Everyone remembers Amitabh Bachchan saying 'Kuch din toh guzaaro Gujarat main' in the Gujarat Tourism advertisement. And if you have planned a trip to Gujarat, it would remain incomplete if you don't visit Ahmedabad or as the locals say Amdavad. Ahmedabad is the largest city of Gujarat and was the previous capital of the state. With the total population of 5,633,927, it is the 5th most populated city of India. Known for its heritage value, Ahmedabad has many things to offer to its visitors. It is located on the banks of Sabarmati river which adds to the natural beauty of the city. It was ranked third in the Forbes's list in 2010 for the fastest growing city of the decade. So here is what you should look forward to in your visit to the splendid city of Ahmedabad.
1. A step closer to spirituality: The religious sites of Ahmedabad
There are more than 500 temples in Ahmedabad and pilgrims from all over the world comes to visit and pray for the well-being of their loved ones. Modhera Sun temple, Hathisingh Jain temple, Swami Narayan temple, Shri Hanumanji temple, Shree Jagannath temple, Bhadrakali Maa temple, Devendrashwar temple, Vaishnodevi temple and Akshardham temple are some of them. Due to its magnificent architechture, more than 2 million people visit Akshardham temple annually.
2. Revisiting the past: The museums of Ahmedabad
If you have an interest in history, Ahmedabad can be a perfect paradise for you. Auto World Vintage Car Museum is one of the best museum in the world which is themed entirely on vintage, utility and antique motor cars. Motorcycles and buggies can also be found here. It was constructed and designed by General Motors in the year 1927. Some of the other museums are Gujarat Science City, Calico Museum of Textiles, Utensil Museum, Kite Museum, Archer Art Gallery and many more.
3. A tribute to the father of the nation: Sabarmati Ashram
This place requires no introduction as this was one of the homes of Mahatma Gandhi where he lived for about 12 years with his wife, Kasturba Gandhi. It was from this ashram where Gandhiji begun the Salt Satyagraha on 12 March 1930. This place holds a huge historical value because of which the Indian government established the Ashram as a national monument. Visit this place to pay you homage to this great man.
4. Escape into the vivid and magnificent architecture: The monuments of Ahmedabad
There are about 203 monuments in Gujarat which are officially recognized by the Archeological Survey of India (ASI) as the monuments of National Importance and some of them are in Ahmedabad. Bhadra Gate. Sidi Saiyyed Mosque, Ahmed Shahi Tomb, Panchkua Gate and Teen Darwaza are some of them. Built in 1415, Teen Darwaza is one of the oldest monument of India.
5. Delicious food and comfortable stay: The Restaurants and Hotels of Ahmedabad
If you are travelling under budget constraints, you can check the budget hotels in Ahmedabad on Internet. Or for a hassle free and convenient stay, look up for the hotels in Ahmedabad near railway station. Don't forget to try the authentic Gujarati dishes as Ahmedabad has more than 800 registered restaurants. Eat local, that's what we would recommend.
Martin Wynn
