Are you planning an unforgettable trip to North India? Here’s our guide to the best places to stay in Ahmedabad!
India is often subject to extreme feelings, without interlude: pollution, noise, smells, dirt and insalubrity (sometimes) and the great misery induced by strong economic and social inequalities, sometimes social mores – but also all the beauty and exoticism of a country offering guaranteed acculturation – mean that the country arouses either curiosity or fascination and a deep desire to return, or the most profound disgust and aversion. Located in North India in the eastern state of Gujarat, Ahmedabad is the country’s fifth-largest metropolitan area, with 5.57 million inhabitants (2011 figures).
Built on either side of the banks of the Sabarmati River, Ahmedabad enjoys a hot, dry climate in an arid region where deforestation is an alarming consequence of capitalist industrialization. The economic and cultural center of the state of Gujarat, Ahmedabad boasts a rich cultural, architectural and culinary heritage. But where to stay in Ahmedabad?
Finding a place to stay in Ahmedabad will be cheap for a European or American tourist. Here’s our mini-guide to where to stay in Ahmedabad: Old City, Jodhpur, Vastrapur, Satellite, Vejalpur and Bodakdev are the main areas to stay.
The old town
Photo credit: Flickr – Bruno Vanbesien
In 2012, Ahmedabad was voted India’s best city for quality of life: indeed, the city is one of the most popular with Indians and expatriates alike. Founded in the 15th century by Sultan Ahled Shah, Ahmedabad became one of India’s most powerful cities. The old town, located to the north of the modern city, shines with the beauty of its historic monuments and the popular atmosphere of its many markets.
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since July 8, 2017, the historic old town – Shahibaug – offers the not inconsiderable advantages of being relatively close to the airport and the main railway station, and of being able to visit most of the city’s historic monuments. You enter through the fortifications, such as the Teen Darwaja gate with its three arches. Near the bridge, don’t miss the Swaminarayan temple, for your viewing pleasure. The Calico textile museum, the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel national memorial and the Swaminarayan Mandir Narayanghat temple are among the district’s must-sees. To discover them, opt for a special guided tour of religious monuments that will immerse you in the country’s cultural history. Accommodation in Shahibaug consists of large, traditional-style houses.
Downtown
Photo credit: Flickr – Francois Decaillet
Located on the right bank of the Sabarmati River, the downtown district is packed with mosques and Hindu temples, shops of all kinds, bars and restaurants. Don’t miss the Jama Masjid, a large mosque emblematic of Ahmedabad, where Muslims are accustomed to performing their ablutions.
Further west, the Bhadra Fort and its large square are a must-see for the large textile market held there. Climb up to the fort’s terraces for an unobstructed view of the bustling and, it must be said, erratic city.