Ahmedabad
A City Close to My Heart
Being from Ahmedabad, this city is more than just a travel destination for me—it’s home. The perfect blend of heritage, modern infrastructure, and vibrant culture makes it one of India’s most lively cities. Whether it’s cycling on Atal Bridge, exploring historic streets on a heritage walk, or celebrating Navratri till dawn, Ahmedabad never fails to amaze me.
If you’re planning to visit, here’s a perfect itinerary to explore the soul of Ahmedabad.
Start Your Day: Cycling at Sabarmati Riverfront
Mornings in Ahmedabad are best spent cycling along the Sabarmati Riverfront. You can rent a bicycle for just ₹100 (ID card required) and ride across the scenic Atal Bridge, a stunning pedestrian bridge that glows with vibrant colors at night.
Pro Tip: If you’re solo, don’t worry! The Riverfront is full of fitness enthusiasts, yoga groups, and runners—it’s the best way to start the day with good energy.
Night View of Atal Bridge & Riverside Dining
The night experience at Atal Bridge is completely different. The bridge, beautifully illuminated above the Sabarmati River, offers a breathtaking view of the city lights. You can grab a bite from food stalls on the bridge while enjoying the peaceful ambiance.
Must Try: Local street food vendors sell delicious snacks like bhaji pav, sandwiches, and chilled juices—perfect for a relaxed evening by the river.
Step Into History: Heritage Walk of Ahmedabad
To truly understand Ahmedabad, a Heritage Walk is a must! Organized by Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation, this two-hour guided tour takes you through the hidden gems of the Old City, showcasing the blend of Hindu, Islamic, and Jain architecture.
Key Spots Covered:
- Swaminarayan Temple (Kalupur) – A beautiful wooden-carved temple
- Pol Houses & Chabutras – Unique community housing with bird feeders
- Jama Masjid – An Indo-Islamic architectural marvel
- Badshah No Hajiro & Rani No Hajiro – Historical tombs of Ahmedabad's rulers
Timings: Every weekend, 7:30 AM
Meeting Point: Swaminarayan Temple, Kalupur
Register Here: Ahmedabad Heritage Walk Website
Sabarmati Ashram: Walk Through Gandhi's Legacy
No visit to Ahmedabad is complete without a stop at Sabarmati Ashram (also known as Gandhi Ashram). Located by the Sabarmati River, this is where Mahatma Gandhi lived for 12 years and started the Dandi March in 1930.
Highlights of the Ashram:
- Gandhi's Cottage (Hriday Kunj) – Preserved in its original state
- Museum with Letters & Photographs – Insights into Gandhi's life
- Handmade Khadi Store – A great place to buy authentic Khadi clothing & books
The vibe here is peaceful, and people from around the world visit to pay tribute to the Father of the Nation.
Easy Transport Between Places
Getting around Ahmedabad is super easy! The city has less traffic compared to other metros, making travel hassle-free.
Transport Options:
- Auto Rickshaws & Ola/Uber – Best for short distances
- BRTS – Fast and budget-friendly
- AMTS – Covers all major areas
- Ahmedabad Metro – The newly launched metro connects major parts of the city, making travel quick and convenient.
Best Time to Visit: Avoid summers (April to June) as temperatures soar above 40°C!
Navratri in Ahmedabad: The Festival That Never Sleeps!
If you’re in Ahmedabad during Navratri, you’re in for a once-in-a-lifetime experience! This 9-day festival is celebrated with Garba & Dandiya nights, where thousands of people dress in traditional attire and dance till dawn.
Best Garba Venues in Ahmedabad:
When it comes to Garba in Ahmedabad, you simply can’t say no to any place—every corner of the city is alive with music, energy, and tradition. However, if you’re looking for some of the most popular and recommended venues, here are my top picks:
- RedFM Garba – High-energy, modern beats with a massive crowd
- Adani Shantigram – Grand celebrations with stunning ambiance
- Karnavati Club – A perfect mix of elegance and tradition
- YMCA Club – Well-organized, family-friendly Garba nights
- Mandali Garbas – The heart of authentic and cultural Garba
Whether you’re a pro dancer or just soaking in the festive vibes, Ahmedabad’s Navratri nights will make you fall in love with this city!
Late-Night Food: The streets are alive till 4 AM with tea stalls, bhaji pav, and local snacks—you’ll never go hungry in Navratri!
Final Thoughts
Ahmedabad is more than just a city—it’s an emotion, a cultural hub, and a place that keeps calling you back. Whether you’re cycling at sunrise, walking through history, or dancing till dawn, there’s always something to do in Ahmedabad.
Have you visited Dwarka? What was your most memorable moment? Let me know in the comments!
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Rinkal
Rinkal is a passionate traveler from Ahmedabad who loves exploring hidden gems, savoring local foods, and sharing adventures with fellow wanderers. Rinkal’s goal is to inspire others to travel on a budget while truly experiencing the essence of each place.
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