Weekend trips are always liberating. And a little time off the clamoring business center that Ahmedabad is, becomes inevitable sooner or later. Here are some of our top suggestions for weekend getaways from Ahmedabad…
Surat
This largely commercialised city is one of the few in the country which even today is sticking to its roots and has a very minimal western influence. A major passion of this city is food, which it follows ingeniously. To its credit, it has some unique and special dishes which you won’t find at other places. For instance, Cold coco, Rasawala Khaman and more. Interestingly, it has its own variety of Pani Poori too. Those fascinated with wildlife or colonial history will find a lot to explore. This is overall a fun, light-hearted city and makes for a perfect picnic with friends and family.
Places to see: Hajira, Dumas Beach, Tithal Beach, The Dutch Garden, Sardar Patel Museum, and Science Centre
How to reach: It is located 260 km away from Ahmedabad. Train and bus routes are easily available.
Champaner-Pavagadh
Champaner and Pavagadh hills are a hot favourite for both architecture and nature lovers. If labels are what you prefer, then this place has something which is listed in the World Heritage Sites across the globe by the UNESCO- Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park. Here one can find a plethora of architectural wonders inspired by both Hindu & Islamic culture. For nature lovers, Hills of Pavagadh are a pure delight. Plus, it is also very significant according to Hindu mythology. The Pavagadh hill is considered that chunk of the Himalayas that was carried by Hanuman during his visit to Lanka.
Places to see: Kalika Mata Temple, Jami Masjid, Lakulisa temple, Kevada mosque and Fort of Pavagadh and the ruined Hindu and Jain Temples
How to reach: It is located 152 km away from Ahmedabad. Train and bus routes are available.
Gandhinagar
This Gujarat capital has something for nature lovers, architecture explorers, and even devotees. Its rich cultural heritage mingles harmoniously with the serene environments. Its beautiful temples are in a class of their own. Most prominent among them is Akshardham Temple which attracts visitors from all over the country. Lesser known temples like Brahmani Temple and Hanumanji Temple also make for an enthralling visit.
Places to see: Akshardham Temple, Sarita Udyan, Adalaj Stepwell and Children’s Park
How to reach: It is located just 28 km away from Ahmedabad. Best way to reach would be to hire a taxi. Buses are also available.
Vadodara
This is the place where you should be when Navratras are around. No place in the entire country celebrates those nine days with as much joy and zeal as Vadodara does. In addition, you’ll discover the city is thoroughly decorated with exemplary architecture. At this sure shot historic place, you get to see some of the most lavish palaces and legendary monuments.
Places to see: Laxmi Vilas Palace, Sayaji Gardens, Surya Mandir and Khanderao Market
How to reach: It is located 131 km from Ahmedabad. Buses are frequently available between the two. You can also hire a private taxi.
Udaipur
It has everything a couple looks for a romantic retreat on a weekend. Udaipur, which is also known as Venice of the East and Kashmir of Rajasthan, has a remarkable landscape surrounded by 4 lakes. A boat ride in the serene settings of Lake Pichola should definitely be on your itinerary. In addition, its mesmerizing architecture and breathtaking temples give it extra brownie points. Walking through this city’s streets, you’ll soon discover that is justifiably called the Jewel of Mewar.
Places to see: Lake Pichola, City Palace, Doodh Talai Musical Garden, Fateh Sagar Lake, Sajjangarh Palace and City Palace
How to Reach: It is located 260 km away from Ahmedabad and well connected through rail and road routes.
Anand
This place welcomes you to quite rural settings. However, it does have some urban settings – perfect for rejuvenating and relaxing. Plus, this city holds a special place in the history- the beginning of the white revolution. You can revisit its rich history while visiting the world’s biggest dairy company in the world- Amul. Above all, Swami Narayan Mandir is the most prominent attraction of this place, which attracts thousands of devotees from all around the state. Its peaceful and calm vibe is something you won’t find somewhere else easily.
Places to see: AMUL Chocolate Factory, AMUL Co-operative Museum, Swami Narayan Mandir and Flo Art gallery
How to reach: Just 85 km away from Ahmedabad, it is extremely easy to reach there by buses.
