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If you are a traveller at heart or just need to rejuvenate, Ahmedabad has a plethora of spots for the perfect weekend getaway. From hills, and natural parks to architectural beauties, these are the ideal weekend spots that you just cannot miss. So pack your bags already!
7 weekend getaways from Ahmedabad to explore
1. Vadodara
Vadodara, also known as Baroda is a cosmopolitan city in Gujarat and is an important economic centre. Also known as the cultural capital of Gujrat, it is home to outstanding models of architecture. Known for its lavish palaces and legendary monuments, Vadodara is a place of great prominence. The city has been the chair for the Gaekwad Dynasty and encompasses great cultural heritage. The historic educational institute of Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda is also situated here. It is also home to several Jain and Hindu temples. The city is known for its unique Navrati celebration as well. So, for all the travellers, and history enthusiasts, Vadodara is the perfect place to be.
Distance from Ahmedabad: 111km from Ahmedabad
Places to visit: Laxmi Vilas Palace, Sayaji Baug, Champaner-Pavagadh Archeological Park, Ajwa Nimeta Garden, Sursagar Lake, Vadodara Museum, EME Temple, Hazira Maqbara, Aurobindo Ashram
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Vadodara is from the months of October and November to March
2. Patan
Patan is the latest Indian entry to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It is the state capital of Gujrat and has remained so for as many as 650 years. Brimmed with architectural beauties and ancient monuments and temples that date back to the mediaeval past. Located along the remains of the river Sarwasti, the old world charm of the place is enough to captivate you. It is also the home to Rani Ka Vav, which is one of the city’s major attractions. Patan is known for its historical value, as well considered to be a spiritual city because of the presence of various Jain temples and Dargarh. If you are interested in history and culture, this is the right place for a weekend getaway for you to discover so much more.
Distance from Ahmedabad: 125 km from Ahmedabad
Places to visit: Rani Ka Vav, Sahastralinga Talav, Patola Saree Marketing Unit, Khan Sarovar, Bindi Sarovar, Shankeshwar Temple, Rudra Mahalaya, Loteshwar Mahadev Temple
Best time to visit: From October to April is the best time to visit Patan
3. Mount Abu
If you are seeking a pleasant and relaxing weekend getaway, amidst the lush greenery, Mount Abu is just the place for you to visit. Away from the stuffy desert climate of Rajasthan, located along the Aravalli Range, Mount Abu is the state’s summer capital. One of the most important attractions of Rajasthan, Mount Abu is sure to awestruck you with its heavenly natural beauty. The Dilwara Temple is a major attraction of the place and can be considered a stunning architectural monument. Tourists can also enjoy a great sunset while boating in the Nakki Lake. with the presence of serene rivers, lakes and waterfalls, Mount Abu is often referred to as an ‘oasis in the desert’.
Distance from Ahmedabad: 229 km from Ahmedabad
Places to visit: Nakki Lake, Guru Shikhar, Toad Rock, Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary, Dilwara Temples, Mount Abu Sunset Point, Raghunathji Temple
Best time to visit: Mount Abu is a destination that can be visited year-round, however, between November and March is the ideal time to visit
4. Udaipur
You might very well know this place from the Bollywood film Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, and Udaipur is just as stunning as it has been portrayed. One of the most popular destinations among tourists from all over the world, Udaipur is the ancient capital of Mewar. Also known as the City of Lakes, it is located around gorgeous lakes amidst the Aravalli Hills from every direction. With a vibrant culture, Udaipur is home to some of the most majestic palaces as well. One of the most romantic cities in India, Fateh Sagar and Jaisamand Lake are two highlights of this place. From traditional Rajasthani art to delectable food options, Udaipur is your picture-perfect weekend getaway spot.
Distance from Ahmedabad: 265 km from Ahmedabad
Places to visit: City Palace, Lake Pichola, Sajjangarh Palace, Bagore Ki Haveli, Jag Mandir Palace, Eklingji Temple, Saheliyon ki Bari, Vintage Car Museum
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Udaipur is from October to March
5. Champaner
Champaner has been the capital of the Sultanate of Gujarat. Full of historical sites, ancient palaces, forts and marvellous monuments, Champaner is one of the most sought-after places. The Champaner-Pavagadh, which is an archaeological park, has been included in the list of UNESCO Heritage Sites. For all the history lovers, Champaner has a number of undiscovered, lesser-known monuments which the city is sure to entice you with.
Distance of Ahmedabad: 145 km from Ahmedabad
Places to visit: Kalika Mata Temple, Pavagadh Fort, Jain Temples at Pavagadh, Jami Masjid, Lakulisa Temple, Kevada Mosque, Pavagadh Hill, Nagina Masjid, Shehar Ki Masjid
Best time to visit: October to February are the best months to visit Champaner
6. Bhavnagar
Also known as the Cultural Centre of Gujarat, Bhavnagar is located at the southern tip of Gujarat. From the intense waves of the Gulf of Khambhat, local bazaars, and stunning architectural beauties to a lively cultural atmosphere, Bhavnagar is a place filled with great legacy. It has been a major port city and a trade hub. If you are in the mood to rewind and relax this weekend while also wanting to explore a bit, Bhavnagar is the ideal place to visit.
Distance from Ahmedabad: 173.5 km from Ahmedabad
Places to visit: Gaurishankar Lake, Nilambag Palace, Victoria Park
Best time to visit: October-January are the best months to visit Bhavnagar
7. Surat
Surat is a port city of Gujrat, situated along the banks of Tapti River and near the Arabian Sea. Considered an important commercial hub, Surat is known for its silk and textile industries, as well as a diamond cutting centre. It is also known as the ‘city of flyovers’, and is a city with an easy-going, lively atmosphere. Tourists visiting here are also often interested in the exotic wildlife and colonial history of Surat.
Distance from Ahmedabad: 268 km from Ahmedabad
Places to visit: Dumas Beach, Dutch Garden, Sardar Patel Museum, Sarthana National Park, Gopi Talav, Hajira Village, Dandi Beach, Ambaji Temple, Galteshwar, VR Surat, ISKCON Temple, Sneha Rashmi Botanical Garden, Jagdish Chandra Bose Aquarium.
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