Ahmedabad is one of the most popular cities in Gujarat, both from a tourism point of view as well as a culinary one. It is fast emerging as a melting pot of diverse cultures and traditions and, hence, is frequented by thousands of travelers every day. Blessed with a rich historical past and a very modern present, Ahmedabad also has a lot to offer from a commercial perspective in terms of employment opportunities and trade avenues. The metropolitan city is strategically located between the desert areas of Gujarat and Rajasthan. Besides providing a lot in itself to sight-see, you can enjoy blissful weekend getaways from the vibrant city. Check out our suggestions for the top weekend trips from Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
1. Mount Abu, Rajasthan
Located about 220 km (137 mi) from Ahmedabad and at an elevation of 4000 feet (1219 meters), Mount Abu boasts being the only hill station in Rajasthan. It is quite literally a breeze of fresh, pleasantly cold air in a warm state like Rajasthan. It is home to the famous Dilwara Temples, an area of great spiritual importance. When you are here, do not forget to try out the local cuisines like dal bati churma, laal maas, ghevar, kachori, and ker sangri, among other local favorites. The winding roads of the Aravallis add to Mount Abu’s charm and act as a scenic backdrop for travelers. For the locals of Ahmedabad, Mount Abu is a much-loved and most preferred destination for a quick weekend trip.
2. Gir National Park
A mandatory visit every time you visit Gujarat, Gir National Park, also known as Sasan Gir, is home to myriad varieties of animals, especially lions. It is nestled among thick woods and is about 330 km (205 mi) away from Ahmedabad. Sprawled across more than 1400 sq. km (540 sq. mi) of vast land, it also boasts more than 250 species of birds. So, whether you want to go trekking on the tricky plains or enjoy a jeep safari, Gir National Park should be on your must-visit list as it offers one of the best chances to sight a lion, along with antelopes and leopards. Do not miss the jeep safari in an open-roof vehicle as it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You can enjoy local as well as continental cuisine in restaurants nearby to satiate your taste buds.
3. Surat
Once an essential port of Gujarat, Surat is the textile and diamond capital of the state. It is located about 268 km (166 mi) away from Ahmedabad, on the banks of River Tapi, and was once an important trading port. Surat is and has been a commercial center for textiles for many years. Do not miss out on visiting the New Textile Market, one of the largest high-energy trading destinations with numerous shops and multiple small malls. You can buy traditional and modern clothes made of cotton and silk fabric and saris that are famous for its ornate zari (gold thread) embroidery. With so many tourist attractions like Sardar Patel Museum, Gopi Talav, and the famed Dumas beach, Surat is also fast emerging as a cultural hub with many people migrating to it. What’s more, it offers some delectable Gujarati dishes like undhiyu, ghari, nan khatai, khaman dhokla, etc. You must definitely try the Surti locho, a dish that originated in Surat.
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4. Anand
Home to the great White Revolution of India, Anand is where Verghese Kurien incepted the ‘Amul’ brand and christened the city of Anand as 'Milk City.’ Currently, Anand is known as the 'Milk Capital of India.’ Located about 77 km (48 mi) from Ahmedabad, the city offers self-sustenance opportunities to the people of the city under the 'Amul’ brand name. Home to several revered temples and the very famous 'Amul Carillon Chimes’, Anand has something for everyone to see. Do not forget to visit the Amul factory! In terms of cuisine, one can enjoy local favorites as well as Asian and Mediterranean fare. You must definitely try out dabeli served by Mastana Dabeli, sev khamani served by Yogesh Khaman house, and the famous golgappas served by Shreeji Fast Food.
5. Vijaynagar
Located 152 km (94 mi) from Ahmedabad, close to the Gujarat-Rajasthan border, Vijaynagar was also christened ‘Polo City’. It is famous for its Polo Forest as well as scenic spots like waterfalls and heritage monuments. Polo Forest is one of the most preferred day-trip destinations from Ahmedabad; you can enjoy its historical beauty, greenery and relax in the harmony and peace of nature. Reveling in its undiscovered beauty, Vijaynagar is a major draw for tourists looking for offbeat destinations. You could try fine dining options here, like The Fern Sattva Resort and Polo Forest Cottage. But, if you are in Gujarat, never miss the street food for you might discover something new!
6. Kutch
Known for its gorgeous white salt desert, Kutch truly is a sight to behold, with its pristine white land shimmering against the full moonlight. It is the largest district of India and located 403 km (250 mi) from Ahmedabad. Home to many nomadic tribes and surrounded by Gulf of Kutch on one side and the Rann of Kutch on the other, it is also home to a famous endangered species of the wild. If you are an archaeology enthusiast, you must visit Dholavira, site of ancient Indus civilization, where everything is left preserved as-is. Kutch mostly offers numerous local cuisines in every eating joint of the area. The best time to visit is between October and February.
7. Lothal
A haven for archaeology enthusiasts, Lothal is the southernmost part of the ancient Indus Valley Civilization. Located just 80 km (50 mi) from Ahmedabad, near Saragwala village in Dholka Taluka, you have to include Lothal in your must-visit list near Ahmedabad to see how civilizations existed in the bygone ages. It is an astonishing 4000-year-old site and is a pit stop for historians and archaeologists to get a sneak peek into how trading of gems and other stones was carried out in those times. Lothal has very quaint eating joints that offer local cuisine.
8. Vadodara
Touted as the cultural hub of Gujarat, Vadodara, locally known as Baroda, is the ultimate melting pot of culture, heritage, and commerce. It is located 110 km (68 mi) from Ahmedabad on the banks of the Vishwamitri river. The city is frequented by travelers of all genres due to tourist attractions like Lakshmi Vilas Palace, University of Baroda, and some of the most beautiful temples in the state. Going for a two-wheeler drive at Akota Bridge in the evening, while the sun is setting, will give you a very amazing feeling. When in Vadodara, do make it a point to try sev-usal, farsan, dabeli, fafda, and jalebi. If you are strolling in the city at night, do not miss visiting ‘Ratri Bazaar’ - a place that serves varieties of cuisines. The best time to visit Vadodara is between October and March.
9. Rajkot
Once the capital of Saurashtra region, Rajkot was a major seat of politics as well as trade in the pre-independence era. Rajkot was the home of Mahatma Gandhi, which is why a visit to ‘Kaba Gandhi No Delo’ (the childhood residence of Gandhi) is an absolute must on your trip. It is also a blend of an old and new culture, making it a popular tourist destination. Located 240 km (149 mi) from Ahmedabad, you can see gardens and historical monuments as well as enjoy local Gujarati cuisine when in Rajkot. Do not miss out on trying the Saurashtra-style fafda with hot kadhi and jalebi in this city.
10. Udaipur, Rajasthan
Head to Udaipur in Rajasthan and experience the land of lakes and palaces. Situated against the serene backdrop of the Aravallis, Udaipur was the former capital of Mewar kingdom. The 260 km (37 mi) stretch between Ahmedabad and Udaipur is sure to woo you with its scenic beauty. It is also home to many heritage hotels and residences that are worth a sneak peek. The City Palace and Lake Palace will give you a glimpse into the life of the royals. Take a stroll at Fateh Sagar lake, go for a boat ride, and witness the mesmerizing views of sunset. Sajjangarh Fort and Sajjangarh Biological Park must be visited too. If local favorites like kachori, mirchi bada, and daal baati churma have you salivating, Udaipur also has many fine dining options that offer the very best of continental cuisines. If traveling with your partner, you should definitely plan a romantic dinner at a rooftop cafe near Lake Pichola.
So, what are you doing this weekend?
Do not waste even a single moment; pack your bags and head to any of these amazing weekend getaways! There’s something for everyone when it comes to places in and around Ahmedabad.
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