Mangaldas Ni Haveli belongs to The House of MG, the heritage hotel associated with the old Mangaldas Girdhardas family house in the heart of the walled city, a short walk from the Sidi Saiyyed Mosque, Bhadra Fort and the Jama Masjid. Staying in a haveli is the best way to understand Ahmedabad's heritage, because you sleep inside the architecture you came to see. The house was built in the early twentieth century and features carved wooden screens, painted ceilings, arched verandahs and a quiet interior courtyard where you can sit with tea and listen to the lanes beyond. The House of MG is well known for its rooftop restaurant, Agashiye, which serves a set Gujarati thali in the open air, and for a garden cafe that is popular with locals.
Location and getting around
The haveli's greatest asset is its location. You can walk to the Sidi Saiyyed Mosque, the Teen Darwaza gate, the Jama Masjid, Manek Chowk and the Bhadra bazaars, and the city's heritage walks start nearby. The airport is about thirty minutes away. Because the old city is crowded and its lanes are narrow, taxis may drop you at a nearby road, so travel light and ask the hotel for directions. Evenings are lively, and the rooftop is a good place to unwind afterward.
Rooms and who it suits
Rooms are individually decorated in a heritage style, with antique furniture, textiles and modern bathrooms. The hotel suits couples, culture lovers and independent travellers who value character. It is less suited to travellers who need a lift to every floor, a large pool or a quiet suburban setting, since old-city noise can reach the rooms. Breakfast is served in the house, and the thali dinner is a highlight, so book it early as seating can fill.
Good to know
Heritage buildings come with quirks, such as steps, narrow staircases and sound carrying across courtyards. Gujarat is a dry state, so alcohol is not served. Ask about the best rooms and about guided walks arranged by the house. Book well ahead for the winter high season and festival weeks. A night or two here, combined with a stay at a modern hotel, gives the best of both worlds.
Eating and nearby
The rooftop restaurant, Agashiye, is among the most celebrated places in the city for a traditional Gujarati thali, served in courses with unlimited helpings, and the garden cafe is a relaxed spot for tea and snacks. Within a few minutes' walk are the Jama Masjid, Manek Chowk and the bazaars, which come alive in the evening with street food. For many guests the highlight is simply stepping out in the early morning, when the old city is quiet and the light is soft.
Why stay here
- ✓Heritage haveli setting
- ✓Rooftop thali restaurant
- ✓Garden cafe
- ✓Breakfast available
- ✓Free Wi-Fi
- ✓Air-conditioned rooms
- ✓Walkable to old city sights
- ✓Guided walks on request
Good questions
Where is Mangaldas Ni Haveli?+
In the Lal Darwaza area of the walled city, near the Sidi Saiyyed Mosque and Bhadra Fort.
Does it have a restaurant?+
The House of MG is known for its rooftop thali restaurant and a garden cafe. Book ahead for dinner.
Is it suitable for families?+
It suits older children, but steps and old-city noise may be tiring for very young ones.
