It will be unfair to call Ahmedabad a mere city. It is the first Indian city to be declared a World Heritage City by UNESCO. It’s the most populated city in Gujarat. The best places in Ahmedabad manage to cater to both the locals and tourists. While locals enjoy its contemporary structures and lifestyle, visitors love marvelling at the city's heritage wonders.
The list of places to visit in Ahmedabad (or Amdavad) is endless. These famous places in Ahmedabad are representative of the city's culture and cultural transformations. Here are 10 of the best places in Ahmedabad that you should include in your itinerary while in the city.
Reconnecting with Nature in Ahmedabad
1. Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary
One of the largest bird sanctuaries in India, it is also one of the best places in Ahmedabad. It is located about 64 km from the city, but the connectivity in the state ensures that your travel is hassle-free. You can find over 200 species of birds like pelicans, flamingos, storks, spoonbills and so on at the Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary.
Opening hours: 6am-5.30pm
Entry fee: Rs 40-50 per person for Indian visitors (Rs 200 for a camera, boating charges extra)
2. Vastrapur Lake
Although the Vastrapur Lake is man-made, this famous place in Ahmedabad will bring you the serene and peaceful vibe like any other natural water body. It is a popular spot for local picnics and jogging, but the park around the lake is worth a visit as it features an open-air theatre which hosts many cultural shows.
Opening hours: 8am-10pm
Entry: Free
3. Kankaria Lake
It is the second largest lake in Ahmedabad. It used to have an in-built water purification system dating back to the 15th century. The lake’s surroundings have been developed into an all-encompassing entertainment zone for all ages, with amenities like food stalls, a water park and a kids' city. It is one of the best tourist places in Ahmedabad.
Opening hours: 9am-10pm (visitors); 4am-8am (joggers); closed on Mondays
Entry Fee: Rs 25 for adults, Rs 10 for children, and free for morning joggers
Archaeological Heritage Sites
4. Adalaj Stepwell
A stepwell is a common architectural wonder found in many places in North India. The Adalaj Stepwell was constructed in 1499 by Rudabai, wife of one of the region’s chieftains. The intricate designs, stone texture and the depiction of Hindu culture on its walls make it one of the most famous places in Ahmedabad.
Opening hours: 6am to 6pm
Entry fee: Free
5. Jama Masjid
Built in 1423 AD, this is one of the best places to visit in Ahmedabad. The Masjid features two hundred and sixty pillars finely carved out of yellow sandstone. The Masjid is said to be a blend of both Hindu and Islamic architectural styles.
Opening hours: 6am-8pm (closed during Namaz)
Entry Fee: Free
6. Bhadra Fort
Filled with stories of legends and a glorious history, the fort is one of the places to go in Ahmedabad. Your sightseeing will be paired with anecdotes from the locals making it a complete experience. It was built in 1411 by Sultan Ahmed Shah. Today, it has a Bhadra Kali temple within the premises.
Opening hours: 9am-5pm
Entry Fee: Free
7. Sabarmati Ashram
Any Gujarat trip is incomplete if you miss visiting this famous tourist place in Ahmedabad. It is located on the banks of the river Sabarmati, and once housed the father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi. The famous Dandi March is said to have started from this place.
Opening hours: 8.30am-6.30pm
Entry Fees: Free
8. The Pols
These are the settlements in many cities of Gujarat that feature rows and blocks of densely packed houses. The specialty of these Pols is that each house has a secret gate that only the owner knows about. It is one of the best places in Ahmedabad that will give you a peek into the city’s local life.
9. Akshardham Temple
It is home to the late Yogi Swaminarayan. Tourists and believers from across the country, and the world, visit this beautiful place in Ahmedabad to enjoy the picturesque architecture and pray. With a big lawn and a beautiful monument of pink stone, Akshardham Temple remains one of the best tourist places in Ahmedabad.
Educational visits
10. Gujarat Science City
This tourist place in Ahmedabad serves as an entertainment zone and a fun learning place for a great family weekend. It features a 3D IMAX theatre, Energy Park, musical fountain and a lot more that even adults can enjoy and learn from.
Timings: 10am-7.30pm
Entry Fee: Rs 20 for adults; Rs 10 for children