Originally Posted by
knit-in
I'm not exactly certain if I will be arriving a day earlier or only a few hours, but if I have time in Ahmedabad, and since I am interested in modern architecture, I plan to visit Le Corbusier's buildings, as well as Lou Kahn's IIM.
Time permitting, I'd also like to visit Gandhi's ashram at Sabarmati.
Le Corbusier has designed a few iconic buildings in Ahmedabad. If you have a few hours, start by visiting The Calico Textile museum. It is housed in a building designed by Le Corbusier. Fascinating exhibit to boot. Head towards Sanskar Kendra, another one of his gems. For a late lunch head to The House of MG. It is an old mansion that has been converted into a fully functioning hotel. It has some interesting history and also amazing local snacks and excellent hygiene. Bang opposite is the Sidi Saeed Mosque. Have a look at the exquisite carvings. Make your way to Gandhi Ashram towards the early evening. But my favorite in Ahmedabad is definitely the IIM. The exposed brick structure still strikes awe in me every time I drive past. It is a sight to behold. It may also be the most difficult to visit. Earlier they used to be pretty lax with security and anybody could enter the IIM campus. Not so anymore. You would need someone like a professor or student or something to take you inside. I am not sure they allow visitors. But if you get a chance, please do visit. The campus is spread across 2 sides of a very busy road. There is a wonderful underground tunnel connecting the two parts that pays a tribute to the founder of IIM, Dr. Vikram Sarabhai. Incidentally he was also the founder of the aforementioned Calico Textiles, and his house was also designed by Le Corbusier.
If you are spending a night in the city, I would strongly urge to go on the night heritage walk offered by The House of MG. It is an about 2 hour guided walk taking that is definitely not to be missed.