Temples in Ahmedabad
Ahmedabad is best known for its mosques and monuments, but it is also home to many Jain temples and to the first temple of the Swaminarayan faith. Six centuries as a trading city left the old walled city packed with places of worship, often only a few streets apart, and many are busy from early morning.
The best known to visitors is the Hutheesing Jain Temple, a white marble temple from 1848 just outside Delhi Darwaza. Remember that temples are active places of worship, so dress modestly and follow the rules at each one.
Famous Temples in Ahmedabad
Hutheesing Jain Temple was begun by the merchant Hutheesing Kesarisinh and finished by his wife, Harkunvar, in 1848. It is dedicated to Dharmanatha, the fifteenth Jain tirthankara, and its white marble courtyard is lined with 52 small shrines, with a tall column of honour, the Manastambha, in the grounds.
Shree Swaminarayan Mandir in Kalupur was the first temple of the Swaminarayan faith, opened in 1822. It is known for its carved Burma teak, and the morning heritage walk begins here.
Jagannath Temple in Jamalpur is the starting point of the city's Rath Yatra, when the chariots of Lord Jagannath, his brother and his sister are pulled through the city in June or July.
Bhadrakali Temple, in the Bhadra Fort area, is a small, busy shrine to the goddess Bhadrakali, set up during Maratha rule.
The old city is also home to some of India's best-known early mosques, including the Jama Masjid, completed in 1424, and the Sidi Saiyyed Mosque with its carved stone jali.
Tips for Visiting Temples in Ahmedabad
- Wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
- Wear sandals or slip-ons, as you will take your shoes off at every temple.
- Leave leather belts, bags and wallets outside Jain temples, where leather is usually not allowed.
- Ask before taking photos, as many temples do not allow cameras inside the shrines.
- Visit in the morning, when it is cooler and the marble floors have not yet heated up in the sun.
- Keep your voice low and do not touch the images or offerings.
- Expect road closures and very large crowds in the old city on Rath Yatra day.
For the Rath Yatra and other dates, see festivals in Ahmedabad.
Questions
Ahmedabad — FAQ
What are the famous temples in Ahmedabad?
The best known are Hutheesing Jain Temple, Shree Swaminarayan Mandir in Kalupur, Jagannath Temple in Jamalpur and Bhadrakali Temple. The old city is also famous for its mosques, such as the Jama Masjid and the Sidi Saiyyed Mosque.
What should I wear to temples in Ahmedabad?
Wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, and shoes you can slip off easily. At Jain temples, avoid leather items such as belts, bags and wallets.
Can I take photos inside temples in Ahmedabad?
It depends on the temple. Cameras are usually not allowed inside the shrines of the Hutheesing Jain Temple, and many temples do not allow photos of the deity. Ask at the entrance, and photograph the outside of the temple if you are not sure.
When is the Jagannath Rath Yatra in Ahmedabad?
The Rath Yatra is held on Ashadhi Bij, the second day of the Hindu month of Ashadh, which usually falls in June or July. The chariots leave the Jagannath Temple in Jamalpur and follow a route of about 14 km through the city, so expect road closures and very large crowds.