The mention of Amdavad echoes the sound of clattering Dandiyas, lively beats of Garbha and gushing waves of Sabarmati. Whereas the cultural charm that city exhibits, mirrors the true essence of India and paints you in the shades of Bandhani. That's just what everyone knows about Ahmedabad, but this vivacious city has a lot and lot more to awe the senses of a traveler. Truth be told, Ahmedabad is an excellent combination of cultural, historical and natural marvels. The sparkling waters of the Sabarmati River, the tranquility of pristine lakes and many wildlife reserves add to the natural allure of this city. To top that, Ahmedabad is dotted with rich historical sites that offer a sneak-peek into the lives of the great Sultans of Gujarat.
Here is a list of 25 best tourist attractions to visit in Ahmedabad to make the best out of this alluring city.
When in Ahmedabad, Thor Lake is a must-visit place for every bird lover. A nature lovers paradise, this lake houses a number of migratory birds. Thor Lake is situated on the outskirts of the city and can be visited to spend some quite time in the lap of nature. One can easily spot over 200 species of birds like Indian Saras Crane, flamingos, painter storks, white pelicans, egrets, spoonbills, egrets, whistling teals and many more.
Around 25 km from Ahmedabad, one can easily visit this place to enjoy the still and serene atmosphere filled with harmonious singing of birds. You can pay an entry fee of Rs.20 on weekdays and Rs.25 on Sundays and have a great view of the mesmerizing landscape and rare birds.
The best place in western Ahmedabad to host cultural event is Vastrapur Lake. Circled with lush green lawns and unique stonework, this lake is a delight to the eye. Boating through this lake is a must-try activity to make the most of your visit. If you want to spend some quiet time with your dear ones, away from the hustle and bustle of the city life, then this lake would not disappoint you.
Karnkaria Lake or Hauj-e-Kutub, is the second largest lake in Ahmedabad. The government has developed a lakefront in front of it to attract more tourists. This lakefront has many attractions like toy train, kids city, zoo, water parks, food stalls, balloon rides and many other things. Visiting this place would never be disappointing with so many thrilling activities on the plate.
If you are planning a family outing, then Parimal Garden is the best place for you. This garden is located in the center of the city, making it easily accessible for all the travelers. The green surrounding and the playful swings and slides attract many people to this garden. Visiting this place is a must if you want to spend some quality time with your family and friends.
The Calico Museum of Textiles has a collection of the most distinguished artifacts and textiles of the period between 15th to 19th centuries. Founded by Gautam Sarabhai and Gira Sarabhai in the year 1949, today, this museum is visited by domestic as well as global scholars to study these textiles. The history buffs can visit this museum any day to have a deeper insight into the rich Mughal period.
The Sabarmati Riverfront is an ideal location to create some unforgettable memories with your friends and family members. Developed on the bank of the Sabarmati River, this riverfront is a site for exciting recreational activities. You can visit this place if you want to sit by the river and enjoy the mesmerizing view.
Named after its founder Seth Hathee Singh, this temple serves as a sacred place of worship for the Jains. The temple is an epitome of architectural marvel and styling. This two-storied Hathee Singh Temple was constructed in the year 1850 using imported white marbles. Visit this place to pay homage to the 15th Jain Tirthanakara named Dharmnath for whom this temple was built.
Dada Hari Ni Vav is a step well built in the 15th century to provide water and a relaxing place to all the travelers. This octagonal-shaped step well is five stories deep and is carved in typical Gujarati style. Visit this 500 years old monument any day between 9am and 5pm to encounter its unique structure and amazing beauty.
Built by the founder of Ahmedabad, Ahmed Shah Mosque is one of the oldest dated mosques in the city. Supported by 152 intricately carved pillars, this mosque served as a royal private prayer room for a very long time. This mosque is a very popular tourist destination due to the religious sentiments attached to it.
Also known as Acropolis of Ahmedabad, Sarkhej Roza is a one of the most beautiful architectural complexes of Ahmedabad. This mosque cum mausoleum is located 7 km south-west of Ahmedabad in a small village named Makarba. A celebrated center of Sufi Culture, this Roza was built by Mohammad Shah in the memory of Sufi Saint Gang Baksh. A trip to this Acropolis is highly recommended to witness the unique architecture of the 15th century.
Sabarmati Ashram, the home of Mahatma Gandhi who was the greatest freedom fighter, is transformed into a national monument by the government. This ashram displays the teachings and principles of Gandhi. This ashram houses a library containing over 35,000 books along with a cottage named Hridaya Kunj and a guesthouse named Nandini. This ashram houses a library containing over 35,000 books along with a cottage named Hridaya Kunj and a guesthouse named Nandini. A visit to this Gandhi home is necessary to have an in-depth knowledge about the struggles that he went through to make us lead a free life.
Balvatika is an ideal place for kids picnic and educational tours. Built atop a hill in Ahmedabad, this vatika offers dazzling view of the Kankaria Lake. The Balvatika is a childrens park where your child can indulge in a number of activities with children of his or her age for great mental and personality development. Visit this place with your kids to experience a blend of educational activities and amazing natural view.
Established in 1985 by Mr. Bhanubhai Shah, the Kite Museum is one of its kind in the entire world. Initially displaying the personal collection of Mr. Shah, today this museum houses the vast variety of kites. This place has gained even more popularity because of its location in the famous Sanskar Kendra in Paldi, Ahmedabad. This place becomes abuzz with tourists from across the world during the popular Kite Festival organized in the month of January. Visit this museum to catch a glimpse of some of the rarest kites of the world.
Gujarat Science City serves as a wonderful choice for conducting school educational trips. With IMAX 3D theater, energy park, musical fountain, life science park, amphitheater, Planet Earth among other features, this apt for all the students. It has tons of educational activities to engage your child and enhance his or her interest in Science. With a nominal entry fee of Rs.5 for kids and Rs.10 for adults, this Science City will not disappoint you.
The Adalaj Stepwell was constructed in the year 1499 by Mahmud Begada for his queen Rudabai. This five storey deep step well is an excellent example of Indo-Islamic architecture. It was built to provide easy access to water for all the villagers and pilgrims. With numerous deities carved intricately on the walls, this step well also served as a place of religious offerings. Plan a trip to this step well and get amazed by the proficient workmanship of the earlier architects and artisans.
Constructed in 1822, this is the first ever Swaminarayan Mandir in India. Built under the guidance of Lord Swaminarayan himself, this temple is installed with idols and images of NarNarayan Dev. If you are visiting this place, then make sure that you attend the laser light and sound show to make the best of your trip.
First of its kind in Gujarat, Maniars Wonderland Snow Park promises fun-filled experience to all its visitors. This snow-themed park provides relief from the biting heat. Moreover, the rides offered by this snow park are sure to make you have a once-in-a-lifetime experience. To enjoy snowfall even during the highest temperature, do visit the Maniars Wonderland Snow Park. You can visit the snow park by paying a nominal entry fee of Rs.220 for adult Rs.180 for children.
Constructed by the founder of Ahmedabad, Bhadra Fort attracts tons of visitors on a daily basis. Comprising of a Citadel, Royal Square, Mosque and the phenomenal Teen Darwaza, this fort is termed as the cultural center of the city. This fort depicts the rich 15th century artistry and architecture. All those to love to explore old forts and palaces should certainly visit this place to have an unforgettable experience.
Located in Mirzapur, Ahmedabad, Rani Rupmati Mosque was built by Mahmud Begada for his Hindu wife Rupmati, after whom the mosque is named. This mosque features slim minarets, carved galleries, splendid mihrab and three exquisite domes. A visit to this mosque is a must to witness an amazing fusion of Hindu and Muslim architecture.
Ahmad Shahs Tomb is popularly known as Badshah no Hajiro, translated as Kings Masoleum. Featuring the tomb of the founder of Ahmedabad, Sultan Ahmad Shah, this place can only be visited by male tourists and female tourists can experience the great architecture of the surrounding places. Pay your homage to the great Emperor of Ahmedabad and get a deeper knowledge about the rich history of this place.
Spread over an area of 23 acres of land, Akshardham Temple is acclaimed to be one of the largest temples of Gujarat. This temple is built using 6,000 tons pink sandstones. The walls flooded with carvings of various deities display a fine and detailed craftsmanship. The complex of this temple comprises of research center, lush-green garden, exhibition halls and a mesmerizing laser light show. Visit this temple to experience eternal spiritual bliss.
Visit the Iskon Temple in Ahmedabad and lose yourself in the melodious chanting of Hare Ram Hare Krishna. Extended over an area of 4 acres, this temple is an example of architectural marvel created by the fusion of Gujarati Sompura and the Rajasthani Khamira style. The vegetarian prasad offered here is exceptionally tasty.
Located near the Civil Hospital in Shahibaug in Ahmedabad, the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Memorial exhibits the original Indian National Flag created by the Indian National Congress in the year 1930. The memorial, Moti Shahi Mahal, where this museum is housed was built by the great Mughal Emperor Shahjahan in 1622. A visit to this museum is recommended to have a deeper knowledge of the life of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and other national leaders.
The Kamla Nehru Zoo was established in the year 1951 on the bank of the Kankaria Lake. Spread over an area of 117 acres, this zoo is a home for some of the rarest mammals, birds and reptiles. Working with the aim to conserve the endangered species and educate people about the same, Kamla Nehru Zoo is a must-visit place to get an in-depth knowledge about the various endangered species.
Swapna Srushti-the world of eternal joy, entertains people in two ways. The Swapna Srushti Resort offers luxurious vacations to all the travelers and The Swapna Srushti Water Park lets you enjoy thrilling water rides. With a number of recreational activities, The Swapna Srushti Club promises to give you unforgettable experience. Book a package with this club to cater lifetime memories while visiting Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
This was a brief glance at the various gems offered to the tourists by Ahmedabad. A visit to this city is indispensable to get better knowledge about its rich historical and cultural heritage.