Kem Chho, Amdavad?
Ahmedabad, lovingly known as Amdavad, is the prime Indian Metropolitan city. The very essence of this city can be captured in the colloquial greeting, "Kem Chho," which translates to "How are you?" It reflects the warmth and hospitality that defines the spirit of the city and the people residing here. The history of modern Ahmedabad dates back to the 15th century when Sultan Ahmad Shah founded it. Over the centuries, the city has witnessed the rise and fall of several empires, the emergence of iconic monuments, and the enduring legacy of its people. It has been a witness to India's struggle for independence, with leaders like Mahatma Gandhi making it the centre of the non-violent Satyagraha movement. The culture of Ahmedabad is a beautiful mark woven with the threads of tradition. It is a scene to witness during the lively Navratri dance, where Dandiya and Garba make everyone ecstatic. The traditional dresses and these nine nights bring the soul alive for everyone.
If you are here in the city, you cannot miss the Gujarati cuisine. The cuisine of Ahmedabad is a culinary journey from street food like khaman, dhokla, and fafda to the Gujarati thali. Try the Indian speciality Bhel Puri or Gol Gappe, which are ever-present. You can visit popular food joints like Kanha or Krishna Sweets for that. Moreover, Ahmedabad is also an emerging hub of education, technology, and innovation. The city's numerous educational institutions and research centres contribute to its growth and development on the global stage. IIM Ahmedabad is the top management college in India. Amdavad is undoubtedly a city that embodies the true essence of Gujarat's vibrant culture and heritage. It welcomes visitors with open arms and leaves an everlasting impression on their hearts.
Places to visit in Ahmedabad
Having an itinerary in your mind can help you visit all the places in your set vacation duration. IndiGo has bundled up a few of the most prominent places in Ahmedabad that deserves your attention.
- Sabarmati Ashram: A trip to Ahmedabad is incomplete without Sabarmati Ashram. Located on the banks of the Sabarmati River in the city, this peaceful abode was the residence of the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi, from 1917 to 1930. Sabarmati Ashram became the nerve centre for Mahatma Gandhi's philosophy of truth, non-violence, and self-reliance, popularly known as Satyagraha. Here, Gandhiji and his followers adopted a simple lifestyle, living in huts and dedicating themselves to the upliftment of society and the nation. The ashram was a platform for various socio-political initiatives, including Khadi production and promotion of women's rights, eradication of untouchability, and encouraging communal harmony. These themes are relevant to this day.
- Akshardham: Just a few km away from the city centre, you will find Akshardham. It is a splendid temple in Gandhinagar. It is a monumental tribute to Bhagwan Swaminarayan, the founder of the Swaminarayan faith, and is dedicated to his teachings of spirituality, service, and peace. The central attraction of Akshardham is the Akshardham Mandir, a magnificent structure built using traditional architectural techniques. The temple's pink sandstone and white marble façade add to its majestic beauty. Visitors can witness the divine idol of Bhagwan Swaminarayan inside the temple, radiating serenity and spiritual grace. The temple's sanctum provides a peaceful space for prayer and introspection.
- Sabarmati Waterfront: The Sabarmati Waterfront is not just a recreational space, it holds great historical significance as it played a pivotal role in Mahatma Gandhi's life during the Indian Independence movement. Today, the waterfront serves as a tribute to his ideologies of non-violence and peace. Lush green parks, beautifully landscaped gardens, and cycling tracks are equally inviting. Take your other half with you and spend the evening witnessing the calm river. The well-maintained promenade offers a perfect spot for strolls. There is also an amphitheatre along the waterfront. You can witness artists showcasing their talents. Visit in the morning to take a jog or interact with the local people.
- Hutheesing Jain Temple: Hutheesing Jain Temple is a prominent religious site located in the heart of the city. It was built in 1848 by a wealthy Jain merchant, Sheth Hutheesing. The temple is dedicated to the 15th Jain Tirthankara, Lord Dharmanatha, and is a revered place of worship for the Jain community. The temple's architectural style is a mix of traditional Jain temple design and elements inspired by Hindu architecture. It features an elegant white marble facade with detailed carvings and elaborate sculptures. Take the blessings from the lord and learn more about this temple's history at the site.
- Adalaj Stepwell: Visit the Adalaj Stepwell to explore the gracefulness of these steps of Adalaj village. Built in the 15th century by Queen Rudabai, this magnificent stepwell stands as a testament to the engineering skills of that era. It serves not only as a functional structure for water conservation but also as a symbol of spirituality. The five-story structure and the photos you can get there are bound to stay with you forever. The stepwell features a unique combination of Islamic and Hindu architectural styles. In the past, it served as a gathering place for locals to fetch water and seek respite from the scorching heat of Gujarat's summers. Today, it remains a popular tourist destination.
- Teen Darwaza: End your trip by exploring the brilliance of Teen Darwaza. It was originally constructed as the royal entrance to the Bhadra Fort, which was the residence of the rulers of Gujarat during the Sultanate period. The majestic arched gateway with three openings was designed to welcome and impress dignitaries and visitors who entered the city. The detailed stonework on the Teen Darwaza's facade showcases that era's fine craftsmanship. The arches and balconies are embellished with delicate latticework. That perfectly reflects the Indo-Islamic architectural style prevalent during its construction.
Ahmedabad Airport (AMD)
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (AMD) is one of the most prominent airports in the country in terms of international connectivity and amenities. You can easily find ATMs, Duty-Free Shops, Currency exchange and several eating options at the airport. The airport is almost 9 km from the city centre and has two terminals: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. You can find domestic flights in Terminal 1 and international flights in Terminal 2. Buses, taxis, car rentals, and rickshaws seamlessly connect this airport to the rest of the city.
