Ahmedabad Tourism

One of the most colourful cities of Gujarat, Ahmedabad is a traveller’s delight. Even a brief Ahmedabad tour is enough to make you fall in love with this historic city. From history and culture to arts and architecture, Ahmedabad tourism is a palette of vibrant hues that will colour your heart happy. On one hand, the city’s cultural past will guide you unerringly through the maze of history, while on the other, the vibrant present will make you give in to the city’s delights.

Though Ahmedabad is firmly grounded in its history, the city is fast growing into a megapolis of the future. Ahmedabad tourism seems to have it all, a future-ready infrastructure, well-connected public transport and a plethora of places to visit. Add to that a multitude to things to do and Ahmedabad can easily be counted amongst the best of holiday destinations across India.

The tranquillity of Sabarmati Ashram is beautifully contrasted by the city’s bustling markets. This contrast seems to be the very essence of Ahmedabad tourism. So, the next time you embark on an Ahmedabad tour, be sure to enjoy both the sides of this marvellous city that is modern in its outlook yet traditional at heart.

Geography of Ahmedabad

Ahmedabad, sometimes also known as Amdavad, is settled on the banks of Sabarmati River in northern part of Gujarat. Located at an average height of 53 metres above sea level, the entire city features a flat topography, with the exception of Thatlej-Jodhpur Tekra. The Sabarmati, which flows through the entire city, has been irrevocably tied to the city’s identity. Though a perennial river, it is reduced to a small stream in summer.

Sabarmati divides the city into two parts. While the old city straddles the eastern bank of the river, the western side is the modern face of Amdavad. The old city houses all the historical landmarks of the city as well as its main railway station. The newer side features modern buildings, modern malls, multiplexes, well-planned residential areas and the city’s new business districts.

Climate of Ahmedabad

Ahmedabad experiences three main seasons: summer, monsoon and winter. The city enjoys a dry climate throughout the year with the exception of monsoon. But summers can be brutally hot. Between March to June, the temperature averages between 36 to 45 °C. The highest ever recorded temperature in Ahmedabad is 47 °C while the lowest is 5 °C.

From July until September, the south-west monsoon alleviates the summer heat and adds humidity to the city’s air. It is a pleasant time to be in the city if you don’t mind getting wet. Discounts on your stay and travel are some additional benefits of visiting during this season.

But winter is the best time for an Ahmedabad tour. Between November and February, temperatures range between 15 to 35 °C and the dry weather makes for the perfect sightseeing conditions.

Culture of Ahmedabad

Ahmedabad is known for its colourful culture. Festivals are celebrated with a passion and kite flying is more a religion than a sport. The city’s love for dance and music are thrust into the spotlight in the nine days of Navaratri. While rest of the festivals like Diwali and Holi are celebrated with equal fervour, Ahmedabad tourism takes on a higher intensity during the festivities of Uttarayan and Navaratri.

Food is also an important part of Amdavadi culture. The city’s culinary trail is long and merits a leisurely exploration. From lip-smacking street food to a traditional Gujarati thali, Ahmedabad’s food is an enriching experience. Mostly vegetarian, it also boasts of a comprehensive non-vegetarian repertoire.

Though Hindi and English are often used here, Gujarati is the most widely-spoken language in Ahmedabad. Hinduism, Islam and Jainism are among the main religions here and Ahmedabad’s cultural landscape is replete with places of worship of all faiths.