzzing street food hub.
Agashiye (The House of MG): Traditional Gujarati thali on a beautiful heritage terrace.
Gordhan Thal & Rajwadu: Authentic Gujarati dining experiences in cultural settings.
Chandravilas : Fafda-Jalebi Combo & Ratalu Puri

🛍️ Shopping in Ahmedabad

Law Garden Market: Handicrafts, traditional clothes (bandhani, mirror work), and accessories.
Rani no Hajiro Market: A hidden gem for antique jewelry, ethnic wear, and street snacks.
CG Road & Ahmedabad One Mall: For modern retail therapy.