Ahmedabad For Backpackers? It’s More Magical Than You’d Ever Imagine
Ahmedabad, India’s largest city in Gujarat, is a wonderful amalgam of the past, the present and the future. From its bustling hospitality and palatable foods, it is no surprise that Ahmedabad stands as a preferred place for tourists who want to step into the core of India without having to spend too much money. If you have a fascination for history, love to eat or enjoy going to less common places, Ahmedabad has something in store and in sight for you. Here are seven compelling reasons Ahmedabad should be on every backpacker’s itinerary.
1. Various Options for Affordable Lodging
Finding adequate accommodation is one of the biggest challenges for backpackers and other low-budget travelers, but Ahmedabad qualifies and scores well on this aspect. The hostels, guest houses, and budget hotels near the sight attractions make the city stand out. A greater number of hostels offer dormitories with basic facilities for ludicrously low prices, while homestays allow rich immersion into local life at slightly higher fees. Earning high rates of positive reviews demonstrate the effectiveness of these methods. As evidenced by the high positive reviews near major sightseeing places, services provided through Airbnb and Booking.com are effective.
2. Significant Historical Heritage
Because of its Heritage City status in 2017 and its rich history, Ahmedabad was able to preserve the walls of Purani Nagar, which had been an old city. The city is home to various structures boasting centuries of history. Some notable sites are Sidi Sayyed Mosque, famous for its jaw-droppingly beautiful stone windows, step wells such as Dada Harir Vav, and exquisitely carved wooden havelis. These sites serve as a gateway for backpackers and tourists to relive the architectural genius of medieval India. Also, Sabarmati Ashram, the residence of Mahatma Gandhi during the Indian freedom movement, provides perspective on the country’s struggle for independence.
3. Tasty and Cheap Street Food
Ahmedabad is regarded as the El-Dorado for people who indulge in local dishes and savor new cuisines while backpacking. The region is known for its unique Gujarati thalis, which include different exquisitely made vegetarian dishes with no limits on servings. Nevertheless, what truly sets the city apart is its street food. From spicy pav bhaji and dabeli to flavored khaman dhokla and jalebi fafda, the options are virtually endless. Manek Chowk and Law Garden Night Market are places that cannot be missed for their great atmosphere and tasty snacks, sold on the cheap.
4. More than One Traditions
Ahmedabad is an integrated cultural society where preservation of age old practices and modern way of living collaborate and satisfactorily exist. Some places, such as The Calico Museum of Textiles, which displays handloom and embroidery collections from Gujarat, allow tourists to see how traditional arts and crafts are made. The whole city pulses with vivacious Garba dances and other colorful festivities during Navratri. Backpackers are welcomed into the celebrations as a way to share the public goodwill that the Gujarati people generously showcase.
5. Natural Beauties Are Close By
Ahmedabad might be a metropolis, but the city’s strategic position makes it a hub for other natural beauties and places for weekend leisure. A few hours away is the Gir National Park, which is known for its Asiatic lion, as well as the calm beaches that Diu boasts of. Those who love the area of spirituality can make a fascinating day trip to the Sun Temple in Modhera and the Lothal ruins from the Indus Valley civilization. These sites allow backpackers to experience the wonders of the city as well as nature.
6. A Well Organised and Integrated Mass Transit System
The transit issue within the city is well solved, as public transport is highly developed. Important sections of the Ahmedabad metropolitan area are connected by the Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS), which makes it easier for travelers to navigate the city. For those who prefer to use auto rickshaws or take Olas and Ubers, these options are also available. Furthermore, the city can be traversed by simply renting a bike or using an e-scooter operated via a smartphone app called Yulu, which encourages sightseeing at one’s convenience.
7. Pleasant People and Good Security
For those who travel alone, safety should always be at the back of their minds, but Ahmedabad is a city which has always prided itself on its courteous citizenry. Almost all of the locals are hospitable and go out of their way to help tourists find their way around the city, whether it is giving them directions or telling them the best places to visit. Compared to the other metropolitan cities in India, Ahmedabad is quite safe because its crime rates are on the lower end. Therefore, it is a suitable choice for backpackers, including female travelers alone. In addition, a number of residents in these areas foster a community spirit which makes the area feel safe and secure.
Final Verdict
Ahmedabad doles out a robust combination of being affordable, rich in culture, and easily accessible which is beneficial for backpackers traveling within India. Its historic sites, mouthwatering street snacks, and natural spectacles guarantee excitement at all times. With the friendliness of the locals, ample budget accommodation, effective transportation, and the like, Ahmedabad ticks all the factors for an unforgettable backpacking journey. So, make sure you take your camera and some bags and go out to enjoy the magic of this attractive city.
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