Ahmedabad is the first city in India to be declared as a UNESCO World Heritage City. The old walled city was founded 600 years ago by Ahmed Shah – I. Today, the city is known for its temples, heritage sites with Indo-Islamic architecture, as well as a city of peace where Mahatma Gandhi began India’s freedom struggle. Skyscanner helps you choose the places to see in Ahmedabad.
1. Sabarmati Ashram
This ashram established by Mahatma Gandhi is recognised as a national monument. Stepping inside, you can sense the history and legacy of this place. Gandhi led many movements for Independence from this ashram. He lived in this simple dwelling for many years, till he embarked on the famous Dandi March in 1930. The museum at the ashram ‘Gandhi Smarak Sangrahalaya’ exhibits the Father of the Nation’s personal letters and photographs.Timings: 8:30 a.m.– 6:30 p.m.Reasonable time to be spent: 120 minutesTip: Go early morning before the crowds come in.
By Hardik jadeja (Own work) [CC BY 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
2. Jama Masjid
Visit the old walled city to admire this historical structure. Jama Masjid was built in 1424 during the reign of the founder of the city – Ahmed Shah I. This magnificent mosque incorporates elements from Jain temples – with the central domes carved like lotus flowers – and – from Hindu temples- with pillars carved in the form of bells hanging from chains. For breakfast, head to the New Lucky Restaurant (about a kilometre away) that has been built over a graveyard! With 27 green painted graves for company, enjoy masala tea and bun maska! You will even find an original M.F Hussain painting here, the artist was a frequent customer.Best time to visit: Before 9 a.m.Reasonable time to be spent: 30 to 45 minutes
By Ronakshah1990 (Own work) [CC BY-SA 4.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
3. Manek Chowk
Manek Chowk is the bustling city square of old Ahmedabad – it serves as a vegetable market in the morning, bullion market through the day and a vibrant street food market (khau gulli) at night. There are a number of heritage structures in its vicinity including Ahmed Shah’s tomb, Rani no Hajiro – the tombs of the queens of the Muzaffarid dynasty and the Ahmedabad Stock Exchange, the oldest in India after Bombay Stock Exchange. The best way to see the old city is a heritage walk at night, that starts from Mangaldas Ni Haveli and takes you through a number of historic spots before ending at Badshah Na Haziro.Reasonable time to be spent: 120 minutes. The walk starts at 10 p.m. and lasts for an hour.Tip: At Manek Chowk Khau Galli, feast on pav bhaji-pulao, kulfi, sandwiches, ice creams et al
By Rajtrivedi2001 (Own work) [CC BY-SA 3.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
4. Calico Museum of Textiles
Take a guided tour of this museum to admire the exquisite collection of Indian textiles, including those used by the Mughals. There are embroideries, temple hangings, religious textiles, miniature paintings on display as well.
Reasonable time to be spent: The guided tour starts at 10:30 a.m. and ends at 1:00 p.m.. Reach between 10.15 a.m. and 10.30 a.m. Since only 20 slots are available, it is advisable that you pre-register. Kids under the age of 10 years are not allowed.
5. Adalaj Stepwell
This intricately carved stepwell is a fine example of Indo-Islamic architecture and design. It was built in 1498 by Queen Rudabai of the Vaghela dynasty. The five storied structure served as a meeting point for locals as well as a venue for festivals and sacred rituals.Best time to visit: Timings are from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Visit early morning.Reasonable time to be spent: 60 minutes
By Darshanhr.007 (Own work) [CC BY-SA 4.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
Plan to spend at least two days in Ahmedabad. You can also plan for additional days to visit places close to Ahmedabad including Little Rann of Kutch, Dinosaur fossil park in Balasinor, historic ruins of Champaner, Lothal – an ancient Indus site et al.
