Ahmedabad, the largest city in Gujarat, is a vibrant cultural and economic hub located in western India. Delhi, the national capital, lies in the northern part of the country. The route between these two cities is popular among tourists, business travelers, and weekend visitors due to Ahmedabad's rich heritage and Delhi's connectivity.

This guide covers all practical ways to travel from Delhi to Ahmedabad, including trains, buses, self-drive options, and flights. You'll find detailed travel tips, step-by-step plans, and advice on the best times to travel, ensuring a comfortable and well-informed journey.

Getting from Delhi to Ahmedabad – Main Options

Train

Train travel between Delhi and Ahmedabad is a popular and economical choice, offering several daily options with varying travel times. Indian Railways connects these cities via multiple routes, balancing comfort and affordability.

• Key stations:

  Trains depart from New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS) or Hazrat Nizamuddin (NZM) and arrive at Ahmedabad Junction (ADI). Both stations are well connected to local transport.

• Duration and distance:

  The journey covers approximately 940 km, taking between 14 to 18 hours depending on the train type, with ticket prices ranging from ₹500 for sleeper class to ₹2,500 for AC classes.

• Train options and frequency:

  Popular trains include the Ahmedabad Rajdhani Express, Shatabdi, and various superfast expresses running daily or multiple times a week, offering comfortable AC coaches and onboard catering.

• Booking tips:

  Book tickets early via IRCTC or authorized agents, especially during festivals or holidays, as trains fill up quickly. Tatkal quota is available for last-minute bookings but at higher prices.

• Scenic and comfort notes:

  The route passes through Rajasthan's arid landscapes and Gujarat's plains, offering a glimpse of rural India. Night trains provide sleeping berths, making overnight travel convenient.

• Challenges:

  Delays can occur during peak seasons or due to fog in winter mornings near Delhi. Arrive at the station at least 45 minutes early to navigate crowds and security checks.

Bus

Long-distance buses from Delhi to Ahmedabad are less common but available, mainly through private operators and state transport services. This mode suits budget travelers willing to trade comfort for cost savings.

• Operators and routes:

  Private Volvo and non-AC buses run from ISBT Kashmere Gate in Delhi to Ahmedabad’s central bus stations, covering the route via NH48.

• Travel time and cost:

  The journey takes approximately 18 to 22 hours, depending on traffic and stops, with fares ranging from ₹800 to ₹1,500 for AC sleeper buses.

• Comfort and frequency:

  Buses run less frequently than trains or flights, mostly overnight. Volvo buses offer reclining seats and charging points but can be cramped for long journeys.

• Booking and boarding:

  Tickets can be booked online on platforms like RedBus or at ISBT counters. Boarding points are crowded; arrive early to secure your seat and luggage space.

• Road conditions and stops:

  The NH48 highway is mostly well-maintained with tolls and rest stops like Neemrana and Udaipur. Avoid traveling during monsoon nights due to slippery roads.

• Challenges:

  Buses may face delays due to traffic congestion near Delhi and Ahmedabad, and night travel can be tiring without proper rest breaks.

Car/Self-Drive

Driving from Delhi to Ahmedabad offers flexibility and the chance to explore en route. The route is well connected by national highways, making it a feasible option for road trip enthusiasts.

• Route details:

  The most common route is via NH48, covering about 940 km. The drive typically takes 15 to 17 hours, depending on traffic and stops.

• Road conditions:

  NH48 is a four-lane highway with toll plazas and multiple fuel stations. The road is generally smooth, with scenic views near Rajasthan and Gujarat borders.

• Rest stops and amenities:

  Frequent dhabas, restaurants, and rest areas are available at Neemrana, Udaipur, and other towns. Plan stops every 3-4 hours to avoid fatigue.

• Car rental and tolls:

  Self-drive car rentals are available in Delhi with companies like Zoomcar or Revv. Expect toll charges totaling around ₹1,200 for the entire route.

• Timing tips:

  Start early morning to avoid Delhi traffic and reach Ahmedabad by night. Avoid night driving during monsoon due to slippery patches on ghats.

• Challenges:

  Traffic congestion near Delhi and Ahmedabad can add delays. Navigation apps like Google Maps are essential for real-time traffic updates and detours.

Flight

Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to travel from Delhi to Ahmedabad, especially for business travelers and those short on time. Multiple daily flights connect the two cities.

• Airports:

  Flights depart from Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in Delhi and land at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (AMD) in Ahmedabad, both well connected to city centers.

• Flight duration and cost:

  The flight takes about 1 hour 45 minutes. Ticket prices vary from ₹2,000 to ₹6,000 depending on the airline and booking time.

• Airlines and frequency:

  Carriers like IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet operate multiple daily flights. Early morning and late evening flights are common.

• Booking tips:

  Book at least 2-3 weeks in advance for the best fares. Use airline websites or aggregators like MakeMyTrip or Cleartrip for deals.

• Airport transfers:

  Both airports offer prepaid taxis, Ola, and Uber services. Delhi airport has Metro connectivity, while Ahmedabad has reliable local buses and cabs.

• Challenges:

  Airport security and check-in can take time; arrive 2 hours before departure. Flight delays are rare but possible during foggy winter mornings in Delhi.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers from Delhi to Ahmedabad, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey.

• Book your tickets early:

  Whether train, bus, or flight, secure your tickets at least a week in advance via IRCTC, airline websites, or trusted portals to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Pack smartly:

  Carry light luggage with essentials like water, snacks, and a power bank. For train travel, keep your ticket and ID handy for verification.

• Reach the departure point early:

  Arrive at the railway station, bus terminal, or airport at least 45 minutes before departure to navigate security and boarding smoothly.

• Use local transport for last mile:

  In Delhi, use Metro or prepaid taxis to reach stations. In Ahmedabad, Ola and Uber are reliable for airport or station pickups.

• Stay hydrated and comfortable:

  Carry reusable water bottles and wear comfortable clothes, especially for long train or road journeys.

• Plan arrival logistics:

  Pre-book cabs or know the local bus routes from Ahmedabad airport or station to your accommodation to avoid confusion on arrival.

Practical Travel Tips

• IRCTC and ticketing:

  Use the official IRCTC app or website for train bookings to avoid scams. Enable SMS alerts for train status updates.

• Food and water safety:

  Carry bottled water and avoid street food during travel. Trains and flights have catering, but bringing your own snacks is advisable.

• Local commute apps:

  Ola and Uber operate in both cities, providing safe and affordable rides. Prepaid taxis at stations and airports offer fixed fares.

• Luggage security:

  Keep valuables close and use lockable bags. Avoid displaying expensive gadgets openly during travel.

• Seasonal travel warnings:

  Winters can bring fog delays near Delhi; monsoon rains may affect road conditions. Check weather forecasts before departure.

• Safety precautions:

  Avoid traveling alone at night on isolated roads. Use official transport services and stay in well-lit areas while waiting for rides.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to travel from Delhi to Ahmedabad depends on weather and traffic considerations. Avoiding peak hours and seasons can make your journey smoother.

Winter months (November to February) offer pleasant weather but can cause fog-related train and flight delays near Delhi. Summers are hot but flights remain unaffected.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali or Navratri when trains and flights are heavily booked and roads congested.

• Start early morning journeys to bypass Delhi’s rush hour traffic and reach Ahmedabad before evening.

• Monsoon months (July to September) may cause slippery roads; avoid night driving and check for weather alerts.

• Midday flights are less prone to delays compared to early morning flights affected by fog in Delhi.

Arrival at Ahmedabad & What to Expect

Ahmedabad welcomes travelers with a blend of historic charm and modern amenities. On arrival at Ahmedabad Junction or the airport, you will find multiple transport options to reach your accommodation.

Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are readily available at both the railway station and airport. Auto-rickshaws offer economical rides but negotiate fares in advance. Popular stay areas include the CG Road and Satellite neighborhoods for business travelers, and the old city near Manek Chowk for tourists.

Conclusion

Among all options, flying remains the fastest and most convenient way to reach Ahmedabad from Delhi, especially for those short on time. For budget-conscious travelers, trains offer a comfortable and scenic alternative with multiple classes to suit preferences.

Road trips appeal to those who enjoy flexibility and exploring en route, while buses serve as a low-cost option for patient travelers. With this comprehensive guide, you can confidently plan your journey and enjoy the diverse experiences between Delhi and Ahmedabad.