Located along the banks of Sabarmati River, Ahmedabad is a land of colours, traditions and hospitality that knows no bounds. Ahmedabad’s origins can be traced back to the 11th century, when it was known as Ashaval. However, it was Ahmad Shah who laid the foundation stone of a walled city in 1411, the place we now know as Ahmedabad. Over the centuries, Ahmedabad has been a melting pot of cultures, even serving as the capital of the state of Gujarat. Ahmedabad also happens to be India’s first UNESCO heritage city, a factor that has drawn travellers from all across the world.
Travellers heading to the city can spend their time visiting the many historical sites which are some of the best places to see in Ahmedabad. Bai Harir Vav, Teen Darwaza and Jama Masjid are some of the most notable, historical tourist places near Ahmedabad. The affluent city also houses many temples that have continued to attract devotees and pilgrims for years now. Shree Swaminarayan Temple, ISKCON Ahmedabad and Shree Jagannath Temple are some of the top tourist places in Ahmedabad you can visit to add a touch of serenity to your travels.
Owing to its traditional and lively culture, Ahmedabad is also recognised as one of those cities that brims with entertainment options. The city is lined with several vibrant markets that make for the ideal place to pick clothes, home decor, handicrafts, handlooms and much more. Lal Darwaaza, Sindhi Market & Rani No Hajro are some of the best places to visit in Ahmedabad for all the shopaholics out there. Additionally, Ahmedabad also offers a plethora of attractions that make the city a top pick amongst family travellers. Head to Kankaria Zoo, Auto World Vintage Car Museum or Gujarat Science City and spend a wholesome day with your family. And as if that wasn’t enough, travellers are also treated to the choicest Gujarati delicacies in Ahmedabad. Go on a gastronomic adventure across the top tourist places near Ahmedabad like Manek Chowk, Bhatiyar Gali & HL College Road to experience a food coma unlike any other!
Places to Visit in Ahmedabad: Tourist Attractions
Sabarmati Ashram
Calm, peaceful and soaked in culture & history, Sabarmati Ashram is hands down, one of the most important places to see in Ahmedabad. Sabarmati Ashram enjoys an idyllic location and is situated right in the heart of the city, by the banks of Sabarmati River. The iconic ashram was built by the father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi, upon his return from South Africa in the year 1915. Ever since then, the ashram became his abode and also an important centre in the Indian independence movement.
The ashram is also referred to as Gandhi Ashram, Harijan Ashram and Satyagraha Ashram, and is one of the top places to visit in Ahmedabad. The ashram complex also houses an art gallery, a museum and a huge library that has some of the best works on the life and times of Gandhi. Visitors can also sign up for an extensive, 90-minute walking tour of the ashram, held by the Gandhi Ashram Preservation and Memorial Trust. This tour covers a range of attractions within the complex such as Magan Niwas, Upasana Mandir, Udyog Mandir and Hriday Kunj, Mahatma’s house. Sabarmati Ashram attracts travellers from all over the world, making it one of the most popular places to visit in Ahmedabad.
Swaminarayan Temple
An important religious site in Hinduism and one of the best places to see in Ahmedabad, the Swaminarayan Temple is an institution in its own right. The fascinating temple is the first temple of the Swaminarayan Sampraday, a Hindu sect and was constructed by Swaminarayan, the founder of the sect.
The temple is one of the most visited tourist places near Ahmedabad and attracts thousands of devotees every single day. The temple complex is known particularly for its larger than life architecture and intricate carvings. The temple remains open all seven days of the week and is amongst the best places to visit near Ahmedabad to get a slice of India’s rich culture and heritage.
Jama Masjid
Built during the reign of Ahmedabad’s founder, Ahmed Shah, Jama Masjid is one of the top tourist places near Ahmedabad. The age-old monument is located in the heart of the walled city and is one of the most famous tourist places in Ahmedabad. The iconic structure dates back to 1424 and is now, also commonly known as Jami or Jumma Masjid.
Interestingly, Jama Masjid is one of the only places in the country where one can witness a beautiful amalgamation of Hindu and Islamic styles of architecture. The popular mosque also holds the distinction of being the largest of its kind built during this period. Owing to its stunning panoramic views and a massive courtyard, Jama Masjid also happens to be one of the best places to visit near Ahmedabad for photographers. However, if you’re someone who wants to go all out, visit Jama Masjid for the Friday prayers and witness the area at its vibrant best.
Bhadra Fort
Built by Ahmed Shah in the year 1411, Bhadra Fort is one of the most recognisable structures in the city and amongst the top places to see in Ahmedabad. The massive fort complex houses the main palace building, a well-maintained courtyard garden and a Bhadra Kali temple that draws devotees of all age groups. Bhadra Fort went under an extensive redevelopment project in 2014 by the Archaeological Survey of India, and since then, has become one of the best places to see in Ahmedabad.
In addition to being a historically important site, Bhadra Fort also has a mysterious story attached to it. Locals believe that Goddess Lakshmi once visited Bhadra Fort and blessed the Sultan the city, saying that Ahmedabad will always remain wealthy. Locals, till date believe that there are treasures hidden in the deep corners of the fort. It is this mysterious angle that only adds to the charm, making Bhadra Fort one of the top places to visit in Ahmedabad.
Kankaria Lake & Zoo
Located in the Maninagar area, Kankaria Lake is one of the most popular places to see in Ahmedabad. The lake happens to be the second largest in the city and is surrounded by a range of entertainment options for tourists of all ages. The foundations of Kankaria Lake can be traced back to the Chaulukya Period but it was officially completed in 1451 during the reign of Ahmad Shah II.
Ever since then, Kankaria Lake has been one of the best tourist places near Ahmedabad. In addition to chilling by the calm lakefront, travellers can treat themselves to water rides, toy train rides, food stalls and kids city. Ever since its revamp in 2007-08, Kankaria Lake has also become the hotspot for several art & culture festivals, making it amongst the top places to visit near Ahmedabad.
In addition to the lake, the Kankaria complex also boasts of a sprawling zoo, which is one of the best tourist places in Ahmedabad. The Kankaria Zoo, officially known as Kamla Nehru Zoological Garden, was established by Rueben David in 1951 and spreads over 21 acres. The zoo is home to several exotic birds and animal species. Tigers, lions, elephants, pythons, blackbuck, crocodiles and pythons are some of the most exotic animal and reptile species found in Kankaria Zoo, making it one of the best places to visit in Ahmedabad.
Sabarmati Riverfront
Often considered to be the city’s answer to Marine Drive, Sabarmati Riverfront is definitely one of the best places to visit in Ahmedabad. The gorgeous waterfront is a part of a redevelopment project that was initiated in 2012 and since then has, has become one of the most visited tourist places in Ahmedabad. The 11-km long promenade is lined with attractions that appeal to both travelers and locals alike. Visitors heading to the riverfront can spend their time boating in the calm waters, relaxing in the manicured gardens, indulge in street shopping or simply, take a nice stroll along the river.
Places to Visit in Ahmedabad: Markets
Rani No Hajro
The area surrounding Rani No Hajro, a popular tomb complex in Ahmedabad also serves as a street market that is a shopper’s delight. The vibrant market is best known for being the hub of textiles, making it one of the most popular tourist places in Ahmedabad. Rani No Hajro is lined with scores of shops selling women’s clothing, jewellery and accessories. The market also happens to be the go-to place for locals for garba outfits and other local handloom fabrics like mashrush and ajrak.
Manek Chowk
Geographically located at the centre of the city, Manek Chowk is quite simply, the heart of Ahmedabad. The bustling market is multi-faceted in its nature, making it one of the best places to visit in Ahmedabad. Manek Chowk is visited by locals in the early hours of the day, who come here to pick fresh fruits and vegetables. Later in the day, Manek Chowk transforms into a hub of retail shopping. The market has some of the most recognised jewellery traders in town. Additionally, travellers can also head to Manek Chowk, one of the best places to visit near Ahmedabad to shop for block printed fabrics, chunky silver jewellery and Gujarat’s iconic bandhani fabric.
Law Garden Bazaar
A favourite amongst college goers, Law Garden Bazaar is a budget shopper’s paradise. The street market is set up right in front of the colleges on Ellis Road and is known for having the best mirror work clothing in town. Additionally, one can also shop for chaniya-cholis, sarees, wall hanging and lehengas here. Law Garden Bazaar is one of the most visited tourist places near Ahmedabad and also offers enough options for people looking to buy some traditional beadwork Kutchi jewellery. If you’re someone who takes pride in their bargaining skills, this is the place to be!
Lal Darwaza
Old, authentic and as chaotic as it can get, Lal Darwaza is a place that is close to every Ahmedabadi’s heart. Quite simply, the oldest market in the city, Lal Darwaza is one of the top tourist places near Ahmedabad. The winding lanes of Lal Darwaza are full of hidden treasures and are bound to bring out the compulsive shopper in you. The wholesale market is particularly loved by locals for wedding shopping and makes for a great place to pick sarees, fabrics and electronic items. And if all the shopping gets to you, just head to a roadside eatery and sample some delectable Gujarati delicacies.
Sindhi Market
If you call yourself a shopaholic and planning a trip to Ahmedabad, your trip to the city will be incomplete without visiting Sindhi Market, one of the most popular tourist places in Ahmedabad. The bustling market is known as the hub of bed sheets, pillow covers, dress materials and traditional footwear. Also known as Revdi Bazaar, this famous market is also a great place to shop for traditional wall hangings, intricate carpets and handicraft items that will add a rustic charm to your home decor. Much like other markets in Ahmedabad, it is important to have your bargaining skills sharpened while visiting Sindhi Bazaar.
Fernandes Bridge Book Market
Does your idea of travelling involve picking up some good reads? Drop everything and plan a visit to Ahmedabad’s Fernandes Bridge right away! The unique street book market is set up all seven days of the week, right under the Fernandes Bridge, making it one of the best places to visit in Ahmedabad. The market is a one-stop shop for books, magazines and journals across genres. In addition to being a paradise for bibliophiles, Fernandes Bridge Book Market is also one of the places to visit near Ahmedabad for students. Make sure you take out enough time as the heaps of books at Fernandes Bridge Book Market also behold several hidden gems.
Places to visit in Ahmedabad: Eateries
Manek Chowk
In addition to being a shopping hub, Ahmedabad’s famous Manek Chowk also happens to be one of the places to visit in Ahmedabad for foodies. Each night, the busy marketplace transforms into a street food mecca, attracting diners who step out for midnight hogging. The street food hub comes alive with dozens of vendors selling traditional Gujarati delicacies, desi Chinese and many extreme, experimental dishes. Pav bhaji, ragda patties, farali sandwich, jalebi and paan are some of the best dishes you need to try at one of the most famous tourist places in Ahmedabad.
Bhatiyar Gali
Most travellers heading to Ahmedabad often end up associating the city with just vegetarian eats. However, one visit to Bhatiyar Gali is bound to shatter all those inhibitions, and how! The winding lanes of Bhatiyar Gali are home to traditional, 600-year old Ahmedabadi meat delicacies, making it one of the best places to visit in Ahmedabad. Tava Biyani, bhuna gosht, chicken angaar, bheja masala, keema samosas – you name it, and Bhatiyar Gali will have it! Akbari Hotel, ZK Fry Centre, Haji Fry Centre & Zamzam Hotel are some of the best places to eat at in Bhatiyar Gali.
Food Truck Park
One of the newer additions to the food scene of Ahmedabad, Food Truck Park is amongst the best places to visit in Ahmedabad. A favourite amongst youngsters and family diners, Food Truck Park makes for the ideal place to spend an evening with your loved ones. The park boasts of several independently-run trucks dishing out everything from starters to main course to gourmet cuisine and some sinful sweet eats. Food Truck Park’s central location, lovely ambience and never-ending variety only adds to its charm, making it one of the most unique places to visit near Ahmedabad.
Das Khaman Outlets
Gujarat is often referred to as the ‘snack capital of India’ and khaman, is easily the state’s most iconic dish. One can find khaman stalls pretty much all throughout the city, but Das Khaman is the best place to visit in Ahmedabad if you want to try authentic khaman. The famous khaman store has been dishing out this classic dish for almost a century now and has eight branches spread throughout the city. Head to a Das Khaman outlet early in the morning or grab a plate for your evening snack, but don’t miss out on this gem – one of the best places to visit in Ahmedabad.
HL College Road
Another street food hub that’s particularly loved by college students, HL College Road is one of the best places to visit in Ahmedabad if you’re looking for cheap eats. The entire street is lined with makeshift stalls and vendors selling comfort fast food. Cheese maggi, manchurian frankie and paneer frankie are some of the most popular items that you will find on HL College Road. No matter what you get your hands on, don’t forget to wash it all down with the iconic HL Special Cold-Coco – it’s sinful and it’s to die for!