Ahmedabad Day Tours – Spend the Day Sight Seeing
A part chaotic and bustling with horns, industries and business, Ahmedabad still managed to preserve its historical charm through the other part. The Ahmedabad day tours is the perfect way to marvel through the most popular places. I was a bit skeptical of my maiden trip to Gujarat. The smell of tradition and culture, phenomenal historical architectures and its existing romance with the old city coaxed me into abandoning the thoughts of uncertainty.
Sabarmati River front as viewed from Gandhi Ashram
The crowded streets and the scorching sun during the month of July was one reason that stopped me from stepping out. But, the intermittent splashes of rain and distant breeze, managed to pull me out into the heart of the city. There was a strong desire of wanting to explore the gems left by the bygones. Instead of hiring an auto or taxi, I decided to take an afternoon tour to explore the popular places of Ahmedabad.
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Is it worth taking the Ahmedabad Day Tours?
I am not a big fan of guided group tours but the Ahmedabad afternoon tours will not disappoint. It is completely worth the money. It is super cheap. You are driven in an air conditioned mini-van with a professional guide.
Don’t want to spend a lot by hiring a taxi? Don’t have own vehicle? Short on time? Want to experience more in most comfortable way? – Book the afternoon tour and you won’t regret.
Places Included in the Ahmedabad Afternoon Tour
Museum inside Gandhi Ashram
Gandhi Ashram
It was the first Ashram established by Mahatma Gandhi after his return from South Africa in the year 1915. Later, it was relocated on the banks of Sabarmati River in 1917. It was the place of Gandhi’s residence from 1915 to 1930. It is one of the most important places associated with the Indian freedom struggle. Today, the Ashram is renovated, stands as source of inspiration and information preaching about Gandhi and his mission. There is a museum that traces back all the events in a sequential manner.
Hutheesing Jain Temple
Hutheesing Jain Temple
The spectacular white marble carved Jain Temple was built in 1848 A.D by Sheth Hutheesing. It was dedicated to the Shri Dharmanatha, the 15th Jain Tirthankar. The marvelous architecture with intricate carvings and designs is a majestic work at the craftsmanship front. The main shrine of the Jain Temple lies on the East which is covered with a big dome. There are 12 highly ornate pillars supporting the main Mandala with a ridged dome. The courtyard also houses 52 sub-shrines each elaborated with intricate carvings.
The famous lattice work – Tree of Life on windows of Sidi Saiyyad Mosque
Sidi Saiyad’s Mosque
The mosque is an example of finest Islamic architectures built during the reign of Mughal Emperors. The lattice work on the window depicting “Tree of Life” in form of intertwined branches is bewitching. It was built by Sidi Saiyyed during the rule of Sultan Muzaffar Shah III, last Gujarat Royal. The Indo-Islamic architecture with Jalis or lattice work on the back windows of the yellow sandstone mosque is a masterpiece.
Rani Sipri’s Mosque
Rani Sipri’s Mosque
The ornate sandstone mosque of Rani Sipri was built at the order of Queen Sipri, wife of Mahmud Begada. The medieval mosque was commissioned for construction in 1514. The Queen ordered the construction after her husband executed their son for reasons not known. The tomb of the Queen is present in the Mosque compound. It has an Islamic architecture influence with the Jali or lattice work. There is a separate worship area for woman in the mosque called Jenana.
Jhulta Minar or Shaking Minarets
Jhulta Minar
They are also known as Shaking Minarets with a mysterious architecture that left engineers astonished. With the gentle shaking of one minaret, the other minaret starts vibrating after few second but the connecting passage between them shows no vibration. This shaking and vibration phenomenon makes the Minarets unique. It is an example of excellent Sultanate architecture and entry to the Minarets is banned.
Front facade of Sardar Vallabhbhai Memorial
Sardar Patel National Memorial
The memorial is a museum and exhibition dedicated towards Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The memorial was initially built as palace in 1622 by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan to offer work to poor during crisis. The palace – Moti Mahal was later used for government purposes post British rule. After Independence, it was used as Raj Bhavan – Official Residence of Governor of Gujarat from 1960 – 1978. It was established as memorial on 100th birth Anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in 1975.
The intricate sandstone carved pillar at Adalaj Step Well
Adalaj Step well
The 14th century Indo-Islamic styled step well was built by Rana Veer Singh of Vaghela Dynasty in the year 1498. The unique architecture leads to water at the bottom of the architecture connected with steps from ground level. The step wells were important for semi arid areas of Gujarat and provided water to people for various purposes. The step well is built in sandstone with ornate carvings on the pillars. It is five stories deep with each floor having enough space to accommodate people and has an octagonal top.
Inside Hutheesing Jain Temple
Akshardham
Akshardham is a worship place for Hindu spread across acres of land dedicated towards spiritual devotion and preaching. The fine architecture and peaceful vibe of the temple makes it unique and an amazing experience. The temple is a tribute to Bhagwan Swaminarayan. The temple complex has the main temple, exhibitions, museum and about 200 idols. It is a divine and enriching experience. The water show at Akshardham Temple is brilliant and something not to be missed. The water show tickets are included in the package. Photography and videography inside the Temple is strictly prohibited. You are not even allowed to carry mobile phones and camera inside. The Ahmedabad day tours end with visit to Akshardham.
The gorgeous carving is an example of excellent craftmanship – Adalaj Stepwell
Where to Book?
The Ahmedabad afternoon tours can be booked via official website of Amdavad City Sights. It is extremely affordable with packages available only for Rs 500/- including the water show in Akshardham Temple. The pick-up is at around 1 am from Gandhi or Sabarmati Ashram. You can also choose to book a morning Heritage walk to explore the lanes of Old city.
The Ahmedabad day tours are easy way to explore the famous places of the city. It is comfortable and with help of a professional guide, it becomes easy to understand the history of the places.
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