The narrow alleys of old Ahmedabad look like secret passages silently leading somewhere unknown. Yet, there is a palpable buzz in its neighbourhoods from the ancient times. A few kilometers out of that old world takes one to a new world almost unrecognizable as part of the same city. The two distinct sides of Ahmedabad offer one quite distinct experiences. However, from a traveller’s perspective, it’s the old city of Ahmedabad, India’s first UNESCO World Heritage City that is of much significance. For more than a decade, I lived and worked in this city, and feel it so much part of me that I can call it my second home. From all those years of experience, here’s an endeavour to feature the best places in Ahmedabad to explore.
What makes Ahmedabad a likeable/ livable city:
Thanks to its entrepreneurs, Ahmedabad is among India’s most prosperous cities. Along with the prosperity, it counts among the most livable cities in India too. Though Bengaluru wins the livability index, Ahmedabad scores high on people centric infrastructure and modern cityscape. Unlike most Indian cities, Ahmedabad is a very safe city, both for the residents and tourists alike. It’s common in Ahmedabad to see women at public places or riding/ driving around the city late in the evening/ night. With a thriving economy, work opportunities are plenty. Since crime rates are low, and neighbourhoods are well planned, general lifestyle in the city is enjoyable.
{To check out other mega cities of India, also read: Kolkata: Best Places (W.B.) ||| Mumbai: Best Places (Maharashtra)}
My experience of the heritage city:
I arrived in Ahmedabad two decades ago as a student with dreams in my eyes of a successful career. And Ahmedabad didn’t disappoint me. Afterwards, I continued as a professional for over ten years. Over a decade of my life in Ahmedabad, I made many friends, made beautiful memories and learnt a lot as a professional. I can never thank the city enough for its magnanimity and warmth.
A decade is a fair enough time to see, observe and experience a city well. However, I used to live in the new city and often missed the vibes of the old city. Though new Ahmedabad is modern and tidy, the heart and soul of Ahmedabad lie in its old side.
One of my best friends lived in old Ahmedabad. So, I used to visit this area quite often. But unfortunately, I never realized its heritage value when I was there. It was only in 2017, when UNESCO declared it as a World Heritage City, did I realized its real worth. But by then, I had left the city.
Since I keep visiting the city every year, I make it a point to explore the nooks and corners of the old city during these visits. From my experience over the years, here’s my perspective on the best places to explore for visitors to India’s first UNESCO Heritage City.
Ahmedabad: The first UNESCO Heritage City of India
In 1411 AD, the new Sultan of Gujarat sultanate- Ahmed Shah-I wanted his capital to move from Patan to a new grand city. One day, while camping by the Sabarmati River, he noticed a hare chasing away an aggressive dog. When his spiritual guide told him that the land possessed special powers that infused courage in the weakest, the Sultan made up his mind. He had found the place for his new capital. In two years time (1413 AD), the new city was ready, and he shifted to his new capital.
The major features of the new capital were a walled city, a fort (Bhadra Fort) and an impetus to commerce. Interestingly, more than six hundred years later, all the three features are intact.
Unique features of the walled city:
Spread over an area of 5.5 sq. kms. in the walled city of Ahmedabad, all the residential, historical, religious and non-religious structures are designated as part of the UNESCO Heritage City. Within this compact area, one will come across medieval era shrines of all religions- Hindus, Muslims, Christians, Buddhists, Jains, Zoroastrians and Jews.
However, what makes the old city very special is its unique architectural heritage.
- Pol is a gated community of residences on two sides of narrow labyrinths. Typically, the entrance to a pol would be a large decorated gateway- Khadki. Of the 300 pols that still exist, Mahurat Pol was the first one to be established.
- Inside the pols, most of the houses used to have intricately designed facades, often made of wood or stone. If a house looks more opulent than others, it would be a haveli. {To know more about great havelis, read: Havelis of Shekhawati}
- For drinking water purpose, the pols had several wells- kuva.
- The narrow alleys open up to a large chowk– a central courtyard.
- At the central courtyard, typically, there would be an artistically designed bird feeder- chabutaro.
For more details on the architectural landscape of the walled city, read: Historic Building Characteristics.
How to explore the best places in the walled city of Ahmedabad:
If you live in Ahmedabad, you can go to the old city early in the morning and have the list of best places/ monuments (below) in hand and walk around with the help of google maps or by asking people. However, it may not be easy to complete all of them at one go. So, keep coming back whenever you have the time.
For a first-time visitor, it’s a good idea to take a walking tour of the old city. Of the two main walking tours, one is organized by Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC). It’s a 2-km long guided walk and takes about 2 and half hours to complete. Timings: Morning: Between 7.30 AM- 10.30 AM; Evening: 8.30 PM- 11.00 PM; Price: Rs.200- Rs.400). Starting from the famous Swaminarayan Temple in Kalupur, the walk ends at Jami Masjid. To know the details, or book a walk, check out: Ahmedabad Heritage Walk.
The House of MG organizes the other tour, it’s a premium tour for small groups; similar timings; price: Rs.7000. They start and finish at the House of MG with a breakfast and take a different route than the first one. For details, please check: Guided Heritage Walks. However, both the walking tours cover some of the best places/ monuments in old Ahmedabad, like Manek Chowk, Rani No Hajiro, Badshah No Hajiro and Bhadra Fort.
Some other entities also organize private walking tours that costs between Rs.1500- Rs.3500. For details, one need to check online on sites like Tripadvisor, etc.
Best places in the old city, Ahmedabad on the AMC Heritage Walk:
- Swaminarayan Temple: For the devotees of Swaminarayan sect (a part of Hinduism), it’s the most important temple because it was the very first Swaminarayan Temple ever built (1822).
- Kavi Dalpatram Chowk: Not far from the Swaminarayan Temple, this open-air heritage square in Lambeshwar Ni Pol is where the famous Gujarati poet Dalpatram’s house once stood.
- Kala Ramji Temple (Haja Patel Ni Pol): Made of a dark black stone, the statue of Lord Ram is remarkable for its sitting posture.
- Kuvavala Khancho (Doshiwada Ni Pol): In this interesting neighbourhood stand four beautiful houses, each in a different architectural style- European, Maratha, Persian and Mughal.
- Jagvallabh Temple: Off Relief Road, there is this four-hundred year old Jain temple in Nisha Pol.
- Manek Chowk: In the middle of the old city, this is a vibrant and unique market place. Everyday, Manek Chowk transforms itself three times- a vegetable market in the morning, a jewelry market during the day and a buzzing food street at night.
- Rani No Hajiro: Built in 1445 AD by Ahmed Shah himself, this is the final resting place of queens and royal women.
- Badshah No Hajiro: This is where the remains of Sultan Ahmed Shah lie alongside some other Sultans.
- Jami Masjid (built: 1424 AD): Once upon a time, it used to be the largest congregational mosque in the Indian sub-continent. Even now, its harmonious architectural style- a fusion of Hindu, Islamic and Jain designs looks spectacular.
Best places in the old city, Ahmedabad on the House of MG Heritage Walk:
- House of MG (Mangaldas Girdhardas): Built in 1904, famous for Mahatma Gandhi’s brief stay here after returning from South Africa. In 1995, Abhay Mangaldas renovated it and turned it into a heritage hotel that houses one of Ahmedabad’s best restaurants- Agashiye. Apart from the above mansion, there are two beautiful Havelis that belong to the same family (below).
- Mangaldas Ni Haveli- I: Tucked inside Lakha Patel Ni Pol, this mansion is now a heritage homestay.
- Mangaldas Ni Haveli-II: Located in Gangadhiya Pol, this haveli now houses a popular cafe- Pol Kholi Cafe.
- Bhadra Fort & Citadel: Since it’s the first structure built by Ahmed Shah in 1411 AD, today it’s considered the heart of the UNESCO Heritage City. Not far from the Jama Masjid, the fort complex also houses Ahmed Shah’s Mosque. And just outside its entrance, is the Bhadra Kali Temple. In the vicinity is Teen Darwaza, one of Ahmedabad’s most popular gateways and a bustling marketplace.
- Sidi Saiyyed Mosque: Built in 1572-73, Sidi Saiyyed Mosque is famous for its intricate stone filigree work (popular as Sidi Saiyyed Ni Jali). In fact, the work of art is so delicate that if you look at it on a picture, you would think it’s on fabric rather than stone! As per architecture experts, this touched the pinnacle of Indo-Islamic architecture of that era. Though not official, Sidi Saiyyed Ni Jali is the universally known symbol of Ahmedabad.
Monuments in the old city not covered under the Heritage Walks:
Though the Heritage Walks are a good way to explore the old city, they don’t cover all the great monuments. Because it’s not feasible for a walk as the monuments are spread over a fairly large area. So, if you are interested in exploring the old city better, visit some of the following monuments afterwards.
- Gates of the Walled City: Though there are 21 gates in the city, 12 of them belong to the Muhammed Begada period. Of the 12, four outer gates are of special significance: Delhi Darwaza, Jamalpur Darwaza, Kalupur Darwaza and Khanpur Darwaza. However, the most popular gate- Teen Darwaza served as a gateway to Bhadra Fort, and to the city itself.
- Dada Harir Stepwell: Located in the outskirts of the old city, this 15th century stepwell is an architectural masterpiece.
- Hutheesing Jain Temple: Near Delhi Darwaza, this Jain temple is dedicated to the 15th Jain Tirthankara- Lord Dharmanatha.
- Jhulta Minar (Bibiji Mosque, Gomtipur | Sidi Bashir Masque, Kalupur): There are two mosques by the same name (see in the bracket). Mysteriously, the two tall minarets of these mosques shake if one shakes either of them!
- Jews Synagogue: In 1934, the local Bene Israeli Jewish community built this pillar-less structure, the only one in Gujarat.
- Rani Sipri Mosque: Queen Sipri, the Hindu wife of the muslim Sultan- Mahmud Begada built this mosque and tomb complex in 1514 AD.
Ahmedabad: Best Places to Visit Outside the Walled City
As mentioned above, most of the best places worth visiting in Ahmedabad are within the precincts of the walled heritage city. However, new Ahmedabad side and its peripheries have some places worth visiting as well. {If you are visiting Ahmedabad as part of a longer trip to Gujarat, here are more options: Dwarka Temple (Saurashtra) ||| Kutch- Best Places}
1. Sabarmati Ashram:
In my view, you have not visited all the best places in Ahmedabad, if you have not been to Sabarmati Ashram. When Mahatma Gandhi, India’s tallest figure in freedom struggle, was not travelling, often he used to live at this modest ashram (established: 1917) on the banks of the Sabarmati River. In 1963, renowned architect Charles Correa designed a museum here dedicated to the life of Gandhiji. Since my younger days, I have been a great admirer of Gandhiji. So, when I was in Ahmedabad, I used to visit the ashram every now and then to get inspiration from his life and work.
2. Sabarmati Riverfront:
Just a few hundred meters down the line along the banks of Sabarmati, the government has built a riverfront on both sides. Though the original length of the riverfront was 11.5 kms, it’s now getting stretched till Gandhinagar making it 38.2 kms long! At first glance, it definitely looks impressive in the middle of a sprawling city.
The two level promenade provides cyclists, runners and walkers a great place to spend time. Besides, it also offers boating, water sports and ziplining options to the visitors. Though it seems to be a good idea for a busy city, I didn’t find a lot of visitors spending time there, except for the children’s park at one end of the riverfront. Maybe, it will become an iconic place in years to come!
3. Kankaria Lake:
In the middle of this mega city, Kankaria, an artificial lake serves a great evening outing opportunity for the Ahmedabadis. In 1451, the then Sultan- Qutb-ud-Din Ahmed Shah-II had built this lake for multiple purposes. From water conservation to a royal bathing/ leisure and city beautification, a lot was in his mind.
In modern times, minus the royalty, it has remained a place for leisure and entertainment. In the middle of the lake, a beautiful island garden (Nagina Wadi) sits pretty. Among the main attractions at the lake are a zoo, water sports, toy train ride, hot air balloon experience, and lots of other fun options for children.
4. Sarkhej Roza:
Where once lived the Sufi saint Ahmed Ganj Baksh lived, several sultans of Gujarat built Sarkhej Roza. Ahmed Ganj Baks was the saint who had advised Ahmed Shah to establish Ahmedabad city. Apart from the great saint’s tomb, the complex houses remains of a royal pavilion, a grand mausoleum, a mosque and Ahmed Sar Lake (Sarkhej Lake).
Moreover, its Indo-Saracenic architecture is of special significance. The resemblance of its flat roof- pillar architecture drew comparison with Greek Acropolis (Le Corbusier). So, if you are a heritage/ architecture lover, this is among the best places to visit in Ahmedabad for you.
Hangout Places/ Main Markets in Ahmedabad:
- Law Garden/ Parimal Garden: In a city that is generally dusty, and doesn’t boast of many green places, these two gardens are oases. Plus, in the evening, the street adjoining Law Garden comes alive for street shoppers.
- Vastrapur Lake: Though the lake is not worth calling it a lake, it serves as a happening place for locals.
- ISCKON Square: Along with the ISCKON Temple, the square is a vibrant place with malls and theaters.
- Manek Chowk: As mentioned above, it’s a bustling market from early morning to late night! From vegetable to food and jewellery, it doesn’t disappoint many.
- Shopping: For value-for-money shopping, best places in Ahmedabad are Dhalgarwad, Laal Darwaza- Ratan Pol, Law Garden (evening street). However, for modern shopping places include CG Road, Palladium, Nexus.
- Besides, I already mentioned Sabarmati Riverfront and Kankaria Lakefront.
Other interesting places:
- Gujarat Science City: Among other things it features an IMAX 3-D theater, India’s largest public aquatic gallery and a robotic gallery.
- Sardar Patel National Memorial: Set in a lovely Mughal era building, the museum houses artefacts from Sardar Patel’s life and work.
Best Places Near Ahmedabad for Day Trips
If you have a few days more in hand, there are a few nice places to explore near Ahmedabad. These places include both nature hotspots and historic monuments. For one’s convenience, here’s a list of best places near Ahmedabad within 100 kms for a day-trip.
- Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary (62 kms): For nature lovers and bird watchers, this is an amazing place, especially on a winter or spring morning. For more information, check out: Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary.
- Thol Bird Sanctuary (30 kms): Though Thol is also a bird sanctuary, its landscape is much different from that of Nal Sarovar’s.
- Travel Tip: Nal Sarovar and Thol are in the same direction. So, one can visit Nal Sarovar in the morning and Thol in the evening, or vice-versa.
- Adalaj Ni Vav/ Stepwell (19 kms): Counted among India’s best stepwells, this is an architectural masterpiece and definitely among the best places to visit near Ahmedabad.
- Akshardham Temple (30 kms): One evening, do visit this famous Swaminarayan Temple and enjoy a light-and-sound show.
- Modhera Sun Temple (98 kms): An eleventh- century sun temple with beautiful stepwell.
- Travel Tip: Adalaj Ni Vav, Akshardham and Modhera are in the same direction. So, one should visit Adalaj first, then Modhera and Akshardham in the evening.
- If you stretch a bit more, you can actually visit Vadodara (110 kms) and Statue of Unity (198 kms).
Travel Tips/ Frequently Asked Questions
Best time to visit Ahmedabad:
- In the autumn- winter- spring months spanning October to February, Ahmedabad has a pleasant weather. Besides, Gujarat’s most popular festival- Navratri falls in October/ November. And the other important festival- Uttarayan (Makar Sankranti) also falls in January. Hence, this is the best time to visit Ahmedabad.
- During summer, Ahmedabad becomes too hot and absolutely dusty. So, it’s not at all a good time to visit.
How to reach Ahmedabad:
Since Ahmedabad is the state capital of Gujarat, and a prosperous city, there are abundant options to reach Ahmedabad. Ahmedabad is well connected with all major cities by flight. Similarly, one can take a train from across India. From many cities in Rajasthan, M.P. and Maharashtra, there are regular bus services as well.
Where to stay in Ahmedabad:
- Best areas: For modern, high/medium- range hotels, SG Highway is the best area. To enjoy the riverfront, Ashram Road is a great location. However, if you would like to be closer to the old city, look for Kalupur/ Laal Darwaza area.
- Some budget hotel options: Elysian Residency ||| Super Inn Armoise ||| The Lotus Park ||| Clubhouse Nami Residency ||| Tribecca Select.
How to get around in Ahmedabad:
As Ahmedabad boasts of a great transport infrastructure, there are many options to get around. Ahmedabad metro rail is modern and convenient. Besides, it has a good Bus-Rapid-Transit-System (BRTS) also. Plus, the regular buses are frequent and cheap as well. Throughout the city, auto-rickshaws are reliable and cheap too. If the weather is not to your liking, of course, take a taxi.
Best places to eat in Ahmedabad:
Gujarati food is unique and one must try while in Ahmedabad. Among the must try dishes are: Gujarati Thali, Gujarati snacks like khaman- dhokla, fafda- jalebi, thepla, handva, etc. For street food, old city in general and Manek Chowk in particular, are the places to go. Plus, please keep in mind that non-vegetarian food is available only in old Ahmedabad side. In new Ahmedabad side, it’s hard to find a non-vegetarian restaurant.
If Gujarati food is in mind, here are a few restaurant suggestions: Agashiye ||| Gordhan Thal ||| Vishalla ||| Rajwadu ||| Chandravilas ||| Iscon Thal.
Concluding Notes
For over six hundred years, Ahmedabad has remained an important city of India, both economically and politically. However, not a lot of travellers know about its heritage value. Perhaps, that’s why it remains an underrated destination.
I have some fond memories of Ahmedabad from my study days and early professional days. Fortunately, I have regular opportunities to go back to Ahmedabad for myriad purposes. Even now, when I’m in the city I do keep sometime to explore a corner of Ahmedabad.
Though new Ahmedabad is modern and clean, it lacks the history and heritage that old Ahmedabad boasts of. So, I keep going back to that part of the city. And I would suggest, if you are there, explore the walled city well. Not only most of the best places in Ahmedabad are there, but also it’s great for your culinary pleasure.
I hope you liked this article on how to explore the best places in Ahmedabad. If you want more information or help, do reach out.
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