MileHacker Logo
Things to Do in Ahmedabad

Things to Do in Ahmedabad

Ahmedabad Gujarat, India Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

While Ahmedabad is a city, nearby areas offer chances for outdoor exploration, including birdwatching and scenic walks.

Nature Walks & Birdwatching

Hiking and Trekking

Opportunities for extensive hiking and trekking are limited within city limits. More options for nature walks are at Thol Lake or Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuaries (day trips).

Water Sports and Activities

Boating is available at Kankaria Lake. Ahmedabad does not feature significant water sports within the city. For these activities, consider coastal regions of Gujarat.

Adventure Sports

No prominent adventure sports or adrenaline experiences exist within Ahmedabad city. Such activities require travel to other parts of Gujarat or neighboring states.

Wildlife Encounters & Cycling

  • Birdwatching: Enjoy excellent birdwatching at Thol Lake Bird Sanctuary and Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary (day trips).
  • Asiatic Lions: Gir National Park, the last refuge of the Asiatic Lion, is a multi-day trip. GetYourGuide can aid in bookings.
  • Cycling Trails: Enjoy cycling along the Sabarmati Riverfront. Organized Old City cycling tours are available early mornings.
  • Mountain Biking: Not an option within the city limits.

Thol Lake Sanctuary

  • Located approx. 25 kilometers from Ahmedabad.
  • Home to various migratory and resident birds.
  • Ideal for birdwatchers, particularly in winter.
  • Nature walks are generally easy.

Nal Sarovar Sanctuary

  • Located approx. 60 km from Ahmedabad.
  • Gujarat's largest wetland bird sanctuary.
  • A haven for migratory birds.
  • Offers boat rides for closer viewing.

Gir National Park

  • Last refuge of the Asiatic Lion.
  • Requires a multi-day trip from Ahmedabad.
  • Advance safari bookings are necessary.
  • A truly unique wildlife experience.

Outdoor Safety Reminder

Always check local conditions and weather forecasts before starting outdoor activities. Carry sufficient water, wear appropriate clothing, and inform someone of your plans for any excursions outside city limits.

Cultural Immersion

Dive deep into Ahmedabad's rich cultural fabric through hands-on experiences and traditional celebrations.

Workshops & Local Arts

  • Local Crafts: Inquire with cultural centers for training sessions on block printing, pottery, or traditional Gujarati arts.
  • Cooking Classes: Classes focused on Gujarati cuisine offer a practical way to learn local food traditions. GetYourGuide provides options.
  • Cultural Performances: Local theaters and cultural venues occasionally host plays, music concerts, and traditional performances.
  • Language Learning: Some schools or private tutors offer basic Gujarati or Hindi lessons.

Community & Heritage Experiences

Ahmedabad Heritage Walk

This initiative allows visitors to experience the city's living heritage, offering insights into community life within the Old City's 'pols'.

Local Organizations

Various local cultural organizations actively promote Gujarati arts and traditions through performances and classes. Check local listings.

Community-Based Tourism

These initiatives offer authentic interaction with local communities and their traditions.

Uttarayan Kite Festival

In January, the sky fills with thousands of colorful kites, offering unique cultural insights and photo opportunities.

Navratri

This September/October festival features nine nights of traditional Garba and Dandiya Raas dances, a deeply cultural and social event.

Diwali

The Celebration of Lights (October/November) is widely celebrated with lamps, fireworks, and sweets, creating a festive atmosphere.

Relaxation & Wellness

Find opportunities for rest and rejuvenation in Ahmedabad through spas, wellness practices, and peaceful retreats.

Spa & Healing Practices

  • Spa & Wellness Centers: Many luxury and mid-range hotels offer in-house spa facilities with massages and treatments.
  • Ayurvedic Clinics: Access Ayurvedic clinics and practitioners for traditional Indian healing practices and therapies.
  • Hot Springs: No natural hot springs exist near Ahmedabad.
  • Traditional Healing: Discover ancient Indian wellness traditions for holistic well-being.

Yoga & Meditation

Yoga Studios & Centers

Several yoga studios and centers operate in Ahmedabad, offering daily classes for various styles and levels.

Meditation Retreats

Dedicated retreats for yoga and meditation are more likely found outside the city, often in serene, natural settings, ideal for practice.

Hotel Pools

Many hotels provide swimming pools for guests to relax and unwind.

Holistic Wellness in Ahmedabad

Ayurveda Consultations

Seek personalized consultations for Ayurvedic health and lifestyle guidance from local practitioners.

Morning Yoga Sessions

Join early morning yoga sessions at studios or sometimes along the Sabarmati Riverfront for a refreshing start to your day.

Mindfulness & Meditation

Explore centers offering guided meditation sessions, providing techniques for peace and stress reduction.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Ahmedabad's nightlife offers non-alcoholic entertainment options, reflecting Gujarat's dry state status, with a focus on food and cultural performances.

Live Entertainment & Theater

  • Live Music: Occasionally featured at upscale restaurants, cafes, or cultural events. No dedicated live music venues.
  • Theater & Performances: Natrani Amphitheatre and other auditoriums host plays (Gujarati, Hindi, English) and cultural shows.
  • Nightclubs: Due to prohibition, traditional nightclubs with alcohol do not exist.
  • Hotel Bars: Some hotels with special liquor permits might have bars for non-Gujarati guests, but these operate differently from typical nightclubs.

Late-Night Activities

Street Food Markets

Late-night street food markets, like Manek Chowk, are very popular and offer a lively atmosphere well into the evening.

Cafes & Dessert Parlors

Many cafes and dessert parlors remain open late, providing a relaxed setting for socializing.

Mall Entertainment

Some entertainment zones within shopping malls may operate until late, offering diverse activities like gaming or movies.

Manek Chowk Night Food

Experience the atmosphere of Ahmedabad's famous late-night street food market, offering a wide array of local delicacies.

Sabarmati Riverfront Strolls

Enjoy peaceful evening walks along the illuminated Sabarmati Riverfront, a perfect spot for relaxation and scenic views.

C.G. Road & Prahladnagar Cafes

These modern areas host numerous cafes and dessert parlors that stay open late, ideal for post-dinner socializing.

Important Note: Gujarat is a Dry State

Alcohol Prohibition
  • Alcohol consumption and sale are generally prohibited for local residents.
  • Limited exceptions apply to licensed venues within 5-star hotels for foreign visitors.
  • Foreign tourists may obtain a temporary liquor permit upon arrival at acquire and consume alcohol at designated places.
Focus on Non-Alcoholic Activities
  • Nightlife centers around food, cultural events, and family-friendly entertainment.
  • Enjoy diverse culinary experiences at street food markets and cafes.
  • Attend local plays, music performances, or traditional dance events.

Nighttime Safety

While generally safe, exercising general precautions at night is wise. Stick to well-lit and populated areas. Use reputable ride-hailing services for late-night transport. Avoid walking alone in unfamiliar or deserted places after sunset.

Activity Planning Summary

Top Recommendations

  • Experience the Gujarati Thali for a complete culinary journey.
  • Join the Ahmedabad Heritage Walk for historical insights.
  • Go birdwatching at Thol Lake or Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuaries.
  • Explore Manek Chowk for a night street food experience.

Considerations for Your Trip

  • Book accommodations and popular tours, especially during peak season.
  • Remember Gujarat is a dry state; nightlife centers on non-alcoholic activities.
  • Plan activities geographically to minimize travel time between attractions.
  • Utilize early mornings for major tourist sites to avoid crowds and heat.