Ahmedabad (AMD)
About Ahmedabad
Welcome to Ahmedabad - A Fusion of Heritage and Modernity
Ahmedabad, a vibrant metropolis in the heart of Gujarat, is a blend of rich history and modern advancements. As India’s first UNESCO World Heritage City, Ahmedabad is a trove of architectural marvels, from the iconic Sabarmati Ashram to the intricate carvings of Adalaj Stepwell. The city’s thriving textile industry has earned it the moniker “Manchester of the East.” Its culinary scene, with lip-smacking Gujarati delicacies, is a testament to its diverse culture. Dive into Ahmedabad’s bustling markets, or savor its educational prowess at premier institutions like IIM Ahmedabad. This city seamlessly interweaves tradition and innovation, beckoning visitors to experience its multifaceted charm.
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (AMD) Information:
- IATA Code: AMD
- Location: Located in Hansol, approx. 9 kilometers north of the city center of Ahmedabad.
- Country: India
Ahmedabad Airport Terminals:
Terminal 1: This domestic terminal boasts two well-equipped floors, capable of handling up to 1400 passengers during peak hours. With ample parking space for 250 cars, Wi-Fi connectivity, and an array of dining options, it offers a comfortable experience. Terminal 1 operates numerous domestic flights, connecting the city to major and minor destinations across the country.
Terminal 2: Serving as the international terminal, it witnesses the departure and arrival of numerous international flights. Inaugurated on 4th July 2010 and operational since 15th September 2010, Terminal 2 draws design inspiration from Singapore Changi Airport. It houses both arrival and departure sections, featuring four aerobridges and 32 check-in counters catering to various airlines.
Terminal 3: Primarily used for secondary traffic and often during Hajj season, Terminal 3 offers parking facilities for 200 cars and can accommodate approximately 500 passengers during peak times.
Terminal 4: Reserved for cargo operations, Terminal 4 handles over 56 percent of international cargo.
Facilities at Ahmedabad Airport:
Baggage Services: The airport provides luggage trolleys for convenient transport of baggage, and for disabled passengers, wheelchairs with escorts are readily available. Additionally, a lost and found section is in operation.
Shopping and Dining: Passengers can enjoy world-class facilities, with numerous dining options and shopping stores. TR Book Stall, Handloom Handicraft stalls, Snack Bars, Tea Coffee bars, and Juice Counters offer affordable options. These stalls are located in Terminals 1 and 2. Mobile phone recharging points are available for public convenience.
Duty-Free Shopping: Terminal 2 features duty-free shops where travelers can purchase valuable items at competitive prices.
Connectivity with the City:
Bus: The airport is approximately 8 km from the bus stand, and travelers can access taxis and private buses for transport. Pre-paid taxi booths are also conveniently located at the airport.
Rail: Situated around 8 km from the railway station, it takes approximately 20 to 25 minutes to reach the airport. Private cabs can be hired easily from the station to reach the airport.
Ahmedabad Airport Authority:
The Ahmedabad Airport Authority manages Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. Committed to providing world-class amenities, ensuring passenger safety, and overseeing 75 percent domestic and 25 percent international traffic, the Authority plays a pivotal role in the airport’s operations.
Airlines operated “To & From” Ahmedabad:
- Domestic Airlines:
- Air India - Operating to various major cities in India.
- AirAsia India - Serving domestic destinations.
- IndiGo - Offers extensive domestic connectivity.
- SpiceJet - Connects Ahmedabad to many domestic destinations.
- Vistara - Provides flights to select domestic cities.
- International Airlines:
- Air Arabia - Operating to Sharjah.
- Air India Express - Serving destinations like Dubai and Singapore.
- Emirates - Connecting Ahmedabad to Dubai.
- Etihad Airways - Provides connectivity to Abu Dhabi.
- flydubai - Operating to Dubai.
- Kuwait Airways - Serving Kuwait City.
- Qatar Airways - Flights to Doha.
- Singapore Airlines - Direct flights to Singapore.
- SpiceJet - Operates to select international destinations from Ahmedabad.
- Thai AirAsia - Flights to Bangkok.
Additionally, there are several charter airlines and cargo airlines that operate to and from Ahmedabad.
Popular weekly flights from Ahmedabad to various domestic sectors in India:
Ahmedabad to Mumbai (BOM): Multiple daily flights, which equate to +/-40 flights weekly.
Ahmedabad to Delhi (DEL): Multiple daily flights, potentially +/-35 flights weekly.
Ahmedabad to Bengaluru (BLR): At least 20+ flights weekly.
Ahmedabad to Kolkata (CCU): Around 15 flights weekly.
Ahmedabad to Pune (PNQ): Approximately 10-15 flights weekly.
Ahmedabad to Hyderabad (HYD): Roughly 20 flights weekly.
Ahmedabad to Jaipur (JAI): About 10 flights weekly.
Ahmedabad to Goa (GOI): Depending on the season, anywhere from 5 to 10 flights weekly.
Ahmedabad to Chennai (MAA): At least 15 flights weekly.
Ahmedabad to Kochi (COK): About 7-10 flights weekly.
Highlights
Certainly! Ahmedabad, a city with a rich tapestry of history, culture, and modernity, offers several remarkable highlights. Here’s a concise list:
- Sabarmati Ashram: A pivotal site in India's freedom movement, this was the residence of Mahatma Gandhi. It now stands as a museum depicting his life and teachings.
- Adalaj Stepwell: An architectural marvel, this intricately carved stepwell showcases the region's historical significance and design aesthetics.
- Manek Chowk: A multi-purpose market area in Ahmedabad, it's a bustling jewelry market by day and a delightful street-food hub by night.
- Kankaria Lake: One of the largest lakes in Ahmedabad, it's surrounded by historical structures and offers various entertainment options like a zoo, toy train, and boating.
- Sidi Saiyyed Mosque: Renowned for its stone lattice work, this 16th-century mosque is one of the city's most recognized monuments.
- Bhadra Fort: An ancient fortress that represents the city's rich past, offering a panoramic view of the city from its structure.
- Calico Museum of Textiles: Showcasing a diverse range of Indian textiles, it's a testament to Ahmedabad's significant role in the textile industry.
- Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple: Located in Gandhinagar, a short drive from Ahmedabad, it's a grand, modern architectural marvel dedicated to spirituality and devotion.
- Auto World Vintage Car Museum: A paradise for car enthusiasts, this museum displays a collection of the finest vintage cars.
- Teen Darwaza: One of the longest as well as the oldest gateways of the Ahmedabad city, it's an epitome of Indo-Islamic architectural style.
When visiting Ahmedabad, these highlights offer a blend of historical insight, cultural immersion, and modern entertainment, ensuring that travelers get a holistic experience of the city’s essence.
Things to Do
Absolutely! Ahmedabad, being a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity, offers a plethora of activities to indulge in. Here’s a list of things to do when you’re in this vibrant city:
- Heritage Walk: Organized by the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation, this walk takes you through the city's historical sites, ancient architecture, and tales of its past.
- Visit the Night Market: After sunset, the Manek Chowk transforms into a bustling street-food paradise. Indulge in local delicacies like fafda-jalebi, pav bhaji, and kulfi.
- Textile Tours: Understand the intricacies of the textile industry, visit traditional weavers, and explore the historic mills.
- Sabarmati Riverfront: Take a leisurely evening stroll, enjoy boating, or simply relax and watch the sunset by the Sabarmati River.
- Attend a Workshop at Conflictorium: Located in the old city, this museum offers interactive sessions on conflict resolution and peace-building.
- Shop at Law Garden: Buy traditional Gujarati outfits, handicrafts, and artifacts from local artisans in the evening market.
- Explore Pols: Wander through these historic neighborhoods, characterized by clustered homes, narrow lanes, and community living.
- Taste Authentic Gujarati Cuisine: Have a full-course Gujarati thali at local restaurants like Agashiye or Vishalla.
- ISKCON Temple Visit: Experience spiritual tranquility and attend the evening aarti at this beautifully constructed temple.
- Visit the Science City: A blend of education and entertainment, it's perfect for families and science enthusiasts.
- Attend Uttarayan: If you're visiting during January, don't miss the International Kite Festival where the sky is painted with kites of all sizes and shapes.
- Experience Dandi Kutir: Dive into the life and teachings of Mahatma Gandhi at this museum located in Gandhinagar, a short drive away.
- Jaldhara Water World: Beat the heat with water rides and pools in this amusement park.
- Pranlal Bhogilal Vintage Car Collection: Marvel at a private collection of vintage cars, one of the best in the world.
- Lalbhai Dalpatbhai Museum: For art and history buffs, this museum houses ancient manuscripts, sculptures, and coins.
- Visit Sarkhej Roza: A prominent architectural complex that includes a mosque and tombs, it’s an example of early Islamic architectural culture.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a food lover, a shopper, or someone looking for spiritual solace, Ahmedabad has something in store for everyone.
Culinary Delights
Ahmedabad’s culinary scene is a gastronomic adventure. Relish authentic Gujarati thalis, savor the sweetness of jalebis, or spice it up with local street foods like fafda-jalebi and dhokla.
Stay & Accommodation
Ahmedabad, being a major city in Gujarat and an important business and cultural hub, offers a wide range of accommodation options for travelers. Whether you’re looking for luxury hotels, mid-range options, or budget stays, the city has something for every traveler. Here’s a brief overview:
Luxury Hotels:
- The House of MG: Located in the heart of the city, this boutique hotel offers a blend of heritage and luxury. It has traditional Gujarati architecture with all modern amenities.
- Hyatt Regency Ahmedabad: This upscale hotel provides world-class amenities, exquisite dining options, and is located close to major business centers.
- Courtyard by Marriott Ahmedabad: A top-notch choice for both business and leisure travelers, offering comfortable rooms, multiple dining options, and excellent service.
- Novotel Ahmedabad: Part of the AccorHotels group, it's known for its contemporary design and top-tier amenities.
- Radisson Blu Hotel Ahmedabad: Located in the city center, it offers luxurious rooms, spa facilities, and gourmet dining experiences.
Mid-Range Hotels:
- Aloft Ahmedabad: A trendy hotel offering modern amenities, a lively lounge, and a convenient location.
- Four Points by Sheraton: Combining comfort and convenience, it's ideal for both short and long stays.
- Ginger Hotel: An economical and efficient option for business travelers, with basic yet modern amenities.
- Sarovar Portico: Located centrally, it offers comfortable rooms, meeting facilities, and good dining options.
- Hotel El Dorado: Known for its chic interiors, pleasant rooms, and in-house café.
Budget Accommodations:
- French Haveli: A restored 150-year-old heritage house that offers a unique and authentic Ahmedabadi experience.
- Hotel Volga: An affordable option, popular among travelers for its convenient location and decent facilities.
- Hotel Damjis: A budget hotel providing basic amenities, it's centrally located, making commute easy.
- Hostellin' Ahmedabad: A popular choice for backpackers, it offers dormitory-style accommodation and a friendly environment.
- Bunkers Loft: Another backpacker favorite, this hostel provides clean beds, communal areas, and organizes city tours.
Bed & Breakfast/ Homestays:
Ahmedabad also has a number of B&Bs and homestays where you can enjoy local hospitality and home-cooked Gujarati meals. Platforms like Airbnb have several listings for Ahmedabad, ranging from traditional havelis to modern apartments.
- Tip: When choosing accommodation, consider factors like proximity to tourist attractions, transport availability, and the purpose of your visit (business, leisure, cultural exploration) to ensure a comfortable and convenient stay.
Getting Around
Ahmedabad boasts a robust public transport system. Whether you opt for the city buses, auto-rickshaws, or the modern BRTS lanes, navigating the city is a breeze. For a more personal experience, car rentals and bike hires are readily available.
Tips & Recommendations
- The best time to visit is between October and March, when the climate is most pleasant.
- Attend the International Kite Festival in January for a colorful spectacle.
- Keep some cash on hand; while many places accept cards, street vendors and smaller shops often prefer cash.
Discover Ahmedabad – where tradition meets innovation, and every corner has a story to tell. Book your journey now and experience the magic firsthand!
Domestic Flights from Ahmedabad
- Ahmedabad to Mumbai Flights
- Ahmedabad to Delhi Flights
- Ahmedabad to Bengaluru Flights
- Ahmedabad to Kolkata Flights
- Ahmedabad to Pune Flights
- Ahmedabad to Hyderabad Flights
- Ahmedabad to Jaipur Flights
- Ahmedabad to Goa Flights
- Ahmedabad to Chennai Flights
- Ahmedabad to Kochi Flights
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