Explore the Rich Heritage of Old Delhi

Ahmedabad has always been a centre of historical and trading activities. In 1411, Ahmed Shah visited the banks of Sabarmati and founded a city that has seen haydeys like none other. In the later part of that century, wars were waged to take charge of Ahmedabad. It was then that the founder’s grandson planned to create forts around the area to prevent intrusions. They formed a wall around the city stretching 10 km in circumference and interspersed with gates. The walls were made of terracotta bricks and lime mortar. They were then finished with external lime plaster. The complete structure comprised 12 gates and 189 bastions. Over the years, more than 6,000 battlements were also integrated into the wall.

With time the city started moving outside this space and went on to the other side of the river. This meant that many parts of the wall were demolished or destroyed. However, the wall still contains some parts of the city within itself, which is known as the Old City. It is the gates of the Wall that still hold fort. The gates are made with stone and further enhanced with stone carvings and calligraphy. The Walled City gives a fantastic glimpse into the way cities were structured at that time. There are narrow roads that connect different parts of the city (pols).

The Gates at Walled City include

• Shahpur Gate, Ganesh Gate and Raikhad Gate opened into the Sabarmati River.
• Delhi Gate was the departure point for Delhi.
• Dariapur Gate was provided for passage of soldiers and the royal guards.
• Prem Gate was meant to serve trade purposes.
• Kalupur Gate for import and export of food supplies
• Panch Kuva Gate was created when the walls needs to be expanded to accommodate a growing population.
• Sarangpur Gate that worked as the gateway to the city.
• Raipur Gate was the gateway for the commoners.
• Astodia Gate and Mahudha Gate were meant for trade of dyes and other goods.
• Jamalpur Gate took one to the neighbouring city of Vadodara.

Attractions and Tourist Places Nearby

Sidi Sayed Mosque

Built by a slave of Sultan Ahmed Shah, the Sidi Sayed Mosque has religious and historical significance. Built in 1573, the mosque comprises 10 semi circular windows designed with mesh work (jaali work).

Rani Roopmati Mosque

This mosque belongs to the Hindu wife of Sultan Mohmed Beghara. It is a beautiful structure with domes and pillars. The carved minarets and perforated stone lattices add charm to the beauty of this mosque.

Kankaria Lake

The lake that was created in 1451 has been a mainstay of entertainment for the people of this city. It is a circular lake constructed with an island garden in between.

Sabarmati Ashram

Most famous as the place where Mahatma Gandhi started his Dandi March, the Sabarmati Ashram has tremendous significance in the story of India’s independence. It was set up in 1917 and lies on Sabarmati River.

Cuisine of Walled City

The Night Food market of Walled City in Ahmedabad is famous for some delightful Gujarati meals. The Manek Chowk area here comprises food stalls providing interesting items. It goes on from 12 am to 4 am and some delightful chocolate sandwiches and Gujarati pizzas are a must try here.

Useful Information

How to Reach: The gates lie close to one another so you can either hire a rickshaw to choose to walk around.

Open: You can visit this part of the city on any day of the week at any time.

Entry: No admission fee is levied here.