Cheapest Flights to Ahmedabad
About Ahmedabad
Ahmedabad, officially known as Mangaluru, is a vibrant city bustling with a population exceeding 6.2 million (as of 2023). Located in the western Indian state of Gujarat, it serves as a major center for commerce, industry, and cultural activities. Ahmedabad offers a unique blend of rich history, architectural marvels, and a thriving textile industry.
The city experiences a tropical monsoon climate, similar to Jeddah. Hot and humid summers are followed by a monsoon season bringing rain from June to September. Winters are pleasant, making them the ideal time to visit, particularly between October and February.
Reaching Ahmedabad is convenient. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport offers direct flights to major Saudi Arabian cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam, operated by airlines such as Saudia and Emirates.
Ahmedabad's cuisine is a delightful exploration of Gujarati flavors. Vegetarian options reign supreme, with dishes like dhokla (a savory steamed chickpea cake) and Gujarati kadhi (a yogurt-based curry) being local favorites. Don't miss the chance to try the world-famous Gujarati thali, a platter showcasing a variety of regional delicacies. Refreshing beverages like buttermilk (chaas) are perfect for the hot weather.
The city boasts a wealth of historical and cultural attractions for Saudi Arabian tourists. Immerse yourself in the architectural grandeur of the Sidi Sayed Mosque, renowned for its intricate latticework, or marvel at the Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India. Explore the vibrant textile market, a legacy of Ahmedabad's rich history in fabric production.
For history buffs, a visit to the Calico Museum of Textiles is a must, showcasing a vast collection of textiles and artifacts. Nature lovers can find serenity at the Sabarmati Riverfront, a scenic riverside promenade perfect for evening strolls.
Saudi Arabian citizens can conveniently obtain an electronic Indian Visa (e-Visa) online. The e-Visa comes in categories like Tourist, Business, and Medical, with validity periods ranging from 30 to 180 days depending on the type. Tourist visas are available for 1 month, 1 year, or 5 years, each with specific entry requirements.
Transportation to Ahmedabad City Center from Airport
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Intl. Airport
It is very easy to reach Ahmedabad city center from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport by taxi or renting a car. There are 4 different bus routes carrying passengers to the city center. This transportation alternative is much more affordable and especially passengers with backpacks can benefit from this option.
Taxi
There are taxi stands at the exit of the arrival area of the Terminal 1 building of the airport. Since self-employed taxi drivers generally don’t use taximeter, they can demand higher fares. You can ask for a reliable taxi contracted with the airport by visiting the prepaid taxi counter located in the Terminal 1. Travelling to the city center from the airport costs approximately 300 INR. If you will agree with a different driver, make sure to bargain before getting on the taxi.
Car Rental
Car rental companies offer service in the arriving passenger area located in Terminal 1. Since there is heavy traffic in the city and drivers don’t generally obey the traffic rules, foreigners are advised to rent a car with a driver. However, if you decide to drive the car on your own, in order to reach the city center from the airport you should follow the Airport Road when you go out of the airport and go across one of the bridges on Sabarmati River. You can get to the city center in about twenty minutes by driving southward along the riverside.
Bus
Some bus routes operated by private companies and municipality depart from the airport and carry passengers to Ahmedabad city center. The travel lasts about 20 minutes. Bus routes 105 and 101 go to the Lal Darwaja Bus Station in the city center and bus routes 16 and 06 go to the main railway station in the city center. Passengers can transfer from these stations and reach other cities or rural regions of the city. Since the buses can be very crowded, passengers with heavy luggage aren’t advised to use the bus option.
