Lockdown Travel to India During Covid-19

Being originally from India, I decided to take advantage of the world slowing down during lockdown and head back for a while. The process was more complicated than usual- I applied for an emergency entry visa, took a few Covid Tests, had to show up hours earlier than usual to the airport, and awaited the long and back-side numbing plane ride home.

But from there, my luck changed! Boarding the long-haul flight with Etihad and Emirates, I was lucky to get an entire row to stretch out in, and while I had to start a second lockdown after arriving at midnight, I still managed some time to explore my colorful hometown and even enjoy the muggy weather. No matter where I travel, and despite the complications on the route, I still love coming back home to Ahmedabad!

Ahmedabad is often overlooked by travelers to India but is an excellent destination where modern and traditional cultures blend seamlessly. Here are some reasons to visit:

1. Ahmedabad is India’s safest City! 
2. It’s a destination where old-world charm meets a modern city. 
3. UNESCO Heritage Sites
4. A Foodie’s Heaven

With the hassle of testing, varying country transit and entry requirements, and packed airports, Middle Eastern airlines are a good option to fly directly to Ahmedabad, Gujarat. This time I flew out with Etihad and Emirates on my way back to North America with just one stopover. These airlines offer many convenient flight options to the middle east with a layover in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, making the most dreaded part of traveling more effortless, and you can arrive feeling rested.

I’m especially fond of the food scene here, and it is almost impossible to name one favorite. That you can enjoy an incredible variety of colorful and aromatic foods offered by streetside stalls makes it even harder to decide.

However, especially for foreigners, it’s hard to find which street food locations are safe to eat and have quality food- no one wants to be stuck near a washroom on their vacation! 🤣

Any local or friend born and raised there can tell you what food stalls are safe to eat at. So when you plan your trip to India, do a bit of research and ask for recommendations, and as well you can consult with me before your trip. The diversity of food, be it experimental food, streetside cafes to high-end fine dining for all cuisines, makes Ahmedabad a foodie’s heaven.

A lot has changed in India since my last visit. Most small shops used to mainly use paper money but have now adapted to include digital payments, a huge development. Almost everything can be done online regarding your day-to-day purchases. My favorite app is GPay, a safe payment app that made my life easier.

As I live to explore, I never miss the opportunity to hit some new sights in my hometown. Suppose you want to read about other attractions besides the following list, head over to my previous post here.

1. Sabarmati Gandhi Asharam

This peaceful place is a must-visit for every traveler, especially if you are familiar with Mahatma Gandhi and his legendary work.

Located on the peaceful west bank of the Sabarmati River, this ashram (a place for spiritual meditation) was founded as Gandhi’s home base and headquarters from 1917-1930. The simple quarters reflect his mission of service to the community and are well preserved, with many of his belongings on exhibit. Displays chronicling his life, work, and speeches are arranged around the humble building, including testimonials from famous peers demonstrating his remarkable impact on his fellow citizens and the world beyond.

It was from here where his mission to procure Indian independence was born, and from where he set out on the famous salt march in protest against the British control of essential minerals. We are able to get a true sense of life and the man who embodied non-violence as a means to protest oppression.

“My life is my message.” There is also an excellent bookshop where you can buy his works and some Gandhi memorabilia. I also recommend The Life of Mahatma Gandhi by Louis Fischer, one of the most readable biographies of Gandhi).

2. Ahmedabad Riverfront – World’s Longest Riverfront

A refuge in the middle of the hustle and bustle, this riverfront will give a little break for many Amdavadis from a tough day at work and meditate (reflect or be at peace by) the water. There is no entry fee and about 7 or 8 access points to this riverfront area. Use the Darpan Academy, Usmanpura entrances, or Riverfront flower park for the best views.

The riverfront is well developed and maintained promenade with locals on an evening stroll or jog. The river is clean, reflecting the twinkling lights of the hotels on the opposite shore. Illuminated bridges and numerous public benches create a magical atmosphere to relax or for photo opportunities. There is no food available, so pack a snack or picnic, and be aware of the mosquito menace after sunset.

3. Adani Realty – The Belvedere Golf and Country Club

I find golf a bit of a slow sport, and as a tennis player, I use the opposite instinct of sending the ball full force down the course instead of sailing it just above the net. Here, I was able to enjoy a few lessons and learn about the finesse of the sport.

Even if you are not a member, you can visit the club and play a few rounds with friends and family at the Adani Shantigram, Belvedere Golf, and Country club. They provide a first complimentary lesson to decide whether golf is up to your alley, and then you can decide whether to take regular classes to master the skill.

4. Law Garden Market

The Law Garden Night Market is a shopping haven, and you will be dazzled by the colorful wares and local handicrafts that embody Gujarat’s soul and rich art traditions. This night bazaar is packed to the brim with stalls selling everything from ethnic garments traditional wall hangings, antique jewelry, and sparkling trinkets at highly competitive prices.

If you are feeling brave, try your hand at bargaining with some of the prices! It is one of the many aspects of culture that is still alive and thriving and can be enjoyed throughout the year.

5. Helicopter Ride

While not a traditional excursion, the government has recently invested in making aviation experiences safe, comfortable, and affordable. The newly launched Helicopter Joyride Service at Sabarmati Riverfront in Ahmedabad is a perfect example of this and is no longer a costly affair. Although this attraction is a little pricey at INR 2360 per person, it’s perfect afternoon fun with family and friends and an exciting way to see the City from above.

Check out this Instagram account to get some inspiration and real-time information.  

6. Starbucks Ahmedabad

Yes, this City has a Starbucks! If you’re traveling for business or from the USA, Canada, or any other country, and Starbucks is your go-to cup of coffee; you won’t miss out here during your visit. India is most famous for its tea which is drunk all day. I’m not a tea person, so Starbucks is my heaven if I want to drink that cinnamon dolce latte or a strong Americano.  

7. Largest Hotel Chain Marriott – Courtyard by Marriott

Even in Ahmedabad, we have most hotel chains such as Marriott, Hyatt, and Hilton.

I recently visited the Courtyard by Marriott, where I took an afternoon latte and dessert break at the hip café shop java+ and later had dinner at the sophisticated Bayleaf restaurant.

This 5-star luxury hotel is effortlessly located in the commercial center, where you can take a break from exploring the bustle of the City, take a dip in the pool, and refresh your palate with their modern take on Indian cuisine or continental breakfast.

As an affiliate with Marriott global brands and vacation rental homes, if you use my link to book your next stay, I will enjoy a tiny payout of the completed stay. Please save this link.

8. Alpha One Mall – Largest Premier Mall in the City

If you’re in the mood for a little retail therapy, head to the Alpha one Mall, which houses of many quality stores. It’s a modern expansive space spread over four floors, complete with most western amenities, such as entertainment zones, cinema, a diverse food court, and recognizable global and Indian brands.

Located in Vastrapur near the Hyatt hotel and Vastrapur lake, you can head here for a guilt-free afternoon of fun for the whole family.

Whether you are a carefree traveler visiting the City or a hardcore shopaholic, this mall deserves a place in your itinerary. Here’s everything you should know about Alpha One Mall in Ahmedabad, including its timings, dining and shopping options, entertainment zones, facilities, and more.

9. Fantastic Specialty Cuisines

Let’s start with my favorite cuisine.

South Indian Cuisine:

South Indian cuisine usually comprises the five Southern states of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh-Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Goa. Some authentic and popular dishes that are sure to delight taste buds include Idli and Sambar, Vadai, and Masala Dosa or paper thin crepes and Steamed Rice with fragrant curries.
Generally speaking, South Indian cooking is based on rice, lentils, and stews, and it’s very lightweight as a low-calorie food.  

North Indian cuisine

If you see an Indian restaurant globally, its probably North Indian Cuisine

The most globally recognizable Indian cuisine!

This cuisine predominantly consists of Naan (bread) and curries, and much of what you eat in the restaurants in the West—such as naan bread, rotis, samosas, curries like palak paneer (spinach and cheese), and aloo gobi (potato and cauliflower).

You will find these foods all across the north of India – Do not miss these restaurants in Ahmedabad, such as From The North, R Kitchen, and Mirch Masala, to enjoy food and hospitality.  

Internationally, one authentic Indian family restaurant in Ottawa, Canada, is Taj India Cuisine, where the spice blends are true to India and are famous for its butter chicken.

Gujarati Cuisine

Unique to Ahmedabad, I have eaten this food every day since I was a child, and I will never get bored of it. A type of vegetarian cuisine, you can savor a variety of healthy options with plenty of known anti-aging ingredients such as legumes, beans, and lentils cooked from scratch. You can balance a healthy meal out with some deep-fried snacks such as pakoras or samosas.

Fast food – Street food

Street food is known to reflect a region’s feeling and a truly a foodie’s heaven. The most popular snack is gol gappa, and puri chat, which you can see from streetside shops or as an appetizer in luxury hotels. It would be best to be careful when eating at a streetside pop-up, so choose a street stall that looks hygienic, clean, and uses disposable dishes. If you visit the central part of the City, you will find plenty of street food pop-ups that are usually open to eat and savor until midnight.

Indian Desserts or Sweets

Got a sweet tooth? Then India is the country for you, with enormous options of desserts and sweets to enjoy with or after lunch or dinner. Most are made with dairy, sugar syrup, and chickpea flour and come in a colorful array of shapes and sizes. When I lived in India, I ate a small sweet daily with each meal, but not everybody has a strong appetite for sweets. Since getting accustomed to the North American diet, my tastebuds have changed, and I don’t eat as much sugar.

Tourism in India will be open to foreign travelers starting October 2022 via e-visa. Having Indian roots, I’ve been able to visit by applying for emergency entry visas which are only available to Indians.

If you have any questions about traveling to India and need help planning your trip or want India Itinerary ideas, I would love to discuss the details of your journey, whether it be too iconic sights such as the Taj Mahal or the palaces of Jaipur, the Pink City; places off the beaten track such as my hometown of Ahmedabad; or to spiritual sites like Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh for your yoga retreat.

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