Ahmedabad Airport, officially known as Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, is located about 23 km from Gandhinagar, the capital city of Gujarat. Gandhinagar is a planned city known for its wide roads, government offices, and peaceful environment. Many travelers land at Ahmedabad Airport and want to reach Gandhinagar quickly and comfortably.

This guide will help you understand the main transport options from Ahmedabad Airport to Gandhinagar. You will learn about trains, buses, car rentals, and taxis, along with step-by-step travel plans and practical tips to make your journey smooth and hassle-free.

Getting from Ahmedabad Airport to Gandhinagar – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a budget-friendly and reliable option for reaching Gandhinagar from Ahmedabad Airport. The nearest major railway station to the airport is Ahmedabad Junction, which connects well to Gandhinagar Capital Railway Station.

• From Ahmedabad Airport, take a prepaid taxi or app-based cab to Ahmedabad Junction railway station, about 12 km away, taking 30–40 minutes depending on traffic.

• Trains from Ahmedabad Junction to Gandhinagar Capital are frequent, with journey times around 30–40 minutes and fares typically between ₹20 and ₹50.

• The train route is comfortable and avoids road traffic, but you should check train timings on the IRCTC website or app to avoid long waits.

• During monsoon season, occasional delays can occur, so plan extra time if traveling in July or August.

• At Gandhinagar Capital station, local auto-rickshaws and taxis are available for last-mile travel to your destination.

Bus

Buses offer an economical way to travel from Ahmedabad Airport to Gandhinagar. Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation (GSRTC) operates buses connecting Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar regularly.

• From the airport, you need to reach Ahmedabad Central Bus Station (Gita Mandir or Nehrunagar) by taxi or local bus, about 15 km away, taking 30–45 minutes.

• GSRTC buses to Gandhinagar run every 20–30 minutes, with fares around ₹30 to ₹60 depending on the bus type and route.

• Buses are usually crowded during peak hours (morning and evening), so traveling outside these times is more comfortable.

• The journey by bus takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours due to city traffic and multiple stops.

• Bus routes pass through National Highway 147 and State Highway 41, with several toll plazas along the way.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Ahmedabad Airport to Gandhinagar is a convenient and flexible option, especially if you prefer privacy or are traveling with family or luggage.

• The distance is about 23 km via National Highway 147, and the drive usually takes 40 to 60 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

• Car rental services are available at Ahmedabad Airport, including self-drive options from companies like Zoomcar and Revv.

• Driving yourself allows you to stop at rest areas or eateries along the way, such as near the toll plazas on NH 147.

• Traffic congestion is common during office hours and festival seasons, so plan your departure accordingly to avoid delays.

• Parking facilities in Gandhinagar are generally good near government offices and hotels, but check in advance if you plan to park for long durations.

Taxi / App-Based Cabs

Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber provide a hassle-free and comfortable way to reach Gandhinagar directly from Ahmedabad Airport.

• Prepaid taxi counters are located inside the airport arrival area, offering fixed fares to Gandhinagar, usually between ₹600 and ₹900 depending on vehicle type.

• Ola and Uber cabs can be booked via mobile apps, with fares similar to prepaid taxis and the convenience of cashless payments.

• The ride takes about 40 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic, and drivers often know the fastest routes via NH 147.

• During peak hours or festival times, surge pricing may increase fares, so check rates before booking.

• App-based cabs offer options like sedan, SUV, and premium cars, suitable for different budgets and group sizes.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers going from Ahmedabad Airport to Gandhinagar. It covers essential actions to ensure a smooth journey.

• Step 1: After landing, collect your luggage and proceed to the prepaid taxi counter or book an app-based cab using your mobile data. This helps avoid waiting long or haggling with local drivers.

• Step 2: If you prefer train travel, take a taxi to Ahmedabad Junction railway station. Buying train tickets online via IRCTC in advance saves time and guarantees your seat.

• Step 3: Board the train to Gandhinagar Capital station. Keep your ticket handy and check train announcements for your stop to avoid missing it.

• Step 4: On arrival at Gandhinagar, use local auto-rickshaws or app-based cabs for last-mile travel to your hotel or office. Always agree on fares or use meter-based rides.

• Step 5: If traveling by bus, reach the Ahmedabad Central Bus Station first. Buy your GSRTC ticket at the counter or use the official GSRTC app for convenience and to avoid queues.

• Step 6: On the bus, keep your belongings secure and be prepared for possible stops. Carry water and snacks, especially during longer journeys or summer heat.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always book prepaid taxis or app-based cabs from official counters or apps to avoid scams and overcharging at Ahmedabad Airport.

• Drink only bottled water and eat from hygienic food stalls or restaurants, especially when traveling by bus or train to avoid stomach issues.

• Book train tickets in advance on IRCTC during festivals or holidays, as trains fill up quickly between Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar.

• Use local auto-rickshaws with meters or trusted app-based cabs for short trips within Gandhinagar to ensure fair pricing and safety.

• Carry light luggage if using public transport, as buses and trains can be crowded and space limited, especially during peak hours.

• During monsoon, roads may be slippery and traffic slower; allow extra travel time and avoid traveling late at night on highways.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Ahmedabad Airport to Gandhinagar is during the cooler months from October to March. The weather is pleasant, making road and rail travel comfortable.

Summer months from April to June can be very hot, with temperatures rising above 40°C, which may cause discomfort during waiting times or long journeys.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Navratri and Diwali when traffic is heavy and transport services are crowded.

• Fog is rare in this region but can occur in early winter mornings, causing slight delays in road travel.

• Monsoon rains from July to September may cause waterlogging on some roads, so check local weather updates before traveling.

• Early morning departures are recommended to avoid city traffic and reach Gandhinagar faster.

Arrival at Gandhinagar & What to Expect

When you arrive at Gandhinagar Capital Railway Station or the city by road, you will find several local transport options to reach your final destination. Auto-rickshaws are common and affordable for short distances.

App-based cabs like Ola and Uber operate well in Gandhinagar, offering convenient rides to hotels, offices, or tourist spots. Many travelers prefer staying near Sector 10 or Sector 15, which have good hotels and eateries.

Prepaid taxis are available at the railway station, but haggling is common with local drivers, so using app-based cabs is often safer and more transparent. Roads in Gandhinagar are wide and well-maintained, making local travel comfortable.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Gandhinagar from Ahmedabad Airport depends on your budget and comfort preferences. For speed and convenience, prepaid taxis or app-based cabs are ideal, offering direct rides without transfers. Train travel is a good budget option with reliable schedules and comfortable coaches.

Planning your journey by checking train or bus timings in advance, booking tickets online, and considering traffic conditions will help you avoid delays. With these practical tips and clear transport options, you can confidently plan your trip from Ahmedabad Airport to Gandhinagar and enjoy a smooth start to your visit.