48 Hours in Ahmedabad

Ahmedabad is connected to most major cities of India. Most Indian carriers have daily direct flights to Ahmedabad from prominent airports. Are you stopping over at Ahmedabad? Do you have time to kill in the city? Ahmedabad is Gujarat’s largest city and is located on the banks of the River Sabarmati. From exploring the city’s history and searching for solace in its historical buildings and architectural marvels to exploring Ahmedabad’s bustling markets. Here are a few things that you could see to get a taste of this delightful Gujarati city.

Sabarmati Ashram

Sabarmati Ashram, Ahmedabad pic by Arjun Valsaraj

A landmark in the Indian freedom struggle, the Sabarmati Ashram was founded in 1915 and was earmarked in history as Mahatma Gandhi’s headquarters for the long fight for freedom. Now preserved as as a heritage museum, the ashram still makes handicraft such as handmade paper and spinning wheels. The museum has seen many international dignitaries who visit to pay homage to the Mahatma.

Le Corbusier Museum

Le Corbusier Museum, Ahmedabad

The museum was commissioned by the city municipal council in 1951. Initially pegged as the Cultural Center of a Museum "Unlimited" (Musée à croissance illimitée), the Le Corbusier Museum is now a standing testament to the city’s growing concern to have a ‘heart’ for the city’s civic center.

Jhulta Minar

Jhulta Minar, Ahmedabad Pic by buzzintown

Translated, the Jhulta Minar mean swaying minarets. An example of architectural panache and eloquent craftsmanship, the Jhulta Minar are actually a part of the mosque Siddi Bashir. The swaying properties can be experienced by applying force to the upper arc of the minarets. What attributes the swaying property to the minarets is still unknown. It is said that the British tried in vain to demolish the minarets to unravel the mystery of the craftsmanship of these minarets.

Teen Darwaza

Teen Darwaza, Ahmedabad Pic by Renal Bhalakia

The Teen Darwaza lies adjacent to the Bhadra Fort and had initially served as an entrance to the Royal Square at the Bhadra Fort for the Mughal emperor Jahangir along with his wife, Noorjahan. The Teen Darwaza was established in the year 141 A.D. by teh founder of the city of Ahmedabad, Sultan Ahmed Shah. Popular as a testimony to Islamic architecture, the Teen Darwaza comprises of three large arched gates that are sure to leave you awestruck.

Calico Textile Museum

Calico Textile Museum, Ahmedabad Pic by Wojciech Kubrakiewicz

If you love fashion and love keeping in touch with the fabrics of the past, the Calico Textile Museum begs you a visit. A collection of rare fabrics, temple artifacts and exquisite crafts from across the country are on display at the museum.

Nal sarovar bird sanctuary

Nal sarovar bird sanctuary, Ahmedabad Pic by Julian

The Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary is a bird sanctuary situated about 50 km from the city and will take you to fascinated ornithological journey with flamingos, pelicans, storks, ibises, spoonbills etc.