Holi break incoming and no, “Netflix and chill” doesn’t count as a plan! This year, take that long weekend seriously and actually go somewhere. From misty hill stations to flamingo-filled lakes and haunted beaches, Ahmedabad’s got five good getaways hiding just a drive away. Your only job? Pick one and go!
Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary
Forget the Holi madness, this year, let the birds do the celebrating! Just a short drive from Ahmedabad, Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary is your sign to slow down and soak in nature’s finest show. With flamingos, pelicans, and 250+ species putting on a display, early March is literally your last chance to catch this breathtaking spectacle. Don’t miss it!
Distance from Ahmedabad- 64 km
How to reach- Take the Sanand-Nalsarovar Road by car or cab, you’ll reach in 1-1.5 hrs.
Surat
Just a quick drive from Ahmedabad, Surat is serving up history, haunted beaches, and street food that’ll blow your mind! From a 16th-century fort to mysterious black-sand shores, the “Diamond City” is packed with surprises. Close, fun, and wildly underrated, Surat might just be your best Holi plan yet!
Distance from Ahmedabad- 252 km
How to reach-
By Road- Take NE 1 (Ahmedabad-Vadodara Expressway) and NE 4, connecting to NH 48. Travel time: 3.5 to 4.5 hours.
By Train- Trains depart every 30 minutes from Ahmedabad Junction, taking 2.5 to 3 hours.
Udaipur
While Ahmedabad turns neon, the City of Lakes is serving major romantic energy with zero hangovers. From shimmering lake palaces to Aravalli sunsets, this royal city wraps romance and grandeur into every corner. Grab your person or yourself, self-love is important and run.
Distance from Ahmedabad- 259 km
How to reach- By Road: The drive via NH 48 takes 4 to 5 hours.
By Train- Direct trains from Asarva Junction (ASV) take 4 to 6 hours daily.
Shatrunjaya Hills
Just a short drive from Ahmedabad, Palitana’s Shatrunjaya Hill is home to 863 breathtaking Jain temples carved over 900 years! Climb the steps, soak in the silence, and let the sheer beauty of this sacred hilltop remind you that some escapes are truly one of a kind.
Distance from Ahmedabad- 217 km
How to reach-
By Road: Take the Ahmedabad-Dholera Expressway and NH 751. Duration: 5 to 6 hours.
By Train: Weekly trains from Ahmedabad Jn (ADI) to Palitana (PIT), taking around 6 hours.
Via Sihor/Bhavnagar: Take frequent trains to Sihor (4 hours) or Bhavnagar, then a taxi/bus for 30–50 km to Palitana.
Mount Abu
Just a few hours from Ahmedabad, Rajasthan’s only hill station is calling your name. Imagine lazy boat rides on Nakki Lake, ancient Dilwara Temples that’ll leave you speechless, and sunset views from Guru Shikhar that hit different. Oh, and crocodile spotting at Trevor’s Tank because why not? Pack your bags, Abu’s waiting and the vibes? Immaculate.
Distance from Ahmedabad- 224 km
How to reach-
By Road: The fastest option is by bus, taking around 5 hours.
By Train: Take a train to Abu Road (2.5 to 3.5 hours), then a bus, shared taxi, or cab to Mount Abu.
