Top 10 Places to Visit in Ahmadabad

Ahmedabad over the years has grown on to become one of the most popular tourist destinations for people both in India and abroad. Located in Gujarat, Ahmedabad each year attracts millions of tourists who visit this place in order to dive in a little deep into its history as well as to get hold of their contemporary lifestyle. Each and every tourist destination in Ahmedabad has a story of its own, and you would be amazed to find the importance this place holds in the pages of Indian history. So, in case you are planning a trip to Ahmedabad here are 10 places which you definitely shouldn’t miss.

Update: 

• Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) has listed Ahmedabad as the 7th cheapest city to live in the world.

1. Sabarmati Ashram

If you talk about Ahmedabad, one place which definitely comes to our mind is the Sabarmati Ashram. Known by many as the home of Mahatma Gandhi, this place actually was more of his second home. It is from Sabarmati that the final movement of Indian independence started and finally it was in the year 1947 that it was won. Mahatma Gandhi spent 12 years of his life at this Ashram and each and every moment of his stay at this place has been captured in 250 photographs which are displayed in this cottage. Declared as a national monument after independence this place does also contain 35,000 books including the famous “My Life My Message” by Mahatma Gandhi.

2. Akshardham Temple

One of the most intricately carved temples all over India; the Akshardham temple each year attracts millions of devotees. This temple which has been dedicated to Swaminarayan does consist of his 10 stories tall gold statue in between sprawling green land. Being here one can also witness the water shows as well as audio-animatronic shows. You will be mesmerised as well as be amazed to see, Mystic India, a movie showcasing the journey of an 11-year-old child who turns into a yogi.

3. Kankaria Lake

Known as the largest lake in Ahmedabad, Kankaria lake is located in southern Ahmedabad. This place serves as one of the popular tourist spots in Ahmedabad as it offers plenty of entertainment for the family as well as couples. Containing water balloon rides, toy train rides as well as plenty of food stalls, it serves as a one-stop entertainment unit for everyone. And while you are at it don’t forget to see their laser light shows which are conducted in the evening after sunset.

4. Jama Masjid

One of the oldest mosques in the country the Jama Masjid was built back in the year 1424. This masjid is known to contain the last remains of Sultan Ahmad Shah and his family. This Sultan of Ahmedabad built this mosque for the Friday prayers of Sultans. However, now it is widely used by the common people for praying to their “Allah”. Women are not allowed inside the mosque, however, even from the outside one can witness the great craftsmanship of the bygone era.

5. Lal Darwaja

The oldest market in Ahmedabad, Lal Darwaja does offer tourists their hands of the locally made items as well as fabrics. The place is generally crowded, and you will find thousands of stalls on footpaths selling items at very pocket-friendly rates. However, beware of the fraudsters and cheats as they might try to sell you cheap and low-quality items. An item in this market shouldn’t cost you more than Rs. 500-600, provided it is original.

6. Parimal Garden

Parimal Garden as the name suggests is a beautiful garden spread in the centre of the city. This place truly is a delight for nature lovers as it does contain plenty of greenery along with colourful flowers. This place truly does offer a relaxing ambience and families can visit this place during daylight for their children can also enjoy on the swings located in this garden. However, if you aren’t much fond of the daylight, then you can visit this place in the evening during which there are colourful fountains to gaze at.

7. Calico, A Museum of Textiles

Regarded as one of the finest museums for textile Calico has been designed in accordance with the traditional Gujarati architecture. Also, an institute for Indian textile industry this place boasts itself as the proud owner of some of the finest textiles in the nation. This place does contain some of the greatest handicrafts some dating five centuries back. These textiles have been collected and preserved over the years to increase awareness about such designs as well as to allow students to gain in-depth knowledge of same.

8. Thol Lake

If picturesque locations due to intrigue you, then Thol Lake is one destination which you shouldn’t miss.  About 30 km. away from the city, Thor Lake serves as one of the best destinations to spot various species of bird. According to reports, one can easily find more than 200 species of birds in and around this place with some of the common ones being Storks, Flamingos and Spoonbills. The best time to visit this place is during the month of November to February, as one can Peacefully witness varieties of birds away from the hustle of the city.

9. Hutheesing Jain Temple

If you are a history lover or architecture and design is something which interests you, then this Jain temple definitely should be on your To-Do List in Ahmedabad. Built by a merchant back in the 19th century this temple is carved out of marble and is dedicated to 15th Jain Tirthankara, Dharmanath. Famous for its splendid architecture this two story tall temple is visited by thousands of people and does contain separate areas for each of the 15th Tirthankara.

10. Manek Chowk

Now after all this travelling and visiting one definitely does crave some good food. So, in case you wish to taste in some delicious Gujarati food, then look no further than the Manek Chowk. A popular food street in Ahmedabad the place serves foods of all types be it Chinese, Continental or Mughlai. So, what are you waiting for head there to get some real taste of India?

So, these were the top 10 destinations you definitely ought to visit while being in Ahmedabad. There are a few other places and water parks which you can visit if you have time, however visiting these 10 will provide a good glimpse of old and new Ahmedabad.

Author Bio:

Rohit loves exploring new destinations and sectors across town. A history buff this individual wish to unravel some of the deepest facts buried deep down in the pages of Indian history. You can read more about his travel stories on http://www.transindiatravels.com/