The name of Ahmedabad brings colours, festivals, culture, traditions, cuisine and happiness. It is situated near the banks of the River Sabarmati and stands proud as a symbolism of the perfect blend of rich history and peaceful nature. Ahmedabad provides one of the serene sight-seeing places including temples, monuments, mosques, museums, lakes and forts which are absolutely worth it. Apart from the fingerlicking food and crazy music and dances, Ahmedabad is the home of textile and automobile industries. It is geographically very near to the capital city of Gandhinagar and hence also called its "Twin City". The historic city of Ahmedabad is declared a UNESCO World Heritage City whereas the malls and fancy restaurants give the idea of modernity. From students to photographers, historians to geologists, everyone should at least once visit the bustling city of nature and cleanliness.
The History!
The presence of the city is marked from the 11th century when the Chalukyas ruled. In the 14th century, it came under the rule of Delhi Sultanate and the Muzaffarid Dynasty was founded. A strong and prominent Mughal influence can be seen in the lanes, structures, archetypes, temples and mosques, monuments and memorials. The city was founded by Sultan Ahmed Shah I in the year 1411. Though the city has been an intricate part of Indian history, the Salt Satyagraha initiated by Mahatma Gandhi is a tale to narrate. In the Quit India Movement held in 1942, people in lakhs participated in peaceful revolution and made the independence attainable. The violence in the 1947 partition screams pain in blood and bones.
The Culture!
The variety of culture in Ahmedabad is beyond words and can only be felt when you actually visit the city in festivities. The kite flying ceremony is called Uttarayan, celebrated in January. Navratri is the famous festival in the region when people across the globe reach the city to signify the colourful culture with their families and relatives. Garba is the famous dance form performed in local occasions where the dancers dance with the beat of Dhol in a concentric circle.
The Cuisine of Ahmedabad is ineffable and the dishes made by the locals are mouth-watering and a savior on a hot humid day. The Gujarati Thali which includes rice, roti, dal, mixed vegetables, curry is a must try during a visit to the city to know the test of the western part. Dhokla, Thepla, Dhebra, and Phapda are the most celebrated dishes in Ahmedabad.
Ahmedabad is also well-known for its folk arts and crafts. In textiles, the local artisans make Bandhani material and traditional Mojdi. The idols of the city appear real and are done with very much patience and intimacy.
In literature, Ahmedabad scores well giving rise to some of the prominent poets and writers of the country. There are libraries and literary institutes one can find in the lanes of the busy city.
Shopping in Ahmedabad is a must as the city is a heaven for the shopaholics. Starting from various luxurious malls to shopping in the streets, Ahmedabad has it all. Traditional Lehengas, Chaniya Choli, Dandiya Sticks, Bandhani Dupatta, Mirror Worked Sarees are some of the locally famous goods. Manek Chowk, Lal Darwaza, Law Garden Night Market are the famous markets.
Education and Economy
The literacy rate in the city has been seen increasing each year. Ahmedabad has some of the renowned institutions that it attracts students not only from the corner of India but internationally also. Gujarat University is the oldest and largest University. IIM Ahmedabad, CEPT University, IITRAM, Physical Research Laboratory, Darpana Academy of Performing Arts are some of the institutes the pupils try to become a part of.
Ahmedabad serves as one of the biggest textile and garment industries of the country and hence its economy is impressive. Ahmedabad Spinning and Weaving Company Limited is the 1st Indian textile mill which introduced the birth of others. For the world famous textile industry, it is also known as "The Manchester of the East". In terms of jewelry, accessories and automobiles, IT, the city has marked its place in the national map.
How to reach the city
Ahmedabad is one of the most acclaimed places of India and hence connected to almost all the major cities of the country.
1. Airways:
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport is 15 km away from the city which takes domestic and international flights.
2. Roadways:
Ahmedabad is well connected to the neighbouring cities and states via national highways. NH 48 links it with Delhi and Mumbai.
3. Railways:
Ahmedabad Railway Station is the major station and connects hundreds of trains to the important cities of India.
Places to visit
1. Sabarmati Riverfront:
Sabarmati Riverfront has become widely seeked because of the clean waterfront and beautiful parks and plazas in the prominence. Hundreds of people visit here which was started as an initiative to environmental issues.
2. Dada Hari Vav:
Dada Hari Vav is a 7 level stepwell designed to conserve water which is now hugely sought after. It is situated in Asarwa, 15 km from Ahmedabad.
3. Statue of Unity:
The statue of unity is a tribute to The Iron Man of India, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and is the Tallest Statue in the World. The 182 m tall idol is situated on the banks of River Narmada.
4. Swaminarayan Temple:
Swaminarayan Temple is located in the Kalupur area of Ahmedabad and is extremely popular for its marvelous architecture and intricacy in carvings. The abode of Lord Narayan is also called "Akshardham Temple".
5. Sabarmati Ashram:
Sabarmati Ashram is situated 5 km from the city on the Sabarmati River. The place serves as a memorial of Gandhi and his teachings, also known as "Satyagraha Ashram".
6. Rani ki Vav:
Rani ki Vav is a symbol of authentic architecture situated in Patan. This is actually a 900 year old step well built for water conservation.
7. Kankaria Lake:
This is one among the frequently asked places located near the Maninagar area. The surrounding of the lake is perfect for a weekend picnic which includes parks, toy trains, balloon safari, water rides, zoo.
8. Bhadra Fort:
Bhadra Fort, also known as "Arak Fort" has a great historical significance. The fort is composed of great carvings and thoughtful touches, constructed by Ahmed Shah I in 1411.
9. Auto World Vintage Car Museum:
The vintage car museum possesses more than a 100 cars from great Kings and serves the antique needs of the car seekers. The place is a must visit in the Dastan of Kathwada.
10. Hutheesing Jain Temple:
The Hutheesing Jain Temple is one of the most commonly visited places in the city situated on Shahibaug Road of Badolpura. It is a 2 storey marble temple addressing 11 deity idols.
11. Sidi Saiyyed Mosque:
The mosque is very famous among photographers and history, aesthetic lovers because of its architectural grandeur of Jali works. The mosque is a living symbolisation of Gujarat Sultanate.
12. Jhulta Minar:
As the name suggests, the swinging minarets move and vibrate whose reason is still unsolved. This is located in the Sakar Bazar and frequently visited by mystery lovers.
13. Sarkhej Roza:
Sarkhej Roza is a mosque and tomb complex which represents fine structures and striking architecture. Located 7 kms from the city center, it's a must visit.
Best time to visit
Ahmedabad falls under a hot semi-arid climate and is visited by tourists throughout the year.
1. Summer- March to June- 24°C to 43°C (very hot and dry)
2. Rainy- June to September- 24°C to 33°C (average rainfall)
3. Winter- November to February- 30°C to 13°C (mild chilly)