Ahmedabad India Travel Guide

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Ahmedabad History

Ahmedabad’s history begins with King Karandev I, the Hindu ruler, and his war with the Bhil King Ashaval. King Karandev was victorious, and he formed a city in his own name called Karnavati. The city gained its full importance under his rule.

In the early 15th century the Mughal King Sultan Ahmed Shah, captured the region and renamed the city Ahmedabad. It was at this time that the state was annexed into the Muslim kingdom. The city under Sultan Ahmed Shah started a tremendous expansion on both sides of the river. The famous Bhadra fort was built during his regime.

By the middle of the 18h century, the might warriors of the Maratha clan had started their campaigns of war and conquest. In the year 1753 Damaji Gaekwad and Raghunath Rao combined forces and attacked the region. Their wars put an end to the Mughal rule in the state. Unfortunately in their 64 years of rule, the city didn’t flourish as much as it had under the Mughal rule.

In 1818 the British took over the administration of the city, as they had with every city in India. The city was played an important part in India’s struggle for independence from the British. Mahatma Gandhi used Gujarat as his base, and setup an ashram on the banks of the river Sabarmati.

Ahmedabad Attractions

There are a lot of things to do in Ahmedabad. The Sabarmati Ashram is one of the biggest tourist attractions of the city. Built in the year 1905, the ashram served as the headquarters for the Mahatma himself. It was from this place that he took off for endless protests against the British. In the ashram you will be able to find his works, his teachings; also you will be able to see the statue of the Three Monkeys of Mahatma Gandhi.

To the southeast of the city you can visit Kankaria Lake, built in the year 1451. This artificial lake has a complete island summer palace on it. With a zoo, an aquarium, boat club and an open air theatre, this place becomes popular tourist attraction.

You can also visit the famous Bhadra fort that once had a beautiful palace and gardens inside, or the checkout the old Bhadrakali temple built by the Marathas. Another highlight is the eccentric Juma Masjid. Another attraction is the one-of-a-kind Calico Textile Museum, which displays beautiful textiles dating back to the 17th century.

Ahmedabad Excursions

People into bird watching can travel 130 kilometers to the Nal Sarovar. Spread on an area of 150 square kilometers, with more than 250 islets, and hundreds of species of birds, this place is a haven for tourists.

Only 19 kilometers from the city is Adalaj Wav, popularly know as the Wav. It is a step-well built in 1499 by the queen of Waghela. This edifice has galleries, slots and latticed windows underground.

About 80 KMS from the city is Lothal, a great archaeological attraction. Presumed to be associated with the Indus Valley Civilization, it is one of the major attractions of the region. Also you can travel 200 kilometers to the mesmerizing city of Mumbai.

Ahmedabad Shopping

Ahmedabad has large number of sky-high malls, where you can get international brands at nominal rates. But it’s the upbeat markets like the Relief road market and C.G. market that are a must see for the Ahmedabad shopping enthusiasts.

You can also try the Government owned multi storied Gavi and Gurjari for crafts. If you are interested in high quality silks you must visit the Kala Niketan.

Ahmedabad Cuisine

Ahmedabad has hundreds of restaurants, so you are sure to get a good variety of cuisines. One delicacy is the local Khakri, which is a must try if you’re in Gujarat. To get a wide sampling of the cuisine though, you might want to try the Gujarati thali, which is a plate full of Gujarat’s specialties.

Ahmedabad Nightlife

Gujarat is where Mahatma Gandhi was born and in honor of him the Government has kept its restrictions on alcohol. You can get booze at the star rated hotels, though at a high price.

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