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Ahmedabad Travel Guide

1. Overview 2. How to reach 3. Top rated things to do and see 4. Top rated hotels 5. Top rated restaurants 6. Quick facts about Ahmedabad

Guide and overview on Ahmedabad

While in Ahmedabad, it is easy to forget that the city is located on the banks of a river and that it is surrounded by two lakes. Your first impression might very well be that of a dusty town in middle-India. Yet, Ahmedabad provides a happy confluence of the old and new India, of Muslim heritage and Hindu influence. Legend has it that whilst camping on the banks of the river Sabarmati, Sultan Ahmed Shah saw a dog being chased by a hare. He was impressed by this show of bravery on the part of the hare and decided to establish his new capital at that site. Thus, Ahmedabad came into being. Yet the city will never let you forget that it is the proud seat of the Gujju Bhai. Of the many cities of India, Ahmadbad is probably the only one which represents its name in the truest sense. Representing both the techno and retro timelines, the Sabarmati flows quietly through this lively and boisterous city. Built by Sultan Ahmad Shah in 1411, the city stands testament to the realities of todays time and a heady mix of prosperity and overall peace. Of any big city in India, women feel safest here. There is plenty of history to discover in the streets of the old city and feast you hoarse on the various delectable the city has to offer. Around Ahmadabad one can spend days at ends bird watching and searching the ends of civilization. Going to Ahmedabad and not stocking up on various snacks, papad and sweets is not advisable. In fact, the city is a foodies delight. The bakharwadi would have never tasted as good elsewhere and just the varieties of khakhra and accompanying khatta-meetha pickles would leave you salivating. And the best part is that they are all available at the local sweet corners in the city. Should you be lucky enough to visit the city during the time of the Navaratras, do not miss the chance to take part in one of the all-night garbha dances organized around the city. Entry is easy, all you have to do is follow the dress code ghagra-choli for the women and kurta pyjama for the men. The Sabarmati river neatly divides the city into the old and new sections. On its eastern banks lie packed streets, colonial buildings and pol neighbourhoods in the old style... Read more...

How to reach Ahmedabad

Bus : Ahmedabad has good highways connecting it to all major places in Gujarat and other states. State transport buses ply regularly to Ahmedabad from all nearby towns and cities. Train : Ahmedabad is well connected to all major cities across India. Rajdhani Express and Sampark Kranti Express are the major trains that link Delhi to Ahmedabad. Flight : Regular flights operate between Ahmedabad's Sardar Vallab Bhai Patel International airport and major cities in India. The airport is 10 km from the city. Read more...

Top rated things to do and see in Ahmedabad

Dada Hari Ni Vav And Adalaj Ni Vav

Rank #1 Catagory : History and Culture About the Attraction : The step-wells at Dada Hari ni Vav and Adalaj ni vav date from the Sultanate period and are Ahmedabads unique attractions. They were designed as rest places for travelers and the walls of these wells bear beautiful carvings.

Sidi Syed Mosque

Rank #2 Catagory : History and Culture About the Attraction : The city has an impressive collection of mosques, each unique in its particular way. The Sidi Syed Mosque built in 1573. It should be noticed the "Siddi" here which represents the Sultan's General Sayyid's African origins. The mosque is famous for its intricate Jaali work, which almost melts into the treeline behind it. Nearby is the Sultan Ahmad Shah Mosque which is the oldest of the ones in Ahmadabad being built in 1414 AD.

Shaking Minarets
Rank #3 Catagory : History and Culture About the Attraction : Shaking minarets that do not shake! Well the architecture was designed so that it shakes when there is an earthquake only, which is why this stands despite the 2001 ground shake. The chances of anyone seeing it shaking will be pretty scary considering that would mean an earthquake. But anyways they are a pretty sight.

Sarkhej
Rank #4 Catagory : Tours Nearby About the Attraction : Sarhkej is about 10 km south west of Ahmadabad and is famous for its Rosa or Roza, which is a set of classic Islamic Buildings. The town of Sarkhej was a Sufi town; however it does not have any such reflections now. The Roza itself is quite a unique structure. The structures are built in the honor of Sufi Saint Ganjbaksh. It is said that the Roza actually inspired Akbar to build the Fatehpur Sikri in similar order that makes the importance of these set of structures all the more.

Swami Narayan Temple Complex

Rank #5 Catagory : History and Culture About the Attraction : The temple complex at Kalupur is colonial, Indian and in my opinion even Chinese. The top of the complex seem to be shaped like the top of a Pagoda. It is located within the narrow lanes of the old city which suddenly open up to the temple. Although there are many Swami Narayan temples across Amdavad, this is probably the main complex. However, for those who have witnessed the wonder of Akshardham, this will appear to be smaller in size. However, the people make up for it by their large hearted devotion.

Teen Darwaza And Bazaar

Rank #6 Catagory : History and Culture About the Attraction : Enroute Jama Masjid is the intricately carved Teen Darwaza which opens to the Bazaar. It is also very hard to miss the thriving open bazaar beyond the teen darwaza. Quite Chandni Chowk-esque sans the pesky shopkeepers.

The Palace Of Utelia

Rank #7 Catagory : Tours Nearby About the Attraction : About 70 km south of Ahmedabad is the princely estate of Utelia. It is now a heritage property which doubles up as a hotel as well. The structure actually sustained heavy damage in the earthquakes of the past, but the family is arduously renovating the place to its pristine glory. The village itself is predominantly agricultural as well as has skilled labor working with diamonds. It is either that the village houses and palaces here have a distinct structure as compared to the decadent and large palaces of Rajasthan, or in general this palace has a Haveli-esque feel to it.

Nalsarovar Lake
Rank #8 Catagory : Tours Nearby About the Attraction : About 75 km from Ahmadabad this serne marsh spanning 170 sq km and about 4 feet deep waters is host to some of the most exotic species of birds that can be found in India. Flamingos, Pelicns, darters, Cormorants are just a few of the species that can be found here. Real Birdwatcher can ditch Bharatpur any day and head South-West to Nalsarovar. Of all the places that I have seen to date this is by far the most amazing place to Bird Watch. In addition the evenings turned out to be quite a good time go to Nalsarovar since the evening sky scapes are amazing. Best time to go here is in the winter months when large flocks of migratory birds make way to the lake.

Lothal
Rank #9 Catagory : Tours Nearby About the Attraction : One noticeable topographical feature of the region is that the Gulf of Cambay is just about 30-40 km from this place and during high tide there is sea water which seeps in here. Pre-history indicates that when Pangea existed, the Sahara desert in Africa was actually started from here. One can track the route all the way to Kutchh also from here. For those who still remember 9th/10th standard CBSE history text book details on the Indus Valley Civilization of the early 90''s will recall that this place was mentioned as a port town. Since Mohenjodaro and other Harrapan cities are now in Pakistan, this is probably the only excavation available in this part of the country. The site is dated to 2500 BC, which would make it 4500 years old. There is a small museum here which has some excavated artifacts from the site. Of particular interest is a terracotta figurine of an African Gorilla. There is a tank which was a dockyard for the ships. Apparently back then the Sabarmati river flowed in into the Gulf of Cambay here and trade ships from Mesopotamia used to venture here.

Modhera
Rank #10 Catagory : Tours Nearby About the Attraction : The mind blowing kund that you saw in the beginning of the blog is it. Akin to the one at Konark and the other one in Martand , Jammu and Kashmir, it is one of the finest examples of the architecture of the Solanki dynasty in the 10th century. The Sun temple at Modhera was built by Raja Bhimdev I in 1026. The temple construction consist of the Surya Kund, a Sabha Mandap and the main temple complex. En route Somnath, Mahmud Ghazni ravaged most of the structures which came in his way. However, this one was partially ruined by Allaudin Khilji. The idol is not present in the main compound and only bats and pigeons inhabit the place. But that does not diminish the grandeur of the temple even today. The temple is on the banks of the now vilupt Pashupavati river. The idols across the kund are dedicated to Sitlamata, who is revered in this part of the country, and Lord Ganesha, Lord Shiva (Natesha) and Shesayi Vishnu. Check out more things to do in Ahmedabad

Top hotels in Ahmedabad Cambay Sapphire

User Rating : 10/10 Address : 132 ft Ring Road,Adjacent to Jivraj Park Over Brid Contact : 1902248316 Price Range : Rs. 1500 to 4000 Highly Rated for: Value Amenities : Air Conditioner,Bar,Cable TV,Credit Card Accepted,Disco Theque,Doctor on call,Health Club,Laundary Service,Money Exchange,Parking Facility,Parlour,Restaurant,Room Service,Spa / Massage,STD / ISD,Travel Desk,Vehicles on Rent. About the Hotel : Cambay Sapphire is a four star business hotel located near the Jivraj Park Over Bridge.

Hotel Bhagyoday
User Rating : 8/10 Address : sarkhej-baval highway, opp. Trivedi marble factory Contact : null Price Range : Less than Rs. 1500 Highly Rated for: Value Amenities : Air Conditioner,Cable TV,Parking Facility,Room Service,STD / ISD,Travel Desk,Vehicles on Rent.

About the Hotel : Hotel Bhagyoday is a decent budget hotel located opposite Trivedi Marble Factory. The hotel offers comfortable accommodation in its well appointed rooms. All the rooms are well maintained and provided with basic in-room amenities. The hotel also has a restaurant, which is serves delicious food.

The Pride
User Rating : 8/10 Address : Judges Bungalow Road, Off S.G. Road. Contact : 2312630401 Price Range : More than Rs. 4000 Highly Rated for: Service Amenities : Air Conditioner,Bar,Cable TV,Credit Card Accepted,Doctor on call,Health Club,Internet,Laundary Service,Money Exchange,Parking Facility,Restaurant,Room Service,STD / ISD,Swimming Pool,Travel Desk,Vehicles on Rent. About the Hotel : A 5 star property, The Pride is 6 kms from the airport while the railway station is 8 kms away.

Comfort Inn President

User Rating : 8/10 Address : C.G. Road, opp Municipal Market, Navrangpura Contact : 1142500200 Price Range : Less than Rs. 1500 Highly Rated for: Rooms Amenities : Air Conditioner,Bar,Cable TV,Child Care,Credit Card Accepted,Disco Theque,Doctor on call,Health Club,Indoor Games,Internet,Laundary Service,Money Exchange,Outdoor Games,Parking Facility,Parlour,Restaurant,Room Service,Safari Arrangements,Shopping Arcade,Spa / Massage,STD / ISD,Swimming Pool,Travel Desk,Vehicles on Rent. About the Hotel : Hotel Comfort Inn President lies 5 kms away from the railway station and bus stand while the airport is 10 kms away.

Sarovar Portico
User Rating : 8/10 Address : Bhavan's Collge Road Contact : 2266754826 Price Range : Rs. 1500 to 4000 Highly Rated for: Rooms Amenities : Air Conditioner,Cable TV,Credit Card Accepted,Doctor on call,Internet,Laundary Service,Money Exchange,Parking Facility,Restaurant,Room Service,STD / ISD,Vehicles on Rent. About the Hotel : Sarovar Portico is located in the heart of the commercial district of Ahmedabad, just 3 km from railway station and 8 km from airport.

A - 1 Hotel Siddhartha Palace

User Rating : 8/10 Address : Shahibang Dafnala Contact : 2912512486 Price Range : Rs. 1500 to 4000 Highly Rated for: Food Amenities : Air Conditioner,Cable TV,Credit Card Accepted,Parking Facility,Restaurant,Room Service,STD / ISD.

About the Hotel : A - 1 Hotel Siddhartha Palace is located in the heart of Ahmedabad city.

Taj Residency Ummed

User Rating : 8/10 Address : International Airport Circle, Hansol, Contact : 5123027426 Price Range : More than Rs. 4000 Highly Rated for: Service Amenities : Air Conditioner,Cable TV,Child Care,Credit Card Accepted,Doctor on call,Health Club,Indoor Games,Internet,Laundary Service,Money Exchange,Parking Facility,Parlour,Restaurant,Room Service,Shopping Arcade,STD / ISD,Swimming Pool,Travel Desk,Vehicles on Rent. About the Hotel : Taj Residency Ummed is a few minutes away from Ahmedabads international and domestic airports and a 15 minute drive from Gandhinagar.

Hotel Kingsway
User Rating : 7/10 Address : G P O Road,Near Relief Cinema Contact : 8022276767 Price Range : More than Rs. 4000 Highly Rated for: Value Amenities : Air Conditioner,Bar,Cable TV,Child Care,Credit Card Accepted,Disco Theque,Doctor on call,Health Club,Indoor Games,Internet,Laundary Service,Money Exchange,Outdoor Games,Parking Facility,Parlour,Restaurant,Room Service,Safari Arrangements,Shopping Arcade,Spa / Massage,STD / ISD,Swimming Pool,Travel Desk,Vehicles on Rent. About the Hotel : Hotel Kingsway is a 5 star property located 2 km away from the railway station and 10 kms from Sardar Patel International Airport.

Hotel Ambassador
User Rating : 7/10 Address : Near Nehru Bridge Contact : 5947284108 Price Range : Less than Rs. 1500 Highly Rated for: Location Amenities : Air Conditioner,Bar,Cable TV,Child Care,Credit Card Accepted,Disco Theque,Doctor on call,Health Club,Indoor Games,Internet,Laundary Service,Money Exchange,Outdoor Games,Parking Facility,Parlour,Restaurant,Room Service,Safari Arrangements,Shopping Arcade,Spa / Massage,STD / ISD,Swimming Pool,Travel Desk,Vehicles on Rent. About the Hotel : Hotel Ambassador is a 2 star property, located 2.5 kmsfrom the railway station and 9 kmsfrom the airport.

Cama Hotel
User Rating : 7/10 Address : Khanpur Road Contact : 17246500012 Price Range : Rs. 1500 to 4000 Highly Rated for: Rooms Amenities : Air Conditioner,Bar,Cable TV,Child Care,Credit Card Accepted,Disco Theque,Doctor on call,Health Club,Indoor Games,Internet,Laundary Service,Money Exchange,Outdoor Games,Parking Facility,Parlour,Restaurant,Room Service,Safari Arrangements,Shopping Arcade,Spa / Massage,STD / ISD,Swimming Pool,Travel Desk,Vehicles on Rent. About the Hotel : Cama Hotel lies 11 km from Airport and 3 km from Railway Station

Check out more hotels in Ahmedabad

Top vegetarian restaurants in Ahmedabad -Swati-Snacks

User Rating : 10/10 Address : Opp. Law Garden, Thakur Bhai Desai Hall, Ellisbridge Avg Cost of 2 people : 300 Type : Vegetarian restaurants,Local food.

Havemor
User Rating : 8/10 Address : 12, Circle-C, Bodakdev, Below Pakwan 1 Avg Cost of 2 people : 500 Type : Vegetarian restaurants,Local food,Chinese.

Treat
User Rating : 8/10 Address : B-11/13, Doctor House,Nr Parimal Railway Crossing, Ellisbridge Avg Cost of 2 people : 80 Type : Vegetarian restaurants,Cafes.

9-Apple-Restaurant
User Rating : -/10 Address : G1, Sigma excellence, near Management Enclave, Vastrapur Avg Cost of 2 people : 500 Type : Vegetarian restaurants,Business restaurants.

Aadhar
User Rating : -/10 Address : 401,Top Floor, Iscone Arcade, C.G.Road, Navrangpura Avg Cost of 2 people : 600 Type : Vegetarian restaurants,Local food.

Top non vegetarian restaurants in Ahmedabad Barbeque-Nation

User Rating : -/10 Address : 3 Shivalik 3, Mile Stone Complex, Drive In Road, Gurukul, Drive-In Road Avg Cost of 2 people : 550 Type : Non-vegetarian restaurants,Business restaurants.

Bawarchee
User Rating : -/10 Address : Gold Dwarkesh Complex, CG Road, Navrangpura Avg Cost of 2 people : 600 Type : Non-vegetarian restaurants,Business restaurants.

Bricks
User Rating : -/10 Address : The Grand Bhagwati, S.G. Road Avg Cost of 2 people : 500 Type : Non-vegetarian restaurants,Chinese.

Curries
User Rating : -/10 Address : Rudra Building, Besides Rajpath Club, Above Audi Showroom, Sarkhej Avg Cost of 2 people : 300 Type : Non-vegetarian restaurants,Local food.

High-Street-Food
User Rating : -/10 Address : Ground Floor, Freeway Mall, SG Road Avg Cost of 2 people : 500 Type : Non-vegetarian restaurants,Business restaurants. Check out more Restaurants in Ahmedabad

Quick Facts about Ahmedabad

Altitude Temperature Best Time To Go Monsoon Summer Winter Clothes Nearest Airport Railway Station Bus Station Hospital & Doctor SightSeeing 55 m above sea level Summer: 47 (max) and 34 (min) Degrees Celsius Winter: 28 (max) & 12 (min) Degrees Celsius Oct - March Mid-June to mid-Sep March to June Oct to Feb Light cottons through the year Ahmedabad Ahmedabad, Sabarmati Lal Darwaza, Ahmedabad Both Govt. & private hospitals in Ahmedabad are well equipped to handle medical emergencies. Old City, Nalsarovar, Lothal, Utelia, Modhera, Patan...

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