Top 20 tourist places to visit and things to do in Ahmedabad

For the unsuspecting tourist, Ahmedabad might seem like just another mundane city with the same old malls and quirky “it” cafes at every nook and cranny. But if you look closely, there’s much more to this beautiful place, than the common components of an upcoming metro-city. Historically called as the ‘walled city of Gujarat’, Ahmedabad now bears the gracious title of the first city in India to be inscribed in UNESCO’s World Heritage City list. This city is an architect’s paradise – no wonder so many tourists are spellbound by its architectural marvels. But even if you don’t have keen interest in buildings and structures, this city can still cater to your wishes and leave you mesmerized. With a unique combination of heritage and modernity, Ahmedabad is the most thrilling city to visit in Gujarat.

Here is a list of top 20 tourist places to visit and things to do in Ahmedabad with family and friends. –

1. For the architecture admirers : Adalaj Stepwell
2. For the cricket geeks : Sardar Patel Stadium
3. For the art aficionados : Amdavad Ni Gufa
4. For the history lovers : Sidi Saiyyid ni Jali
5. For the ones in need of fresh air : Sabarmati Riverfront
6. For the shopaholics : Law Garden Kapada Bazaar
7. For the religious ones : BAPS Akshardham Temple
8. For the ones into amusement parks : Kankaria Lake
9. For the ones who love “college days” : IIM-A (old campus)
10. For the foodies : Manek Chowk
11. For the nature lovers : Parimal Garden
12. For some peace : Sabarmati Ashram
13. For the sacred seekers : Hutheesing Jain Temple
14. For the vintage minds : Ravivari Flea Market
15. For the adventurous : Heritage Walks
16. For the textile nerds : Calico Museum of Textile
17. For some Gujarati fine dining : Agashiye – The house of MG
18. For the lovers of elegance : Hutheesing Haveli
19. For the peace seekers : Jama Masjid
20. For praising modern architecture : Ellise Bridge

1) Adalaj Ni Vav (Adalaj Stepwell)

In the small dusty village of Adalaj this ancient step well built in the 15th century looks like a picture straight out of your history textbooks. With impeccably detailed pillars and intricate designs, this monumental site leaves every tourist awestruck. The amazing craftsmanship of several workers and an interesting folklore behind the construction of this marvelous place makes it a must visit place in Ahmedabad. In spite of being so ancient, it is well maintained and restored, making it a unique destination for stunning photography and inspiration. You can make a 29 minute (18 km) drive from Ahmedabad to reach here. No entry fees are needed. The entire place is full of sinister and yet regal vibe, making it one of the most sought after tourist locations in Ahmedabad.

2) Sardar Patel Stadium

After undergoing a 5 year long renovation from 2015 to 2020, this massive stadium opened doors with a spectacular inauguration ceremony by the president of the US, Donald Jr. Trump. With a seating capacity of 110,000 spectators this stadium is the largest cricket stadium in the world and a cricket lover’s haven. It does not stop with its marvels here : unique features like LED floodlights instead of the general ones make this for one of the most innovative state of the art locations to visit. You can reach this stadium by bus or car. With great connectivity, this becomes one of the most notable places to visit in not just Ahmedabad, but the entire country.

3) Amdavad Ni Gufa

Everyone has been to art galleries at some point in their lives, but how many of them are located underground? This unique and quirky art gallery located in the heart of modern Ahmedabad is a perfect combination of art, culture, architecture and history. Designed by one of the most renowned architects in India, B.V. Doshi, this place is a favourite and comes at the top position of the must visit places in Ahmedabad, for the art aficionados. With brilliant displays exhibiting the original works of the famous artist, M F Hussain and beautiful gardens and cafes above ground, this whole experience is one for the books. You’d certainly not want to miss the rare opportunity to view one of the most vibrant places in Ahmedabad.

4) Sidi Saiyyid Ni Jali

This is one of the many beautiful mosques that Ahmedabad boasts. Built in 1573, the entire place still reeks of modern and yet eternal architectural styles. The Jali is made of stone but the work is so intricately detailed, that people often mistake it for some soft filigree metal. Finer than all the lace tapestries you’ve ever seen, this Jali is so iconic that it has been immortalized by being represented in the logo of a premier business college in Ahmedabad. You can reach here by taking a car or bus and dine in the House of MG located nearby. No entry fees needed at this mosque. The jali has made this mosque so iconic that it has become a symbol of the city, making it one of the most famous places to see in Ahmedabad.

5) Sabarmati Riverfront

The Sabarmati riverfront has become so synonymous with the city that no Gujarati film ever fails to include this location while shooting. It has been a beautiful and spectacular way of rejuvenating the Sabarmati river, a rarity in the world. This river was once neglected, polluted and shunned by the public but now it has become the center of attraction, even for localities. Activities like cycling, jogging and boating are possible and it also has flower parks and other attractions for all age groups. Each year the International Kite Festival is held on the banks and several exhibitions and events are conducted all year round, making this the “Bay area” of Ahmedabad. Head straight to this amazing space to experience fun activities throughout the year, or sit peacefully and soak in the gentle breeze that the now replenished river provides. If you plan a visit in January, make sure to participate in the Kite Festival as this is one of the most unique things to do in Ahmedabad.

6) Law Garden Kapada Bazaar

This garden is not your ordinary peaceful, serene garden. Once you are in the vicinity, the shopaholic in you will be drawn to the array of beautiful traditional clothes and trinkets that a countless number of stalls have to offer. A place where you can bargain to any extent and get great deals on unique clothes and ornaments, no one leaves unsatisfied. It is often believed that women are extreme shopaholics but this location has a place in every tourists’ “things to do in Ahmedabad” list, be it men or women. To top this an equally delightful line of food stalls are present, in case you need to energize with food while shopping to your heart’s content! Visit in the evening for the best experience, as this place comes to life with all the lights glimmering on shiny jewelry and traditional handicrafts. A one of a kind night market experience makes it one of the top things to do in Ahmedabad.

7) BAPS Akshardham Temple

A spiritual campus where one can feel closer to god, this place will leave you stunned by the peace you shall feel. A largely Hindu temple, this place was built over 13 years as a tribute to Swaminarayan and his philosophy. You can visit this place on any day except Mondays and also view the laser and water show that depicts the life of Nachiketa in the evening. It is accessible by road within 35 minutes from Ahmedabad. Even if you feel less spiritual, this famous place in Ahmedabad will surely lift your spirits.

8) Kankaria Lake

This ancient lake built in 1451 has undergone several noteworthy facelifts to become what it is today. This place is a child’s paradise : with a toy train, zoo, kids city, water rides and entertainment facilities, no child would ever want to leave a place like this. But the enthralling experience doesn’t stop here. For adults too this place provides a plethora of entertainment like boating, parasailing at night etc. Each year in the last week of December a Carnival is held and the place is lit up with lights to create a spectacular annual event for the city. With so many entertaining activities at a single spot, this lake makes for one of the most interesting places to visit in Ahmedabad. You can visit this place in December to experience it in its full glory, when dancing fountains and interesting fireworks are at display.

9) IIM-A (old campus)

To reminisce the best days of your life, your adventurous college days, head straight to Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (old campus). A campus so exquisitely built by Louis Kahn, the famed American Architect, this place will leave you longing for the good old days. Although entering it bears some restrictions for outsiders, this premier institute warmly welcomes its guests. A splendid organic juice shop, a souvenir shop and amazingly pocket friendly canteen food add to the joys of this trip down memory lane. This place was famously featured in the Bollywood blockbuster ‘2 States’. After a massive promotion done by the Bollywood industry, this beautiful and serene campus has become one of the most visited places in Ahmedabad by tourists. If you are lucky, walk by the underground walkway to reach the new campus–it’s not worth missing!

10) Manek Chowk

Manek Chowk is the oldest and most classic essence of Ahmedabad. Located in Old Ahmedabad and surrounded by historical structures, this place cannot be missed. Dive into the scrumptious Pav Bhaji or try out the large Dosas and enjoy till your stomach and heart can take no more. The most exquisite feature about this place is that it is a vegetable market by day and turns into a local street food center by night. This place defines the term “late night snack” and is not to be skipped. Being a night market it is one of the most unique places to see – and eat – in Ahmedabad. You can visit it anytime between 7 pm and 3 am to satiate your hunger pangs.

11) Parimal Garden

A rustic and quaint place in the middle of a bustling city, this garden is a botanical lover’s paradise. Many exquisite flora and fauna can be seen hiding in the greenery. For its prime location and soothing background many local films and TV shows are shot here. You can save this place to hone your photography skills, take a jog or walk on the 600m long walking track or simply relax and listen to the birds melodious chirping – all at one place. No wonder this garden is one of the must visit places in Ahmedabad for finding some calm atmosphere within the hectic travel schedule of tourists.

12) Sabarmati Ashram

Continuing with the peaceful vibe of the last place mentioned, head straight to the minimalist’s haven : Sabarmati Ashram. Popularly known as Gandhi Ashram, this place has around 7 lakh visitors a year, making it one of the most notable places to visit in Ahmedabad. This is where one of Mahatma Gandhi’s famous silent protests against the British originated. The Salt Satyagraha along with many notable movements took shape within these very walls. You can come here any day of the week, all year round and get a glimpse of the simple life that Gandhi led. The ashram now houses a museum where you can know more about Gandhi’s minimalist lifestyle and look around to observe what an icon he was for the country. With activities like spinning the charkha that Gandhi used and taking guided walking tours, this place grabs a prominent position in the top things to do in Ahmedabad.

13) Hutheesing Jain Temple

This temple is one of the best Jain temples in the country. Built in 1848 by a rich devotee of a spiritual deity of Jainism, the Hutheesing temple is difficult to overlook. This abode of God has a calming environment and spectacular architecture. With the hard work of labourers visible at each and every pillar of the temple, this temple is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Ahmedabad. Visit this place to visualize the magnanimity of the merchant yourself!

14) Ravivari Flea Market

Located in close proximity to the Sidi Saiyyed Mosque and the rest of the old city, this flea market is a famous place of attraction in Ahmedabad. With second hand markets gaining so much popularity in the modern world, Ravivari market has been the trendsetter since as early as 1414 when it was a place where the vendors would sell a variety of items to the rich. Ravivari Bazaar (Sunday Market) or Gurjari Bazaar (second hand market) is where you can find ancient radios, cameras, old books that are no longer in print and various other treasures from the past that no other store in this modern world sells. Diving into nostalgia and relishing the glorious past seems like an extremely interesting thing to do in Ahmedabad.

15) Heritage Walks

The old city of Ahmedabad has endless treasures. And to discover these in detail, what’s better than a heritage walk on foot? Being the best guided tour in Ahmedabad, this amazing experience lets you see the lives of people living in a ‘pol’ or community, as they go about their daily lives. You can interact with the traditional dwellers here and even share a meal with them. Their warm hospitality combined with their heritage will leave you spellbound. The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation strives to popularize these localities by conducting such walks in the morning from 7:45 am to 10:30 am. If you miss this experience, you’ll be missing out on a lot of the interesting things to do in Ahmedabad.

16) The Calico Museum of Textiles

Ahmedabad is famously called the “Manchester of India” for its extensive and flourishing textile industries. On the same lines, this museum was primarily built to promote the scientific study of industrial textiles. But now it houses the evolution of textiles in the industry and how clothing plays an integral role in humankind. It is owned and maintained by a renowned Gujarati family, the Sarabhai family, and is one of the top things to see in Ahmedabad.

17) Agashiye – The house of MG

Craving some authentic Gujarati cuisine but in a luxurious ambience? Head straight to Agashiye, a favourite amongst all tourists. This restaurant is set in a Haveli which looks straight out of a movie set. While enjoying the delectable Gujarati food you can enjoy a beautiful view of the old walled city as this is a terrace restaurant. The place serves all veg food, has top class service and the grand ambience will make you feel like never leaving the place. This place is also a popular location for photoshoots and is definitely a must visit place in Ahmedabad.

18) Hutheesing Haveli

Another location owned by the Hutheesing family, this jaw drop worthy heritage place is a must see in Ahmedabad. Although admission into this Haveli is limited, if you get a chance, this place isn’t worth missing. This place combines European, Indian and Gujarati architectural styles with such finesse that it surely is one of the best places to see in Ahmedabad. The uniqueness of this property is the reason it has drawn so many political dignitaries from the Queen of Bhutan to the Prime Minister of India. You can book a visit in advance as this place isn’t always open for visitors.

19) Jama Masjid

Built by the mighty ruler of Ahmedabad, Ahmed Shah, in 1424, this enormous mosque was once the largest mosque in India for a long period of time. Even today, when you step into this magnificent religious place, you will feel a sense of being grounded and will feel humbled by the atmosphere. The pillars surrounding the Masjid (mosque) are so symmetrically built that you would feel as if Wes Anderson had built it. The mosques in Ahmedabad have their own identities and discovering each can be considered as an interesting thing to do in Ahmedabad.

20) Ellis Bridge

Built by the British engineers in 1892, this bridge is synonymous with the city of Ahmedabad. This bridge was the first bridge built in Ahmedabad to connect the various parts of the city by allowing transport over the river Sabarmati. Today it has become a landmark for Ahmedabad and is a great place for sightseeing in Ahmedabad. This bridge was also famously featured in the Bollywood movie ‘Kai Po Chhe’. You can connect by road and can even stop by to see the view of the river, if there is less traffic.