Ahmedabad, Gujarat
Discover Ahmedabad
Ahmedabad is India’s first Unesco Urban World Heritage Site, thanks to its rich past and association with Mahatma Gandhi. Also known as Amdavad, Ahmadabad or Ahemdavad, the city is jam-packed with fantastic Hindu and Islamic architecture, from modern designs to ancient mosques and mausoleums. Known as the ‘Manchester of India’ it is also a great place for buying textiles.
Things to do in Ahmedabad
There is so much to see and do in busy Ahmedabad
- Wander the streets and you’ll see fantastic unique Indo-Saracenic architecture, a blend of Hindu and Islamic styles, and monuments dating back to the 15th century.
- Indulge in some retail therapy in the numerous markets and stalls
- Enjoy a local dance performance
- Visit Sabarmati Ashram – Located on the west bank of the Sabarmati River is Sabarmati Ashram, Mahatma Gandhi’s home from 1917 to 1930 during the long struggle for Indian independence. Because it lies between a cemetery and a jail, rumour has it that he chose this site because any satyagrahi (non-violent resister) would end up in one or the other. This Ashram (a spiritual hermitage or a monastery) was disbanded many years ago but has been restored as a tribute to Gandhi and his teachings, containing a large number of his documents, letters and photos, and his poignant, frugal living quarters.
- Explore The Adalaj Stepwell. A fine example of a Gujarati stepwell (a well or pond descended via steps) is Adalaj Vav, 20km to the north of Ahmedabad. Dating back to 1498 when it was built by Queen Rudabai, its three entrances lead to 16 pillars supporting an enormous platform. The five-storey deep stepwell is octagonal and adorned with delicate stone carvings depicting everything from buttermilk to eroticism
The best way to see Ahmedabad
If you would like to visit Ahmedabad, why not take a look at one of our wonderful ATOL and ABTA protected holidays? Please remember all our private tours are designed to meet your exact requirements, and the tours mentioned are just examples to help inspire you. Contact our travel experts on 01792 315499 or email info@aitholidays.com for more information.
