Ahmedabad, in western India, is the largest city in the state of Gujarat. The Sabarmati River runs through its center. On the western bank is the Gandhi Ashram at Sabarmati, which displays the spiritual leader’s living quarters and artifacts. Across the river, the Calico Museum of Textiles, once a cloth merchant’s mansion, has a significant collection of antique and modern fabrics. Ahmedabad offers a mix of historical, cultural, and natural attractions. Some of the best tourist destinations include Sabarmati Ashram, Adalaj Stepwell, Kankaria Lake, Jama Masjid, Sidi Saiyyed Mosque, Auto World Vintage Car Museum, and the Sabarmati Riverfront.
- Sabarmati Ashram:A serene retreat by the Sabarmati River, showcasing Mahatma Gandhi’s life and principles.Sabarmati Ashram is famous as Mahatma Gandhi’s residence and headquarters during India’s struggle for independence. It’s renowned for being the place where he launched the iconic Dandi March in 1930, a pivotal event in the fight against British rule. The ashram also served as a center for Satyagraha, a movement of non-violent resistance, and a hub for Gandhi’s various campaigns.
- Adalaj Stepwell:
A stunning example of ancient Indian architecture, known for its intricate carvings and design. The construction of the Stepwell was initiated by Rana Veer Singh, the ruler of the Vaghela dynasty, to provide water for his subjects in this arid region. However, the project was interrupted by war when Rana Veer Singh was killed in battle against Mahmud Begada, the Sultan of Gujarat.
- Jama Masjid:
One of the oldest mosques in Ahmedabad, built in the 15th century. Jama Masjid, also known as Masjid-i-Jahan Numa, is famous for being one of the largest and most significant mosques in India. Built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, it is renowned for its stunning Mughal architecture, including its large courtyard, towering minarets, and intricate marble and red sandstone structure
- Sidi Saiyyed Mosque:
Famous for its intricate stone lattice work, especially the “tree of life” window. The Sidi Sayed Mosque is famed for its exquisite jali windows, spider web fine, depicting the intricate intertwining branches of the ‘tree of life’ that is best seen from the road that runs along the back of the mosque.
- Bhadra Fort:
A historic fort offering insights into the city’s past.Built immediately after the founding of Ahmedabad in 1411, Bhadra Fort now houses government offices and a Kali temple. Its gate formed the eastern entrance of the Ahmedabad citadel, which stretched west to the river. From the roof you can check out the imposing structure and views of the surrounding streets.
- Teen Darwaza:
A historic gateway with three arches, once the entrance to the royal enclosure.It was built by Ahmad Shah I immediately after the foundation of Ahmedabad and completed in 1415. Through it, in 1459, Mahmud Begada, king for only a few months, and not fifteen years old, quiver on back and bow in hand, with only 300 horsemen, marched to disperse his rebel nobles and their 30,000 followers.
- Sarkhej Roza:A complex of tombs, mosques, and palaces, known for its Indo-Saracenic architecture.The complex of Sarkhej Roza contains a mosque, tombs and palaces. The Roza is the mausoleum of Ahmed Khattu Ganj Bakhsh who was buried here. Sarkhej Roza is dedicated to Shaikh Ahmed Khattu Ganj Bakhsh, the spiritual mentor of Ahmedabad’s founder Sultan Ahmed Shah.