On the western end of India lies the city of Ahmedabad located in the state of Gujarat. It’s a fast-growing city in the area and is one of the most populous cities in India. Because of its growing population, there are several projects that the city is involved in order to promote tourism as well as sustainable development. One of these is Sabarmati Riverfront. Historically, the city of Ahmedabad was established along the riverbanks of the Sabarmati River. Over time, it became polluted, until the 1960s when it was proposed to be rehabilitated and developed. The 11.25-kilometer-long (7-mile) riverfront is mostly developed reclaimed land. Today, Sabarmati Riverfront is surrounded by several establishments and recreational areas, including two-leveled promenades on each side of the river and serves as the main highlight of the site. To learn more about the activities you can see and do, read our guide to Sabarmati Riverfront, Ahmedabad.
Things to do / Highlights
River Promenade
River Promenade is the main attraction at Sabarmati Riverfront. Composed of two levels and located on both sides, the promenade provides easier access to the river for the public. The lower level is closer to the water and serves as a venue for health junkies who love to bike or jog along the riverbanks. This is also where you can access some of the water activities, including boating. On the other hand, the upper level is still undergoing construction and renovation, though it is planned to have other public facilities and features once completed.
Riverfront Market
Also known as “Ravivari”, Riverfront Market is the premier spot along the river for your shopping needs. It’s the permanent site of the traditional flea market where you can find some 1,641 vendors and merchants selling a myriad of things. There is also a food court, four public washrooms, and seating areas. The market is accessible via vehicle. Soon the area will also be shaded by over 800 trees that have been planted.
Parks and recreational spaces
Aside from the main attractions, there are also smaller areas and parks in Sabarmati where you can choose to lounge about or find some other activity to do. The event space caters to several local, national, and international events. The recently constructed Laundry Campus is another unique feature of Sabarmati, and this provides an area for the community to utilize the riverbanks for traditional laundering. Alternatively, you can choose to relax at one of the many parks scattered along this reclaimed project.
Traveler's tips
Sabarmati Riverfront is a great place to take long walks at night or enjoy a lovely sunrise early in the morning. The place is usually filled with friendly locals at night and you can come here with your significant other to spend some rejuvenating time by the water.
The lower level of the riverfront closes by 9pm, after which you can only hang out on the upper level. Overall, the place is very clean and calming.
What to eat
Epicurean Alley Restaurant
This place serves cheese naan, vegetable pulaw, and more. They also have Chinese cuisines on the menu. It is just 0.3 kilometers (0.18 miles) from Sabarmati Riverfront.
Ravivari
You can also opt for the food options at Ravivari, which is the flea market at Sabarmati Riverfront. You’ll find vendors selling snacks and street food.
Things to buy
Your best bet to meet your shopping needs is at Riverfront Market, more commonly called Ravivari. The market is open on Sundays but the venue is also open for other seasonal markets held on other days of the week. There are over 1,600 vendors selling a variety of items and goods, so just take your pick and go explore until you find what you want and need. There are also shaded seating areas, plazas, and public washrooms on-site. Some common finds include old cameras, antiques, timepieces, and other knickknacks.
Travelers tips
Accessibility and security
The great thing about Sabarmati Riverfront is that the place is accessible to everyone. This was something considered, especially since one of the project aims to be a public space where people can gather and relax. There are several staircases and ramps throughout the promenade and under each bridge. There are also designated ghats, or steps that directly lead to the river at several spots. Elevators are also available for people with special needs who want to access the lower level promenade. The Riverfront is also monitored by security to maintain order in the area.
Maintain cleanliness
The primary goal of the Sabarmati Riverfront project was to implement sustainability and prevent the polluting of the river. Aside from the conservation of the river itself, there are also several parks around the riverbanks that aim to provide the city with more green spaces. That said, while hanging out at the riverfront, it’s only proper to keep the place clean. Be sure to dispose of your litter properly and definitely do not throw it into the river.
How to get there
Sabarmati Riverfront is located at the heart of the city of Ahmedabad, so it won’t be difficult to find. The river is quite a stretch, so you can also use navigation apps like Google Maps to find your way around.
By car
Though Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport is very near the end of the Sabarmati River, the riverfront itself is about 10 kilometers (6 miles) away and will require around 13 minutes travel by car.
By bus
You can also choose to take a bus to Sabarmati Riverfront. Be sure to board any of the following routes: 22, 89/1, or 90 SHUTTLE.
Sabarmati Riverfront information
Sabarmati Riverfront
Address: Sabarmati Riverfront Walkway East, Lal Darwaja, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380001, India
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 9am - 9pm (closed on Mon)
Official website: Sabarmati Riverfront
Department of tourism: Visit Gujarat
News & updates for Sabarmati Riverfront: Gujarat CM Vijaybhai Rupani inaugurated Flower Show 2020 at Sabarmati Riverfront, Ahmedabad | Flamingos in the city: Sabarmati project brings winged visitors to Ahmedabad
History
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