Ahmedabad

Introduction: Ahmedabad, one of the liveliest cities in India and one of the major industrial centers in India, has often been called the Manchester of East. Ahmedabad is the largest city in Gujarat and the sixth largest city in India with a population of almost 5 million. The city is also known as Karnavati. Ahmedabad got its name from Sultan Ahmed Shah who founded it in 1411 AD. Situated on the bank of river Sabarmati, Ahmedabad is known for its beautiful historical monuments. Today, this city has left behind its past and has turned and developed itself into a leading industrial center and has become economic capital of Gujarat. It is the heart of Gujarat keeping the whole state vibrant.

History: Ahmedabad has a varied history. Ahmedabad has had many high points as well as low points. It was established in 1411 by Sultan Ahmed Shah. There have been periods of decline as well. In 1572, Emperor Akbar conquered Ahmedabad and merged it with the great Mughal Empire. The Mughals lost their hold on this city after the death of Aurangzeb. After that, the mighty British invaded Ahmedabad in 1818 and made it into a industrial city. Ahmedabad also became hub for the Indian freedom struggle with Mahatma Gandhi’s Sabarmati Ashram on the outskirts of the city, the core. From here he guided India to freedom.

Places of interest: Ahmedabad has several tourist attractions, which is visited throughout the year. Gandhi’s Ashram, from where “Father of he Nation”, Mahatma Gandhi, launched his non-violent Satyagraha Movement, which ultimately led to Independence of India is still preserved on the bank of river Sabarmati, and continues to attract visitors across the globe. The Sidi Bashir Mosque, which has shaking minarets, and is also called Jhulta Minar is a popular tourist attraction. Calico Museum of Textiles is one of the best textile museums of the world. One can see and amaze at the samples of the finest fabrics and weaving machines produced in different part of India since the 16th century. There are several stunning Hindu and Jain temples in and around Ahmedabad.

Travel Information: Ahmedabad is situated in western India at 53 meters above sea level. It is well connected by air to rest of the country. Ahmedabad is one of the six operating divisions of the Western Railway, railway lines connect the city to all towns in Gujarat, and to major cities in the rest of India. Except the Monsoon season, the climate of Ahemdabad is generally dry. Best time to visit Ahmedabad is between September and March.