Ahmedabad is a spectacular city and it has all the amenities that one could ask for. This cosmopolitan city has provided employment and a good life to a huge population and yet this city is deeply entrenched in its historical roots. Almost all the monuments in Ahmedabad have some historical significance as a result of which this city is one of the most important hubs of culture in western India. If you are touring Ahmedabad, you must make it a point to visit these famous monuments of Ahmedabad:
The Sabarmati Ashram is located on the banks of the River Sabarmati and was the abode of Mahatma Gandhi. This ashram is a haven of peace and serenity. The ashram is important because it was from here that the Mahatma had launched his non-violent struggle for India’s freedom. Tourists always make it a point to come here and pay their respects at this holy site. There is also the famous Gandhi Sangrahalaya or Museum which has to be visited and it was inaugurated by Jawaharlal Nehru in 1963. A lot of items from Gandhi’s own collection can be found here like his writing desk, khadi kurta, photographs, letters and more. One can also find the charkha, or the spinning wheel, which has now become the symbol of India.
The Jami Masjid, also known as the Jumma Masjid, is a one of the greatest architectural marvels of the city. The complex of the mosque is very quiet and serene and you will have a wonderful time exploring the various facets. What is even more interesting is that the complex outside the mosque is very chaotic, with local transports and markets making a constant din. That completely fades away when you are inside the mosque. The mosque is made from yellow sandstone and there are intricate lattice works carved into the screens and the windows. The mosque was built in 1424 by Ahmed Shah I and is located in the older part of the city.
The mosque is popularly known by the name of Siddi Saiyyed ki Jaali and was built around the last of the Sultanate of Gujrat. Tourists are astounded by the magnificent architecture of the place and the carved lattice work has given the mosque international renown. The stone work depicts branches of trees intertwining and hence, is given the name of The Tree of Life. This depiction has now become the logo of Ahmedabad city and it is marvelous how the stonecarvers of the bygone eras had built such stupendous and intricate art work from stone. The carvings create interesting shapes and patterns and are a photographer’s delight. The play of sunlight and shadow is stunning.
The Dada Hari ki Bhav is located in the older part of the city and can only be located with the help of the locals as it is camouflaged by old houses and buildings all around. This is nothing but a step well but the architecture here is unique. Step wells can be seen very easily in Gujarat because they are the only major source of water in the state and this well deserves special mention. On either side of the stairs, you can see carvings in Arabic and Sanskrit and those who know the language will be able to decipher words of deep philosophy. When light enters the shaft through this beautiful lattice work, it creates a vert dreamy appearance.
The Akshardham Temple is much revered because it was the first temple of the Swaminarayam sect. The temple has a huge complex and many people come here to experience the peace and calm of the place. The Akshardham Temple is painted with bright colors and the arches and brackets are beautifully highlighted with these amazing patterns. The strong colors are perfectly balanced with the delicate designs. The color palette, is in fact the beautiful depiction of the culture of the city and the state. Also, when heritage walks are organized in the city, this temple is one of the starting points. The temple is a must- visit if you are interested in the art and architecture of the bygone era.
The Jhulta Minara or the Shaking Minaret, is truly an architectural wonder in the city. Till date, the architects and engineers marvel about the construction of this amazing monument and tourists are left spellbound as well. The monument is built in such a way that the vibration of one minaret causes vibration in the other minaret of the complex, even though the passage connecting both of them remains free of any vibration. And yet, even though these minarets vibrate and shake, they have never been affected by earthquakes. The minarets are actually located within the Siddi Bashir Mosque which were built in 1452 AD which was built by Ahmed Shah.
The Lal Darwaza or the Red Gate is today one of the bustling places in the city. The surge of humanity which you get to see here is quite overwhelming. The Darwaza itself was built in the year 1907 by the Prime Minister of the Nizam, Maharaja Kishan Persad. Although he was titled Maharaja, he was in fact a nobleman but was called so because of the numerous steps he took for the people. He had built the Darwaza as an entrance to the suburb here and also stated the Bonalu festival in the temple here.
Although the museum itself is not historical, the museum contains many historical items which deeply reflect the culture and traditions of the land. There are sculptures- mostly made from copper and brass, miniature paintings, wood work, idols and figurines, drawings and many other important scrolls and documents. The museum itself is located within the premises of the LD Institute of Indology. The campus of the institute is sprawling and it is also a great place to relax and take in the peaceful and calm atmosphere. It is easy to reach this museum as it is only 7 km from the railway station. If you do not have much time on your hands, this museum is a one stop destination to give you an idea about the local culture.
This is one of the most important Jain temples in the city and is dedicated to the 15th Tirthankara of the Jains, Lord Dharmanath. The temple is two storeyed and is completed created in marble. The outer courtyard of the temple is truly splendid and you will have splendid grounds to walk on. The temple was constructed in 1848 by a local businessman but it has today become synonymous with the heart and soul of the city. Tourists visit this temple in huge numbers, especially during festivals, when the temple is lighted up. It is one of the most famous Ahmedabdad historical monuments.
Who does not like cars and vintage cars of course, have their own charm. The World Vintage Car Museum will give you a glimpse into the different makes of cars that were on the roads of India, even before independence. The museum is actually a part of a private collector’s own collection and one can find a number of older models of Bentley, Austin, Cadillac, Jaguar and Rolls Royce here. It is a real pleasure to visit this museum and examine automobile engineering in older times.
Ahmed Shah was the founder of the city of Ahmedabad, and this it is so named. The tomb of Ahmed Shah is hence a must visit when you come here. The cenotaph is small but is very pleasing to the eye. It also contains the tomb of his sons and grandsons. However, in keeping with the traditions, which are still rooted in patriarchy, women are not allowed inside the central chamber of the cenotaph. You can of course, admire the tomb and the serene ambience as well as the outer halls. There is also an adjoining mosque in the complex and it is a much visited religious place in the city.
The Bhadra Fort is located in one of the most scenic parts of the city. The fort, along with its adjoining premises, is spread over a whopping 44 acres. The temple has actually received its name from the Bhadrakali Temple which is located close by. It is a real treat for the eyes to come to the temple after the monsoons. The fort and its ramparts present mesmerizing views of the land around. It is also one of the most adventurous places right outside Ahmedabad.
Hence, if you visiting Ahmedabad, start exploring its history through the famous monuments of Ahmedabad, you will find that there is a lot more indeed than meets the eyes. Delving deeper into the history of the city will only make you understand the heritage of the city further.
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