Ahmedabad

Ahmedabad

General Information about Ahmedabad

Information on Ahmedabad
Ahmedabad, also known as Amdavad is the second largest city of west India and the largest city in Gujarat. Ahmedabad was also the former state capital of Gujarat. Ahmed Shah I founded this city on the banks of the Sabarmati river in 1411 and thus named as Ahmedabad. Ahmedabad is also known for its association with the Mahatma Gandhi, the father of the nation and is one of the India's foremost industrial centres. It is a place where tradition and modernity co-exist in perfect harmony. Sir Thomas Roe also described Ahmedabad as a "goodly city as large as London. In summers the temperature is around 41 degree Celsius and in winters it is around 12 degree Celsius. The best season to visit the Ahmedabad is from October to March. Gujarati, Hindi and English are the common languages which are spoken in Ahmedabad.

History of Ahmedabad
The city of Ahmedabad was originally the Karnavati that was founded on the left banks of the Sabarmati river by Karna Solanki between 1063 and 1093 AD. It was re-established by the Ahmed Shah I in 1411 AD on the banks of the Sabarmati river. This city was considered as one of the finest cities of India in the 17th century. But in the 18th century this city went through a period of decline. In the 19th century the industrial strength raised up the city. Ahmedabad’s cotton industry received patronage under its Sultans. The first mill was established by Rancholal Chotalal in 1859, and today there are 80 mills in Ahmedabad. In 1915, Ahmedabad became famous due to the Dandi March started by the Mahatma Gandhi.

Tourist Attractions in Ahmedabad
The various tourist attractions in Ahmedabad are the Jama Masjid, Sidi Bashir Mosque, Sabarmati Ashram, Sidi Saiyad's Mosque, Hathee Singh Temple and Calico Museum of Textiles. Jama Masjid was built in 1423 AD by Ahmad Shah and was also described as the most beautiful mosque in India. Sidi Bashir mosque is known for the world famous shaking minarets. If one of the minaret is shaken, the other minaret also get shaken thus regarded as one of the architectural wonders. Hathee Singh Jain temple is dedicated to Dharamanath, the 15th Jina or Jain apposite. This temple is one of the best ornated Jain temples in Ahmedabad and is built of pure white marble. Calico museum of textiles is widely regarded as one of the finest textiles museums in the world, started in Calico Textile Mill.

Shopping in Ahmedabad
Ahmedabad has a long tradition in craftsmanship. Under Gujarati Sultans and Mughal Viceroys it was one of the most brilliant Indian cities. Its jewellers and goldsmiths are renowned, copper and brassworkers produce very fine screens and pandans (betel boxes). The carpenter produce fine shisham wood articles. There are also skilled stonemasons, producers of lacquer boxes, ivory carvers and hand block printers using vegetable dyes and embroiderers producing exquisite pieces with beads and mirrors. These complement the modern industries such as pharmaceuticals and textiles. Tie-and-die fabrics, khari work with gold and silver thread embossing, printed textiles, gold and silver thread embroidery, Patola silk saris, Sankheda lacquered furniture, mirror-work embroidered skirts and blouse material, bead-work, handicrafts, woodwork, brass articles, appliquéd work and silver jewellery are some of the major items of Ahmedabad.

Excursions from Ahmedabad
Sarkhej, Vishala, Utensils Museum, Adalaj Vav, Dada Hari Vav, Mata Bhawani's Well, Gujarat Science City, Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary are located near Ahmedabad and its excursion can be had for one day. Sarkhej was once a country retreat of the Muslim rulers. It is known for its Rauza, the fine architectural complex of mosques, palaces, pavilions and tombs, all grouped around a stepped tank.

Festivals in Ahmedabad
Makar Sankranti and Navaratri are the two major festivals which are celebrated in Ahmedabad. Makar Sankranti festival is celebrated in the mid of January and marks the end of the winter season and the starting of the northern journey of the sun. It is celebrated with kite flying, accompanied by colourful street markets and festivities. People of all ages join in, preparing in detail for the event. Navaratri festival is celebrated in the month of September - October and has a special significance in the city which prepares for it for weeks and celebrates it for 9 days with a great deal of music and dancing, mainly the Garba Ras dance.

How to reach Ahmedabad