The pride of Gujarat, Ahmedabad is a city where India’s glorious history, architectural marvels, and delectable food meet. One of its kind, Ahmedabad City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in India, owing to its history, culture, and rich heritage. Let’s explore the best places to visit in Ahmedabad and nearby places.
A strong bond connects the city with the rest of India. The city speaks a lot about Mahatma Gandhi, Father of the Nation. On one side, while Ahmedabad takes us back to India’s rich history with its historical monuments, on the other side, it tells much about its diverse culture and tradition through its ambiance.
Ahmedabad is no behind when it comes to commerce, it is one of the leading business centers of India. The city also finds its name among the most colorful destinations of India for its number of fairs and festivals. The city offers much to explore when it comes it comes to tourist attractions.
Famous places to visit in and around Ahmedabad
- Sabarmati Ashram
- Adalaj Step Well
- Kankaria Lake
- Akshardham Temple
- Hutheesing Jain Temple
- ISCKON Temple
- Sabarmati River Front
- Calico Museum of Textiles
- Jama Masjid
- Siddhi Syed Mosque
- Bhadra Fort
- Sarkhej Roja
- Rani no Hajiro
- Rann of Kutch Wildlife Sanctuary
- Auto World Vintage Car Museum
- Manek Chowk
- Lothal
- Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary
- Gulmohar Greens – Golf & Country Club Ltd
- Balasinor Dinosaur Fossil Park
1. Sabarmati Ashram
One of the most popular tourist attractions to visit in Ahmedabad city, Sabarmati Ashram is a place that holds immense historical importance. Also known as Gandhi Ashram, the place allures history buffs from all over the country and the world. A number of activities from the freedom movement took place in the ashram. Hriday Ashram, the cottage where Gandhi Ji lived is also a part of the Sabarmati Ashram Ahmedabad.
There is also a museum that features the beliefs of Mahatma Gandhi. In the museum, take a look at the personal items of Mahatma Gandhi such as his books, letters, eyeglasses, slippers, and letters.
Also Read: Ahmedabad Becomes India’s First World Heritage City
2. Adalaj Step Well
Gujarat is dotted with a number of step wells and these are the only source of water in some areas. Constructed back in the year 1499, Adalaj Step Well is among the best tourist place in Ahmedabad.
The well is beautifully decorated with floral and geometric motifs, structures and figures. It also has beautiful galleries and platforms. Intricately carved pillars support the pavilions of the stepwell. Adalaj Stepwell is a good place to visit in Ahmedabad City.
3. Kankaria Lake
A popular tourist attraction of Ahmedabad, Kankaria Lake is an ideal picnic spot where people can enjoy a great time with their friends and family. The largest lake of Ahmedabad, Kankaria Lake is a complete entertaining zone. Water rides, balloon ride, and much more amazement. Moreover, food stalls and the kid’s center make it perfect for families. During the month of December, the lake hosts a week-long festival.
4. Akshardham Temple
One of the most famous temples to visit in Ahmedabad, Akshardham Temple is famous for its amazing examples of style and architecture. The star highlight of the temple is the 10 storey tall golden idol of Swaminarayan.
The temple holds immense religious importance and more than 2 million people visit the temple every year. Light and music shows and audio-animatronic shows are also organized for the entertainment of visitors.
5. Hutheesing Jain Temple
Hutheesing Jain Temple was constructed in the year 1850 by a Jain Merchant. Dedicated to Dharmanath, the 15th Jain Tirthankara, the temple is completely made of marble. The temple also features beautifully carved walls.
The paved courtyard of the temple has 52 cubicles that are dedicated to different Tirthankaras. The temple is a must-visit for all. The tranquility of the temple is perfect for some meditation. Hutheesing Jain Temple is one of the best temples to visit in Ahmedabad.
6. ISKCON Temple
Sprawling over an area of 4 acres, ISKCON Temple in Ahmedabad is known for showcasing the true love between Lord Krishna and Radha. The temple features a beautiful blend of Gujarati Sompura and Rajasthani Khamira architectural style.
ISKCON temple has beautifully decorated ceilings, pillars, a library, a hostel, a meditation room and a restaurant for the ease of the visitors. Devotees dance to Lord Krishna Bhajans every day in the temple. They also sing praises of Lord Krishna.
- Opening and closing time: Monday to Friday: 4:30 AM to 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM
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7. Sabarmati River Front
The next most popular sightseeing option in Ahmedabad brings us to the Sabarmati River Front. This beautiful picnic spot is a perfect place for fun in Ahmedabad. The place is a popular attraction in the city where people visit for a great time.
By the Sabarmati River, visitors can indulge in different entertainment activities like a walk along the waterfront, go for boating or just sit by and enjoy the beautiful view. The place offers a unique experience set in a beautiful and serene ambiance.
- Opening and closing timings: 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Entry fee:No entry fee
8. Calico Museum of Textiles
Dating back to 1949, the Calico Museum of Textiles was set up by the Sarabhai family. The well-known business family which wished to showcase the history of textiles in India. This museum in Ahmedabad is one of the finest textiles museums in the world.
The museum is beautifully designed in Gujarati Haveli architecture and houses a large collection of fabrics from all across the country. A wide variety of fabrics are available in different colors and patterns.
The museum has a number of ancient cloth paintings, religious textiles, handicrafts, and tents back from the glorious years. Today, the museum has developed into an institute for scholars who wish to have an in-depth knowledge of textiles.
- Opening and closing timings:Open all days of the week except Wednesday:- 10:15 AM – 12:30 PM and 2:45 PM – 4:30 PM
- Entry Fee: No entry fee
Don’t Forget to Check out The List of Best Museums in Gujarat
9. Jama Masjid
Also known as Jumma Mosque, Jama Masjid is one of the most beautiful mosques in Ahmedabad. The mosque dates back to the year 1424 during the reign of Ahmed Shah I. The mosque houses the graves of Ahmed Shah, his son, his queens, and grandson.
Built of yellow sandstone, the mosque lies in the old walled city of Ahmedabad. The key highlight of the mosque is the interplay of light and shadows that keeps playing between the archways. Jama Masjid is a famous Islamic site in Ahmedabad.
10. Siddhi Syed Mosque
Siddhi Syed mosque was built back in the year 1573. The mosque was built by Sidi Saeed or Sidi Saiyyed, an Abyssinian in the retinue of Bilal Jhajar Khan who was general in the army of Shams-Ud-Din Muzaffar Shah III of the Gujarat Sultanate.
The mosque is well-known for its beautifully carved stone latticework windows (jalis). Beautiful geometrical designs feature on the walls of the mosque. The key highlight of the Siddhi Syed mosque is the intricately carved lattice stone window, which is also known as the Sidi Saiyyed Jali. The window is the unofficial symbol of Ahmedabad city.
11. Bhadra Fort
Located in the walled city area of Ahmedabad, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in India, Bhadra Fort was built back in the year 1411 by Ahmad Shah I. The fort houses beautifully carved mosques, royal palaces, gates, and open spaces. The fort underwent renovation in 2014 by Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) and Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Today, Bhadra Fort stands as the cultural center of the city.
12. Sarkhej Roja
Dedicated to Saint Ganj Baksh, Sarkhej Roja is a beautiful mosque located 7 km from Ahmedabad in a village named Makraba. The mosque features an amalgam of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles.
The entire complex has a number of buildings around a stepped tank. Also known as the ‘Acropolis of Ahmedabad’, Sarkhej Roza holds immense importance in Sufi culture. It is the place where Saint Ganj Baksh lived for years. The mosque built by Mohammad Shah in the honor of this Sufi Saint. Sarkhej Roja is one of the best tourist places to visit in Ahmedabad.
- Opening and closing timings: All days of the week: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: no entry fee
Also known as Mughalai Bibi’s Tomb or Tomb of Ahmed Shah’s Queens, Rani no Hajiro is a tomb complex located near Manek Chowk. The complex has 8 marble tombs of the queens of Ahmed Shah I and Gujarat Sultanate Rulers.
These tombs display beautiful carvings with metal and mother-of-pearl work. Also, these tombs feature intricate stone decorations and carvings that are a mix of Hindu, Islamic and Jain architectural styles.
All the tombs are covered with brocade, a fabric that was introduced during the reign of Ahmed Shah I. A colorful market surrounds this complex, popular for traditional jewelry, accessories, and clothes.
- Opening and Closing Timings: Open all days of the week: 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
14. Rann of Kutch Wildlife Sanctuary
Set at a distance of 93 km from Ahmedabad City, Rann of Kutch Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the largest wildlife sanctuaries in India. This popular sanctuary covers an area of around 4950 sq. and houses Chestnut brown Asiatic (Wild ass), which is a species of wild horses. Rann of Kutch Wildlife Sanctuary makes you have a look at the rarest species of birds and animals.
It is also the natural habitat of the wolf, blue bull, gazelle, jungle cat, Indian foxes, jackal, and hare. The sanctuary is a paradise for bird lovers. It is home to a number of birds like francolin partridge, bustard quails, houbara bustard, spotted & Indian sand grouse, flamingoes, larks, pelicans, desert wheatear, vultures, laggar falcon, cranes steppe eagle, storks, and ducks. Moreover, the sanctuary is one of the best places to visit in and around Ahmedabad.
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15. Auto World Vintage Car Museum
For all those car enthusiasts, the auto world vintage car museum is the place to be. The museum not gives an opportunity to have a look at around 115 vintage cars but also makes you fulfill your dream of driving a vintage car.
Around 30 km from Ahmedabad, Auto World Vintage Car Museum is a haven for vintage cars. The charges for a drive in these cars vary and they begin from a minimum charge of INR 600. Guides present here to inform about the history of these cars. The museum definitely deserves a visit from all the car lovers.
- Opening and Closing Timings: Open all days of the week: 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Entry Fees: INR 50 per person
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16. Manek Chowk
The food street of Ahmedabad, Manek Chowk is one of the famous places to visit in Ahmedabad. Located in the old city, Manek Chowk is surrounded by prominent historical buildings like Rani no Hajiro, Badshah no Hajiro, Ahmedabad Stock Exchange Building, and Mahurat Pol. With a visit to this bustling place, take a look at great architecture examples of India. The place is a complete paradise for all the foodies. Here you can relish authentic Gujarati street food.
In addition, other varieties from Punjabi, Chinese, Continental, and Mexican cuisines are also available in the market. These are the best tourist places to visit in Ahmedabad. Now, let us know about nearby Ahmedabad tourist places to visit.
Best Places to visit near Ahmedabad
17. Lothal
Around 75 km from Ahmedabad, Lothal is a popular sightseeing option around Ahmedabad. The place houses the remains of the Indus Valley Civilization that once existed around 4500 years ago. With a look at the place, one can understand the foundation that was laid for a well-planned city.
Wells, baths, drains, blocks of houses, altogether tell about the glorious past of India. Also, items like bird motifs, earthen pots, seal instruments and more can be found at Lothal. For all those history buffs, Lothal is definitely the place to be.
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18. Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary
Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary is one of the largest wetlands bird sanctuaries in India. Spread over an area of 123 km, the sanctuary has a huge lake where you can spot around 200 species of birds. The sanctuary is located at a distance of around 61 km from Ahmedabad. Just after monsoons, thousands of migratory birds flock to the sanctuary.
In the shallow areas of the park and near the ponds, wading birds can be found. Some popular species of the park include white storks, herons, endangered wild ass, the blackbuck, rosy pelicans, flamingos, and brahminy ducks.
A number of birds migrate to the sanctuary during winter and spring season. Winter migrants include grebes, purple moorhen, pelicans and crakes. The sanctuary remains open from 6 am to 6 pm. The best time to visit the place is during sunset when the serene lake is dotted with birds waiting for food.
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19. Gulmohar Greens – Golf & Country Club Ltd
For those who are looking for a beautiful destination set close to nature, Gulmohar Greens is the perfect place for them. It is a place where people can spend some time at leisure along with their friends and family.
At the Golf and Country Club, you can enjoy a number of activities and sports, away from the bustling city. Luxurious accommodation at the club along with modern amenities ensures the comfort of its guests. However, the main attraction of the club is the exclusive 9 Hole Golf course.
Guests can also take coaching from the guides available at the course. Spread over an area of around 75 acres, the club is immensely popular among golf lovers. Additionally, it is a great place to enjoy a game with family and friends and make it a memorable weekend.
- Opening and Closing Timings: All days of the week except Monday: 10:30 AM to 7:00 PM
- Entry Fees: INR 1,500 – 3,000 per person
20. Balasinor Dinosaur Fossil Park
Well-known as India’s Jurassic Park, next we have the Balasinor Fossil Park in Raiyoli village in Kheda district, Gujarat. In the year 1981, this fossil park was found accidentally during a mineral survey by geologists. Very soon after the survey, the fossil park began development as a tourist spot by Government Tourism.
Since then, the park attract scientists and tourists from all across the world. The park houses remain of around 13 species of dinosaurs. Moreover, the Balasinor Dinosaur Fossil Park is the world’s second-largest site that is home to fossilized bones, eggs, and other remains. The above list is the best place to hang out in and around Ahmedabad.
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Wow! Such a very useful and valuable blog. Thanks for sharing.
Hey Ankita,
Glad to hear your compliments. For more updates on India travel & tourism, do follow our blog.
Hey there, I have been in Ahmedabad since past 3 years and still didn’t went to these places until I read the blog and the visit to places like Lothal and the vintage car museum were quite nice.
Thanks
Nice tips
Tanya Sis, one of the best Notes with photos. I just returned from Kashmir 6 day trip-first time. Tips by enterprising writers like you only make this 64 yr Coimbatore guy to venture out alone…We r planning a family trip to Gujarat-Dwarakas, Jothirlings…. Thanks again
Hi, I visted ahmedabad just now before 3 days and i really like the place.
i like manekchowk, honest, nosh cafe in vastrapur area etc.
Those people provide very good food as i came for my photography exibition so i was just there for few days and i have to eat out every day so i explored those places.
During my travel i visited many place like sidi saiyed jali, rani hajira, vastrapur lake etc. Anyone coming to ahmedabad should take the tour bus becuase its really cheaper and its good too. If you need some info about that, contact – monash holidays.
Those people booked my tour. I like visiting ahmedabad again and again.
Hope gujaratis serve me like they did this time.
thanks