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Destination Guide India > Ahmedabad
DESTINATION
GUIDE INDIA - AHMEDABAD
ABOUT AHMEDABAD
CITY
Situated on the
banks of the river Sabarmati, Ahmedabad is the former capital
city and most important developed city of Gujarat. The city is
haven of the fine amalgam of Indian and Muslim architecture.
Unlike the old Ahmedabad, the new Ahmedabad has more of
up-to-the-minute design architecture. Ahmedabad is also world
renown for Gujarat handicrafts, such as, bandhani (tie / dye)
work. Ahmedabad is presently famous for its textile mills and
is often referred to as the 'Manchester of the East'. Besides,
Ahmedabad has got numerous places of interest for tourists,
ranging from monuments to amusement parks. The charisma of the
various museums, mosques, and forts adds charm to the
simplicity of the Ahmedabad city.
TOURIST
ATTRACTIONS - AHMEDABAD CITY
Juma Masjid
Juma Masjid is amongst the most popular tourist sights in
the city. Built of yellow sandstone this mosque stands on
260 pillars which support 15 domes at varying elevations.
The mosque was built by Ahmad Shah in 1423. This imposing
structure reflects the Muslim architecture of that period.
Jhulta Minara
Quite an unusual structure, Jhulta Minara or swaying
minarets are a part of the mosque of Siddi Bashir and can be
moved back and forth by applying a little force at the
topmost arch. One of the minarets was partly demolished by
an Englishman in his endeavours to unravel the mystery of
the swaying minarets.
Hathising Jain Temple
An impressive white structure, the Jain temple built of
white marble and elaborately carved is dedicated to
Dharmanath - the 15th Jina or Jain Apostle. Similar to all
Jain temples, this temple too is rich in intricate carvings
displaying among other things - musicians.
Sidi Sayed Mosque
Sidi Sayed Mosque is unique for its exquisite screens, which
are praised for their amazing Jhali screen, framed, in the
ten semi-circular windows. The screen carved out of one rock
is just exceptional. A visit to this superb and outstanding
example of delicate carving is an absolute must.
Bhadra Fort
To add special charm to the varied sights of the city there
is the Bhadra Fort, which once housed royal palaces and
well-laid gardens. It boasts of the temple of Bhadrakali and
was built in 1411 during the Maratha rule.
Sabarmati Ashram
The ashram was founded by Mahatma Gandhi in 1915, and today
without doubt it is the biggest tourist attraction in
Ahmedabad. It lies on the tranquil stretch of the Sabarmati
river and was referred to as the Satyagraha Ashram during
the lifetime of the Mahatma. It was from here, that the
Mahatma began his famous 'Dandi March' in 1930 to protest
against the Salt Tax imposed by the British. One can see the
three wise monkeys and many more of Gandhiji's teachings at
the ashram premises. The ashram today continues the work
started by Mahatma and houses a handicrafts centre, a
handmade paper factory and a spinning wheel factory.
Besides, there are several other attractions for the
tourist.
Kankaria Lake
A circular lake built in 1451 by Sultan Qutub-ud-Din. In the
centre of the lake is an island garden with a summer palace
known as Nagina Wadi. The lake is a popular recreation
centre surrounded by parks, 'Bal Vatika' - an aquarium, a
boat club, a natural history museum and a zoo.
HOW TO REACH
»
Air : Ahmedabad airport is 10 km north of the city and
has both the domestic and international terminal.
» By Train: Ahmedbad has direct train
services to major cities in India.
» By Road: Ahmedabad has good
highways connecting it to all major places in Gujarat and
other states. Interstate buses of different states of India
provide services to and from Ahmedabad.
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