A layover in Ahmedabad is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport sits just 75 minutes from the city center by Taxi / Ride-share (Uber/Ola), and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Three things to verify before you walk out of AMD:
- Can you legally enter India? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 75-minute journey each way by Taxi / Ride-share (Uber/Ola), you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the INR. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Transport from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport to Downtown
From AMD, the Taxi / Ride-share (Uber/Ola) gets you to Ahmedabad in around 75 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 95 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi / Ride-share (Uber/Ola) offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Ahmedabad, budget roughly $20 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $5 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $5 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Ahmedabad.
How to Spend Your Time in Ahmedabad
If you head into Ahmedabad, here are two things worth checking out:
Sabarmati Ashram is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Ahmedabad.
Sidi Saiyyed Mosque is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. The architecture is worth seeing, even from the outside.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at AMD, check out The Lounge, Terminal 2 or Duty-Free Shopping to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Eat
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Ahmedabad: Gordhan Thal and Agashiye – The House of MG. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for The Lounge (Dining options) or Cafe Coffee Day. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Luggage Storage at AMD
You can store your luggage at Available at Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 (check near arrival/departure halls for cloakroom/baggage storage services).. Rates typically depend on bag size and duration.
If the airport lockers are full or inconveniently located, services like Bounce and Stasher list verified storage spots in and around Ahmedabad as well.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at AMD, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Ahmedabad itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for India that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at AMD, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Ahmedabad is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Ahmedabad.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.