Ahmedabad is the largest city in Gujarat, an Indian state known for its textiles, jewelry, and scrub forests. It's a rapidly developing city with a population of over 8 million people. Modern skyscrapers rub shoulders with ancient landmarks, such as the majestic Jama Masjid or the colorful Bhadra Fort. The city has a lively atmosphere, with a mixture of traditional and contemporary culture.
Tips for expats in Ahmedabad
Visa requirements
A residential visa is required to stay in India for more than 180 days. The visa application process requires several documents, including a valid passport, letters of recommendation, and a police clearance certificate. The application fee for a residential visa is INR 3,450 (USD 48), and the processing time is approximately 3-4 weeks.
Language resources
Hindi and Gujarati are the official languages of Gujarat, but English is widely spoken and understood in Ahmedabad. The government provides language courses for expats to learn Hindi, while schools offer English-medium education. Learning a few basic phrases in Hindi or Gujarati will go a long way in building connections with the local community.
Cost of living for expats in Ahmedabad
Housing
The cost of housing varies widely in Ahmedabad, depending on the location and type of accommodation. Rent for a room in a shared house can range from INR 2,500 to INR 6,000 (USD 34 to USD 85) per month. A one-bedroom apartment in a mid-range location costs around INR 8,000 to INR 15,000 (USD 110 to USD 207) per month. Two-bedroom apartments and three-bedroom houses cost progressively more, with prices starting from INR 12,000 to INR 40,000 (USD 168 to USD 568) per month.
Groceries
Food prices in Ahmedabad are reasonable, with readily available fresh produce, meat, and fish at local markets. Expect to pay around INR 1,500 to INR 2,000 (USD 21 to USD 28) per month for basic groceries, excluding meat and fish.
Transportation
Ahmedabad has an affordable public transportation system. Monthly passes for buses cost around INR 250 (USD 3.5) for adults and INR 100 (USD 1.4) for children. Auto-rickshaws are readily available and cost around INR 200 (USD 2.8) for short distances. Taxis are pricier than auto-rickshaws, with rates starting from INR 150 (USD 2.1) for a base fare.
Climate in Ahmedabad
Ahmedabad has a tropical wet and dry climate. The summers (March to June) are hot and dry, with temperatures reaching up to 45°C (113°F). Monsoon season (July to September) brings heavy rainfall, refreshing the air and filling the lakes and reservoirs. The winters (October to February) are pleasantly cool, with an average temperature of 17°C (63°F).
Job market in Ahmedabad
Ahmedabad has a thriving economy and offers a wide range of job opportunities across different sectors. The city is known for its textile industry, with several multinational companies setting up shop. Additionally, the IT sector is rapidly growing, with many startups and established businesses operating in and around the city. The healthcare and education industries are also expanding, providing job openings for medical professionals and educators.
Healthcare in Ahmedabad
Ahmedabad has top-notch healthcare facilities, including several multi-specialty hospitals and clinics. Government hospitals, such as the Civil Hospital and the Government Medical College, offer affordable and high-quality healthcare services. Private hospitals, such as KIMS and Fortis, offer international-level healthcare with state-of-the-art technology and experienced medical staff.
Transport in Ahmedabad
Ahmedabad has an efficient public transportation system, including buses, trains, and taxis. The city has a robust bus service, with over 500 buses operating on 188 routes. Trains are a convenient way to travel within the city and around Gujarat. A metro system is currently under construction, which will connect major areas of the city and make commuting even more convenient.
Safety in Ahmedabad
Ahmedabad is relatively a safe city. However, crime is organised and higher than most other places in India. It is essential to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions.
Neighborhoods in Ahmedabad
Gandhinagar
Gandhinagar is a planned urban area adjacent to Ahmedabad, known for its modern infrastructure and green spaces. Some of the popular residential areas in Gandhinagar include The Ecocity, especially chosen to cut down carbon emissions, and Aparna Hamlet, known for its tree-lined streets and airy houses.
Vastrapur
Vastrapur is a fast-developing residential area, located in the central part of Ahmedabad. It is known for its wide roads, greenery, and proximity to major landmarks such as the Sabarmati Riverfront, which hosts cultural events and food festivals.
Gamdevi
Gamdevi is a historic district, located in the heart of Ahmedabad. It is renowned for its bustling markets, colorful bazaars, and traditional architecture, including the iconic Bhadra Fort. The streets are lined with food stalls serving authentic Gujarati cuisine.
Prahlad Nagar
Prahlad Nagar is a rapidly developing residential area, located in the eastern part of Ahmedabad. It boasts a lively community spirit with an array of restaurants, cafes, and shops.
Attractions in Ahmedabad
Sabarmati Ashram
Sabarmati Ashram, formerly known as Gandhi Ashram, is a historic site dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi's contribution to India's freedom struggle. It houses photos, paintings, and displays related to Gandhi's life, philosophy, and social reforms.
Dada Hari Vava (Stepwell)
Dada Hari Vava is a stunning stepwell located in the Old City. Its intricate architecture and rich history draw crowds of locals and tourists alike, making it a national monument and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Kankaria Lake
Kankaria Lake is a picturesque lake, situated to the east of Ahmedabad. It is a beautiful attraction, mostly filled with fountains and vibrant lights, which arises from an earthen dam. Residents enjoy boating in small secluded ponds during winter mornings in the lake.
Gujarat Science City
Gujarat Science City is a sprawling complex, devoted to creating awareness and educating people on science, technology, and environment. The premises include a planetarium, an edudome, a 3D theatre, and a botanical garden.
International Schools in Ahmedabad
Delhi Public School
Gandhinagar
Delhi Public School (DPS) is a premium international school, affiliated with CBSE (Central Board of Secondary Education) and IB (International Baccalaureate) in Ahmedabad. It offers a curriculum catering to both Indian and international standards. It is located in the heart of Gandhinagar.
Hindu College International
Vastrapur
Hindu College International is a co-educational day school in Ahmedabad, affiliated with CBSE. It provides a holistic education by focusing on academics, sports, and co-curricular activities. It is located in the green surroundings of Vastrapur.
Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan's Bellary Road I.C.S.
Navrangpur
Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan's Bellary Road I.C.S is an international curriculum school, catering to children from kindergarten to grade 12. The curriculum is designed based on the ICSE (Indian Certificate of Secondary Education) and IB patterns. It is located in the serene surroundings of Navrangpur, surrounded by lush green trees.
Useful expat resources in Ahmedabad
Gujarat State Council of Educational Research and Training
Official website for the education board in Gujarat with information on exams, results, and curriculum.
Ahmedabad Google Street View
Google Street View images of Ahmedabad for virtual location and mapping.
