Ahmedabad, the largest city in the Indian state of Gujarat, is a popular destination in the country. It was originally founded in the 15th century by the Bahmani Sultans. It consists of a vibrant business district, and a rising center of education, information technology and scientific industries.
This city was the very first country in the world to be declared a UNESCO World Heritage site! So, you can imagine the beautiful places to explore in Ahmedabad. If you’re traveling via flights from Philadelphia to Ahmedabad, read on to find out more about this world-famous destination!
Sabarmati Ashram
Visiting the Sabarmati Ashram will give you some peace and help you with your spirituality. It was here that M K Gandhi, the man who is called today as the Father of the Nation in India, lived during most of his life, along with his wife, Kasturba.
Situated on the peaceful and quiet stretch of Sabarmati River, it was here that Gandhi started the well-known ‘Dandi March’. The historical center is one of the most intriguing segments of the ashram. You can see displayed some of Gandhi’s own letters and photos.
Gandhinagar
Without a visit to Gandhinagar, the capital of Gujarat, it is definitely not worth going to Ahmedabad. It is one of the places worth visiting in Ahmedabad.
It is well renowned for many temples, such as the Hanuman Temple and the Brahmani Temple. There is also a lot to do in the city like visiting the deer park, Sarita Udyan, and the Children’s Park.
Other sites in Gandhinagar that you can visit are the Indroda Dinosaur and Fossil Park. It is one of the biggest parks of its kind, consisting of a greenhouse and an amphitheater. The best feature of the recreation area is the skeleton of monster vertebrates like the blue whales.
Swaminarayan Temple
Visiting the Swaminarayan Temple is one of the best things to do in Ahmedabad. It is the most astounding site in the city that is astutely built, devoted to Lord Narayan. The flawless white exteriors are dazzling and you cannot help but respect its fine craftsmanship.
There are nine burial places here that are called “Nau Gaz Pir” or the “Nine Yard Saints”. You will also see the idols of Hari Krishna Maharaj, Radhakrishna, and Dharmadev-Bhakti Mata. Food at the temple is made in the satvik style and served in the utmost cleanliness. This is one of the most beautiful places to explore in Ahmedabad.
Guru Purnima is celebrated rather grandly at the Swaminarayan Temple. You can visit here in the month of July by flying from Seattle to Ahmedabad.
Kankaria Lake
The Kankaria Lake also bears a visit during your exploration of Ahmedabad.
Known to be the biggest water body in the city, it has charmed locals and tourists alike for a long time now. It was built in the 15th century by Sultans of the Gujarat Sultanate, Muhammad Shah and Ahmed Shah II; it was named after the latter. It even had an in-built water cleansing purification system, since it was here that most rulers of the time had their baths. A diversion zone has now been created on the lakeside, which has a zoo, children’s city, toy trains, a water park with heaps of rides, and food stalls.
You can undoubtedly have a day excursion at this spot, finishing the day with a walk around the lakefront. Partake in your dinners at Nagina Wadi, which is a nursery-themed food stall that has lip-smacking delectable Gujarati food.
Lothal
This is one of the most incredible places to visit near Ahmedabad for lovers of History.
Lothal is an ancient site of the Indus Valley Civilizations that the Archeological Survey of India (ASI), the official Indian government body for the conservation of historical/ancient monuments. It was discovered in 1954; excavation work started on 13 February 1955 and went on till 19 May 1960.
It is said that Lothal is a mix of two words – “Loth” and “thal” – which in Gujarati means “the mound of the dead”. Excavation reports suggest that the city was inhabited during 3700 BCE and was then a flourishing trading port. It is a place that ties the past and the present together—a unique combination that can be seen very rarely in other cities. It was said to exist on the banks of the River Saraswati, one that does not exist today.
Manek Chowk
Manek is a noticeable city square in Ahmedabad, situated in the old city, this spot is in excess of a turbulent square. It is surrounded by numerous heritage attractions and has a clamoring multi-purpose market. Shopping is the best thing to do here.
It is ideal to visit Manek Chowk in the evening time when it changes over into a food lovers’ haven, where one can savor the flavor of true Gujarati street food. Baba Maneknath Temple, Badshah no Hajiro, Rani no Hajiro, Ahmedabad Stock Exchange Building, and Mahurat Pol are available near Manek Chowk.
These are some of the most charming places to explore in Ahmedabad. Rest assured, you will go back home completely and thoroughly satisfied!
