Let’s explore everything about Manchester of India, Ahmedabad.
One would not believe it if he is told that India has its very own Manchester. By featuring a beautiful location, plenty of architectural marvels, deep-rooted history, and old centurion traditions, Ahmedabad is often referred to as Manchester of India.
Ahmedabad is genuinely deserving of this name as it surely leaves everyone speechless. Its history is quite exciting one, and it is easy to see how its location and culture have contributed to its Manchester-like fame over time.
History of Ahmedabad
It is a great city situated on the bank of River Sabarmati. It is so astonishing that it has no comparison with others in terms of beauty. Moreover, it is home to many freedom fighters, including big names also like Mahatma Gandhi. Ahmedabad is surrounded by an area called Ashapalli which acted as a hotbed for many rulers. Later, in the 11th century, King Karna won over the land, which was later named the Vaghela Dynasty, and laid the foundations of Karnavati.
When the Mughals arrived
The history of Ahmedabad was diverted to a new direction when Mughals arrived and started ruling there. Their reign was at its peak in 1573 when Emperor Akbar was in power.
He made commercial trade very much famous in Ahmedabad with the textiles industry grabbing the attention of all. That made it famous to be called the Manchester of India.
British rule followed
In 1818, the British gained a strong foothold in Ahmedabad after Mughals and Marathas left their impression. During colonial rule, it was positioned as the textile center of India. A diverse variety of antique textiles, tapestries, block prints, and wall hanging can be viewed in Museum.
This city witnessed some of the most potent independence movements by the very famous Mr. Mahatma Gandhi. Despite all ups and downs, Ahmedabad continues to be the top textile hub of India.
Why is Ahmedabad called the Manchester of India?
Like the original city of Manchester, Ahmedabad lies on the banks of the river, making it easy for the cotton threads to dye. Moreover, currently it the leading manufacturer of cotton textile, having perfect climatic conditions for growing and spinning cotton threads.
It can be a little bit hard to believe, but numerous factors have made this come true.
Location of Ahmedabad
On the banks of River Sabarmati, it was pretty strategically planned location-wise. It provides raw material in an abundant quantity that produces cotton. Due to the prime location of the cotton business, it is famous as a hub for exports as well.
There is present a wide range of unskilled and skilled laborers from nearby villages. All of them work in the textiles of financially wealthy businessmen to earn their livelihood. Besides all, this beautiful city is well-connected with other major cities through a high-quality transportation system
Culture of Manchester of India
Culture is the main factor that contributes to refer Ahmedabad as Manchester of India. The following are some of the extraordinary characteristics of its culture:
- The hospitality, lively and vibrant nature of locals make to fall in love with the city.
- Streets are lit and well-ornamented
- Festivals are celebrated with great enthusiasm.
- People respect their culture and traditions with a whole heart.
- Colorful attires bustling around the city deliver overwhelming sounds.
First mill in Ahmedabad
Shahpur mill was the first textile mill to be established in 1861. It was a significant success. Many followed these footsteps and installed several other mills, which led to around 33 mills running by the end of the 20th century.
After a very short time duration, this city was supplying and exporting textiles to various parts of the country. That made it popular enough to be named the Manchester of India by two leading industrialists of the country.
Well-deserved fame
Ahmedabad is known for its mouth-watering local food, brilliant architecture, and magical aura worth experiencing. Brief detail about how this city got a reputation among other cities is
- Chalukya Dynasty – Karna occupied and built the foundations of ‘Karnavati’ on the river banks. King Karna was actually from the Chalukya dynasty, on which the Vaghela dynasty later took over the power and started ruling.
- Mughal Dynasty – In 1411, the city ‘Karnavati’ was renamed ‘Ahmedabad’ by Sultan Ahmed Shah. Later in 1573, this city was occupied by Akbar, who converted the city into the primary region of commercial trades.
- British Dynasty – This city gained significant importance when the British inaugurated a railway line that linked the city to Mumbai (old name Bombay). Other central standings proud include education and chemical sectors.
Similarities and Differences b/w Manchester of England and Manchester of India
In comparison between mentioned terms, a lot of variances in style and resemblance in work are found. Some of the primary things include their business ways, trending culture, climatic changes, etc. Now let’s see them in detail one by one:
Similarities
- Both are majorly known for their cotton mills not only in their country but throughout the world
- In the process of drying out the cotton threads efficiently, both have gained an equal reputation in the market
- The temperature of both cities is equally perfect for the ideal spinning of cotton threads
- They both do not compromise the quality of textile that they offer to their customers
- The market is controlled all over the world by both these cities for healthy competition. Also, they have the best interest of customers worldwide.
- Both cities are an ideal visit place in the regard of tourism and trip-planning activities
Differences
- Ahmedabad is residing next to River Sabarmati while Manchester of England lies beside banks of River Mersey
- Manchester of England is majorly known for its cotton mills while Manchester of India is well reputed because of drying of threads
- The top-ranked city in the 19th century was Manchester of England, while in the 20th century, Ahmedabad ranks on the top
- In the growing of cotton, Ahmedabad is most suitable due to climate support.
Top 3 places to visit in Manchester of India
There are a lot of beautiful places, apart from cotton textile mills in Ahmedabad. These are famous worldwide due to their historical reasons:
- Stepwells Adalaj
- Sarkhej Roza
- Kankaria Lake
Some remarkable things to explore from these visit places are given below. Moreover, their timings, location, and entry fee are described below for your ease:
1. Stepwells Adalaj
In 1948, it was constructed to remove or minimize the water crises in the nearby villages. At present, it is an architectural marvel providing access to groundwater to the residents.
It is probably the finest example of excellent skills and illustrations by engineers, workers, and architects from the golden era. The pleasant temperature and incredible scenery make it an extremely beautiful place to visit at least once in your life.
Location: It is located on Adalaj Road, Ahmedabad, Gujrat
Timings: Visitors can have a visit or conduct a trip here from 9 AM to 5 PM
Entry Fee: Its entrance fees are kept very low to attract as many tourists as they can.
2. Sarkhej Roza
Another masterpiece of designing residing in the famous Manchester of India is this Roza. It is a tomb that also consists mosque on its premises. It exhibits Islamic architecture from centuries back.
Mostly, it is famed as the Acropolis of Ahmedabad after Le Corbusier compared its design of marvel to the Acropolis of Athens. In Mughal’s reign, while visiting attractive places of the city, a visit to this beautiful tomb was compulsory.
Location: Post Jeevraj Park, Makarba, Ahmedabad, Gujrat
Timings: Normal operating timings set by the administration are 9 AM to 6 PM
Entry fee: No entry or parking fee for vehicles are charged from the tourists
You might also be interested in reading about Jaipur: Top Things To Do in Jaipur in Tourism
3. Kankaria Lake
It is the second-largest lake in the entire city that offers people of every age. It was built back in the 15th century, initially known as Hauz-e-Qutub. This visiting place ensures that visitors have the best of time here.
It is a fantastic place for those searching for an exciting adventure. It is located around a stunning park having
- balloon safari
- toy trains
- water amusement sports, and many other entertainment activities.
Location: It is located in high-class area Maninagar, Ahmedabad, Gujrat
Timings: Regular timings for visitors allowed are 9 AM to 10 PM
Entry Fee: For its maintenance, management decided to have a few changes in the name entry fee, i.e., 10 Indian rupees for adults and 5 for children.
Top 3 things to do in Manchester of India
While you are on a trip, you should not miss out on going on trips to all the fascinating places occurring there. One should make sure to mark the following activities in your Ahmedabad to-do list
- Manek Chowk
- Heritage Walk
- Sunset Drive-in Cinema and many more
Now, Let’s discuss these in detail:
1. Manek Chowk – An offbeat culinary experience
It is the best spot to witness life in Manchester of India. The scenery of this place is breathtaking right after the sun sets and when stars shine brightly in the sky. Moreover, it turns into a food street galore at night. All the time it is full crowded due to immense activities.
All items, including
- kulfi to ice cream
- sandwiches of all taste
- pav bhaji to dosas
- an excess of delicious items to eat are present here
- Especially for vegetarians, it is heaven on earth.
- Sunset Drive-in Cinema – Entertain yourself to an open-air movie experience
Under a star-studded sky, sitting in the comfort of your cars, just like old times. One should imagine witnessing a classic blockbuster. It is a significant hit among youngsters, groups of friends, and especially couples.
Other sitting arrangements are also available in front of a projector to sit on the grounds comfortably and have the best night of your lives. Manchester of India is undoubtedly fantastic if nightlife is spent in such a unique way.
2. Heritage Walk – An insight into a culture
It is an early morning heritage walk that covers all the historically significant spots of the city. 7:45 AM is the best time that covers the maximum number of attractions on foot
Around 22 different points are covered in the city during the heritage walk. Some of the spots that are commonly walked are
- Calico Dome
- Secret Passage
- Dodiya Haveli
- Fernandez Bridge
- Ahmedabad Stock Exchange
- Jamia Masjid and many more
Best time to visit Ahmedabad
Most of the people ask that what is the best time to visit Manchester of India? Each season in Ahmedabad has its unique things to offer and engage visitors. Each processes different charm and qualities. Therefore, you can visit it throughout the year whenever you want.
Typically, the three-season occurs during its peak visit. Let us discuss each of them along with their charms briefly:
1. March to May
It’s the summer season of Ahmedabad. All low-budget travelers are encouraged to plan a visit to it during these summer months. Lower rates, lesser crowd, and best deals highlight traveling to the city when the temperature rises day by day.
Temperature ranges from 20 degrees Celsius to a maximum of 40 degrees Celsius. One should carry extra clothes with him following climatic changes.
Read more on traveling and tourism
2. June to October
One should take the umbrella with him/her as at that time there is the rainy season in Ahmedabad. Monsoon months in Manchester of India decrease temperature tremendously. Winds become ferocious, clouds look screaming, and roads usually get wet in such a season.
The temperature drops from 40 to a maximum of 30 degrees Celsius. Raincoat and relating accessories to prevent rain are therefore necessary during such times.
3. November to February
I think it’s the best time to visit this remarkable place as the weather during these months is pleasant and perfect to stroll around the city’s major attractions. Temperature ranges typically from 12 to 27 degrees Celsius. Evenings are a little colder.
One should carry warm and woolen clothes along him to avoid any climate change issues.
Interesting facts about Manchester of India
- It is a 600-year-old walled city formerly named ‘Karnavati.’
- It comes on the fifth-largest city in the country, which ranks top in education.
- Manchester of East is its nickname.
- Leading industrialists Ambalal Sarabhai and Kasturbhai belong to this city.
- Media links, scientific and engineering output, and transport connections of Ahmedabad are recognized worldwide.
- Manchester Liverpool Road was the first inter-city passenger railway station.
Frequently asked questions about Manchester of India
Visitors and tourists often ask different questions and queries related to Ahmedabad. A lot of them are answered instantly as they are famous questions
1: Why is Ahmedabad known as Manchester of India?
A: It is the leading manufacturer of cotton textiles residing on banks of the river
2: What is the best time to visit Ahmedabad?
A: Winter season probably is the best time from November to February
3: How to spend time in Ahmedabad?
A: Watching an open-air movie, attending a food fiesta, and doing a heritage walk are some of the most common activities people love to do and experience.