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The Ultimate Two-Day Ahmedabad Itinerary

A Two-Day Ahmedabad Itinerary | What to See, Eat, Do, and Where to Stay

I landed in Ahmedabad on a larkโ€”I was fried at work and needed a place to reset that wasnโ€™t too far away and not too hot, at least in April. One of those conditions was met. I found cheap fares, and on a Thursday evening, I booked a flight for the next day. Zilch planning, hoping for everything to turn out okayโ€”and spoiler alert: it did!

Overview

About Ahmedabad

Ahmedabad is a major city in western India, located in the state of Gujarat along the Sabarmati River. Of course, it shot up in importance after Narendra Modi became Prime Ministerโ€”nothing like a hometown hero to put a city on the national map! It is the largest city in Gujarat and has a population of over 8 million people. Founded in 1411 by Sultan Ahmed Shah, Ahmedabad has a rich history and is known for its architectural heritage, including mosques, stepwells, and old pols (traditional neighborhoods). The Old City was recognized as Indiaโ€™s first UNESCO World Heritage City in 2017, a fact I did not know (rolls eyes at self) before I landed here.

The Ultimate Two-Day Ahmedabad Itinerary | Old Ahmedabad Vignettes
Old Ahmedabad Vignettes

The city is divided into two parts by the Sabarmati River. The eastern side is the historic Old City, featuring narrow lanes, bustling markets, and heritage structures. The western side is modern, with commercial hubs, shopping malls, educational institutions, and upscale residential areas.

In recent years, Ahmedabad has seen significant development, with improved infrastructure, new business districts, and expanded public transport, including the Ahmedabad Metro. The Sabarmati Riverfront Project has transformed the riverbanks into a recreational space with parks, promenades, and cultural events. The city is also a major hub for education and research, with institutions like the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIM-A) and Physical Research Laboratory located in the city, and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) not far away.

Exploring Ahmedabad becomes effortless with these fab guided tours.

Ahmedabadโ€™s Olympic Ambitions and Urban Transformation

Ahmedabad is pitching itself as Indiaโ€™s candidate for the 2036 Olympic Games, and thereโ€™s a visible push to get the city in shape. At the center of it all is the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Complex in Motera, which includes the Narendra Modi Stadiumโ€”currently the largest cricket stadium in the world. There are plans to expand the complex with Olympic-grade facilities. When I visited the stadium, an Indian Premier Leagueย (IPL) match was scheduled shortly after, and to be honest, what I saw didnโ€™t exactly scream โ€œOlympics-ready.โ€ The roads around were jampacked with unruly traffic, the stadium looked a bit tired, and the area was swarming with vendors hawking knockoff cricket merchandise.

That said, change is definitely in the air. Locals told me the city is upgrading its metro lines, expanding roads, and improving the riverfront to welcome global visitors. The Sabarmati Riverfront, in particular, has experienced a serious glow-upโ€”cleaner paths, wider roads, more space to walk, and some ambitious lighting. I also noticed several well-planned green spaces around the city. Road-widening work is underway, and according to my auto driver-guide, informal settlements are being cleared and residents relocated to new housingโ€”part of the cityโ€™s grand Olympic makeover. Bid or no bid, it looks like the city will benefit either way.


Getting Here

Flights from Mumbai to Ahmedabad are super convenient, with multiple options running throughout the day. A round-trip ticket usually costs between INR 5,000 and 6,000, depending on when you book. I took a Friday night flight and returned Monday morning (since Monday was a holiday), making it the perfect long weekend getaway.

I hadnโ€™t planned anythingโ€”zero research, no itinerary. So, I did what any last-minute traveler would do: I messaged a friend in Ahmedabad for recommendations. After a bit of back and forth, he suggested staying in Old Ahmedabad, especially in one of its heritage houses. It made senseโ€”this part of the city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, packed with beautifully preserved pols (traditional neighborhoods), intricate wooden mansions, and narrow lanes full of history. Sounded like the perfect way to experience the cityโ€™s old-world charm.

Where to Stay

Figuring out where to stay in Ahmedabad comes down to what kind of experience you’re after. If you’re a travelerโ€”especially someone visiting India for the first timeโ€”and want to dive into its cultural roots, staying in the Old City is a great choice. It was named a UNESCO World Heritage City in 2017, and for good reason. The area is packed with stunning old homes, narrow winding streets, and a vibe that feels like stepping back in time.

When I visited (during Ramzan), the Old City was buzzingโ€”crowded and full of energy. Still, it was surprisingly clean and felt very safe. I was out and about late into the night and never felt uncomfortable, although it was a literal stampede. That said, staying in the Old City isnโ€™t always convenient. Getting around was a real hassle. Auto drivers instantly clocked me as an outsider and either quoted crazy prices or flat-out refused. Ubers were only an option once I made it out through one of the old city darwazas. Since I had limited time, this made catching up with friends across the riverโ€”in the more modern part of town with its cafes and shiny restaurantsโ€”a bit of a logistical nightmare.

And about the traffic in Ahmedabad… well, letโ€™s just say itโ€™s a whole different beast. The streets are a free-for-all, with bikes and cars coming at you from every direction. Crossing the road feels like playing a high-stakes game of dodgeball. Youโ€™ll need quick reflexes, nerves of steel, and that โ€˜catch-me-if-you-canโ€™ confidence that only the locals seem to have. Brace yourself!

The Ultimate Two-Day Ahmedabad Itinerary | Old Ahmedabad House Interiors
Old Ahmedabad House Interiors

Where to Stay in the Old City

The House of MG – This chic hotel is a total bargain at under INR 9000 (or around USD 100) per night at most times. Itโ€™s located right at the edge of the Old City, next to the Sidi Saiyyed Mosque (which, by the way, has the famous motif of Ahmedabad in one of its window lattices). The hotel is beautifully designed, blending local amenities and cultural insights in a way that’s both comfortable and immersive. Itโ€™s the perfect spot to experience the cityโ€™s heritage and culture while keeping the hustle and bustle of the city at a comfortable distance. Plus, itโ€™s perfect for those who want to do the heritage walk and explore the old structures without straying too far. They even run their own tours and have two solid restaurants inside. A great pick for anyone willing to spend a bit more!

Or if you are okay with going basic but beautiful, look up Jagdip Mehta and his heritage home. He can also arrange a day of auto-sightseeing.

Where to Stay in New City

There are plenty of options, but the top ones are

Hyatt Regency on Ashram Road.

Novotel or Vivanta on SG Road, which is the heart of the new city.

Radisson Blu on Ellis Bridge.

Most of these are within INR 5000-8000 (USD 60-70) dollars a night, which is great value for money.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Ahmedabad is between November and February, when the weather is cool and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10ยฐC to 25ยฐC (50ยฐF to 77ยฐF). This period is ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Time your visit around major festivals, such as Uttarayan (Kite Festival) in mid-January, Navratri in September/October, and Diwali in October/November. Avoid visiting from April to June, as the summer temperatures can exceed 40ยฐC (104ยฐF). The monsoon season (July to September) brings moderate to heavy rainfall, making travel inconvenient.


Now, kicking off with day one of the Two-Day Ahmedabad Itinerary…

Explore the city in comfort with some awesome private guided tours like this one. Whenever I visit a new city in India, I always recommend going with local guidesโ€”they make sure you see the best parts and keep it safe and hassle-free.

Most sites require you to remove your shoes before entering, so it’s a good idea to wear shoes that are easy to slip on and off.

Day 1

Akshardham Temple

I visited the grand Akshardham Temple in Delhi nearly twenty years ago, not long after it opened (2005), and it completely blew me awayโ€”Iโ€™d never seen anything like it. So, I was curious to check out the original Akshardham Temple (1992), located in Gandhinagar. Since Gandhinagar is a bit of a drive from the Old City, it makes sense to start your day there and then gradually head back toward Ahmedabad.

It takes about an hour to get to the temple, which is around 30 km from Old Ahmedabad. Not gonna lie; I didnโ€™t love the journeyโ€”sitting in an auto with the heat, dust, and traffic swirling around me. I got there at 10:30 AM, so it was quiet, with just a few people out and about. However, one needs to deposit one’s phone at a counter outside before entry, which was disconcerting, to say the least. I was itching to get back and collect my mobile phone, terrified it was being cloned or that I wouldnโ€™t get it back. Not to mention, I couldn’t take any pictures. It made me wonder: Whatโ€™s the point of seeing a place if you canโ€™t capture it in pictures? Memory is fickle these days, no longer the solid thing it used to be. One needs pictures to remember and savour moments. You cannot convince me otherwise.

Entry to the temple is free, but security is tight, especially after the 2002 terrorist attacks.

As soon as you enter the Temple, you’ll notice a counter to your left where you can book a digital photo, which Iโ€™d recommend if you want a souvenir shot. It costs INR 150 and takes about 30 minutes to developโ€”perfect time to explore the temple while they are at it. The photographer usually has a queue, especially during peak hours, so plan accordingly.

Akshardham Temple, built in 1992, is dedicated to Swaminarayan, a revered figure in Hinduism. The temple is famous for its intricately carved sandstone architecture and impressive prayer halls. The gold accents and the heavily carved walls and pillars will make your eyes pop.

However, I was more impressed by the exhibitions showcasing the life of Swaminarayan on the upper floor. His life journey was depicted through beautiful paintings, ornate idols, and well-organized displays. The paintings, done in a Rembrandt style, elaborate and rich, were impressive for their level of detail. The most intriguing part of the display, though, was the exhibition of Swaminarayan’s belongings, including those from his bodyโ€”like his tooth and nailsโ€”which had the crowd chuckling a bit.

The 7:30 PM sound and light show is supposed to be amazing, combining storytelling with visuals, but unfortunately, it was closed when I visited.

Is the temple worth a visit? If you want to experience its grandeur and see some of the government buildings in Gandhinagar along the way, itโ€™s a decent trip. But if you’re short on time, you might want to skip it.

Timings: 10:00 AM โ€“ 7:30 PM (Closed on Mondays)

Entry Fee: Free | INR 100 for the light and sound show.

More info here.


Gandhi Ashram

Gandhi Ashram (Sabarmati Ashram) is located on the banks of the Sabarmati River in Ahmedabad. It was established by Mahatma Gandhi in 1917 as his residence and a center for the Indian freedom movement. Covering an area of about 36 acres, the ashram served as the base for several of Gandhiโ€™s major movements, including the famous Dandi March in 1930. Anyone interested in Indiaโ€™s independence movement, Gandhian philosophy, or historical landmarks will find the ashram a meaningful stop.

Some people visit Ahmedabad just to visit Sabarmati Ashram, and I can see why. I spent a peaceful hour there, stepping back into the era of India’s freedom movement. Sitting in Ba’s room, walking around the courtyard, peeking into Bapu’s room, checking out the kitchen, and visiting the prayer hall where speeches were made and important ideas exchangedโ€”it all brought that significant era to life. The ashramโ€™s serene, green campus, with the Sabarmati River flowing quietly nearby, really made me reflectโ€”oh, the stories that river must have witnessed. What struck me most was the way of life at the ashramโ€”the strict routines and principles they followed must have been essential for the work they were doing.

Timings: 8:30 AM โ€“ 6 PM

Entry Fee: Free

The Ultimate Two-Day Ahmedabad Itinerary | Gandhi Ashram
Gandhi Ashram

Stepwells, or โ€œvavs,โ€ are an incredible part of Indiaโ€™s architectural history. They were originally designed to harvest rainwater, but they also doubled as communal gathering spots and cool refuges from the harsh desert heat. Most of these stepwells were built between the 5th and 19th centuries, showcasing impressive engineering skills that were crucial for water conservation in arid regions. The most famous of these is Rani ki Vav in Patan, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an absolute must-see (I haven’t been yet).

Stepwells are scattered across Gujarat and Rajasthan, with each offering a unique peek into the past. The intricate carvings, detailed sculptures, and vast underground chambers reflect the architectural prowess of a bygone eraโ€”truly a testament to how deeply water management was embedded in the culture. If you’re into history or architecture, exploring these stepwells is like stepping into a time machine, not to mention a welcome respite from the heat.

Adalaj Stepwell

The Adalaj Vav, Ahmedabad’s most popular (and crowded) stepwell, is a stunning example of Islamic architecture, with five storeys of ornate carvings. It was built in 1499 by Queen Rudabai in memory of her husband. The architecture was mind-blowing, yes, but more was the relief I experienced upon stepping into the sheltered, cool space. “Go hide yourself, scorching sun.”

The columns and balconies throw some serious shadeโ€”literallyโ€”and create the perfect light and shadow show. Itโ€™s an Instagram influencerโ€™s dream come true. If only I could snap my fingers and say, โ€œGo hide yourselves, annoying crowds!โ€

Timings: 8 AM โ€“ 6 PM

Entry Fee: INR 25 for Indian and SAARC visitors and INR 300 for foreign visitors

The Ultimate Two-Day Ahmedabad Itinerary | Adalaj Stepwell
Adalaj Stepwell

Dada Harir Stepwell

Dada Harir Stepwell is one of Ahmedabadโ€™s hidden gems, built in the late 15th century during the reign of Mahmud Begada. It was commissioned by Bai Harir, a noblewoman and the superintendent of the royal harem, and was originally meant to provide water to travelers and locals. Over 500 years later, it still stands as an architectural masterpiece.

The stepwell is five stories deep and built in classic Sanskrit and Islamic architectural styles, with intricate carvings covering its walls, pillars, and arches. The entire structure is made of sandstone, with a series of steps leading down to the lowest level where water was once stored. As you descend, the temperature drops, making it a cool escape from Ahmedabadโ€™s heat.

Itโ€™s much quieter than the more famous Adalaj Stepwell, so if you want to admire ancient craftsmanship without the crowds, this is the place to go. Plus, itโ€™s free to visit, making it an easy addition to your Ahmedabad itinerary.

Timings: 9 AM โ€“ 5 PM

Entry Fee: Free


Hutheesing Jain Temple

Hutheesing Jain Temple is one of Ahmedabadโ€™s most beautiful Jain temples, built in 1848 by a wealthy trader, Sheth Hutheesing Kesarsing. It was constructed during a famine, giving work to hundreds of artisans, which explains its intricate carvings and stunning detail. The temple is dedicated to Lord Dharmanath, the 15th Jain Tirthankara, and features a marble idol of the deity inside its main sanctum. Surrounding it are 52 smaller shrines, each with its own detailed sculptures.

The architecture is classic Maru-Gurjara style, with ornate domes, intricately carved pillars, and a massive Manastambha (victory tower) at the entrance, inspired by similar structures in Rajasthan (Mount Abu). This is a good short visit. The temple is a treat to the eyes.

The ultimate two day Ahmedabad itinerary | Hutheesing Jain Temple
The Hutheesing Jain Temple

Timings: 8 AM โ€“ 6 PM

Entry Fee: Free


Visiting these spots will likely fill up your morning. After a quick afternoon nap to recharge, head over to Kankaria Lake to relax, cool off, and enjoy some people-watching.

Kankaria Lake

Kankaria Lake is a popular recreational spot in Ahmedabad, covering an area of about 34 acres. Built in the 15th century by Sultan Qutb-ud-Din, it was originally known as Hauz-e-Qutub. The lake offers a scenic setting with a walking path around it, perfect for evening strolls. Itโ€™s close to the Old City, so if youโ€™re staying there, it makes sense to swing by.

The lake is a great spot for people-watching. Thereโ€™s a train that takes you around the two-kilometre loop around the lake, but when I visited on a Sunday, it was completely packed, with long queues to board. Tickets cost INR 30 for adults and INR 12 for children. The lake area has plenty of fast food stalls and ice cream shops, making it a nice place to sit and enjoy the sunset. The best time to visit is either sunrise or sunset. Thereโ€™s also a small temple here, run by two priest dudesโ€”think biceps, beard oil, and Bollywood swagger. They hand out prasad like protein bars and chat with visitors like spiritual influencers on a break from the gym. Now, don’t go looking for them; I might have been lucky. For kids, thereโ€™s both a morning zoo and a night zoo (INR 50) to keep them entertained. That said, if youโ€™re not staying in the Old City, Iโ€™d say the Sabarmati Riverfront promenade (in my Day 2 plan) might be a better choice.

Best Time: Sunset. Most attractions are open from 10 AM to 10 PM.ย 

Entry Fee: INR 25 per adult

A Two-Day Ahmedabad Itinerary | Kankariya Lake Scenes
Kankariya Lake Scenes

Law Garden

If you’re looking to shop without the hassle (unless you count bargaining as a hassle) and enjoy a great meal afterward, this is the spot.

The Law Garden Market is famous for its traditional Gujarati clothing, especially bandhani sarees, embroidered kurtis, and garments with mirror work. Youโ€™ll also find an array of handicrafts, jewelry, bags, and home decor at bargain prices. The market has a lively atmosphere with local artisans and vendors displaying their goods, making it a fantastic place to soak in the local culture. Itโ€™s a great spot for souvenirs, especially if you want to take home a piece of Gujarati craftsmanship.

After shopping, head over to the nearby food stalls or restaurants for a tasty treat. The area is famous for its street food, with options like dabeli, khaman, dhokla, and bhajiya. For a sit-down dinner, you can explore local Gujarati thali restaurants offering a wholesome and flavorful array of dishes. Swati Snacks is one of them.

Law Gardenโ€”because the name threw me off at firstโ€”gets its name from the nearby law college.


Now, let’s move on to day two of the Two-Day Ahmedabad Itinerary.

Day 2


The Ahmedabad Heritage Walk

The Ahmedabad Heritage Walk runs daily (INR 200 per Indian | INR 400 per Indian with breakfast [the luxury package], an extra hundred rupees for foreigners). It covers 2 km in about 2 hours, starting from Shree Swaminarayan Mandir, Kalupur. The tour begins at 7:30 AM. Just arrive at the temple, head in, and take the stairs up to your left. If you need help, ask the guard. The tour kicks off with a short movie at 7:45 AM, followed by the actual tour starting at 8 AM. It was an excellent experience, well led by our guide, Sridhar – I think his name was.

Along the way, you’ll see an eclectic mix of Hindu, Jain, and Islamic architecture, complete with colorful stained glass, intricately carved doors and charming little sculptures perched on top as if watching over the city. Expect winding, maze-like streets where getting lost is half the funโ€”until your guide finds you again. As a refresher, we walked along ‘pols,’ย which in Ahmedabad refers to traditional residential neighbourhoods or a cluster of houses within the city’s historic old town. Pols are typically characterized by narrow, winding streets, traditional Gujarati-style homes, often with ornate wooden facades and intricate carvings, community spaces, such as temples, mosques, and public squares, a water source, and a strong sense of community and neighborhood. People of the same type lived together. There are over 500 pols in Ahmedabad’s old city.

The Heritage Walk, also known as theย Mandir to Masjid Walk, passes through:

  • Swaminarayan Temple:ย The starting point of the walk, this temple from 1822 is known for its intricate Burma teak wood carvings.
  • Kavi Dalpatram Chowk:ย A memorial dedicated to the famous Gujarati poet Dalpatram.
  • Calico Dome:ย This iconic geodesic structure, inspired by Buckminster Fuller’s designs, was constructed in 1962 and served as a showroom for Calico Mills. (Currently under renovation)
  • Kala Ramji Mandir:ย This temple is unique, featuring a black idol of Lord Rama. What makes it even more interesting is its structure and location, which offers a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of those living in the pols. The architecture here is a reflection of community life: houses are stacked above the temple, with a courtyard below, creating a space where people live close to each other, fostering a strong sense of community.
  • Shantinath Ni Pol:ย A traditional residential area (pol) with beautiful wooden houses.
  • Chandla Ol:ย A street known for its historical Jain and Hindu architecture.
  • Doshiwada Ni Pol:ย Home to Ahmedabadโ€™s traditional jewellery makers.
  • Muharat Pol:ย The oldest pol (neighborhood) in the city, dating back to the founding of Ahmedabad in 1411. The Old Ahmedabad Stock Exchange is located near Muhurat Pol.
  • Manek Chowk:ย A bustling market square that transforms into a famous food street at night. It is an experience to be here.
  • Badshah No Hajiro:ย The royal tomb of Ahmed Shah I, founder of Ahmedabad.
  • Rani No Hajiro: The tomb complex of Ahmed Shahโ€™s queens, known for its Indo-Islamic architecture. Good for shopping traditional wares.
  • Jama Masjid:ย The grand 15th-century mosque built by Sultan Ahmed Shah marks the end of the walk.
  • Optional breakfast at Chandravilas (Since 1900)

Riverfront Promenade and a Cruise

The Sabarmati Riverfront Promenade blew my mind. At first glanceโ€”and you might laugh because I did a mental chuckle tooโ€”it reminded me of the Seine in Paris. But then later, I thought it was more like the River Liffey in Dublin (I had just visited Ireland), with its many beautiful bridges, especially the impressive Atal Sethu. The lighting, flower displays, and cleanliness of the entire riverfront were truly exceptional and, honestly, unexpected of an Indian city. (Olympics, here we come!)

The Sabarmati Riverfront Promenade is a revamped riverside area that runs along the Sabarmati River in Ahmedabad. Spanning about 11.5 km through the heart of the city, itโ€™s a great spot for locals and visitors to unwind and enjoy a variety of activities. The promenade was part of a larger city makeover, and itโ€™s got everything from beautiful gardens and walking/cycling paths to boating stations and areas for cultural events. A standout feature is the Atal Pedestrian Bridge, a 300-meter-long bridge that connects both sides of the river. Opened in 2022, the bridgeโ€™s design is inspired by traditional kite motifs, celebrating Ahmedabadโ€™s love for kite flying.

One can take a cruise on the river through Akshar River Cruises. Plies 7 PM โ€“ 10:30 PM and costs about INR 2000 per person.

The Ultimate Two-Day Ahmedabad Itinerary | Ahmedabad Night scenes
Ahmedabad Night scenes


Optional Attractions

Textile Museums

The Calico Museum of Textiles came highly recommended as one of the country’s best textile museums, showcasing rare fabrics, royal costumes, and the rich traditions of Indian weaving. Entry is free, but one needs to book in advance. I tried every way possible to get a bookingโ€”emails, phone calls, even the website, which seemed like a portal to a black hole. After several attempts and no luck, I gave up and didnโ€™t end up visiting. Guess Iโ€™ll just have to admire the fabric of the situation from afar!

The Indigo Art Museum is another one which I did not visit but heard about. The museum is located within the Kasturbhai Lalbhai Museum complex in Shahibaug and is dedicated to celebrating the rich history and cultural significance of indigo dye. Established in 2019, it showcases a diverse collection of artworks, installations, and artifacts that highlight indigo’s global influence across various mediums. Open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM (closed on Mondays).

Sardar Patel Museum

The Sardar Patel Museum in Ahmedabad is dedicated to the life and legacy of India’s first Deputy Prime Minister, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Located in the Shahibaug area, the museum showcases various exhibits related to Patelโ€™s contributions to Indiaโ€™s independence and integration. It features photographs, documents, and personal belongings, offering visitors a glimpse into his life and political career. The museum also highlights his role in the unification of India and his deep connection with the people. A visit here provides valuable insights into one of Indiaโ€™s most influential leaders. Open 9:30 AM โ€“ 5:30 PM (Closed on Mondays). Entry fee: INR 20

Amdavad Ni Gufa

Amdavad Ni Gufa is a cool art gallery in Ahmedabad designed by the famous architect, B.V. Doshi and sporting artwork by renowned Indian artist M.F. Husain. Itโ€™s a bit of an architectural marvel, with its unique cave-like structure and funky, curved walls that make it stand out. The gallery hosts various exhibitions, so thereโ€™s always something interesting to check out. Plus, itโ€™s tucked away near the Sabarmati River, making it a nice spot to chill and soak in some art. Worth a visit if youโ€™re into offbeat places! Open 4 PM โ€“ 8 PM (Closed on Mondays). Entry is free.


Day Trips

A host of day trips allows you to see the places around Ahmedabad closely and easily. Notable day trips are

Rani Ki Vav and The Modhera Sun Temple

Rani ki Vav, the UNESCO-listed stepwell constructed by Queen Udayamati in memory of King Bhimdev I, was rediscovered in the 1960s. It features over 500 intricate sculptures depicting deities, Dashavatars, and Yoginis. It is one of the most impressive stepwells in India.

Visit Timings: 8:30 AM โ€“ 5:30 PM (Open Daily)
Entry Fee: INR 300 for Indians | INR 600 for foriegners

The Modhera Sun Temple was built in 1026 by King Bhimdev I. This Sun Temple is aligned with the Tropic of Cancer, ensuring that the first rays of the sun fall precisely on the deityโ€™s crown during the equinoxes.

Visit Timings: 8:30 AM โ€“ 5:30 PM (Open Daily)
Light Show: 7 PM
Entry Fee: INR 300 per person

This recommended tourย covers both Patan and Modhera.


Statue of Unity and Ekta Nagar

The Statue of Unity is a huge, impressive monument dedicated to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, located about 200 km from Ahmedabad. Itโ€™s the worldโ€™s tallest statue at 182 metersโ€”try wrapping your head around that! The whole place is in Ekta Nagar, which is basically like a mini-town built around the statue. Youโ€™ll get there in about 5 hours, and itโ€™s worth it if you are a large group of friends or have children to keep entertained.

Once you check into your hotel, freshen up, and grab lunch, head out to explore the Valley of Flowers and, of course, the statue itself. The views are stunning, and you can learn all about Sardar Patelโ€™s role in Indiaโ€™s history. There are amusement parks and other distratcions around. To wrap up your day, catch the laser show in the evening. Itโ€™s a fun spectacle with light, sound, and a bit of drama, and it brings the whole experience to life.

A recommended tour.

Statue of Unity Tickets: Available at www.soutickets.in

You can also do a day trip to Vadodara and visit the Laxmi Vilas Palace.ย 


Where to Eat

If you want to truly dive into the essence of Ahmedabad’s local cuisine, go for a food walk. It’s the best way to taste the city’s flavors and experience its food culture firsthand. If you want to do it yourself, here are some recommendations.

Tried and Tested

  • Manek Chowk Night Street Food (In Old City, after 8 PM):ย This offers a great variety of street food but gets super crowded, so be prepared for the hustle.
  • Chandravilas (Manek Chowk, Old City):ย I tried it but wasnโ€™t blown away. Itโ€™s the last stop on the heritage walk if you go for the luxury package (INR 400 per adult).
  • Agashiye and The Green House Cafรฉ at the House of MG (Old City): This is a memorable experience with amazing food, though itโ€™s on the pricey side.
  • Swati Restaurant (Law Garden): This is a solid option, but it is similar to its Mumbai counterpart.
  • Cafe Native Stories (CEE, Near NFD circle):ย Tasty food with a relaxed ambiance.
  • Ice Cream Library / Havmor / Other Local Ice Cream Spots:ย Ahmedabadis love their ice cream, and you’ll find plenty of spots serving up sweet treats!

Recommended but Not Tried

  • Radhe Hotel: Situated in the Kalupur area, Radhe Hotel is known for its traditional Gujarati cuisine.โ€‹
  • Gope Restaurant: Located near the Ellis Bridge, Gope Restaurant offers a variety of Indian and Chinese dishes.โ€‹
  • Vishalla: Found in the Vasna locality, Vishalla is a popular spot for authentic Gujarati thali meals in a rustic setting.โ€‹
  • Rajwada: Situated in the Paldi area, Rajwada is renowned for its royal ambiance and traditional Indian cuisine.โ€‹
  • Gordhan: Located in the Manek Chowk vicinity, Gordhan is famous for its traditional Gujarati snacks and sweets.โ€‹
  • ISKCON Ahmedabad: Situated in the Shahibaug area, ISKCON Ahmedabad is a temple complex that also houses a vegetarian restaurant offering prasadam.โ€‹
  • Patang Re-Evolve โ€“ Dine with a View: Located near the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, Patang Re-Evolve offers a unique dining experience with panoramic views of the city.
A Two-Day Ahmedabad Itinerary | Food Scenes at Ahmedabad
Food Scenes at Ahmedabad

Other Gujarat itineraries: Gir and Kutch.

My Recommended Travel Sites

This is how I plan all my trips quickly and economically. These are my go-to travel planning sites:

  • Start at TripAdvisor to explore top things to do and create a rough itinerary.
  • Use Viator or GetYourGuide for day tours and experiences.
  • Book stays on Booking.com for flexible and cancellable options.
  • Get Priority Pass for airport lounge access and smoother layovers.
  • Search best airfare deals on Skyscanner. Try the โ€œTo: Everywhereโ€ option to discover new ideas.

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