Getting Around Ahmedabad

General Overview

Many visitors think Ahmedabad is all about auto-rickshaws and taxis, but the truth is, there’s a whole spectrum of transport options that can take you anywhere you need to go. The public transport here works differently and can often be a lot more efficient than you’d expect.

You've got your metro, which is pretty reliable and clean. It runs from about 6 AM to 10 PM, but watch out for peak hours! I remember once trying to squeeze into a packed metro on a Friday evening—it’s like being in a game of Tetris, I’m telling you. The fare for a single ride can start from ₹10 and go up to ₹40, depending on the distance, which is quite reasonable compared to cab fares. Speaking of cabs, a ride-share to the same place usually rakes in around ₹150 to ₹300, depending on traffic (wish I’d taken the metro that day!).

The big mistake I made my first time was assuming that the Ahmedabad BRTS (Bus Rapid Transit System) would be similar to other cities. I waited forever for a bus during rush hour, while locals just breezed by me on their two-wheelers! Another common tourist pitfall is assuming you can just hop on any bus without checking the route—trust me, you’ll find yourself in a neighborhood you didn’t plan on!

One pleasant surprise was the affordability of the monthly passes for the metro, which can save you a ton if you're moving about frequently. And oh, before I forget, during monsoon season, the roads can get a bit tricky. If rain is in the forecast, just plan for extra time to reach your destination, or better yet, take the metro—less mess and more speed.

If you’re heading towards the new Sabarmati Riverfront area, take the Metro’s Line 1 towards APMC, or you could catch a Bus No. 100 directly to the waterfront.

Now, here’s a local hack: during off-peak hours, the metro is a breeze and you might even get a seat! Just steer clear of 8-10 AM and 5-7 PM.

As a final word of wisdom, keep an eye on your belongings, especially during peak hours. It’s a busy city, but a little caution goes a long way. Happy travels!