Endowed with beauty that is sure to transport you to a whole other world, Polo Forest is one of the most famous picnic spots near Ahmedabad. If you're looking forward to spending some quality time with nature and tranquillity, this is the best option out there. It also makes for an excellent location for trekking. 400 kilometres of lush green cover, abundant wildlife, ancient temples and a picturesque dam site harnessing the river Harnav - you will probably require two SD cards to capture all of these. The government also organises Polo Utsav every year which features many cultural and sports activities.
Known For : Nakki Lake Guru Shikhar Toad Rock
The only hill station of Rajasthan, its cool atmosphere and lush green surroundings make it a major tourist spot within the state. The most important attraction, however, are undoubtedly the Dilwara temples, which is one of the most stunning piece of architecture in the country. If you are a history or architecture buff, this is one of the places you should absolutely not miss out in India.
Distance from Ahmedabad: 224 km
Best Time: October to March
Awarded the best green resort of Gujarat, this 125 acre land of lush greenery also has the country's longest zip line. It is just the place for camping or trekking. Other adventurous activities like kayaking and swing jump supervised by professionals can be undertaken. Adventure rides, swimming pool, and overnight stay and food options are all available on the premises.
Hingolgadh Sanctuary is one of the lushest sanctuaries in the region and is surrounded by beautiful hills. It was declared as a protected area by the Government in 1980, which is spread over an area of 654 sq km. The distance from Ahmedabad to Hingolgadh is 183 km which takes up to 3 hours by car. It is an adventure of look for the plush greenery and wild animal while enjoying the scenic beauty of this place.
Wankaner is a royal place being one of the royal states before Indian Independence. It is at a distance of 208 km from Ahmedabad and takes around 3 hours 20 minutes by road. Wankaner is famous for the stunning royal palace named 'Ranjit Vilas Palace' which houses the royal family of Wankaner. There is a summer palace by the name of 'Royal Oasis' which has been converted into a heritage hotel and is worth a visit. The other tourist attractions here are Shahbava Dargah, Nagabava Temple, Macchu Dam-1 and Maa Khodiyar Temple.
Known For : Kalika Mata Temple Pavagadh Fort Jain Temples in Pavagadh
Being included in the elite list of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites across the globe, this marvellous archaeological park set in the heart of the city of Champaner and amidst the Pavagadh hills is one of the most sought after places in Gujarat.
Distance from Ahmedabad: 149 km
Best Time: October to February
Known For : Rani ki Vav Sahastralinga Talav Patola Saree Making Unit
Rani Ka Vav, the latest Indian entrant to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Site is situated here, making Patan one of the newest tourist hubs in India.
Distance from Ahmedabad: 118 km
Best Time: October to March
Known For : Akshardham Temple Adalaj Stepwell Children's Park, Gandhinagar
Gandhinagar, the capital city of Gujarat, offers a rich cultural heritage, beautiful temples and serene environment as major tourist attractions.
Distance from Ahmedabad: 27 km
Best Time: October to March
Known For : Laxmi Vilas Palace Sayaji Baug (Kamati Baug) Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park
Home to some of the most exemplary displays of architecture, Vadodara is a fitting memorial to Maratha leader Sayaji Rao Gaekwad III.
Distance from Ahmedabad: 114 km
Best Time: October to March
Known For : Gaurishankar Lake Nilambag Palace Shopping in Bhavnagar
Splendid splashes of the passionate waves of the Gulf of Khambat, an ancient history of ocean trade, vibrant culture, warm locals, bazaars brimming with people and chitter chatter, enchanting architecture, progressive people and a happy developing town.
Distance from Ahmedabad: 174 km
Best Time: October to January
Known For : Gabbar Hill Ambaji Mata Temple Kailash Hill Sunset
A tourist attraction due to it's proximity to Ahmedabad, Danta is a Hindu pilgrimage center known mainly for its Ambe temple.
Distance from Ahmedabad: 130 km
Best Time: October to March
Known For : AMUL Diary & Chocolate Factory AMUL Co-operative Museum Flo Art gallery
The city which was the epicenter of the white revolution in the country, Anand is a place known for its semi-rural set up and the Swami Narayan Mandir which is the crown jewel of the city
Distance from Ahmedabad: 77 km
Best Time: October to March
Modhera is an ancient village in the state of Gujarat, famed for housing the remains of the Sun Temple built by the Chalukya dynasty is a true historical treasure. The village is surrounded by a mystical aura that the Sun Temple brings along, it is also a hub for spirituality and culture. Modhera gives you a glimpse into the glory days of the royal lineage of the Chalukyas and is one of the finest testaments of the architectural excellence of the past. If history entices then this place is perfect for you with the village being neck deep in historical relics, structures and legends.
Distance from Ahmedabad: 96 km
Kabirvad is a small island in the Bharuch district of Gujarat rumoured to be Saint Kabir's residence several hundred years ago. Located along the banks of the river Narmada, the island promises you a calm and serene abode underneath the humongous canopy of Banyan trees that Kabirvad is most prominent for. What started as a single Banyan tree in Kabirvad has emanated into over 3000 trunks currently, with the mother tree believed to be over 600 years old, interestingly the tree populous has grown manifold to such an extent that it is impossible to distinguish the mother tree from the other trees at present. The canopy of the Banyan trees envelops a massive area of 17,520 square metres with its perimeter extending up to 641 metres. And while the natural wonder remains the most alluring attribute about Kabirvad, the legend and local folklore around it only add to the island's mystical charm and aura.
Jambughoda is home to one of the most breathtaking and magnificent waterfalls you can visit in the Indian subcontinent. About a 100 metres in length and flowing with rich greenery, Hathni Waterfalls are surrounded by a variety of beautiful flora and fauna. If you find the peaceful sound of flowing water from streams and falls incredibly relaxing, then this is the spot for you. Or if you are looking to engage in some choicy nature photography while having a spiritual experience in the thick of dense forests, then this place should be on your bucket list.
Distance from Ahmedabad: 179 km
Statue of Unity is a memorial to The Iron Man of India, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The statue has been erected to propagate Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's vision of India and to inspire the Citizens of India through his patriotism and freedom struggle. The Bronze statue of the founding father of the Republic of India stands 182 metres tall grabbing the attention of the whole world as the 'Tallest statue in the World'. The statue of Unity is Located in Gujrat, by the banks of River Narmada on the River Island of Sadhu Bet overlooking the Narmada Dam (Sardar Sarovar Dam) from 3.2 km away.
Distance from Ahmedabad: 201 km
Pavagadh lying in the state of Gujarat is a well-known hill station of the region. It is well known for the Mahakali Temple which attracts a lot of pilgrims all year round. Pavagadh lies in the Panchmahal district, which is mainly a tribal area and is at a distance of 140 km from Ahmedabad. The Mahakali Temple holds special importance for both Hindus and Muslims. According to local tales, the temple was established after Goddess Sati's right toe fell here. The temple has many trekking trails which make it a mini-adventure on its own.
The Akshardham temple in Gandhinagar city is one of the biggest temples in India, and it is a major pilgrim destination that many people swarm to. This temple is dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan and was built by BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, the same organisation as the one in Delhi. Located in the capital of Gujarat, the complex took over 13 years to build and was inaugurated on October 30th, 1992. Akshardham mandir is situated in the centre of the 23-acre complex, which is built from 6,000 metric tonnes of pink sandstone from Rajasthan.
Distance from Ahmedabad: 28 km