Tourist Places to explore in Ahmedabad
Ahmedabad has surely changed from the time of Sultan Ahmed Shah and become a prominent metropolis, but what hasn’t changed about it is its charm. The city has always been the heartbeat of western India and has remained an important seat no matter which era we talk of.
Today, we see a wonderful city of old and new Ahmedabad and it indeed does keep things interesting for the tourists.
Here are the places we bring you to visit and explore more and more and proved to be the tourists attractions in Ahmedabad.
Jumma Masjid
Jumma Masjid, located towards the eastern side of Teen Darwaza, is one of the most sacred mosques in Ahmedabad. It was built in 1423 A.D. by Sultan Ahmed Shah, who is known to be the founder of the city. Mosque has been constructed using yellow sandstone, which reflects the amalgamation of Hindu and Islamic styles in the architecture. The mosque consists of 15 domes that are supported by 260 pillars.
Sidi Saiyyad Mosque
Siddi Sayed Mosque is one of the most photographed monuments in Ahmedabad. It is situated in the northeast corner of Bhadra Fort and is famed for its latticework over the yellow sandstone. The major highlight of this mosque is the twin jails on the western wall that depicts intertwining of tree branches. The carving is well appreciated as it has been done with excellent delicacy.
Sabarmati Ashram
Sabarmati Ashram, which is located at banks of the Sabarmati River, was found in 1915. This ashram was the residence of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi till 1930. During the time of independence movement, the ashram was referred to as the Satyagrah Ashram. This ashram was the inception point for famous Dandi March in 1930, due to which it has been declared as the national monument.
Along with the museum, this ashram houses a library, auditorium and photo galleries depicting the life of Mahatma Gandhi. The exhibition in the museum consists of 8 life-size painting and around 250 photo-enlargements historic events of Gandhi’s life. Visitors can also see the archive of letters written by Gandhi, displayed in the galleries of the museum.
The Pols
Pols are the tightly packed conglomeration of houses, built to ensure safety and security of the people. Ideally, a pol would have one or two entrances and secret exits, which only the people residing in the Pol would know about. In Gujarat, pols can be found at many places; however, the pols in the old city of Ahmedabad are its best example. The most famed pol is situated near the Manek Chowk. In many pols, one would find a personal temple built at the centre and chabutro (tall poles placed for bird feeding). Today, many pols have been converted into cottage industries, so one may find people on the steps hand-sewing books or crimping the silver. Visiting these pols in the Old City is a one of its kind experience in Ahmedabad
Sarkhej Roja
Another great place for people to sightsee in Ahmedabad is Sarkhej Roja.
Sarkhej Roza is a mosque and tomb complex located in the village of Makarba – Ahmedabad. It’s a beautiful place with a pond in the middle. Peaceful sitting areas, walking paths and intricate architecture. There’s a mosque with shoe locker facility. If you’re a fan of architecture, do visit.
Teen Darwaza
Situated southeast of the Bhadra Fort, the Teen Darwaza (Triple Gateway) was the entrance to the Royal Square or Maidan Shahi where the royal processions and polo games were once held. Today, the Teen Darwaza straddles the road, which is replete with shops selling block prints, silverware and other small items.
Shah Alam Roza
It is a famous Sufi shrine that draws a lot of visitors. Shah Alam Roza is a tomb complex, which is well known for its exquisite architecture. The highlight of the tomb complex is the dome that has been decorated with gold and precious stones.
To the west of the tomb is a mosque, which is done in typical Islamic architecture. To the south of the mosque is a tomb that has twenty four small domes, where the Shah- e-Alam’s family including Saiyyd Makhdum Alam, the sixth grandson of Shah-e- Alam is buried. Outside of the wall to the west is an argo reservoir built by the wife of Taj Khan Nariali.
Kankaria Lake
Kankaria Lake, which was earlier known as Hauj-E-Kutub, is the biggest lake in Ahmedabad. During the time of kings, this lake served as the bathing place for all the badshahs. Built by Sultan Kutubuddin in 15th century, this lake consisted of a water purification system.
Near the lake, there is a gym called Ambubhai Purani Vyayamshala. Today, the lake is a popular picnic spot with lighted walkways and food corners. This lake is located in the southern part of the city in Maninagar area.
Hutheesing Jain Temple
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Hathisingh Jain Temple was established in 1850 by Seth Hathisingh, who was a rich Jain merchant. This temple is dedicated to the 15th ‘Jain Tirthankar’, known as Dharamnath. The temple is made using white marble, which is adorned with intricately designed carvings. The temple is a double-storied building.
There are 52 shrines in the temple, each of which adorns an image of a ‘Tirthankar’. One of the shrines has the marble replica of the 15th Tirthankar, Dharamnath. Hathisingh Jain Temple is surrounded by porches in distinct arrangement from three sides. The porch that is in the front of the temple is ornamented by a dome shaped structure.
Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary
Ahmedabad’s Nal Sarovar bird sanctuary is a beautiful natural lake which makes an excellent sightseeing spot for tourists. Spread over an area of 116 sq. km, this place attracts more tourists because of its vivid birds that migrate from Siberia. Nal Sarovar serves as an oasis of tranquility and serenity in the midst of hustle and bustle of the Ahmedabad’s city life. You can see flocks of birds mainly consisting of ducks, flamingos, pelicans, and geese visiting this Lake.
Akshardham Temple
Akshardham Temple is located in Gandhinagar, which is situated about 25kms from Ahmedabad. The temple is dedicated to Swaminarayan and is the best example of contemporary architecture and style. Akshardham is considered a place of education, enlightment and in a way entertainment.
More than 2 million people are estimated to visit the temple each year. The major attractions of the temple are its 10 story tall golden idol of Swaminarayan; Mystic India, a film on an incredible journey of an 11-year old child yogi called Neelkanth; the light and music show called Sat Chit Anand Watershow and audio animatronic shows.
Adalaj Stepwell
Step wells are quite prominent in Gujarat as they were the only source of water in the arid regions. Thus, the people of Gujarat decided to decorate and ornament these giant structures as well. There are innumerable step wells or vavs in Gujarat and Ahmedabad has one of the finest of all. Named as Adlaj Vav; this step well was built in 1499 by Rudabai, the wife of a local chieftain. The step well is adorned with beautiful platforms and galleries.
The shafts of the well are profusely carved with floral and geometric motifs, interspersed with a number of figurines. The carved pillars that support the pavilions are flooded with diffused light and provide ideal resting places. This beautiful Vav is certainly one of the finest places to visit in Ahmedabad.
Lothal
About 75kms from Ahmedabad, Lothal offers the remains of a commendable city of the Indus Valley Civilization that existed 4500 years ago. The site reveals the foundation of a well-planned city with paved drains, channels, wells, public baths and block of houses.
Bead accessories, earthen pots, birds and animal motifs, seal and weighting instruments were also found here. So, if you are someone who loves digging history, Lothal can be an enthralling destination for you.
Manek Chowk
Best place in Ahmedabad to satiate your taste buds. The street in front of jewellery shops in the daytime turns into an awesome food street during late evenings till past midnight.
Located in the old city, this place is more than a chaotic square. Manek Chowk is surrounded by many historical buildings and has a bustling multi-purpose market.
