Ahmedabad: Markets, Stepwells and City History

Ahmedabad brings together historic markets, architecture and stepwells, offering a wide range of discoveries. At Manek Chowk, a historic precious metals and jewellery market meets an evening scene of restaurants, street stalls and ice cream parlours. In Asarwa, two stepwells date from widely differing periods; the Sanskar Kendra combines architectural history with the Kite Museum. The Ahmedabad Heritage Walk, established by the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation, also offers visitors and residents a way to get to know the city. These themes can help you start your search for a holiday rental: consider whether market life, historic buildings or a city walk will shape your trip most.

Manek Chowk: Precious Metals and the Night Market

Manek Chowk is a historic square in Ahmedabad, known for its market for precious metals and gold and silver jewellery. In the evening, the square becomes the Ratri Bazaar, also known as the Night Market: restaurants, street stalls and ice cream parlours stay open until late at night. The contrast between the jewellery trade and the late-night food offering makes the square interesting for travellers who want to experience different kinds of markets. Check which vendors are currently operating before you visit.

City History, Architecture and Kites

The walled city of Ahmadabad was founded in 1411 by Sultan Ahmad Shah on the east bank of the Sabarmati. Another perspective on the city’s history can be found at the Sanskar Kendra in Ahmedabad, one of the three museums designed by Le Corbusier. The Kite Museum is on the ground floor. It features information about the history of kite flying, photographs and a collection of around 100 kites. The museum’s architectural history and the history of kite flying are thus presented as distinct themes in one place.

Two Stepwells in Asarwa

Bai Harir ni Vav and Mata Bhavani Vav offer a historical comparison within the Asarwa district. According to Persian and Sanskrit inscriptions, Bai Harir ni Vav was built in 1499–1500. The carvings on its walls and pillars show the influence of Hindu artisans. Mata Bhavani Vav is also located in Asarwa, Ahmedabad, and was built in the 11th century during the Solanki period. The difference in dates spans from an 11th-century structure to one built in 1499–1500. At Bai Harir ni Vav, the inscriptions and carvings add concrete details about the construction period and craftsmanship to its historical context.

The Ahmedabad Heritage Walk

The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation established the Ahmedabad Heritage Walk to help visitors and residents get to know the city. The listed schedule gives a daily start at 07:45 at Kalupur Swaminarayan Temple, followed by a route to Jumma Masjid, where it ends at 10:30. Check the latest information about whether it is running and its timings before taking part. If you plan to join the walk, allow for the stated early start and its end in the morning.

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