Akshardham Temple in Gandhinagar
Ahmedabad, the fifth largest city in India, is the commercial hub of Gujarat and also one of the best places to be in Gujarat. The city is renowned for its deep rooted culture, exquisite architecture and exuberant people. Ahmedabad was founded by the King Karnadev in 11th Century and was named after him as Karnawati untill Sultan Ahmed Shah invaded the kingdom in 1411 and renamed the city after himself.
The tourist attractions in Ahmedabad include Bhadra Fort, well laid out historical buildings, mosques and lakes. Mahatma Gandi's ashram, known as Sabarmati Ashram is one of the major draws of the city along with the nearby modern marvel Akshardham Temple in Gandhinagar.
Jhoolta Minar or the Shaking Minarets in Ahmadabad
Bhadra Fort, Jhoolta (shaking) Minarets and Teen Darwaza are the historical wonders in the city. Natural beauties include the emerald Kankaria Lake and Vastrapur Lake.
For cultural immersion, visit Ahmedabad during the major festivals that are celebrated in this city. Uttarayan (Makar Sakranti) and Navratri are two most famous festivals here that are celebrated with great zeal and gusto. The International Kite Festival is celebrated here with great gusto and kite flyers from around the world gather and showcasing their kite flying skills.
Other specialty of Ahmedabad is the sumptuous cuisines. The city is renowned for its ice-creams thanks to the white revolution and abundance of dairy products in the state. The local penchant for sweets is renowned as well. Gujarati specialties include Dhokla, Khandvi, Srikhand, Haandvo and Bhajiya amongst others. For food lovers Khau Galli in Law Garden area and Khan Pan Bazaar in Manekchawk is the place to be for the authentic taste of Gujarati cuisine.
Splurge: Stay in Ginger Hotel or Lemon Tree for a luxurious stay. Hotels to suit the pocket of everyone are available in plenty in Ahmedabad.
For cultural immersion, visit Ahmedabad during the major festivals that are celebrated in this city. Uttarayan (Makar Sakranti) and Navratri are two most famous festivals here that are celebrated with great zeal and gusto. The International Kite Festival is celebrated here with great gusto and kite flyers from around the world gather and showcasing their kite flying skills.
Other specialty of Ahmedabad is the sumptuous cuisines. The city is renowned for its ice-creams thanks to the white revolution and abundance of dairy products in the state. The local penchant for sweets is renowned as well. Gujarati specialties include Dhokla, Khandvi, Srikhand, Haandvo and Bhajiya amongst others. For food lovers Khau Galli in Law Garden area and Khan Pan Bazaar in Manekchawk is the place to be for the authentic taste of Gujarati cuisine.
Splurge: Stay in Ginger Hotel or Lemon Tree for a luxurious stay. Hotels to suit the pocket of everyone are available in plenty in Ahmedabad.
Off the Beaten Path Excursion Adalaj ka Vav
Adalaj ka Vav a 5 storey step well located just 18 kilometers from the heart of the city is a must visit place even if you are not into architecture. Adalaj Vav was constructed in 1499 by Muslim king Mehmud Begda for Queen Rani Roopba, widow of Veer Singh, the Vaghela chieftain.
Adalaj ka Vav or the Adlaj Step well
Adalaj ka Vav or the Adlaj Step well
The step well or 'Vav', as it is called in Gujarati, is a spectacular specimen of fusion of Indian and Islamic elements of architecture. This five storey step well is renowned for its intricately carved interiors.
Steeped in history, Adalaj Vav has an interesting legend associated with it. As per the legends the Muslim King Mohammad Begda invaded, defeated and killed Veer Sing who ruled here. It is said that Begda after seeing the beautiful queen was enamored and longed to marry her. The queen promised to oblige him once he constructed the step well.
Begda ordered the construction of the step well which was finished in record time. Open completion Begda pressed the queen to fulfill her promise to marry him. But the queen, who was still devoted to her slain husband decided to end her life by jumping in the same step well. The entire episode is depicted in the walls of the Vav.
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