Ahmedabad
Ahmedabad or Amdavad (also spelled Ahmadabad) (Gujarati: અમદાવાદ, Hindi: अहमदाबाद) is the fifth largest city in India with a population of 6.5 million. Although it is the commercial hub of one of the most prosperous states of India, Gujarat, it's not the state capital, which is its twin city of Gandhinagar, to the north.
Ahmedabad is a good example of materialistic attitude and spirituality of self-renunciation. One of the fastest growing city in India, Ahmedabad is a centre for information technology, education and industries. Bhadra Fort, Shaking Minarets and Tran Darwaja are the historical sites of the city. Kankaria Lake and Vastrapur Lake are places which let you feel the pleasure of nature. If you want to enjoy the colourful side of this part, then pay a visit during the major festivals of Ahmedabad: Uttarayan and Navratri are two most famous festivals that are celebrated with great zeal and gusto. The winter season is considered the best time to visit the city.
Districts
Understand
History
The city was founded by King Karandev (Karna) in the 11th century and originally called "Karnavati". The Hindu kingdom of Karnavati retained its importance until 1411 when Sultan Ahmed Shah conquered Gujarat and the city was renamed Ahmedabad after him.The city was built in an open and spacious plain to the east of the Sabarmati River. It included a smaller known fort as Bhadra Fort. The city wall had twelve gates. The city gradually expanded in every direction, with well laid out beautiful buildings, lakes and mosques on both sides of the river.
In 1753 the combined armies of Raghunath Rao and Damaji Gaekwad took the fort, ending Mughal rule in Ahmedabad. During the 64 years of rule by Gaekwad and Peshwa, the city became cleaner. In 1818 the British annexed Ahmedabad. During this period the municipality committee was founded and a railway link was established.
The British restricted themselves to the cantonment area and didn’t take much interest in the city. Nor did they get around to colonising Ahmedabad culturally; they didn't set up schools, churches and clubs all over the city as they did in other cities they integrated to their way of life.
Ahmedabad was a cradle of the non-violent movement for India's independence, being host to the Sabarmati ashram of Mahatma Gandhi. Ahmedabad poses a mixture of rich tradition and modern feel.
Today
The Gujarati community is known for its hospitality and for being shrewd businessmen. Ahmedabad is a big industrial city long reputed for its textile industry, and today more so for its chemical, petroleum, international trade & IT industries. It is also known for its financial services industry, and as the modern hub of Jain Religion. The city has institutions such as the Indian Institute of Management - Ahmedabad, National Institute of Design, Pandit Deendayal Petroleum University (PDPU), Dhirubhai Ambani Institute of Information & Communication Technology, IHM, MICA, EDI, Nirma University, Swaminarayan Gurukul, CEPT (Centre for Environmental Planning and Technology) University and NIFT.Climate
Summer starts by mid-March and lasts up to mid-June. The typical temperature on a hot, sunny day in May would be 34-44°C (93-111°F) It's advisable not to visit during thr summer. With the arrival of the monsoon by mid-June, the city becomes a fun place. You'll be able to enjoy the various monsoon specialities of the city like boiled or roasted corn dishes on road-side stalls or some special local dishes like. There are also some famous Hindu festivals like Rakshabandhan (or Rakhi) and Janmastam, the birth date of Lord Krishna, which fall during this season. You may sometimes end up in floods. Winter is the best season to visit the city when the typical temperature is 5-20°C (41-68°F).Get in
By plane
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International AirportThe airport is expanding with permissions for many international air lines being given and development of new terminals.
International flight connections include Muscat, London Heathrow (Air India), Kuwait (Kuwait Airways), Dubai (Emirates), Doha (Qatar Airways), Sharjah (Air Arabia) and Singapore (Singapore Airlines).
Domestic destinations with daily flights include Mumbai, Delhi, Indore, Chennai, Bangalore, Goa, Kolkata, Jaipur, Pune, Coimbatore, Hyderabad and Nagpur. Recently, flights to Kandla and Surat have also been launched. Most domestic airlines have a flight in and out of Ahmedabad.
Passengers arriving in the morning are advised that the international terminal is not open 24 hours, and may not open until the late afternoon. As at other Indian airports, you will likely be denied entry until approximately three hours before your scheduled flight even if the terminal is open. Therefore, connecting between a domestic and an international flight will often involve waiting outside for hours with the throngs of touts and hustlers.
There are several options for getting from the airport to the city:
- By car: The Hansol area where the airport is lies near the river banks, between the areas of Shahibaug and Naroda that give access to Ahmedabad. For travelling to most of the main areas of Ahmedabad, head in the direction of Shahibaug. To the opposite of the river banks is the area of Motera - Chandkheda which are the northern ends of Ahmedabad and are better accessible through Koteshwar - Bhat Road (enters Motera through Koteshwar) or Ring Road (leading to Visat, turning left at Tapovan Circle); both these roads branch at different points on the road from Airport Circle (in direction of Naroda from the airport) to Koba Circle (take left from Airport Circle onto Indira Bridge). Also the SG Highway can be accessed by heading straight on the Ring Road, instead of turning left for Visat.
- An auto rickshaw or a taxi should cost roughly ₹ 200 or 300 respectively. Save yourself considerable hassle by using the prepaid booth, or preferably arrange a pickup in advance with your hotel.
- AMTS buses serve the airport directly. These buses have an extensive network all over the city.
- BRTS bus no 1000 runs between the airport and Karnavati club with 29 stops. The maximum fare is ₹50. The buses have AC and arrive every 30 minutes.
By train
Ahmedabad Central Railway Station
(Station code: ADI), the main railway station serving the city is in Kalupur (Central Zone). The other stations serving Ahmedabad are Maninagar, Vatva, Gandhigram, Asarva, Chandlodia, Chandkheda, Saij, Kalol Jn, Kali Gam, Vastrapur, Sabarmati, Sarkhej, Naroda, Gandhinagar, Khodiyar, Aamli. Although the important and well-connected ones are only Sabarmati Junction (for West & South-bound trains
Station code: SBI,for North-bound trains
Station code: SBT) in the neighbourhood of Sabarmati (Northern West Zone) andManinagar Railway Station
(Station code: MAN) in Maninagar (South Zone).The website of Indian Railways will show you trains from a particular station to your destination along with days, timings, fares and availability. This will help you find trains from individual stations of Ahmedabad (separate searches) as NOT all trains stop at all stations except of course, the main Ahmedabad Railway Station (Station code: ADI) where each train halts (and for longer durations than any other station). Booking can be done through the website of IRCTC, a subsidiary of Indian Railways or through any of the railway reservation centres throughout India.
From railway stations to city
Ahmedabad Railway Station
It is in the area of Kalupur (Central Zone). It has a road-side Janmarg BRTS stand within the campus of the railway station, which is just outside the main entrance of the railway station. It is directly served by BRTS buses on the Line no. 9 (towards RTO Circle and towards Ellisbridge ) and Line no. 10 (towards Vasna ) and AMTS also directly serves the station to various parts of the city.Sabarmati Junction
It is in the neighbourhood of Sabarmati (Northern West Zone), is served by BRTS buses through the BRTS stations of either Sabarmati Powerhouse (closer to the railway station) or Sabarmati Police station, both on Line no. 8 (towards Maninagar (South Zone) and towards Visat Junction (serving the suburb of Chandkheda)). It is also served by AMTS buses directly.Maninagar Railway Station
It is in Maninagar (South Ahmedabad) is directly served by BRTS buses on the Line no. 1 (towards RTO Circle ), Line no. 5 (towards Iskcon New West Zone) and Line no. 8 (towards Visat Junction ). AMTS buses also serve the railway station.By state bus
Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation (GSRTC) has buses from all the parts of the Gujarat state entering into the city. The central bus terminus at Geeta Mandir, with other terminals at Subhash Bridge and Naroda; minor stops include Paldi and Sabarmati Tollnaka. It is advisable to pre-book seats due to the likelihood of crowding.From bus terminals/stops to city:
(Central Zone) is served by BRTS buses through the Aastodia Darwaja station on Line 9 (towards RTO Circle and towards Visat Junction ). AMTS buses also have a stop nearby.
By car
From South Gujarat/Maharashtra
The expressway from Vadodara (South Gujarat) to Ahmedabad ends at C.T.M. (South Zone).
Via East
Turning right at C.T.M. is the Narol - Naroda Road leading you to Naroda in North East Ahmedabad, while passing through the areas of Vastral, Odhav, Nikol, etc. on the right side of the road and the areas of Maninagar, Shastri Nagar, Hansol (Airport Area) on the left side of the road. For the northern areas of Sabarmati, Motera, Chandkheda, etc.rcle, where the Narol - Naroda Road ends, head straight on NH-8 and turn left at Ranasan Circle onto Ring Road. Turn left at Tapovan Circle, after a few km, Motera will be on the left side of the highway, Chandkheda on the right. The highway ends at Visat, from where turning left will lead you to Sabarmati.Via West
Turning left at C.T.M. is the Narol - Sarkhej Road which passes through Nehrunagar, Narol, Vatwa, Ghodasar, etc. ending at a T-junction on Vasna Road (or Jawaharlal Nehru Road). From here turn left, pass through the areas of Juhapura, Makarba, etc. till a Y-junction arrives. The right arm will lead you to Sarkhej Cross Roads, from where you turn right onto the S G Highway. The left arm at the Y-junction will lead you via Sarkhej, at Santhal Circle, turn right onto the Ring Road.Ring Road is preferable if your destination is far (near Northern Ahmedabad) otherwise use S G Highway. Also for Bopal, use only Ring Road.
The major entry points from S G Highway are the areas of Prahladnagar, Shilaj, Vastrapur, Satellite, Bodakdev, Thaltej, Sola, Ognaj, Gota, etc.
From Gandhinagar/North Gujarat/Rajasthan
Via North and East
You can enter Ahmedabad by passing through Gandhinagar. The inter - city highway starts at Indroda Circle (CH 0) (South Gandhinagar), passing through Koba Circle and Tapovan Circle and ends at Visat (Northern West Zone), the junction to the suburbs of Sabarmati, Motera and Chandkheda. Rather than going to Visat, you can also choose to join Ring Road: From Koba Circle head on the road to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel (SVP) International Airport, but turn left at Rajasthan Hospital Circle and you're on Ring Road. From here you can connect to the areas of East Ahmedabad such as Nikol, Odhav, Vastral, etc. Also the Southern areas of Ahmedabad, such as Ramol, CTM, Ahmedabad - Vadodara Expressway, Narol, Vatwa, etc. are accessible through Ring Road.Via West
Another option is to bypass Gandhinagar using Mahatma Mandir Road, then turning right at Sargasan Circle onto S G Highway. You may stay on the S G Highway or turn right at SGVP Circle (also known as Vaishnodevi Circle) onto Ring Road. There are several entry points along the border of extreme Western Ahmedabad, such as Gota, Ognaj, Sola, Thaltej, Bodakdev, Satellite, Vastrapur, Shilaj, Bopal, Prahladnagar, Sarkhej (where S G Highway ends) and Juhapura. For getting to Bopal, use Ring Road rather than S G Highway. Also if you've to go to Southern Ahmedabad, choose Ring Road as it'll be a much faster option than S G Highway.Get around
By AMTS city bus
The local city buses are run byAhmedabad Municipal Transport Service
since 1947, forming a wide network covering almost all the points of Ahmedabad. Any destination in the city can be reached from anywhere in the city by AMTS.UTTAR PRADESHAMTS Central Bus Terminus
There are other terminals at Kalupur, Sarangpur, Old Vadaj (Juna Vadaj), Maninagar, Akhbarnagar (Nava Vadaj), Vasna and Naroda and the depots at Jamalpur, Memco (Naroda Patiya) and Memnagar. In total, AMTS has around 1200 stops with 210 routes.
It is mandatory to board the bus from the rear end door and alight from the front end one. The conductor on the bus will issue you a ticket according to your destination stop. Keep handy some notes of ₹ 10/20/50 denominations rather than the higher ones as the fares are very low (these buses are the cheapest means to travel in the city). A pay - per - ride fare will cost you a minimum fare of ₹ 3, while the maximum fare is only ₹ 25). You may also opt to buy a Man Pasand ticket worth ₹ 45 (available from the bus conductor) which entitles you to unlimited rides for a single day, though it is not preferable to purchase the ₹ 45 ticket as you can complete the journey of going around 4-5 places in just ₹ 30-35. As buses are the most common transport facility for many in the city they are often overcrowded.
During the journey you may request your co-passengers or the conductor to inform you when the destination arrives/is about to arrive so that you don't miss getting off at your stop and then have to take a reverse trip. Also keep moving towards the front end door as the bus will be crowded with people standing in the corridor between seats and it might be difficult to quickly rush to the door and get off, when your destination arrives (the bus won't halt at a stop more than 10-12 sec, unless it's the AMTS Central Terminus at Lal Darwaja or the last stop of the journey).
Routes can be found at AMTS bus routes (English), Route Network - AMTS and AMTS bus routes (Gujarati)
Heritage/Pilgrim Tours (Dekho Amdavad)
AMTS has a special programme Dekho Amdavad, i.e. See Ahmedabad for sight-seeing in Ahmedabad. The buses are air-conditioned. The starting point is Law Garden Civic Centre. +18002337951, +917926589172Morning Tour:
07:45 start at Law Garden Civic Centre, visiting Siddi Saiyyed Mosque (Jali), passing through Jhulta Minara (Shaking Minarets), Prem Darwaja (Love Gate), Delhi Darwaja (Delhi Gate), visiting Hutheesingh Jain Temple, Sardar Patel Memorial, Gandhi Ashram-Museum and returning at 13:00.
Afternoon Tour:
13:45 start at Law Garden Civic Centre, passing through IIM, 132 ft Ring Road, APMC, visiting Sarkhej Roza, Vaishnodevi, Adalaj Stepwell, Gandhi Ashram-Museum, Hutheesingh Jain Temple, passing through Prem Darwaja (Love Gate), Jhulta Minara (Shaking Minarets), visiting Kankaria Lake and returning at 20:15.
Sunday Special Pilgrim Tour:
08:00 to 20:00
Visits at Jalaram Temple (Paldi), Bhadrakali Temple (Bhadra/Lal Darwaja), Siddhivinayak Temple (Lal Darwaja), Jagannath Temple (Jamalpur), Hutheesingh Jain Temple (Shahibaug), Swaminarayan Temple (Shahibaug), Gayatri Temple (Shahibaug), Camp Hanuman Temple (Shahibaug), Dholeshwar Mahadev Temple (Gandhinagar), Akshardham Temple (Gandhinagar), Trimandir (Adalaj), Vaishnodevi Temple (S G Highway), Balaji Temple (SG Highway), Bhagwat Vidyapeeth (Gota), ISKCON Temple (S G Highway).
By BRTS city bus
All BRTS buses and stations are wheelchair accessible except those of RTO Circle and Kalupur Railway Station, which are roadside shelters unlike the standard BRTS stations.
For information on all the BRTS stations, visit the above-linked website, which shows them according to the line, or install an unofficial Android app, which provides information such as travel options, routes, fare, time, station names, etc. (NThe Public Transit option on Google Maps doesn't show BRTS services, only the AMTS ones)
There are 12 BRTS lines and 126 stations, with more under construction. The current lines are:
- Line 1 RTO Circle - Maninagar
- Line 2 Anjali (Vasna) - Naroda
- Line 3 RTO Circle - Naroda
- Line 4 RTO Circle - Sarkari Litho Press (Delhi Darwaja)
- Line 5 Bopal - Iskcon - Maninagar
- Line 6 Soni Ni Chali - Odhav - S P Ring Road
- Line 7 Sarkari Litho Press (Delhi Darwaja) - Science City Approach
- Line 8 Chandkheda - Visat Junction - Maninagar
- Line 9 RTO Circle - Town Hall (Ellisbridge)
- Line 10 Anjali (Vasna) - Kalupur Railway Station (Ahmedabad Central)
- Line 12 RTO Circle - Nehrunagar - Kalupur - RTO Circle
- Line 13 Anjali (Vasna) - Kalupur - Akhbarnagar - Anjali (Vasna)
By metro
The Gujurat Metro is probably the most convenient way to get around the few areas it serves. There is only an east-west line, which runs through the city and stops at some places of interest, including the dometic cricket stadium and Ahmedabad Junction railway station.By auto rickshaw
Shouting 'auto' or 'rickshaw' at a passing rickshaw should be enough to catch the drivers attention. In most cases, the drivers will be able to understand Hindi and maybe even a few words of English. They are normally quite helpful, but some will try to cheat tourists. As always, agree on a fare before getting in. Day and night fares are different. If you look an out-of-the-town person, you may end up getting overcharged. For example, he might insist on a fare based on meter and take you to your destination through a longer route. Having some understanding about the distances can be helpful.
By taxi
Since auto rickshaws are the dominant travel mode apart from BRTS and AMTS, there are few taxis in Ahmedabad. So you will hardly find a taxi on the roads to hail whenever needed, though you may either book a taxi from a hotel or directly book one outside the railway station. There is a government authorized taxi stand. ₹ 950 per day for 12 hours. It may be more costly to book through hotels, and it is better to negotiate with the driver directly. Online bookings are also possible at various websites.Talk
See
Ahmedabad has several floridly carved historic monuments including the Stepwell at Adalaj and the Rani Mosques (dedicated to Rani Sipri and Rani Rupmati). There are some museums and art galleries. Modern office buildings and malls dot the more recently developed areas.
Important places to see include:
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phone: +91 79 27557277address: Gandhi Ashram, Gandhi Smarak Sangrahalaya, Ashram RoadThe Sabarmati Aashram was once the house of Mahatma Gandhi and he founded the ashram in 1915. Today, without doubt, it is the biggest visitor attraction in Ahmedabad. It lies on the tranquil stretch of the Sabarmati river and was referred to as the Satyagraha Ashram during the lifetime of the Mahatma. It was from here that the Mahatma began his famous 'Dandi March' in 1930 to protest against the Salt Tax imposed by the British. One can see the three wise monkeys and many more of Gandhiji's teachings at the ashram premises. The ashram today continues the work started by the Mahatma and houses a handicrafts centre, a handmade paper factory and a spinning wheel factory. There are several other attractions.
Bhadra FortTo add special charm to the varied sights of the city there is the Bhadra Fort, which once housed royal palaces and well-laid gardens. It boasts the temple of Bhadrakali and was built in 1411 during the Maratha rule.
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phone: +91 79 22868172address: Sarabhai Foundation, Opposite Shahibagh UnderbridgeHas a magnificent collection of rare textiles dating back to the 17th century. There is also an excellent reference library on textiles. It's in the Sarabhai Foundation, in Shahibagh the Calico Museum of Textiles, widely regarded as one of the finest textile museums in the world was constructed in 1949. It has a fines collection of textiles, clothes, furniture, temple artefacts and crafts. Also has a collection of marble, sandstone and bronze icons.
- Dada Hari ni Vav (step well) is in Asarva.
Darpana Academy of Performing ArtsOne of the oldest performing arts academies in the city. Its amphitheatre Natarani has a fabulous performance venue overlooking the Sabarmati river, and is one of the few places to bring internationally acclaimed performing artists to the city.
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Hathisingh Jain Temple
address: Shahibaugh Road, MadhupuraAn impressive white structure, the Jain temple built of white marble and elaborately carved is dedicated to Dharmanath: the 15th Jina or Jain Apostle. Similar to all Jain temples, this temple to is rich in intricate carvings displaying, among other things, musicians.
- Heritage Houses of poles, A living heritage, the structures are 200–400 years old and the residents people are old Ahmedabadi families who still follow age old traditions. Souvenir shop offering local crafts. Has an old world in a large house which is like a palace.
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Indian Institute of Management
address: IIM Ahmedabad, VastrapurA Business School of Management housed in an architecturally impressive building. -
International Society for Krishna Consciousness Temple
phone: +91 79 26861945address: ISKCON, Satellite Road, Sarkhej-Gandhinagar Highway CrossingThis Hindu temple depicts Krishna, and his lover, Radha, who is regarded as the personification of love. -
phone: +91 79 22820699address: Dastan Estate, Eastern Sardar Patel AUDA Ring Road, KathwadaShri Pranlal Bhogilal has a converted his private collection of vintage cars into a museum. It has a collection of more than 100 cars including Rolls Royce, Bentley, Maybach, Jaguar, Cadillacs, Austin, Chrysler, Lincoln, Ford and many many more. You can drive some of them for ₹500 for a 3.5 km.
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Jama Masjid
address: Jama Masjid, Manek Chowk, Gandhi Road, KhadiaIt is amongst the most popular tourist sights in the city. Built of yellow sandstone this mosque stands on 260 pillars which support 15 domes at varying elevations. The mosque was built by Ahmad Shah in 1423. It is easily accessible as it stands in the centre of the old city. This imposing structure reflects the Muslim architecture of that period.
Jhulta MinaraQuite an unusual structure, Jhulta Minara or swaying minarets are a part of the mosque of Siddi Bashir and can be moved back and forth by applying a little force at the topmost arch. One of the minarets was partly demolished by an Englishman in his endeavours to unravel the mystery of the swaying minarets. The mosque was built by master craftsmen and the crucial mechanism that leads to the vibration is still a mystery.
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address: Kankaria Lake, KankariaA circular lake built in 1451 by Sultan Qutub-ud-Din. In the centre of the lake is an island garden with a summer palace known as Nagina Wadi. It has a beautiful Musical Fountain show, although the music isn't too good the lights and fountain are worth the visit. 'Bal Vatika' - an aquarium, a boat club, a toy train, a natural history museum and a zoo. ₹10 entrance fee.
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phone: +91 79 25463415, +91 79 32984115address: Kankaria Zoo, KankariaIt is near to Kankaria Lake and one of the best zoos in India.
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phone: +91 79 26302463address: Near Gujarat University, NavrangpuraLalbhai Dalpatbhai Institute of Indology was established in Ahmedabad by Muni Shri Punyavijayji and Shri Kasturbhai Lalbhai. The museum houses priceless collection of books, manuscripts and other reference material from ancient India.The museum is a treasure trove of manuscripts relating to Jainism. In all there are about 45,000 printed books with 75,000 manuscripts including out of which 500 are illustrated ones. These documents from the past cover a wide range of subjects like Vedas, Agamas, Buddhism, Tantras, Jain Darshana, System of Indian Philoshy, Jaina Philoshpy, Grammar and Poetics etc.The institute has also published seven volumes of catalogues in Hindi, Sanskrit, Old Gujrati, Prakrit and Rajasthani. The institute also conducts periodical workshops on manuscriptology and palaeography.
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phone: +91 79 26306883address: Lalbhai Dalpatbhai Museum, Nr. Gujarat University, NavarangpuraOne of the best art museums in the city. It has a wide collection of Indian miniature paintings, stone sculptures, terracotta, paintings of Tagore, art of Nepal and Tibet, bronzes, textiles, wood work, cloth paintings, metal sculptures, coins.
Law GardenConsidered the main centre of activity in Ahmedabad, one can purchase handicrafts and traditional Gujarati outfits, amongst other things
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phone: +91 79 26629500, +91 79 26629600address: National Institute of Design, PaldiA design institute with over 16 disciplines of design. In Paldi in West Zone.
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Parimal Garden
address: C G Road, Panchavati Society, Gulbai TekraA public park with nice green surroundings. A good place to jog and relax.
Sabarmati RiverfrontAcross the city on both the banks of the Sabarmati River, is a refreshing place in the mornings; a very relaxing atmosphere in the evening. A must-visit place. It can be accessed by a narrow road on the right, a few metres ahead from the point where Subhash Bridge ends on the Shahibaug side. Also a road to the left, just a little ahead of Income Tax on Ashram Rd (from RTO side), leads to the Riverfront on the opposite bank to that of the Subhash Bridge one.
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Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Memorial
address: Balvantrai Mehta Road, Shahibagh, Ahmedabad - 380004It is a memorial and museum dedicated to the National Activist and first Home Minister of independent India, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The Museum is opposite the Circuit House in the Moti Shahi Mahal Complex in Shahibaug. -
Sardar Patel Gujarat Cricket Stadium
address: Motera Stadium Road, Motera-SabarmatiSardar Patel Gujarat Cricket Stadium is an international cricket stadium. Watching Team India play here is a wonderful sight as thousands of fans cheer for them. -
phone: +91 79 6828675address: Makarba, Post Jeevraj ParkKnown for its architectural complexes.
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phone: +91 79 65220111address: Gujarat Science City, Science City RoadThe Government of Gujarat has established the Gujarat Council of Science City, a registered society, to achieve the Gujarat Science City mandate. Further expansion of Science City & related projects is planned.
- Sidi Sayed Mosque is unique for its exquisite screens. The screen carved out of one rock is exceptional.
- Swaminarayan Gurukul, a residential and day boarding school run by the Swaminarayan faith of Hinduism. It teaches not only formal education but also provides training in horse-riding, archery, dairy development.
- SG Highway, or Sarkhej - Gandhinagar Highway, a hub of entertainment in Ahmedabad. The same road leads to Gandhinagar as well, where there is Akshardham temple and other places of interest.
- Teen Darwaja (Three Gates) south of Shahpur near Lal Darwaja. It is composed of 3 arched entrances was built by Sultan Ahmed Shah to serve as a royal entrance to Maidan Shahi. Mughal emperor Jehangir and his wife Nur Jahan used to watch the Tazia procession of Mahuram from over these gates.
- Vaishnodevi Temple, replica of famous Vaishnodevi temple at Sola Gandhinagar Highway.
- Vastrapur Lake, artificial lake.
- Veechar Utensil Museum, an odd museum with over 3,000 old, traditional household items. It is based on one man's personal collection. The lack of signs or explanation limits the understanding, and for many the interest, for visitors. The museum is a part of the Vishalla restaurant which serves ethnic Gujarati food.
Do
Films
Only some of the cinemas are listed here. For more, visit individual pages of different zones.Watch a Gujarati film
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Gauri Cinema
phone: +91 79 22872444address: Near Soni ni Chali, National Highway - 8, Odhav -
Ashok Cinema
phone: +91 79 25356598address: Gheekanta Char Rasta -
Sapna Cinema
phone: +91 79 26820750address: Sarkhej Highway (National Highway - 8A), Sarkhej
Watch a Bollywood (Hindi) or Hollywood film:
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address: Cinepolis India Pvt. Ltd., 3rd floor, Alpha One Mall, VastrapurA Mexican cinema theatre chain, one of the best quality screens in Ahmedabad.
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phone: +91 79 27454600address: Drive-In RoadThe largest screen in Asia. One can watch film sitting in your car, on the grass or in the balcony seats.
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phone: +91 79 30464500address: 4th floor, Gulmohar Mall, Ramdevnagar, SatelliteA venture by film maker Subhash Ghai. The quality of viewing and the seats (esp. legroom) is among the best in Ahmedabad.
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address: PVR Cinemas, 2nd floor, Acropolis Mall, Thaltej Cross Roads, S G HighwayA premier cinema chain in India.
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phone: +91 79 65211889address: Balaji Agora Mall, Nr. Tapovan Circle, SP Ring Road (Outer), Sughad (Near Motera), Ahmedabad - 382424Dubai - fame Grand Cinemas. Very good quality screens, on North - Western periphery of Ahmedabad in a high-end mall (Agora Mall).
Festivals
- Diwaliis one of the popular festival in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. It's called the festival of light. People make many sweets and meet each other on this day. It is a festival of Lord Rama and belongs to Ramayana.
- Makar Sankranti or festival of kites or "Uttarayan", 14 January, in the festival of Makar Sankranti or festival of kites or "Utarayan". The festival marks the end of winter and return of the sun to northern hemisphere and hence is named "Uttar ayan". On this day, many in the city start the day with kite flying, and continue into night with the flying of lamps (Tukkal) attached to kites. The sky is dotted with colourful kites throughout the day.
- RakshaBandhan - A festival celebrated by sisters and brothers. The festival consists of a sister tying a rakhi on the brother's hand. They ask to be by their side forever and also save them from all the problems they might face in the future. The festival is generally celebrated in the month of August.
- Holi - Better known as festival of colours, where people apply colour on their beloved very well known as 'gulaal', which was ideally made of 'Kesuda' a flowering plant. But, now people use the powdered form. People gather at one place forgetting all their problems and have fun in this festival. It is also very well associated with myth or Holika - Phrlad & Hirnayakashyapu.
- Navratri (festival of nine nights), Navratri or the festival of nine nights is devoted to Goddess Shakti. The festival also has the famous folk dance of Gujarat "Garba". The festival continues for nine nights, everybody takes part into it with same emphasis. Each night starts with ceremonial "Aarti" and is followed by Garba until midnight. The Garba dance is carried out around the statue of Goddess Shakti. Garba is also played with Dandiyas in hand. During these nights, the city is beautifully decorated and nights become short.
- Eid-Ul-Fitr OR Ramdhan Eid is celebrated on the first day of Shaw'waal, at the completion of Ramadan. Shaw'waal is the 10th month of the Islamic calendar. The Eid-al-Fitr is a joyous day when Muslims express joy for the health, strength and the opportunities of life, which they believe Allah has given to them to fulfill their obligation of fasting and other good deeds during the month of Ramadan.
The Muslims of Ahmedeabad and surrounding villages come to Eidgah (a holy place to perform Eids' Namaz (prayer) and Shahi Jam-E-Masjid. The people decorate their homes, shops, buildings, greet each other etc.
Buy
Eat
There are lots of Gujarati dining halls where you can get unlimited "thali" meals for around ₹250. A thali consists of variety of concoctions including salads, appetizers, snacks, breads, pulses, vegetable curries and sweets.
If you have not stayed in India for long, select a food place which is famous and well organised (hotels, big restaurants). Otherwise, its fun to eat at one of the road side stalls, especially at the Khau Galli in Law Garden area and Khan Pan Bazaar in Manekchawk. Various stalls open in the evening until late at night. You may enjoy Paani - Puri (Gol Gappa), Indian Chat, Indian Sandwiches, North Indian, Indian-Chinese and some continental cuisines, amazingly at road-side stalls and for less than a ₹60 item. Recently, SG Road in the western part of city has transformed into an restaurant strip. It has over 100 restaurants in a five-mile stretch offering most varieties in all price ranges.
- Amazo Restaurant, Gelateria, Cafeteria (Area: Prahladnagar, St Xavier's College crossroads, Paldi) Specialised vegetarian Italian and Mexican food.
- Vishala (Area: Vasna Toll Naka): Best Dish: Thali Meals. Average food, but unusual because of its village-like decor and rather strange utensils museum. It has several pre-dinner activities like puppet-show for children, folk music and dance, snake-charmers, etc.
- Tadka Punjabi (Area: Opp. Vastrapur Lake, Vastrapur) Serves authentic Punjabi food specialities such as Amritsari Kulcha, Bathure-chhole, stuffed parathas and lassi.
- Sankalp (Area: CG Road, SG Road) A chain with outlets across them city that specialises in South Indian food. It set an Guinness World Record for the "longest dosa (thin-crepe) in the World" (25 feet)
- Havmor (Area: Panchwati, Stadium Circle) Known for its Chola Bhatura, a north Indian dish. Novelty ice creams such as Raja Rani, Cassata Roll Cut, Tall Beauty are specialities
- Choice Snacks (Area: CG Road) Excellent Chaat items including Bhel, Indian-style pizza and sandwiches.
- Bardo(Area: C.G Road, Near Choice) Excellent Kathiyawadi Food with good staff and value for money.
- Honest (Area: Panchwati, SG Road, etc.) A well-known fast-food chain that started as road-side stall serving Pav-Bhaji and Pulav in Law Garden area and now a fledging restaurant chain
- Asarfi Kulfi (Area: Panchwati & Law Garden & Gurukul) They only serve dessert. Try any of the Kulfis
- Bhagwati Chat (Area: Panchwati) The best dish is the paneer tikka. Try the gulab jamun or jabeli for dessert.
- Oswal (Area: Ashram Road Nr. Statue of Mahatma Gandhi) Snack shop specialising in Gujarati snacks and sweets such as Jalebis (sweet-syrup filled pretzels), Fafda (flat chick-pea biscuits served with spicy papaya chutney).
- Raipur Bhajia House (Area: Raipur Darwaja) Famous for Bhajias (much better taste & quality than the Astodia Bhajia)
- Cafe Upper Crust (Area: Vijay Char Rasta, Vastrapur) A popular cafe with teenagers. Dishes including veg/non-vegetarian sizzlers, pastas, sandwiches, cakes and desserts. Hosts occasional food festivals.
- Mirch Masala (Area: CG Road, SG Road) Serves North-Indian food in a typical highway "dhaba" setting. Excellent food but more interesting for its decor.
- King's Food Factory (Area: Panchwati cross road, CG Road) It is new restaurant chain. They serve Indian cuisine as well as some Spanish, Italian, Chinese and American food. Very nice dessert are available in the coffee parlour and there is a possibility to play some scrabble or uno upstairs. It is clean, all staff speak English; Wi-Fi, A/C and two plasma TV screens.
- ZK(Area: Relief Road). One of the best and oldest non-veg restaurant in the city
- Ras Ranjan (Area: Vijay Char Rasta). Great place for sweets, Bislari Paani Puri, Paneer Tikka w/famous chutney, vaada pav.
- Pudding Good veg and non-veg food, and in particular the Hydrabadi Biryani.
- Seva Cafe is a gift economy restaurant, serving meals made by volunteers. The meals are offered as gifts to the guests who are asked to ‘Pay Forward’ as a chain of kindness. The guests and volunteers have continued this chain have provided more than 85,000 meals.
Other than these that are several other restaurants that serve excellent food for example (Swati Snacks, House of MG both famous for Gujarati food in chic setting, Bawarchi for Punjabi food, etc.) For western palates, a good way to find new restaurants is to ask a local, especially someone young who would certainly know about such places. International chains like Pizza Hut, McDonalds, Subway are present throughout the city.
For some street food following places are quite famous:
- R. K. Vadapau,Vijay Char Rasta, Vada Pau at its best, it is also known as Anna's Vada Pau
- Karnavati Dabeli, Opp. Hirabhai Tower, Uttam Nagar, Maninagar, Best Kachhi Dabeli
Drink
However, if you are staying longer you will need a non-resident permit. For that, you will need: a photocopy of passport including your entry stamps, a photocopy of visa, a photocopy of a local resident’s ID card (drivers licence will probably be easiest). As of January 2009, ₹1000 (although the person may ask for ₹50 extra as a bribe but should not be given). If you can get a local person to go with you, the entire experience will be a lot easier.
Directions
1 Get your copies notarized as ‘true’ copies. If you don’t have easy access to someone who can do this, the Prohibition and Excise Department will direct you to a nearby office. This will cost about ₹10 per copy.
2. Go to Prohibition and Excise Department which is just off the Ellis bridge on the Victoria garden side of old city .
3. Pick up the bank payment form, and get copies notarized if you haven’t already done this.
4. Fill in the name and local address for the permit holder
5. Get a rickshaw and go to the State Bank of India which is very near by. If a rickshaw is not available, the bank is in walking distance.
6. Pay ₹1050 (or the asked fee) at the State Bank of India
7. Get an ink stamp on form from bank
8. Take your copies, your payment slip and your forms back to the Prohibition and Excise Department.
9. The Department office will provide you with form F.L. /A-1. Fill out form and ask for more than the maximum allowed (ask for about 6 units) to ensure you get the maximum.
10. Pay ₹2 at the Department office. Receive two stamps which are to be stuck onto get form F.L. / A-1 form to show you have paid.
You will either be able to pick up the license immediately, or in a few days. Once you have your licence, you take it to a large hotel where they have a alcohol shop, and make your purchases.
Bootlegging is rampant, but it carries a risk as well. Decent brands of Indian whisky start around ₹200 as do rum, vodka and gin. Premium brands range from ₹600 to ₹1,800 for 12-year-old Scotch.
Beer is difficult to buy as is wine/vodka/gin/brandy/scotch/champagne/rum.
Booze is strictly a private affair and don't expect to order a drink at a restaurant, and there are no pubs or bars, and you will have to drink in your hotel room or at someone's home. If someone invites you to a party, there is a good chance you will be offered a drink there. Under a new amendment to the law prohibiting alcohol, you cannot be arrested or detained for consuming alcohol illegally unless you misbehave under influence or indulge in bootlegging. However, it is best to consume alcohol at your hotel room or at a very close friends place. Majority of the guests staying at a hotel consume it in their rooms and there is always an implied consent from the hotel who will serve you ice, soft drinks and glasses.
Many small shops sell lassi, a yogurt drink. Lassi choices include: sweet, salty, with almonds. Farki, Girish Cold Drinks and Krishna Dairy are some of the famous ones. Apart from this, Janta Ice Cream and Cold Drinks offers a delicious drink cold Chocolate Coco, a chocolate flavoured thick shake. Janta has its shops across Ahmedabad. There is also a very wide variety of fruit juices available. Most large places like Havmor are reputable and use good water, but you should exercise care when drinking at smaller places.
Sleep
Budget
Cheaper hotels are available on the Eastern side of the Sabarmati in the old town area.
More expensive and newer hotels are available in the more affluent Navrangpura area.
In case you don't have an idea where to go when you arrive to the city, you could ask a rickshaw driver to take you to Relief Road which has plenty of budget accommodation available and is pretty close to the main train station.
Ginger HotelOff Drive-in road, close to the SG Road Business district. A no-frills, business class hotel, similar to the other Gingers. From ₹1000/night.
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phone: +91 79 4900 4141address: Plot 38/1, Prahladnagar Road, Besides Venus Atlantis, Prahlad NagarThe chain opened in July 2012.
Mid-range
- Lemon Tree Hotel, Ahmedabad in Ahmedabad’s downtown shopping and commercial area of CG Road in Navrangpura, this is an attractive and airy hotel.
- Hotel Royal Highness is in the heart of business and shopping areas at Lal Darwaja. This hotel charges a premium mid range hotel tariff, with around 50 rooms and 8 conference rooms.
- Hotel Cama Park Plaza is a landmark of culture and comfort in the city of Ahmedabad. It is in the heart of business and shopping areas. It combines old-world charm with 21st century amenities.
- Hotel Comfort Inn Sunset has a unique architectural design. Its close proximity from Airport is another advantage.
- Hotel Fortune is an economy hotel of Ahmedabad around 10 km from the Airport. Ammeneties include large meeting rooms, business facilities and food & beverage options. Close to the city centre, government houses and major business center in the city.
- Hotel Comfort Inn President, on C.G. Road, sells a wide range of brands of whisky, wine and beer. Liquor permits issued in the liquor shop to non-residents of Gujarat and foreigners against photo ID.
- Hotel Quality Inn is a business class hotel in the commercial district on the banks of Sabarmati River. Hotel provides an excellent view of the river at dawn and in the evening. Has 69 rooms & suites, multi-cuisine restaurant, health club and business centre.
- Hotel Westend is in the commercial area.
- Hotel Country Inn is a hotel suited for business travellers in the business and shopping areas, off Drive-In Road.
- Hotel Ramada is suited for business travellers in Prahladnagar, near the SG Road, which is a business and shopping area
Splurge
Hyatt AhmedabadIn city centre adjacent to the Vastrapur Lake.
Gateway HotelClose to the airport and 15-minute drive from the central business district and state capital, Gandhinagar.
- Hotel Le Meridien. From ₹3750/night
- Hotel Pride is in the Judge's Bungalows area by Sarkhej-Gandhinagar Highway.
- Hotel Fortune Landmark on Ashram Road.
- Hotel Inder Residency is in calm and quiet western suburbs of Ahmedabad close to main commercial roads: C.G & Ashram road. Easy accessibility to the Railway Station and Airport.
Hotel Courtyard by MarriottOn Satellite Road.
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phone: +91 80 4127 6667Near Gujarat College.
- House of MG - in the old historic city is a 5-star Heritage Hotel
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phone: +91 7926841000address: 301, Circle P, Prahaladnagar Garden Road, S.G. RoadBodakdev, SG Road
- Cambay Grand - Thaltej, Sarkhej-Gandhinagar Highway
- Hotel St Laurn is in the city centre, Ashram Road
Connect
The local area code is 79. Thus in total, +91 79 must be prefixed to a phone number.
Buy pre-paid SIM
To buy a SIM card foreign nationals need to provide a photocopy of their passport, Indian visa page, a passport-sized photo and a proof of residence in India. As with much in India, the associated bureaucracy can be slow and frustrated. Activation of a SIM card can take a number of days.The top mobile phone networks in India are:
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phone: +91 20 44448080address: Bharti House, Nr. Income Tax Office, Ashram RoadVery good connectivity and service. Although the main office is at Ashram Road as listed, there are several shops where you can buy SIM.
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phone: +91 79 26577228address: Vodafone West Limited, 6th floor, Sakar - II, Ellisbridge, Ahmedabad - 380006Among the best networks in India.
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address: BSNL Central Exchange Office, Mirzapur, Shahpur, AhmedabadThe state - owned cellular network.
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address: Maradia Plaza, Nr. Associated Petrol Pump, C G Road, Ahmedabad - 380006Owned by the Reliance ADA Group.
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phone: +91 9824012345It has outlets across the site. Network coverage is the worst of the major providers.
Emergency information
- Emergency Help (at any time) - 108
- Police - 100
- Fire - 101
- Ambulance - 102 / 108
- Airport Inquiry - 141
- Railways I.V.R.S. - 139
- Railways General Enquiry - 131
- Telephone Directory Inquiry - 197
- Telephone Local Assistance - 199
Cope
- Canada and United States Visa Facilitation Centre Gujarat Chambers Building, Shri Ambika Mills, Ashram Road (Ellis Bridge)
Hospitals
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phone: +91 79 22683721address: Ahmedabad Civil Hospital, AsarwaIt is Asia's largest hospital. One of the oldest and most modern hospitals in India.
The main Apollo Hospital is in the twin city of Gandhinagar, but very close to the airport. The Apollo City Centre is in Ellisbridge area (West Zone).
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phone: +91 79 66701800address: Plot No.1 A, Bhat GIDC Estate, Gandhinagar
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phone: +91 79 66305800address: 1, Tulsibaug Society, Opp. Doctor House, Nr. Parimal Garden, Ellisbridge
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phone: +91 79 40203000address: Opp. Karnavati Club, S G Highway
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Shalby Hospital (City Center Unit)
phone: +91 79 27910700address: Vijay Cross Road, Nr. Fire Station, Navrangpura -
phone: +91 2717 230877address: 319 - Green City, Ghuma, Via Bopal
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phone: +91 9724355522address: Siddhi Vinayak Complex, Balvatika - Maninagar Road, Kankaria, Maninagar
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Care Institute Of Medical Sciences
phone: +91 79 27712771address: CIMS Hospital, Nr. Shukan Mall, Off Science City Road, SolaCIMS Hospital is accredited by various national bodies. -
phone: +91 79 40011111address: Sterling Addlife India Limited, Sterling Hospital Road, MemnagarHas a range of specialities.
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phone: +91 79 26306341address: Sanjivani Super Speciality Hospitals Pvt. Ltd, 1, Uday Park Society, Nr. Sunrise Park, VastrapurA multi-speciality hospital founded in 1987.
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Retina Foundation and Eye Research Centre
phone: +91 79 22865537address: Retina Foundation and Eye Research Centre, AsoPalov Eye Hospital, Near the Underbridge, Old Raj Bhavan Road, ShahibaugOne of the most renowned eye care hospitals in India. -
phone: +91 70432 11118address: Shital Varsha Mall, Drive In Rd, Memnagar
News
Stay updated with local news.- Newspapers in Ahmedabad include Hindi dailies as Herald Young Leader, Metro Herald, and English dailies such as The Times of India (TOI), The Indian Express, Daily News & Analysis (DNA), The Economic Times and The Financial Express, Ahmedabad Mirror (AM). Newspapers in other languages (Gujarati and Hindi) include Divya Bhaskar,Akila Gujarati News, Gujarat Samachar, Sandesh,Sukan Samachar, Rajasthan Patrika, Sambhaav Metro and Aankhodekhi.
- The state-owned All India Radio Ahmedabad is broadcast both on the medium wave and FM bands (96.7 MHz) in the city. It competes with five private local FM stations: Radio City 91.1 (91.1 MHz), Red FM 93.5 (93.5 MHz), 94.3 My FM (94.3 MHz), Radio One (95.0 MHz), Radio Mirchi 98.3 (98.3 MHz). Gyan Vani (104.5 MHz) is an educational FM radio station run under media co-operation model.
Stay safe
Police stations
Ahmedabad City Police has around 35 major police stations besides the minor police chowkis.For emergency, dial 100.
Find your police station depending on the area. Contact details (e-mail IDs and phone numbers) can be found when clicking on the respective station.
Go next
- Akshardham temple in Gandhinagar - a 35 km ride from Ahmedabad is not to be missed. They have various shows throughout the day showing the rich Indian heritage and the legend of Lord Swaminarayan. The water show in the evening is one of the best you will find in India.
- Adalaj Step-Well - a remarkable structure, dug five stories deep underground and full of intricate carvings. 15 km north of Ahmedabad. See Gandhinagar article for details.
- Nal Sarovar - Bird Sanctuary About 65 km southwest of Ahmedabad, spread over 120 km 2 , the lake - Nal Sarovar - the extensive reed beds and marshes are an ideal habitat for aquatic plants and animals. The lake attracts a large variety of birds like plovers, sandpipers, stints, cormorants, grebes and openbill storks among others. The best season to visit the sanctuary is November to February.
- Thol Bird Sanctuary This sanctuary is about 30 km west of the city centre. Just as Nal Sarovar, this lake attracts a large variety of bird species. It has become more preferable for the amdavadis to take an early morning trip. Although it does not have any facilities like boating, it has turned out more favourable as this is a lesser known place. It will be best to rent a taxi for a morning as there is no public transport available here. November to March is the best time to visit.