Top 10 Hidden Gems to Visit Near Ahmedabad: A Cab Driver's Guide

08-27-2025 5:44 AM

When most people think of traveling around Ahmedabad, the usual names come up—Sabarmati Ashram, Kankaria Lake, or the Calico Museum. But as a local cab driver who has spent years driving travelers, families, and solo explorers around Gujarat, I can tell you that there’s much more beyond the city’s main attractions. Many hidden gems lie within a few hours’ drive from Ahmedabad, and the best way to explore them is through oneway cab services.

In this guide, I’ll share my top 10 offbeat destinations near Ahmedabad that are perfect for short getaways. Each location comes with practical travel details, estimated cab times, and highlights—so you can plan your trip smoothly with oneway cab Ahmedabad options like those available at CabWale.net.

1. Polo Forest – An Ancient Escape into Nature

Distance from Ahmedabad: ~160 km (3.5 to 4 hours by cab)

Best Route: Ahmedabad → Himatnagar → Polo Forest

Polo Forest is a lush green paradise surrounded by hills and ancient Jain and Hindu temple ruins. It’s perfect for those who love trekking, photography, or just sitting by the river. The monsoon season makes the forest especially enchanting.

👉 Cab Tip: A oneway cab from Ahmedabad is ideal, as you can start early morning, enjoy a day trek, and head back comfortably by night.

2. Zanzari Waterfalls – A Scenic Picnic Spot

Distance from Ahmedabad: ~75 km (1.5–2 hours by cab)

Best Route: Ahmedabad → Dehgam → Zanzari

Hidden on the Vatrak River, Zanzari Waterfalls is a refreshing weekend spot. The natural cascade is surrounded by rocky terrain, making it a peaceful retreat.

👉 Cab Tip: Book your cab early morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the calm. Many travelers prefer oneway cab services Ahmedabad to Dehgam for a quick round trip.

3. Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary – A Birder’s Paradise

Distance from Ahmedabad: ~65 km (1.5 hours by cab)

Best Route: Ahmedabad → Sanand → Nalsarovar

Famous for its migratory birds, Nalsarovar is a UNESCO-recognized wetland. During winter, thousands of flamingos, pelicans, and cranes migrate here, making it a photographer’s dream.

👉 Cab Tip: The sanctuary opens early, so book a cab from Ahmedabad before sunrise to catch the magical sight of birds taking flight.

4. Lothal – A Glimpse into the Indus Valley Civilization

Distance from Ahmedabad: ~80 km (1.5–2 hours by cab)

Best Route: Ahmedabad → Bagodara → Lothal

One of the most significant archaeological sites in India, Lothal was once a thriving trade hub of the Harappan civilization. The ancient dockyard, museum, and ruins make it an educational and cultural day trip.

👉 Cab Tip: Families and students often book oneway cabs Ahmedabad to Lothal for educational tours. It’s best to carry snacks and water, as local facilities are limited.

5. Thol Lake Bird Sanctuary – A Calm Morning Getaway

Distance from Ahmedabad: ~30 km (45 minutes by cab)

Best Route: Ahmedabad → Sanand → Thol

Smaller than Nalsarovar but equally beautiful, Thol Lake is perfect for a half-day trip. Early mornings are serene, with sunrise reflecting over the lake and birds gliding in flocks.

👉 Cab Tip: Since it’s close, travelers often hire oneway cabs from Ahmedabad for a sunrise visit, returning by noon.

6. Rani ki Vav (Patan) – Stepwell of Architectural Grandeur

Distance from Ahmedabad: ~125 km (3 hours by cab)

Best Route: Ahmedabad → Mehsana → Patan

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Rani ki Vav is an intricately designed stepwell built by Queen Udayamati. The detailed carvings and the underground marvel are worth experiencing.

👉 Cab Tip: Pair your trip with Modhera Sun Temple (only 35 km away). Many travelers use oneway cab services Ahmedabad to Patan for a heritage tour.

7. Modhera Sun Temple – A Solar Marvel

Distance from Ahmedabad: ~100 km (2.5 hours by cab)

Best Route: Ahmedabad → Mehsana → Modhera

Built in the 11th century, Modhera Sun Temple is dedicated to the Sun God. The temple’s design ensures the first rays of the sun fall on the deity during equinoxes.

👉 Cab Tip: Modhera and Patan are often covered in a single oneway cab booking, saving both cost and time.

8. Idar Hill Fort – Adventure with a View

Distance from Ahmedabad: ~110 km (2.5–3 hours by cab)

Best Route: Ahmedabad → Himatnagar → Idar

Idar is a lesser-known hill town famous for its granite hills, forts, and temples. Adventure seekers can trek to the fort and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding Aravalli ranges.

👉 Cab Tip: Since the trek can be tiring, hiring a cab ensures a comfortable ride back to Ahmedabad.

9. Adalaj Stepwell – A Quick Cultural Stop

Distance from Ahmedabad: ~20 km (30 minutes by cab)

Best Route: Ahmedabad → Gandhinagar → Adalaj

Closer to the city, Adalaj Stepwell is an architectural wonder built in the 15th century. Its intricate carvings and cool interiors make it a must-visit for history lovers.

👉 Cab Tip: Combine Adalaj with Gandhinagar Akshardham for a short half-day tour with oneway taxi Ahmedabad services.

10. Jessore Sloth Bear Sanctuary – A Wildlife Experience

Distance from Ahmedabad: ~180 km (4 hours by cab)

Best Route: Ahmedabad → Palanpur → Jessore

Located in the Aravalli hills, this sanctuary is home to sloth bears, leopards, and various bird species. Nature lovers and wildlife photographers will enjoy the raw, untouched landscapes.

👉 Cab Tip: A oneway cab Ahmedabad to Jessore is recommended, especially if you plan to stay overnight at nearby forest guest houses.

Why Choose Oneway Cab Services from Ahmedabad?

Booking a oneway cab service in Ahmedabad makes these hidden gems easily accessible. Unlike round trips, oneway cabs are affordable and flexible. For example, you can book a cab to Polo Forest, spend the night, and return the next day without paying for idle time. Platforms like CabWale.net specialize in oneway cab bookings, offering transparent pricing, professional drivers, and 24/7 availability.

Pro Travel Tips from a Local Cab Driver

Start Early: Many spots (like bird sanctuaries) are best enjoyed in the morning.

Plan Meals: Carry snacks and water, as some rural destinations have limited food options.

Combine Routes: For heritage lovers, Patan and Modhera can be covered in one trip.

Use Reliable Services: Always book verified oneway cab services for safety and comfort.

Season Matters: Monsoon is perfect for waterfalls and forests, while winter is best for bird sanctuaries.

Final Thoughts

Ahmedabad is not just about the bustling city life—it’s a gateway to Gujarat’s hidden treasures. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, or weekend traveler, these destinations offer unique experiences within a cab ride away. With oneway cab Ahmedabad services from CabWale.net, you can explore these gems comfortably, affordably, and with the confidence of a local guide.

So, next time you plan a getaway, skip the obvious and discover Gujarat’s best-kept secrets—one cab ride at a time!