On our two weeks road trip to Gujarat, we reached Ahmedabad on the fifth day. After visiting Champaner and Pavagarh archeological site, Statue of Unity and experiencing a tent stay at Narmada Valley near the Statue of Unity, Ahmedabad was the first city where we planned to spend three nights. So, as we reached Ahmedabad, we wanted to take it easy on day 1. Visiting some of the city attractions. Thus, after settling into our hotel – 4 points by Sheraton and having lunch, we headed to Gandhi Aashram Ahmedabad. And from here, we headed to Sabarmati Riverfront Ahmedabad. We used auto-rickshaws for commute within the city. And booked them through Uber App.
Sabarmati Riverfront Ahmedabad
The Sabarmati river flows through the heart of the city of Ahmedabad. Over the years, the government of Gujarat has done an excellent job cleaning and maintaining the river. And developed several public parks and walkways on the bank of the river. We were initially confused where to go. Since there are so many points around the river which are marked as riverfront viewpoints. So, on the suggestion of our auto rickshaw driver, we went to the park near Atal Bridge Ticket counter.
Park at Sabarmati Riverfront
The area near the Atal Setu ticket counter is developed into a beautiful park. And also has a courtyard with several food outlets, tables and chairs setup in the open and benches for the public to sit and enjoy their refreshments and food. Since we were visiting during the Christmas time, there were beautifully decorated christmas trees setup in the area. And the whole vibe was very cheerful. We first enjoyed our coffee here while kids had icecream. And then headed to the ticket counter. What we learnt is that there are individual tickets available, to the park and Kankariya lake and other attractions around the area. Or, one can a combined ticket as well. However, the entry to Atal Setu is free.
The park itself is a very huge landscaped public park. With a lake, a flower show exhibition center, a butterfly park area and several other sub-zones for people to sit and relax amidst nature. But, at the time when we visited, it looked like the main attraction was the Atal Setu – a pedestrian bridge built across the Sabarmati river.
Atal Setu Ahmedabad
This is a relatively new and iconic pedestrian and cyclist bridge that spans the Sabarmati River, connecting Kankaria Lake and the Riverfront area in the city of Ahmedabad, Gujarat. The bridge was inaugurated in 2022 and is part of the city’s larger efforts to enhance public spaces, promote eco-friendly transportation, and improve connectivity. It’s named after Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the former Prime Minister, in tribute to his leadership and vision.
What stands out is that the design of the bridge is quite unique — it features a curved, elegant structure with color-changing lights, making it visually striking, especially at night. It’s primarily for pedestrians and cyclists, making it safer and more enjoyable for people who prefer to walk or cycle across the river instead of using motor vehicles.
Walkway along the Sabarmati Riverfront
However, beware that the Atal Setu Ahmedabad tends to get super busy during the evenings. After finishing our snacks and coffee, we headed to the Atal Setu. But it was getting so super crowded, we decided to skip going on the bridge. Instead, we walked along the riverfront. The pedestrian pathway along the riverfront is very impressive. It instantly reminded me of the Promanade in Pondicherry – a similar pathway built along the seafront on the Promanade beach. Where we enjoyed walking morning and evening on our trip to Pondicherry.
We walked along the riverfront, capturing some beautiful pictures of the Atal Setu that was lit and glittering by this time. Also, the views of the city of Ahmedabad from across the Sabarmati river is as stunning during the evenings. As the city lights start twinkling. Walking along the promanade, we reached this anchored boat. And on closer inspection I found out that it is actually a restaurant!
Boating on Sabarmati River Ahmedabad
Boating on the Sabarmati River in Ahmedabad is a popular activity, and it’s a great way to experience the city’s vibrant riverfront area. There are several options for enjoying the river, especially around the Sabarmati Riverfront, which has been developed to offer recreational activities to locals and tourists alike. Right near the Atal Setu also there is a boating center from where you can take a boat ride along the river.
Here are the main types of boating you can experience on the Sabarmati:
Row Boat and Paddle Boat Rides
- These are popular, especially for families and tourists. You can rent rowboats or paddleboats at various spots along the riverfront, such as near the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Memorial or Dandi Bridge.
- Timing: Typically, these rides are available during the day and in the evening, with some boats operating till late at night.
- Cost: The rates can vary, but for paddle boats, expect to pay around ₹100 to ₹200 per person, depending on the duration of the ride.
Motorboats
- If you’re looking for something quicker or more thrilling, there are also motorboat options, especially near the Kankaria Lake area or the Riverfront area.
- These can be a bit more expensive, with prices ranging from ₹500 to ₹1500 or more, depending on the type of boat and duration of the ride.
Cruise Rides (River Cruises)
- For a more luxurious and leisurely experience, there are also cruise-style boat rides. These may offer snacks or drinks onboard and often provide commentary about the history and sights around the riverfront.
- The cruises usually operate in the evening, offering beautiful views of the sunset and illuminated cityscape.
- Prices for these can range anywhere from ₹300 to ₹1000 or more per person, depending on the type of cruise and duration.
The best time for boating are the evenings and mornings. As the weather is pleasant. Particularly the evening rides are ideal, as you can enjoy the city skyline lighting up and cooler weather. However, if you prefer a more peaceful and serene atmosphere, morning boating is a great option, especially for joggers and people looking to catch a quiet sunrise by the river.
Boating services can usually be booked at kiosks along the riverfront, especially near Sardar Bridge, Dandi Bridge, and Kankaria Lake. Some boating operators also offer online booking services.
Conclusion
Overall Sabarmati Riverfront Ahmedabad provides a lot of options for visitors and locals to enjoy nature in the midst of the buzzing city of Ahmedabad. As such, people can –
- Enjoy boating or cruise trip on the Sabarmati River.
- Walk through the beautiful parks along the Sabarmati Riverfront.
- Cycle or walk on the promanade developed along the Sabarmati Riverfront.
- Enjoy food and refreshments from the restaurants and shops along the Sabarmati Riverfront.
- Walk across the Atal Setu Ahmedabad on the Sabarmati River.
General tips on visiting Sabarmati Riverfront
- Visit the Atal Setu and the adjoining areas, they are best developed of all Sabarmati Riverfront locations.
- If planning to go for boating, choose early morning hours if possible for the least crowd.
- You can also visit the Atal Setu in the morning for walking across the bridge without much crowd.
- In the evening you can enjoy the walkways and parks. The Atal Bridge can be very crowded at this point of time.
- Keep aside 2-3 hours to enjoy all the attractions along the Sabarmati Riverfront in Ahmedabad.
- You can easily book an auto rickshaw using the Uber app from anywhere in the city to Sabarmati Riverfront Ahmedabad.