Things To Do
in Ahmedabad
Ahmedabad, the largest city in Gujarat, is known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant street life. Once the capital of the powerful Gujarat Sultanate, it seamlessly blends centuries-old architecture with modern urban developments. The city’s famous Sabarmati Ashram offers deep insights into Mahatma Gandhi’s life and philosophy.
With bustling markets, traditional crafts, and a lively riverfront, Ahmedabad provides an authentic Indian experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport and check into a heritage hotel near the old city. Unwind with a refreshing cup of masala chai at a local chaiwala. Stroll along the renovated riverfront to get a first glimpse of Ahmedabad’s lively atmosphere.
Visit Sabarmati Ashram, walking through Mahatma Gandhi’s former living quarters. Learn about Gandhi’s life and social philosophies through exhibits and personal artifacts. Relax in the ashram gardens and contemplate the peaceful surroundings.
Head to Manek Chowk, the city’s bustling night market and street food hub. Sample local delicacies like pav bhaji, khaman dhokla, and fresh jalebis. Experience the lively chaos of vendors setting up stalls under neon lights.
Begin a guided heritage walk from Teen Darwaza, exploring intricately carved gateways. Admire the elegant archways of Siddi Saiyyed Mosque and its famous stone jali lattice window. Capture photographs of quaint havelis and hidden lanes.
Visit the grand Jama Masjid and soak in its serene courtyard. Stop by local shops selling embroidered textiles and traditional perfumes. Have lunch at a family-run eatery for an authentic Gujarati thali.
Wander through the narrow lanes of pols (traditional neighborhoods) to see lacquered wooden doors and ornate balconies. Join an evening storytelling session about the city’s history in a restored haveli. Conclude with rooftop views of the old city skyline at dusk.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Street Snack | $1-2 |
| ☕Coffee at Café | $1.50-3 |
| 🚖Auto-rickshaw Ride | $1-2 per km |
| 🏨Mid-range Hotel | $30-50 per night |
| 🛍️Local Handicraft Souvenir | $5-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and UNESCO sites
- Delicious, diverse vegetarian cuisine
- Warm hospitality and vibrant street life
- Extremely hot summers
- Limited late-night entertainment
- Occasional traffic congestion in old city
- "Kem cho?" - How are you?
- "Majama!" - I’m good!
- "Dhanyavaad" - Thank you
- "Shubh prabhat" - Good morning
Places to Visit in Ahmedabad
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic 16th-century mosque known for the “Tree of Life” stone lattice window—ideal for architectural shots.
Five-story deep stepwell with carved pillars and terraces, offering dramatic light and shadow play.
Modern riverside promenade with bridges and lighting displays; best at sunrise or sunset.
Circular lake with colorful attractions and reflections, especially lively in the evening.
Food in Ahmedabad
Ahmedabad Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Steamed fermented chickpea cake, soft and tangy; available at most street stalls and breakfast joints.
Must-Try!
Thin rolls of gram flour cooked with yogurt and tempered with mustard seeds; try at family-run snack shops.
Winter mixed-vegetable casserole cooked with spices and fenugreek dumplings; seasonal specialty in roadside eateries.
Crunchy gram-flour sticks paired with sweet jalebi; perfect breakfast combo from local sweet shops.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A historic square that transforms into a bustling food market at night, serving chowpatty-style snacks, kebabs, and sweets.
Daytime street stalls offering khakhra, kachori, and traditional Gujarati farsan near major shopping areas.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting temples, mosques, and traditional neighborhoods.
Always remove shoes before entering homes, temples, and some heritage hotels.
Use your right hand for eating, giving or receiving items; the left hand is considered unclean.
Safety
Tipping in Ahmedabad
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is optional but appreciated: round up taxi fares, 5–10% at restaurants if service isn’t included.
Cash (INR) is widely used; UPI and popular wallets (Paytm, Google Pay) are accepted in most shops and restaurants. Credit cards work at larger outlets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
April to June bring extreme heat (up to 45°C/113°F). Stay hydrated, avoid midday sun, and plan indoor or water-side activities.
July to September sees moderate rains. City cools somewhat, roads can flood briefly—carry an umbrella and waterproof shoes.
November to February offers pleasant days (15–30°C/59–86°F) and cool nights—ideal for exploring outdoors and festivals.
Ahmedabad at Night
Hiking in Ahmedabad
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Dense teak and bamboo forest with trails leading to historic temples and wildlife sightings.
Part of Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park; steep climb offers panoramic vistas and temple shrines.
Airports
How to reach Ahmedabad by plane.
Main airport 8 km from city center, well-connected by taxi and bus.
Secondary airport ~100 km away, useful for domestic flights; reachable by train or car.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority community with deep roots in trade, industry, and traditional arts.
Historic presence in the old city, known for textile trades and cuisine.
Large population from other states working in construction, textiles, and services.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The city loves cricket; enjoy local matches at Narendra Modi Stadium, the world’s largest cricket stadium.
Traditional contact sport popular in local tournaments and school competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ahmedabad.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are ubiquitous—almost every restaurant and street stall caters well to vegetarians.
Request no dairy or ghee; many dishes can be made vegan on request, but clarify ingredients before ordering.
Rice-based dishes like khichu and dal rice are safe; avoid wheat-based snacks like puri unless confirmed.