Ahmedabad, the erstwhile capital of Gujarat, is one of the largest cities in India. Located on the banks of the River Sabarmati, it is one of the famous places of heritage in India, and among the must-include places in Gujarat tour packages. Ahmedabad is India’s first UNESCO World Heritage City and also the living symbol of the rich cultural heritage of Gujarat state. From the famous Sabarmati Ashram to the glittering Kankaria Lake, and from the inspiring Science City to the happening religious places, the list of things to do in Ahmedabad is endless that one should not miss out on when in the city as part of India tour packages.
Know more about Mahatma Gandhiji at Sabarmati Ashram
Located on the banks of the River Sabarmati, Sabarmati Ashram, also known as Gandhi Ashram, is perhaps the most famous place to visit as part of Ahmedabad tour packages. Formerly known as Satyagraha Ashram, it was established by Mahatma Gandhi in the year 1915, and he lived here with his wife, Kasturba Gandhi, from 1917 to 1930 CE. It was from here that Gandhi, one of India’s most iconic and respected historical figures, led his movement for India’s independence through non-violence. Today, it serves as a source of inspiration and guidance and stands as a monument to Gandhi’s life mission and a testimony to others who have fought a similar struggle. The living quarters of Mahatma Gandhi and his personal articles like his spectacles and spinning wheel are well preserved in the ashram. There is also a library and a curio shop too, where visitors can buy authentic Khadi items, key chains, miniature charkhas, and books on and by Gandhi.
Explore the city’s many Temples & Monuments
The UNESCO World Heritage city of Ahmedabad has many impressive monuments and temples. The 172-year-old Hutheesing Jain temple is perhaps one of the most prominent places to visit in Ahmedabad. Akshardham Temple and Ram Ji Mandir are the other popular places of worship. Besides, the city is also home to many historical monuments, like Bhadra Fort, Adalaj Stepwell, Jama Masjid, Jhulta Minar, or Shaking Minarets. Built in the Sidi Bashir Mosque, Jhulta Minar is one of the most intriguing architectural wonders that the world has ever seen, as it was designed in such a way that when you apply a small amount of force on the upper arch of the mosque, it will lead to the shaking of every minaret simultaneously.
Have fun at Kankaria Lakefront
Lying on the southeastern side of Ahmedabad city, Kankaria Lake is a manmade lake situated in the Maninagar area of Ahmedabad, one of the best places of heritage in India. Formerly known as Hauj-e-Qutub, the lake was built by Sultan Qutub-ud-Din in the year 1451 AD. Covering an area of 76 acres, this is the second-largest lake in Ahmedabad, and among the favorite picnic spots for locals. With a shore length of a quarter mile, the lake has 34 sides and has slopes instead of steps at six places to reach water that is covered by square cupolas each raised on 12 pillars. The lake also has a beautiful island in the center of the lake known as Nagina Wadi or Bagh-e Nagina, which houses a small summer palace and a musical fountain. One can also have fun at the lake as there are many attractions, such as a Zoo, Toy Train, boating, Kid’s City, Balloon Ride, Water Park, Food Stalls, and many entertainment facilities.
Enjoy a movie at Sunset Drive-In Cinema
One of the most romantic things to do in Ahmedabad is watching a movie at the Sunset Drive-In Cinema with your loved ones. The drive-in cinema has a massive screen and can accommodate 665 cars at one time. The recent blockbuster movies are shown on a big screen at an outdoor theatre, which has sound equipment installed in each vehicle. A fairly new concept in India, this is an experience that you must try while in Ahmedabad, one of the best Gujarat tourist places. Along with enjoying the movie, one can also enjoy home food or you can buy it from the nearby food court.
Shop at the Law Garden’s night market
If you are a shopaholic or love to take back home memories in the form of souvenirs from a city, then shopping at Law Garden’s night market is one of the must to do things during your Ahmedabad tour. This shopping paradise offers everything right from souvenirs and regional crafts to clothing, accessories, and jewellery. And, this is an ideal place for buying a wide range of items at a super affordable price. Also, this market is known for its mouth-watering street food.
Explore Ahmedabad’s culinary culture at Manek Chowk
Situated in Old Ahmedabad, Manek Chowk is a bustling market and is considered the second biggest market in India. An Ahmedabad tour is incomplete without exploring Ahmedabad’s culinary culture at Manek Chowk. Named after Saint Maneknath, Manek Chowk acts as a vegetable market in the morning where people can buy fresh fruits and vegetables, a jewelry market in the noon where one can purchase traditional jewelry and other accessories, and a street food market at night where one can taste most delicious food items like Bhajipau, Dosa, Sandwiches and many more local dishes. It is a great place to hang out with friends and family. Since Manek Chowk is surrounded by historical places, one can also visit some historical structures, like Jama Masjid and Baba Maneknath Temple.
Relieve history on the steps of Adalaj Stepwell
Adalaj Stepwell, also called Adalaj ni Vav, is a stepwell located in the village of Adalaj near Ahmedabad. It is one of the famous places of heritage places to visit near Ahmedabad, and among the must-include places in Gujarat packages. Also known as Rudabai Stepwell, Adalaj Stepwell was built in 1499 by Queen Rudabai, wife of Vaghela chief, Veer Singh. Built in the Solanki style of architecture with Islamic influence, it consists of five storeys, each of which is uniquely designed with beautiful carvings all over the walls and columns. All the walls were carved with some mythological scenes along with everyday scenes, dancers accompanied by musicians, women adorning themselves, and a king sitting on a stool. Some interesting features in the carvings include the depiction of Ami Khumbor, which symbolizes the pot of water of life, the Kalp Vriksha, and the Navagraha, or the nine planets.
Get Educated at Science City
Science City is an educational center located in the Hebatpur locality of Ahmedabad. It is a must on your list of top things to do in Ahmedabad as it offers an enthralling experience for not just science lovers but anyone interested in understanding the role of science in our day-to-day lives. The Science City was set up in 2001 by the state government of Gujarat to spread awareness about the progression of science and its application in human life. Covering an area of more than 107 hectares, it has an IMAX 3D theatre, an energy park, a hall of science, Planet Earth, an amphitheater, a Life Science Park, and musical fountains. One can spend the day watching science films in 3D, walking through the energy park, spending time by the musical fountain, or going on roller coasters and space trip rides here.
Stroll along the Sabarmati Riverfront
Sabarmati Riverfront is a stunning waterfront developed along the banks of Sabarmati River in Ahmedabad. It is a project undertaken by Gujarat Government in order to preserve the river and promote tourism. The construction of this project began in 2005 and opened to the public in 2012 with various facilities. With an 11 km long riverfront, it is a two-level promenade situated on both sides of the river where the lower level serves only pedestrians and cyclists while the upper level is capable of hosting numerous cultural and educational events, leisure activities, large public parks, plazas and a few areas for commercial and retail development. The prime activities here are Boat riding and evening walks. Also, the place offers a splendid view of the city’s landscape. Besides, the riverfront also hosts the International kite festival every year in the month of January.
Appreciate the Beauty of Vintage Cars at Auto World Vintage
Auto World Vintage Car Museum is one of the best vintage car museums in Gujarat and among the must-visit places as part of the Ahmedabad package. Started by Shri Pranlal Bhogilal in the year 1927, the museum exhibits some of the finest cars, like Bentley, Rolls Royce, Jaguar, Maybach, Cadillacs, Austin, Chrysler, Lincoln, Fords, and many other varieties from the classic collections of the USA and Europe. There are also some special cars, like Limousines & Grand open Tourers for ceremonial occasions, convertible cars for evening drives, and station wagons like boats. Many of these vintage treasures belonged to prominent figures of history and members of the old Indian royal families. Visitors can also drive one of these cars by paying Rs. 500 for just a 3.5 km ride and it is one of the top experiences that you must not miss while in Ahmedabad, among the best places to visit in India.