Ahmedabad is one of the most significant places to visit in Gujarat due to its glorious past. It is the oldest city of Gujarat which was founded by Ahmed Shah around 600 years ago. Further, it is the first city in India to be declared as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Earlier it was the state capital till it was moved to Gandhinagar in 1970. The city also has high historical value as it was ruled by different rulers and kingdoms.
It is an important education centre, a textile hub as well as a commercial centre in Gujarat. Apart from that, the tourist spot dotted with numerous temples, mosques, interesting museums, lakes and ancient monuments. The site also played an important role during the Indian struggle for Independence when Mahatma Gandhi established the famous Sabarmati Ashram in 1917. So here is the detailed information about places to visit in Ahmedabad. By exploring all these tourist attraction in Ahmedabad you will get a glimpse of its rich past and culture.
Best Time To Visit – The tourist spot remains hot and humid during the summer season. Further, the monsoon season remains pleasant due to average rainfall in this region. So, a few tourists prefer this season to visit Ahmedabad, especially when they find great deals on Ahmedabad flight tickets. But the most preferred and an ideal time to visit Ahmedabad is the winter season when the average temperature ranges between 5 – 20° Celsius.
Kankaria Lake
Located in the south-eastern part of the city, Kankaria Lake is the largest lake in Ahmedabad which is formerly known as Hauz-e-Qutub. The picturesque lake built around the 15th century by the Muslim ruler Sultan Qutbuddin. The lake was used as a bathing place of kings in ancient times. Further, the lake also considered as a famous picnic spot and it has various entertainment zones like a zoo, toy train, kids’ city and a water park.
There is also a garden-themed amusement area known as Nagina Wadi which is the main key attraction of this lake. So if you want to spend some quality time with your loved ones then it will be one of the best places to visit in Ahmedabad. Apart from that, the lake best visited during the time of Kankaria Festival which is seven days long festival. This festival takes place in the last week of December where you can indulge themselves in various cultural and entertainment activity.
Things To Do At Kankaria Lake – Ideal for Picnic, Photography, Enjoy Sound & Light Show and Boating.
- Address: Shahibaug Road, Ahmedabad 380004 Gujarat
- Timings: 9:00 am to 10:00 pm
- Time required: 1 hour
- Entry fee:
- Rs.25 per person for adults
- Rs.10 per person for children
Sabarmati Ashram
Situated on the bank of River Sabarmati, it was the residence of Mahatma Gandhi and his wife Kasturba. The Sabarmati Ashram established by Mahatma Gandhi in the year 1917 during the Indian struggle for Independence. Further, the Ashram also declared as a national monument as it was the inception point for the famous Dandi March in 1930. So undoubtedly Sabarmati Ashram is one of the biggest tourist attraction in Ahmedabad. Today most of the part of this Ashram converted into a museum and its houses a library, auditorium and photo galleries. You can also see the rarest photographs of Mahatma Gandhi and his personal items like round eyeglasses, wooden slippers, letters and books. Overall a must visit tourist destination in Ahmedabad and not be missed at any instant.
Things To Do At Sabarmati Ashram – See the rarest collection of Mahatma Gandhi Photographers and his personal items, Explore inside Library, Get some pre-independence historical knowledge
- Address: Shahibaug Road, Ahmedabad 380004 Gujarat
- Timings: 10:00 am to 7:30 pm
- Entry fee: No entry fee
Bhadra Fort
Built by the Muslim ruler Ahmad Shah I around the 15th century, Bhadra Fort is a leading tourist attraction and among one of the top places to visit in Ahmedabad. The fort also comprises of a majestic palace, a lush green courtyard and a Bhadra Kali Temple. Further, it is an important centre of various cultural events that held here all through the year. Besides that, it is also famous for its marvellous architecture with beautiful arches and inscriptions on the wall. Spread an area of 44 acres, the fort currently managed by Archaeological Survey of India.
Things To Do At Bhadra Fort – Photography, Visit Bhadra Kali Temple and Explore Siddi Syed Mosque
- Address: Jijabai Marg, Bhadra, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380001
- Timings: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
- Entry fee: No entry fee
Jumma/ Jama Masjid
Located adjacent to the Bhadra Fort near the eastern side of Teen Darwaza, Jama Masjid is one of the largest mosques in India. Built by Sultan Ahmed Shah during the period of 1424, it is the most striking places to see in Ahmadabad. Made up of sandstone, it is a perfect blend of Hindu and Muslim architecture styles that make it a magnificent sight to behold. The mosque consists of 15 domes and 260 pillars that are covered with intricate artistic carvings. It also has a graveyard of the Muslim emperor, his wife and his sons. According to the ancient inscriptions, the mosque was used by the Sultan and his family as a residence. So being a popular pilgrimage centre of Hindus it attracts millions of devotees from all over the World. Hence it is one of the most popular places to visit in Ahmedabad for all spiritual travellers.
- Address: Manek Chowk, Gandhi Rd, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380001
- Timings: 6:00 am – 8:00 pm
- Entry fee: No entry fee
Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple
Located in the heart of the City, Swaminarayan Temple is the largest Hindu temples in the World. Dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan, the temple was built in the year 1992 and it is also known as Akshardham Temple. Further, the temple complex spread an area of 23 acres and its comprises of nine tombs. These tombs are popularly known as ‘Nau Gaja Pir’ or the ‘Nine Yard Saints’. It is also famous for its intricately crafted wood carvings and unique architecture. There are about 93 sculptured pillars within the temple complex with different images of Gods and Goddess.
Things To Do At Swaminarayan Temple – Worship to Lord Swaminarayan, Relaxing and Get some spirituality and peace
Sidi Saiyyed Mosque
Built around 1573 AD, Sidi Saiyyed Mosque is one of the most beautiful and well-designed mosques in India. Located in the northeast corner of Bhadra Fort, it is famous for its latticework over the yellow sandstone. Constructed by Sidi Saeed in the supervision of Bilal Jhajar Khan who was a General of Sultan Shams-ud-Din Muzaffar Shah III. Further, the stone window of this mosque carved in designs of intertwined trees and foliage which is the key highlight of this monument. These beautifully carved windows popularly known as Sidi Saiyyed Jali, which is an unofficial symbol of Ahmedabad. Being a perfect grandeur of architectural intelligence it is a must visit tourist spot in Ahmedabad and should not be avoided.
- Address: Bhadra Rd, Lal Darwaja, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380001
- Opened: 1573
- Timings: 7:00 am – 6:00 pm
- Entry fee: No entry fees
Auto World Vintage Car Museum
Auto World Vintage Car Museum has the largest automobile collections in India, hence it is one of the biggest tourist attraction in Ahmedabad for all car lovers. The museum was established by Pranlal Bhogilal family and it has the finest collection of royal cars like Rolls Royce, Bentley, Jaguar, Cadillac, Austin and Daimler. It also boasts a huge collection of antique motorcycles, utility vehicles and buggies that are collected here from all over the world. Further, the most important thing is that you can also drive these cars by paying a fixed amount.
Things To Do At Auto World Vintage Car Museum – Photography, See a large collection of Vintage Cars and Take the Vintage car ride.
- Address: Dastan Estate, Service Rd, Nikol, Kathwada, 382430
- Timings: 08:00 am – 09:00 pm
- Entry fee: Rs.50 per person
Kamala Nehru Zoo
Located alongside the bank of Kankaria Lake, the Zoological Park popularly known as Kankaria Zoo. Established in the year 1951 by Ruben David, Kamala Nehru Zoo also rated as the ‘Best Zoo of Asia’ in the year 1974. Further, there are around 450 species of animals, 2000 species of birds and about 140 species of reptiles. Spread over an area of 31 acres, it also has an amusement park and Children’s Park. So it is an ideal place for outing and picnic if you are travelling with your friends and family. All the above-mention characteristic makes it one of the best places to visit in Ahmedabad and sure to visit at least once.
Things To Do At Kamala Nehru Zoo – Wildlife Photography, Picnic and Visit the amusement park
- Address: Near butterfly park, Kankaria, Ahmedabad, 380002
- Timings: 9am–6:15pm, Monday – closed
- Entry fee:
- Rs.20 per person for Adults
- Rs.10 per person for Children
Shanku’s Water Park and Resort
The Shanku’s Water Park was created by the Keshav holiday resort Pvt Ltd. It is known to be the oldest and largest Water Park ever made in Eurasia. This park is one of the most popular water parks in Ahmedabad. Shanku’s Water Park is famous for its weekend activities. It has extensive number of unique water rides designed for both adults and kids. It runs restaurants and provides facilities to hold business gatherings and weddings.
- Timings: This water park is open from 10am to 5:30pm.
- Fee:
- Weekdays: INR 500
- During the weekend: INR 600
Jhulta Minara
Jhulta Minara is an important piece of architecture and it is also known as the shaking Minara. This historic monument is a unique attraction. Typical of its name, Jhulta Minara, the minarets start vibrating, when one is shaken. The architectural piece is unique because of the masterful craftsman ship involved. To date no one knows why the other minaret shakes.
Location and Timings: It is located Near Kalupur Railway Station Road and open from 9 am -5 pm.
Vechaar Utensils Museum
This imposing museum puts a wide collection of brass, copper, bronze, zinc and German silver utensils ranging from leaves or a gourd jug to stainless steel and glass utensils on display. Professional interior designer Surendra Patel founded Vechaar Utensils Museum in 1981. Real Gujarati village cuisine is served in these utensils.
Timing: 10 am – 5 pm
Sarkhej Roza
This imposing place is a must-see sight in Ahmedabad. The place has its own distinct peace and tranquillity. It is home of Shaikh Ahmed Khattu Ganj Bakhsh, a Muslim spiritual leader to whom Sultan Ahmed Shah admired. There are clusters of magnificent monuments of olden times.
Modhera Sun Temple
This impressive shrine is famous for its structural design. For it is a favourite tourist destination. It encompasses three prime chambers: Surya Kund, Sabha Mandap and Guda Mandap. A large number of tourists come to see the impressive beauty of Modhera Sun Temple.
Darpana Academy of Performing Arts
The Darpana Academy is famous art learning institute in Ahmedabad. It is the dream child of Mrinalini and Vikram Sarabhai, an Indian classical dancer. It exists for 5 decades and, is s considered to be one of the most interactive art & dance institutions in India. The academy participates in various programs worldwide.
Rani Rupmati Mosque
Rupmati Mosque is close to Mosque of Muhafiz Khan and the Saiyad Usman Mausoleum. This popular mosque was built by Sultan Mahmud Begada, and named this mosque after his Hindu wife, Rupmati. There are three domes supported by pillars. In the mosque Islamic as well as Hindu architecture style has been used.
Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary
Situated about 64Km of Ahmadabad, the Nal Sarovar bird Sanctuary is the largest wetland bird sanctuary in Gujarat. It is inhabited by migratory birds in winters and spring season. There is a huge lake that attracts over 210 species of birds to take stopover in a variety of flora and fauna. At the optimal hour for observing avian activity within this wildlife sanctuary, one should plan to arrive just prior to daybreak. During this temporal window, the body of water within the sanctuary remains tranquil and undisturbed, allowing a vast multitude of feathered creatures to gather in expectation of their routine sustenance..
Movie night at the Sunset Drive in Cinema
One can visit many locations and take part in various night life activities in Ahmedabad. Out of these, one of the most important activities one must experience is watching a movie at the popular and massive drive in cinema. It is an absolute must- see and must-experience attraction for everyone who visits this city. It has ability to accommodate over 600 cars. This open-air cinema has by far the largest screen in Asia. It also has a multi-cuisine restaurant.
- Timings: There are two shows available at 7:30 & 10:30pm.
Paradise for the Shopaholics- Law Garden
The law garden is the hub for the Ahmedabad’s amazing handicrafts and interesting Guajarati outfits. If you are looking to buy souvenir than Law Garden is probably the best place for you in the whole town. This place offers some amazing collections by the local hawkers. It is also a great place to enhance your bargaining skills.
- Address: Netaji Rd, Maharashtra Society, Ellisbridge, Ahmedabad, 380009
- Timings: The market generally opens at 11 am in the morning.
- Entry fee: No entry fee
- Time required: 1-2 hours
Victoria Garden
Victoria Garden is situated at the southern verge of the majestic Bhadra Fort. It is a delightful place for people who love greenery and open spaces. It is one of the best things to do in Ahmedabad for people of all ages. Victoria Garden is a great place for recreational activities and utilizing the amenity of the famous Victoria Garden. The beautiful garden has an exotic backdrop which makes it a feast for the eyes.
- Address: Old City, Lal Darwaja, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380001
- Timings: Open 24 hours
Explore the Famous Calico Museum of Textiles
This great textile museum was set up in 1949 by Jawaharlal Nehru. It is India’s most prestigious textile museum. This museum contains few of the world’s rarest collection of antique Indian textiles, from the 17th century, some of which are up to 500 years old.
- Timings: Timing for visiting Calico Museum of Textiles is from 10:30am to 2:30pm. Please note that the museum remains close on Wednesday.
- Entry fee: No entry fee
Get to Know the Science City
This was set up by the government of Gujarat in 1960 to spread awareness about the development and evolution of science and its application in life. You can not only learn some amazing things about science from this place, but Science City is also a great place to entertain yourself. The project aims at making people understand things in an easier manner, through virtual reality activities and live demonstrations. Major attractions include the exhibition hall, amphitheater, IMAX 3D Theatre and the thrill rides.
- Address: Thaltej, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380060
- Timings: 10:00 am to 7:30 pm
- Entry fee: Rs.50 per person, school group- Rs.20
Get in Touch with Your Inner Child at the Kite Museum
The kite museum is ranked second in the world and the first of its kind in the country. This place was the created by Mr. Bhanubhai Shah, an avid kite enthusiast and a collector since he was 21 years old. As of now, the museum has over 125 varieties of kites. This place is the ideal place to learn about the ancient sport of kite flying.
- Address: Kocharab, Paldi, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380007
- Timings: You can visit this museum anywhere between 10 am to 6 pm. Please note that the museum remains close on Monday.
- Entry fee: No entry fee
Indian Institute of Management
IIM Ahmedabad is one of the best public business schools in India that offers Post Graduate Diploma Programme in Management & Agri- Business Management, Executive Training Programmes and Doctoral Fellowship Programme.
Heritage Houses of Poles
This is a 200-400-year old living heritage. There are slews of souvenir shops where one can buy local crafts.
Ahmedabad is the heart of Gujarat and hence there are several tourist attractions in this beautiful city. All the above-mention location are the best tourist attractions in Ahmedabad. So if you want to take the best experience of sightseeing in Ahmedabad then must explore all these locations.
