Local Buzz

Nature lovers, history buffs, art aficionados—the city caters to all kinds of travellers.

Iconic Delights

Located in the Sabarmati suburb of Ahmedabad, the 1 Sabarmati Ashram was the first ashram set up by Mahatma Gandhi upon his return from South Africa. Today, it is closely associated with the history of the Indian freedom struggle and is stocked with various artefacts and personal letters of the Mahatma. Amidst the hustle and bustle of the city lies the lush green 2 Law Garden where you can shop for beautiful keepsakes and souvenirs or budget outfits and handicrafts. Go on the local tour organised by the municipal corporation of Ahmedabad that starts from 3 Shree Swaminarayan Mandir and finishes at the 4 Jama Masjid. For ` 100/ USD1.5, you get to explore local nooks and corners of the public courtyards with a guide. The two pairs of 5 Jhulta Minara in Ahmedabad—one located opposite the Sarangpur Darwaja and the other near the Kalupur Railway Station Area— are architectural wonders. Every time one of the two minarets or pillars is shaken, the other minaret vibrates.

Spiritual Quests

Located just 30 kilometres from the city, on the Ahmedabad-Gandhinagar border, the 6 Akshardham

Temple is frequented not only by Lord Swaminarayan devotees but also art and architecture enthusiasts. You can participate in spiritual rituals, enjoy the exhibitions, or simply relax in the gardens. The iconic Jama Masjid, built in 1424, in Ahmedabad, is one of the largest mosques in India. Situated to the west of Manek Chowk, the mosque flaunts 15th-century IndoIslamic architecture, complete with majestic interiors, detailed niche carvings, and a domed roof. Another highly revered mosque and tomb complex, 7 Sarkhej Roza is an architectural gem and a must-visit for those looking for serenity and silence.

Museum Trails

The 8 World Vintage Car Museum (vccci.com) is where you can find a rare collection of Bentleys, Jaguars, Cadillacs, Austins, etc. For a minimal charge of ` 500/USD7, you can drive some of the selected versions on display. 9 The Calico Museum of Textiles (calicomuseum.org) is located in a wooden haveli surrounded by lush gardens, and its collection of fabrics and embellishments date back to the 17th century. There’s also the 10 Vechaar Utensils Museum (vechaar.com) that displays a wide array of stainless steel, copper, and glass works.

The monument of Sarkhej Roja was built in the 15th century.

Clockwise from left: Ahmedabad’s Jama Masjid is one of the largest mosques in India; the annual International Kite Festival turns the city into a riot of colours; try your hand at charkha (spinning wheel) at the Sabarmati Ashram.