When to fly
The months November through February make up the most popular time of year to take flights to Ahmedabad. During this period the average maximum temperature is 30 degrees Celsius and the average minimum temperature is 15 degrees. This warm, sunny and dry climate makes these months ideal for exploring all that Ahmedabad has to offer, especially for travellers planning on visiting outdoor landmarks or celebrations like the annual International Kite Festival held in January. This festival, also known as the festival of Uttarayan, creates a spectacular scene over Ahmedabad as colourful kites fill the sky from before dawn until well after dark. The night sky lights up with lamps attached to the kites. Expect normal activities to be shut down, as everyone takes to the rooftops and streets, to celebrate the end of winter.
If you like high temperatures take a flight to Ahmedabad from March through June, where the average maximum temperature can reach 41 degrees and the average minimum temperature is still high in the late 20s. The monsoon season brings hot and humid weather to the city from July through September. Rainfall also occurs during this period, especially during July and infrequent heavy torrential rains can cause local rivers to flood. During these off-peak seasons you are more likely to find cheap flights to Ahmedabad. In addition, you’ll be able to immerse yourself in traditional events, such as one of the most popular Hindu festivals, Navrati, or the festival of nine nights. Each night, people gather in beautifully decorated open spaces across the city to celebrate the Goddess Shakti. The festivities involve the famous folk dance of Gujarat ‘Garba’ and religious ceremonies. This festival takes place in the Hindu month of Ashwin which roughly corresponds with the months of September/October.
City Overview
Old and new is separated by the waters of the Sabarmati River in Ahmedabad, one of the largest cities in all of India. To the east of the river lie remnants of the city’s past: 15 gates of the 10-km wall that once guarded the former capital of the state of Gujarat. To the west, modern structures, updated infrastructure and an abundance of culture reflect the city’s newer identity as one of the fastest growing cities in India. Surely, it takes more than a quick stop to soak up all that makes up Ahmedabad, but visitors who take their time in this metropolis gain an insight into Indian culture and history that can’t be found elsewhere.
Take a flight to Ahmedabad and visit a home to a variety of ethnicities and religious communities, and this melting pot dynamic keeps visitors on their toes. One of the must-visit sites along this vein is Sabarmati Ashram, founded by Mahatma Gandhi and once the epicentre for the non-violent struggle for Indian independence. In the same city as this Hindu highlight, visitors can also gaze upon a 16th-century Muslim house of worship at Sidi Saiyyed Mosque, renowned for the stone latticework that adorns the windows. Bhadra Fort also houses one of the city’s most famed mosques, as well as a temple, lush gardens and a royal palace, accompanied today by a spread of street vendors. One of the best ways to experience Indian culture is through the lively festivals held in Ahmedabad.
As evenings descend on Ahmedabad, locals take to the streets to enjoy food and conversation — but not alcohol. In fact, alcohol is forbidden here for Indian nationals, but it seems libations are hardly needed for the locals to have a good time after dark. The city square of Manek Chowk transforms into a street food bazaar at night, where visitors can indulge in some of the finest Indian flavours with plenty of good company.