Family-Friendly Adventures in Ahmedabad, Gujarat!

Sabarmati Ashram

Why Visit?

Welcome to a memorable family day at the Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad, a pivotal site in India’s history and the epicenter of Gandhi"s freedom movement.

Arrival and Getting There

Set on the tranquil banks of the Sabarmati River, the Ashram is accessible by taxi, auto-rickshaw, or public bus from any part of Ahmedabad. Aim to arrive early in the morning to enjoy the peaceful ambiance.

Start at the Visitor’s Centre

Begin your exploration at the Visitor"s Center where you can collect a map and an audio guide that offers insights in multiple languages, perfect for engaging kids with stories about Mahatma Gandhi’s life and ideals.

Tour Gandhi’s Living Quarters

Next, head to ‘Hridaya Kunj,’ the simple cottage where Gandhi lived. It"s a poignant experience to see his sparse living conditions, personal items, and the iconic spinning wheel, symbolizing self-sufficiency.

Interactive Workshops

The Ashram often hosts spinning and paper-making workshops, which are fantastic for children to learn and participate in activities that Gandhi propagated as part of his teachings.

Visit the Museum - ‘Gandhi Smarak Sangrahalaya’

Explore the museum designed by the renowned architect Charles Correa. It houses letters, photographs, and personal items that depict the life and times of Gandhi. The "My Life is My Message" gallery, with visual and audio displays, makes the history come alive for children.

Stroll Along the Riverfront

Wrap up your visit with a relaxing walk along the Sabarmati river. It’s a lovely spot for family pictures and to discuss the profound impact of peace and non-violence.

Lunch and Departure

Enjoy a picnic lunch in the serene gardens of the Ashram or dine at one of the nearby vegetarian restaurants for a taste of local Gujarati cuisine.

Visiting Sabarmati Ashram is not only an educational journey but a step back into the pivotal moments of India’s quest for independence, all experienced in the very place where Gandhi himself once walked.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Calico Museum of Textiles

Why Visit?

Visiting the Calico Museum of Textiles in Ahmedabad is an enchanting journey through India"s rich textile heritage, ideal for a family day out. Here’s how you can plan your visit:

### Pre-Visit Preparation

- Booking: Entry is by prior appointment only, and the museum allows a limited number of visitors each day. Make sure to book your visit well in advance through their official website.

- Timing: The museum operates in two shifts—morning and afternoon. Choose the one that best suits your family’s schedule.

### Arrival and Entry

- Location: Located in the Shahibaug area, the museum is easily accessible by taxi or auto-rickshaw from any part of the city.

- Start at the Reception: Upon arrival, start at the museum’s reception area where you can collect your pre-booked tickets and an informative brochure about the exhibits.

### Museum Tour

- Guided Tour: Opt for a guided tour, which usually lasts about 2 hours and provides a comprehensive insight into the exhibits, perfect for engaging curious minds of all ages.

- Exhibits to Explore:

- Textile Gallery: Begin with the textile gallery showcasing everything from ancient cloths to contemporary fabrics. The intricate details and vibrant colors are sure to captivate both children and adults.

- Embroidery Collection: Don’t miss the stunning embroidery section, where you can see the famous "Heirlooms of the Mughals" and learn about the craftsmanship that dates back centuries.

### Interactive Learning

- Workshops: Check if there are any textile workshops scheduled during your visit, which can be a fun and educational experience for kids.

### Relax and Reflect

- Garden Area: After the indoor tour, relax in the beautifully maintained garden area, a perfect spot for a family picnic.

### Departure

- Remember to visit the museum shop for unique souvenirs like miniature textiles and books on the history of Indian textiles.

Interesting Fact: The Calico Museum was established in 1949 and is considered one of the foremost textile museums in the world, a fascinating fact that highlights its global cultural significance.

This itinerary ensures a memorable and educational experience at the Calico Museum of Textiles, blending history with hands-on activities that appeal to all ages.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Maniar"s Wonderland Snow Park

Why Visit?

Welcome to Maniar"s Wonderland Snow Park, a thrilling family-friendly destination in Ahmedabad that promises fun-filled activities for all age groups!

Morning Arrival

Start your adventure by arriving at the park by 10 AM. Maniar"s Wonderland is easily accessible by taxi or auto-rickshaw from any part of Ahmedabad. Parking is available if you"re driving.

Snow Park Adventure

As soon as you enter, head straight to the Snow Park. It"s an exotic snowy wonderland, even in the heat of Ahmedabad! Here, families can enjoy activities like snowball fights, sliding down icy slopes on tubes, and marveling at beautifully sculpted ice sculptures. The temperature here is maintained below zero degrees, ensuring a frosty, authentic experience. Don"t miss the ice igloo!

Lunch Break

Around noon, take a break and grab some food at the onsite cafés which offer a variety of options from fast food to local Gujarati dishes. This is a great time to recharge before heading to your next adventure.

Fun Zone

Post-lunch, walk over to the Fun Zone, a section of the park filled with exciting rides and games suitable for both children and adults. Don"t miss the Aqua Roller and Zip Line. The Fun Zone also features smaller rides perfect for younger children.

Desert Safari

As the afternoon progresses, gear up for the Desert Safari Ride. This unique experience mimics a desert dune ride and is a big hit among all age groups. It"s a fun way to get some thrilling photos and create lasting memories.

Evening Wrap-up

Conclude your day with some leisure time at the Wonderland"s shopping area. Pick up some souvenirs to remind you of your fun day.

Visit Maniar"s Wonderland Snow Park for a day packed with laughter, adventure, and unforgettable family memories, making sure to wrap up your visit by 6 PM as the park closes. Enjoy your magical family day out!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Adalaj Stepwell (Adalaj ni Vav)

Why Visit?

Family Itinerary: A Day at Adalaj Stepwell

Morning

Start your day early with a delicious breakfast at your hotel in Ahmedabad, gearing up for a short drive to Adalaj Stepwell, located just 18 km north of the city. You can easily hire a taxi or take a local bus heading towards Gandhinagar and ask to stop at Adalaj.

Visit Adalaj Stepwell

Arrive at Adalaj Stepwell by 9 AM to avoid the crowds and the heat. This intricately carved stepwell, built in 1498, is a magnificent example of Indian architecture and a treat for history enthusiasts. Take a guided tour (available at the entrance) to learn about the stepwell"s history, including the legend of Queen Rudabai who commissioned it. The structure is five stories deep and made from sandstone. Its blend of Islamic and Hindu designs, with floral motifs and geometric patterns, makes for great photo opportunities.

Fun Fact: Look out for the small openings in the ceiling that let in streams of light, creating a magical atmosphere inside the stepwell!

Lunch

Around midday, head back towards Ahmedabad and stop at a local dhaba for a traditional Gujarati meal. Enjoy dishes like dhokla, thepla, and kadhi.

Afternoon

Post lunch, visit the Indroda Nature Park, which is about a 20-minute drive from Adalaj. Known as India’s Jurassic Park, it"s a great spot for children to learn about dinosaur fossils and enjoy the botanical garden, zoo, and various themed parks.

Evening

Wrap up your day with some light snacks and tea at a café near your hotel in Ahmedabad, reflecting on the day"s adventures.

Tips

- Carry water, hats, and sunscreen for protection against the sun.

- Wear comfortable shoes as there"s a fair amount of walking involved.

This itinerary combines history, culture, and fun, ensuring a memorable day for the whole family at Adalaj Stepwell and beyond!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Splash the Fun Park

Why Visit?

Welcome to Splash the Fun Park, the ultimate destination for family fun! Here"s your guide to creating unforgettable memories with your family.

Morning Arrival

Start your day early by arriving at the park by 9 AM to beat the crowds. Splash the Fun Park is conveniently located off Highway 45, with ample parking space. After entering, grab a park map at the entrance to help guide your adventure.

Splash Lagoon (9:30 AM - 11:30 AM)

Kick off your day at Splash Lagoon. It"s perfect for families, featuring gentle slides and a kid-friendly wave pool. Don"t miss the Lazy River ride, where you can all relax in tubes and gently float along the winding water. Interesting fact: The Lazy River is over 400 meters long, making it one of the longest in the region!

Snack Break (11:30 AM - 12:00 PM)

Head to the Coconut Café near Splash Lagoon for some light snacks. They offer a variety of options, from fruit bowls to smoothies, all made with fresh, local ingredients.

Adventure Bay (12:00 PM - 2:00 PM)

Next, make your way to Adventure Bay. The highlight here is the Pirate’s Plunge, a thrilling water coaster that the whole family can enjoy. As you zoom through twists and turns, you"ll learn about legendary pirates of the Caribbean through interactive displays.

Lunch and Leisure (2:00 PM - 3:00 PM)

Enjoy a relaxing lunch at the Seaside Shack, featuring a panoramic view of the park. They serve a great selection of seafood and burgers.

Coral Reef Encounter (3:00 PM - 5:00 PM)

Conclude your day with a serene visit to the Coral Reef Encounter. This educational experience allows you to learn about marine life conservation. It"s both fun and informative, as you observe exotic fish and even get a chance to feed them under supervision.

Departure (5:00 PM)

As the day winds down, gather your belongings and head back to the exit, carrying memories of a fun-filled day at Splash the Fun Park. Don’t forget to stop by the souvenir shop for keepsakes!

Enjoy your visit to Splash the Fun Park, where every splash is a new memory!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.