Ahmedabad is well placed for heritage, wildlife and some of India's most unusual landscapes. Here are six weekend escapes.
1. Rann of Kutch (Dhordo)
Distance: about 400 km (about 7 hours by road; overnight trains to Bhuj) · Best for: long weekends, photographers
The vast white salt desert is magical on full-moon nights. The Rann Utsav tent city usually runs from around November to February, with folk music, crafts and camel rides. Combine with Kala Dungar and the craft villages around Bhuj.
2. Polo Forest
Distance: about 150 km (about 3 hours) · Best for: nature, offbeat travel
A forest near Idar with ruined 10th to 15th-century temples, rivers, trekking trails and birdlife. Beautiful during and after the monsoon.
3. Modhera and Patan
Distance: about 100 to 125 km (about 2 to 2.5 hours) · Best for: history and architecture
See the 11th-century Modhera Sun Temple with its stepped tank, and Rani ki Vav in Patan, a UNESCO-listed stepwell famous for its intricate carvings. Patan is also known for Patola silk weaving.
4. Statue of Unity (Kevadia)
Distance: about 200 km (about 3.5 hours) · Best for: families, first-timers
The world's tallest statue, depicting Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, with a viewing gallery, the Valley of Flowers, a jungle safari park and Narmada river cruises. Evening laser shows add to the experience.
5. Nal Sarovar
Distance: about 65 km (about 1.5 hours) · Best for: birdwatchers, day trips
A large wetland bird sanctuary that hosts flamingos, pelicans and many migratory birds in winter. Take a boat ride early in the morning.
6. Udaipur
Distance: about 260 km (about 5 hours) · Best for: couples, culture
The City of Lakes in neighbouring Rajasthan, with the City Palace, Lake Pichola boat rides, Jag Mandir and sunset views from Ambrai Ghat. Best as a long weekend.
Quick comparison
| Getaway | Approx. distance | Ideal trip | Vibe |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rann of Kutch | 400 km | Long weekend | White desert |
| Polo Forest | 150 km | 1 to 2 days | Forest and ruins |
| Modhera and Patan | 100 to 125 km | 1 day | Sun temple and stepwell |
| Statue of Unity | 200 km | 1 to 2 days | Monument and parks |
| Nal Sarovar | 65 km | Half day | Bird sanctuary |
| Udaipur | 260 km | 2 to 3 days | Lakes and palaces |
Tips
- November to February is the best season for Kutch and birdwatching.
- Some areas of the Rann near the border may need a permit, usually available locally.
- Book Rann Utsav tents and Statue of Unity tickets in advance.
- Carry sun protection; desert and open sites get very bright.
Weekend Getaways: the full series
- Part 1: From Chennai
- Part 2: From Bengaluru
- Part 3: From Hyderabad
- Part 4: From Mumbai and Pune
- Part 5: From Delhi
- Part 6: From Kolkata
- Part 7: From Kochi
- Part 8: From Coimbatore and Madurai
- Part 9: From Ahmedabad (you are here)
- Part 10: How to Plan a Budget Weekend Trip
Travel times, distances and prices are approximate and can change with season, traffic and local rules. Check weather, road conditions, entry permits and timings before you travel.
