Things To Do
in Petlād
Petlad is a quiet agricultural town in Gujarat’s Anand district, located amid a patchwork of fields and canals. It serves as a practical base for exploring the broader Anand region and nearby heritage sites like Champaner-Pavaghat. The town’s markets, temples, and vegetarian eateries reflect the warm hospitality and flavors of Gujarat.
Visitors will find an unhurried pace, colorful street life, and a gateway to rural Gujarat with easy access to larger cities like Vadodara and Ahmedabad.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the ancient temples of Petlād, where you can admire the intricate carvings and architecture that date back centuries. After soaking in the spiritual atmosphere, stroll through the bustling local markets to experience the vibrant colors and sounds of daily life. Don't forget to grab a traditional breakfast of poha and chai from a nearby stall.
In the afternoon, head to the nearby historical sites such as the Bhadrakali Temple, known for its stunning murals and sacred ambiance. Take your time exploring the serene surroundings and learning about the rich cultural heritage of the area. For lunch, indulge in some local delicacies at a family-run restaurant that showcases the flavors of Gujarati cuisine.
As the sun sets, make your way to the local park for a leisurely walk, where you can witness the lively interactions of locals enjoying their evening. Find a cozy spot to relax and enjoy a cup of masala chai while watching the sunset paint the sky in hues of orange and pink. End your day with a visit to a local eatery to savor traditional snacks like dhokla and khandvi.
Begin your morning with a refreshing walk in Sardar Patel Park, surrounded by lush greenery and chirping birds. Take in the serene environment as you indulge in some yoga or meditation, setting a peaceful tone for the day ahead. You can also enjoy a light breakfast at a nearby café that offers fresh fruit and juices.
After a revitalizing morning, explore the park further by renting a bicycle to discover its scenic paths and hidden corners. Spend time observing the local flora and fauna, perhaps even spotting some unique bird species. For lunch, pack a picnic to enjoy amidst nature, featuring local snacks and fresh fruits.
As evening approaches, find a quiet spot in the park to unwind and reflect on your day. The sounds of nature provide a perfect backdrop as you read a book or simply enjoy the company of friends or family. As the stars begin to twinkle, take a leisurely stroll back to your accommodation, savoring the peaceful ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🍛Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $8-20 |
| 🚕Local transportation (auto-rickshaw within town) | $0.50-2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel (per night) | $12-25 |
| 🧴1.5L bottle of water | $0.30-1 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Gujarati vegetarian cuisine and warm hospitality
- Good base for day trips to Champaner-Pavaghat and Anand
- Relatively affordable and easy to navigate for first-time travelers
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options within town
- Public transport within town can be slow; longer trips require planning
- "Namaste" - Hello
- "Kem Cho?" - How are you?
- "Hu Gujarati bolu chu." - I speak Gujarati.
- "Dhanyavaad" - Thank you
- "Maaf karjo" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Aa Petlad chhe" - This is Petlad.
Places to Visit in Petlād
Visit one of these nice places.
Architecturally rich temple precincts with morning light bathing the facades; a good place for candid temple life and architecture shots.
Colorful shop fronts and bustling lanes offer vibrant street photography opportunities at any time of day.
Historic platform views and rail-yard activity provide cinematic late-afternoon and early-morning shots.
Winding dirt roads, farm fields, and conversations with local farmers yield intimate, human-scale imagery.
Food in Petlād
Petlād Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A versatile fenugreek-spiced flatbread often served with yogurt or pickle.
Must-Try!
A hearty winter dish of mixed vegetables and fenugreek dumplings slow-cooked with coconut and spices.
Steamed gram flour cakes tempered with sesame seeds and mustard oil flavors.
Soft gram flour rolls brushed with coconut-charred seasoning and sesame.
Crispy gram flour sticks paired with sweet jalebi for contrast.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively street market where you can sample fresh samosas, fafda, and seasonal fruit stalls.
Nearby markets offering fresh produce, dairy products, and Gujarati snacks; look for small chaat stalls and local sweets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A respectful Namaste or Kem Cho is common; address elders politely and remove shoes when required.
Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples; public displays of affection are discouraged in rural areas.
Ask before photographing people; many are friendly, but always respect privacy.
Safety
Tipping in Petlād
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common in restaurants (around 5–10%), taxis, and guides; a small tip for good service is appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted; many shops take cards and UPI apps (PhonePe, Google Pay). Smaller vendors may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March–June brings high heat (often above 40°C). Hydration, light clothing, sun protection, and early-morning activities are advised.
July–September brings humidity and rainfall. Expect lush greenery; carry a compact umbrella and waterproof footwear.
October–February offers mild to cool weather (roughly 8–25°C). Great for outdoor exploration and day trips, with cooler evenings.
Petlād at Night
Hiking in Petlād
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
An accessible hill with fort ruins and temples; a popular day hike with historical and scenic rewards.
Hilly surroundings around the Dakor temple area offering short hikes with countryside views.
Airports
How to reach Petlād by plane.
A regional airport serving domestic flights; roughly a 60–70 km drive from Petlad with taxi or rail connections.
Major international and domestic hub about 90–120 km away; accessible by road or train for longer trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant language and culture; daily life centers around local markets, temples, and family networks.
A significant local group involved in farming, trade, and local leadership; influential in town affairs.
Diverse religious groups with temples scattered across the area; active social and cultural life.
Small but present communities contributing to the region’s cuisine and markets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widespread sport across schools and towns; watch local matches or join a casual game.
Common in community grounds and schools; played in leagues and informal settings.
Traditional contact sport enjoyed in rural communities and gymnasiums.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Petlād.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Gujarati cuisine is predominantly vegetarian; most dishes are dairy-based. Clearly indicate dairy or egg-free needs when ordering.
To accommodate Jain diets, request no root vegetables and avoid onions and garlic; many places are accommodating with advance notice.
Many dishes are naturally gluten-free (rice, dals, certain bhajis), but cross-contact can occur—ask to confirm preparation methods.