Historical hamlets, heritage sites, temple towns, bird and wildlife sanctuaries, waterfalls, nature and adventure parks – the best places to visit near Ahmedabad are many. Whether you prefer to retreat to a natural paradise to escape the hustle and bustle of the city or explore the historical and cultural places nearby, you will find plenty of places near Ahmedabad perfect for a weekend trip. So, plan a visit to these weekend getaways near Ahmedabad and enjoy your break from the monotonous routine.
Vadodara
Known as the cultural capital of Gujarat, Vadodara is home to many ancient monuments, stunning palaces, and beautiful Hindu and Jain temples. Laxmi Vilas Palace and BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir are two of the most popular places to visit in Vadodara. It is also known for its magnificent Navratri celebrations, which draw thousands of travelers to this place every year.
Vadodara is nearly a two-hour drive from the city of Ahmedabad. Buses also connect both cities. Another historic city, Champaner, is located nearly an hour away from Vadodara. You can plan a combined trip to both places during the weekend.
Distance from Ahmedabad: nearly 110 km
Famous Tourist Attractions in Vadodara: Laxmi Vilas Palace, ISKCON Temple, Sayaji Gardens, Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery, Sur Sagar Lake, Dakshinamurthy Temple, Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park, Kirti Mandir, Sardar Patel Planetarium, etc.
Modhera
Home to the famous Sun Temple, Modhera is one of the most commonly visited weekend getaways near Ahmedabad. This quaint village is situated in the Mehsana district of Gujarat. Modhera Sun Temple is one of the only two sun temples in India. The temple complex has the sanctum sanctorum (Guda Mandap), an assembly hall, and a beautiful stepped tank. Built in the Chalukya style of architecture, Modhera Temple features intricate carvings that blow your mind away. It is a must-visit place for both history and architecture enthusiasts and religious travelers.
The temple sees huge crowds during January, which is when the Modhera Dance Festival happens. Have you witnessed this amazing festival? If not, plan your trip now and book your flights to Ahmedabad from San Francisco for travel next month.
Distance from Ahmedabad: nearly 100 km
Famous Tourist Attractions in Modhera: Sun Temple, Shree Modheshwari Mata Temple, Umiya Mata Temple, etc.
Thol Lake Bird Sanctuary
If you are into birdwatching, then Thol Lake Bird Sanctuary is among the best places you can visit for the weekend. Several species of birds, including cranes, ducks, egrets, flamingoes, pelicans, spoonbills, and geese call this tranquil sanctuary their home. You may also spot Sarus Crane, the world’s highest-flying bird, here. Families often plan their picnic tours to this sanctuary located at a distance of nearly 25 km from Ahmedabad. And the bird photography options this sanctuary provides make it popular with photography enthusiasts.
Distance from Ahmedabad: nearly 25 km
Lothal
Lothal is one of the best weekend getaways near Ahmedabad for history buffs. This ancient town, more than 4500 years old, is filled with relics dating back to the Harappan era. The town planning is also much appreciated. Take a tour of its excavation site for glimpses of the Indus Valley civilization period. Lothal is known to house the world’s earliest known dock that connected it to an ancient trade route. Do check out the archaeological museum, where you can find several interesting artifacts such as beads, terracotta items, pottery, metal objects, and more.
Distance from Ahmedabad: nearly 80 km
Mount Abu
Perched in the lush Aravalli Ranges, at an altitude of 1,220 m, Mount Abu is known for its natural beauty and pleasant weather. Mount Abu, being the only hill station in Rajasthan, attracts travelers from all over the state and other nearby states, especially during the summer season. It is among the best places to visit from Ahmedabad for a respite from the sweltering summer temperatures. Apart from natural places such as lakes, waterfalls, forests, rivers, and a wildlife sanctuary, Mount Abu impresses travelers with a rich collection of historical attractions like ancient Hindu and Jain temples, forts, and palaces.
Distance from Ahmedabad: nearly 200 km
Famous Tourist Attractions in Mount Abu: Nakki Lake, Dilwara Jain Temples, Sunset Point, Achaleshwar Mahadev Temple, Toad Rock, Achalgarh Fort, Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary, Peace Park, etc.
Other famous weekend getaways from Ahmedabad include Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary, Rajkot, Udaipur, Surat, Patan, and Champaner-Pavagadh. If you are planning a long trip to Ahmedabad, you can also include these places in your itinerary. You can find great deals on flights to Ahmedabad from Los Angeles and other US cities at Indian Eagle. Search through their deals and book your cheap tickets now!
