An auto-rickshaw is the natural way to travel through Ahmedabad, and a rickshaw tour turns a daily mode of transport into a sightseeing adventure. Instead of walking everywhere, you ride through the old city in a compact three-wheeler, stopping at key monuments and slipping through lanes that cars cannot enter. The route usually takes in the Bhadra Fort, the Teen Darwaza gate, the Jama Masjid, the Sidi Saiyyed Mosque, the Swaminarayan temple at Kalupur and the bustle of the old bazaars. Between stops you see street life up close: vendors balancing tea trays, women hanging laundry across a lane, boys flying kites and artisans at work in tiny workshops. The ride gives a sense of how the old city is connected, and the open sides keep you cool and in the middle of the action.
How it works
Tours last around two to three hours and are led by a guide or a driver who provides commentary and entry arrangements. Some run in the morning and some at dusk when the old city lights up. Seating is cosy for two or three people per rickshaw, and larger groups travel in a convoy. Entry fees to monuments are usually separate, and you remove shoes at mosques and temples.
What to expect
A fun, slightly bumpy ride through busy streets. Drivers are experienced in dense traffic, but you should still hold on and keep belongings inside. Dust and exhaust fumes are a fact of life, so a scarf or mask can help, and sunglasses protect your eyes. Because you can hop on and off at stops, it is easier to cover more ground than on foot, which suits families, older travellers and anyone short on time. The ride has a playful energy that photographers love.
Making the most of it
Choose early morning for the best light and the least traffic, or late afternoon when the light turns golden and the markets come alive. Combine the tour with a walk through one or two pols so that you get both the overview and the intimate detail. Ask the driver for a tea stop, where you can try a cup of masala chai and watch the street.
Good to know
Rickshaws are open to the weather, so bring a hat for the sun and a light jacket for winter evenings. In the monsoon, a cover keeps off the rain but views are reduced. Agree the route and the price before you start, and avoid handing over valuables. Children are welcome, though very young ones should sit on a lap. Wheelchair users should ask the operator about alternatives.
More to know
The old city's gates, such as Teen Darwaza and Delhi Darwaza, were built to control entry to the walled town, and Bhadra Fort, the citadel of Ahmad Shah, is now a pedestrian space with a clock tower and market. Rickshaw drivers in Ahmedabad are used to tourists, and a licensed tour guarantees a fair price.
If you prefer, many hotels will arrange an evening ride that ends at Manek Chowk for dinner. The old city can be confusing, so travelling with someone who knows the shortcuts saves time and keeps the day relaxed, even in the busiest bazaar hours.
What to expect
The experience
A guided ride by auto-rickshaw through the old city, stopping at monuments, gates, bazaars and pols.
Best time
Early morning or late afternoon, when light is soft and traffic is lighter.
How long
Two to three hours.
Tips
Bring sunglasses, a scarf for dust and a hat, and agree the route and price before you start.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Anyone who wants to see a lot in a short time.
- Families
- A fun ride for children, with seatbelt-free seating that suits older kids.
- Couples
- A playful, photogenic way to see the city.
- Pair with
- The food walk or an evening at Manek Chowk.
- Time needed
- Half a morning.
Good questions
Is a rickshaw tour safe?+
Yes, with experienced local drivers, but hold on and keep belongings inside the vehicle.
What will I see?+
Typically the Bhadra Fort, Teen Darwaza, Jama Masjid, Sidi Saiyyed Mosque and old city lanes and markets.
How long does it last?+
Around two to three hours.
Can I combine it with walking?+
Yes, many tours include short walks into pols and markets.
What should I bring?+
Sunglasses, a scarf or mask for dust, water and a hat.
