Nadiad Travel Guide

This travel guide features things to do, places to visit, food and drink, where to stay, and local culture in Nadiad, Gujarat, India.


Introduction to Nadiad

Nadiad is a city located in Central Gujarat, India. It is well-known for its educational institutions, especially in the field of medicine. It is also popular for its kite festival that takes place annually. The city has a rich heritage, and visitors can enjoy exploring its cultural and natural attractions. This guide will help visitors plan their trip to Nadiad with a list of places to visit, hiking and biking routes, best things to do, food and drink scenes, places to stay, and local customs.

List of Places to Visit in Nadiad

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Santram Mandir: This temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and is one of the oldest Hindu temples in the city.
  • Vishvamitri Tirth: This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its beautiful carvings and architecture.
  • The Central Salt and Marine Chemicals Research Institute: This research center was established in 1954 and is dedicated to the study of marine chemicals.
  • Sri Raxeshwar Mahadev Mandir: This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to be more than 1,000 years old.
  • The Maha Gujarat Industrial Estate: This industrial estate houses various industries and has played a significant role in the development of the city’s economy.
  • The Nadiad Stepwell: This centuries-old stepwell is a stunning example of ancient architecture and engineering.

Natural Attractions of Nadiad: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Vaishnav Haveli: This is a beautiful Jain temple built in the 18th century
  • The Sardar Patel Statue: A giant statue of one of India’s founding fathers.
  • The Narmada River: Also known as the “Life line of central India”, the river offers stunning views and is ideal for boating.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Nadiad

  • The Nadiad Cycle Trail: A 20km cycling route passing through numerous cultural and natural points of interest.
  • The Jogging Trail: A 5km path around the city’s main lake that offers scenic views and fresh air.

Best Things to Do in Nadiad: Activities and Tours

  • Kite Festival: The city’s annual kite festival is one of the biggest celebrations of its kind in the world.
  • Food Tour: Exploring local cuisine and street food is an excellent way to experience the city’s culture.
  • Heritage Tour: Nadiad has a rich history, and a guided tour of its museums and historical places can be an informative and enjoyable experience.
  • Boat Ride: Enjoy a boat ride on the Narmada river and take in the scenic views.

Week-Long Itinerary for Nadiad

Day Itinerary
1 Heritage Tour of Santram Mandir, Vishvamitri Tirth, and The Nadiad Stepwell.
2 Day trip to The Narmada River, stopping at some of the beautiful viewpoints along the way.
3 Cycle Tour of The Vaishnav Haveli and The Maha Gujarat Industrial Estate.
4 Food Tour of local street food outlets.
5 Visit the Sardar Patel Statue and experience the local culture.
6 Relax and unwind with a boat ride in the evening.
7 Visit The Central Salt and Marine Chemicals Research Institute for a taste of the city’s industrial history.

Food and Drink Scene of Nadiad

Must-Try Dishes

  • Khamani: Steamed gram flour cakes.
  • Khichu: Rice flour snack that’s mixed with spices and makes for a tasty breakfast.
  • Fafda: Deep-fried gram flour crisps, a popular breakfast food.
  • Dhokla: Steamed fermented gram flour cakes, served with chutney.

Local Beverages

  • Sugarcane Juice: An excellent and refreshing drink made from locally grown sugarcane.
  • Chaas: Also known as buttermilk, is a popular drink served during meals.
  • Masala Chai: A spiced tea that’s perfect for any time of the day.

Where to Stay in Nadiad: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Boulevard9 Luxury Resort: A luxurious resort offering world-class amenities.
  • The Palace Hotel: A heritage hotel offering a taste of the city’s rich history.
  • Hotel Grand Nadiad: A budget-friendly hotel located in the heart of the city.

What to Buy in Nadiad: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Kites: As the kite festival is one of the city’s biggest events, purchasing kite-making materials is a great idea.
  • Bandhani: A popular tie-and-dye fabric that is perfect for summer outfits.
  • Jewelry: Nadiad has a thriving jewelry-making industry, and you can find some excellent pieces at local stores.

Local Culture and Customs of Nadiad

Nadiad has a rich and diverse culture, with people of different religions and beliefs. The city is known for its love of kites, and the annual kite festival is one of the biggest celebrations of its kind in the world. People also celebrate various festivals such as Diwali, Holi, and Navratri.

Visitors should dress modestly when visiting temples and other religious sites. It is also important to remove shoes before entering any religious building. Tipping is not mandatory, but appreciated in local establishments.

Best Time to Visit Nadiad

The best time to visit Nadiad is between October and March, as the weather is pleasant and comfortable for outdoor activities. The summer months (April to June) can be scorching hot, and it’s not recommended to plan outings during those months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Nadiad

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and religious sites.
  • Try the local cuisine and street food.
  • Bargain when shopping in local markets.

Don’t:

  • Touch or photograph people without their permission.
  • Litter the streets or any public area.
  • Smoke in public areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Nadiad

Nadiad is generally a safe city, and visitors need not worry about their safety. It is necessary to take precautions when traveling alone at night or in isolated areas.

Health in Nadiad

Visitors should take precautions against common illnesses such as food poisoning, diarrhea, and heatstroke. Drinking bottled water and avoiding street food from unclean places can keep you healthy.

Getting to Nadiad: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Nadiad

  • Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, Ahmedabad: This airport is located around 50km from Nadiad and is connected to all major cities in the world.
  • Vadodara Airport: It’s 60km from Nadiad and connected to many domestic destinations.

Bus Stations Near Nadiad

  • Nadiad Bus Station: The main bus station in Nadiad and is connected to many cities in Gujarat.

Other Options

  • Train: Nadiad is a major railway station and is connected to all major cities in India.

How to Get Around in Nadiad

The best way to get around Nadiad is by auto-rickshaws, taxis and buses. Hiring a bicycle could also be a great way to explore the city.

Where to Go Next from Nadiad: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Anand: Rich with history and culture, this small town located 11 km from Nadiad, is known for the Amul Dairy cooperative that revolutionized the milk industry.
  • Vadodara: Also known as Baroda, is a vibrant cultural city located 50km from Nadiad, with a long history that dates back hundreds of years.

Conclusion

Nadiad is an excellent destination for those looking to explore a rich culture and history, in a comfortable environment. With so much to see and do, visitors can stay busy for weeks exploring the city and its surroundings. From its fascinating museums and historical sites to its delicious local cuisine, there is something for everyone in Nadiad. With this guide, you will be able to plan your trip to Nadiad, Gujarat, and make the most of your visit.