Nalsarovar is a famous bird sanctuary located about 64 km southwest of Ahmedabad in Gujarat. It is known for its rich birdlife and scenic wetlands, attracting nature lovers and photographers from across India. Traveling from Ahmedabad to Nalsarovar is a popular route for day trips and weekend getaways.

This guide will help you understand the main transport options to reach Nalsarovar from Ahmedabad. You will learn about trains, buses, driving routes, and taxi services, along with practical travel tips to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

Getting from Ahmedabad to Nalsarovar – Main Options

Train

Train travel is limited for this route since Nalsarovar does not have a direct railway station. However, you can use nearby stations and then take local transport. This option suits travelers who prefer rail travel combined with road transport.

• The nearest major railway station to Nalsarovar is Ahmedabad Junction (ADI), well connected to major cities across India with frequent trains.

• From Ahmedabad Junction, you can take a local taxi or bus to Nalsarovar, which is about 64 km away, taking roughly 1.5 to 2 hours by road.

• There is no direct train to Nalsarovar, so plan your train arrival time to allow for road travel to the sanctuary.

• Train fares to Ahmedabad vary widely depending on your starting point, but local transport from Ahmedabad to Nalsarovar costs around ₹300-₹600 by taxi.

• Trains to Ahmedabad are frequent and comfortable, but last-mile connectivity to Nalsarovar requires road transport, so plan accordingly.

Bus

Buses are a popular and economical way to reach Nalsarovar from Ahmedabad. State-run and private buses operate on this route, suitable for budget travelers and those comfortable with local transport.

• Ahmedabad’s central bus stations, such as ISBT or Gita Mandir Bus Stand, have buses heading towards nearby towns like Sanand or Viramgam, which are close to Nalsarovar.

• From these towns, you may need to hire a local auto-rickshaw or taxi to reach Nalsarovar, as direct buses to the sanctuary are rare.

• The total bus travel time is approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic and waiting times at transfer points.

• Bus fares from Ahmedabad to nearby towns range from ₹50 to ₹150, making this a cost-effective option for travelers.

• Buses can be crowded during weekends and holidays, so plan to travel early in the day to avoid rush and secure a seat.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Ahmedabad to Nalsarovar is the most flexible and comfortable option. It allows you to explore the sanctuary at your own pace and visit nearby attractions.

• The distance from Ahmedabad to Nalsarovar is about 64 km via NH947 and SH18, taking roughly 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic conditions.

• The route is well-maintained with clear signboards, passing through towns like Sanand and Viramgam, offering convenient rest stops and eateries.

• Toll plazas on NH947 may charge small fees, so keep some cash handy for toll payments during the journey.

• Self-drive cars or rental taxis are widely available in Ahmedabad, with daily rental rates typically between ₹1500 and ₹2500 depending on the vehicle type.

• Driving during early morning hours is advisable to avoid city traffic and reach Nalsarovar when bird activity is high and the sanctuary is less crowded.

Taxi / Cab Service

Hiring a taxi or using app-based cabs like Ola or Uber is a convenient way to reach Nalsarovar from Ahmedabad, especially if you prefer a hassle-free door-to-door service.

• Ola and Uber operate extensively in Ahmedabad and can be booked for outstation trips to Nalsarovar with prior notice.

• The taxi fare for a one-way trip to Nalsarovar usually ranges from ₹1200 to ₹1800, depending on the car type and time of day.

• Prepaid taxis are available at Ahmedabad Airport and railway stations, offering fixed rates for Nalsarovar trips, which can be negotiated in advance.

• Taxi services allow flexible stops en route, such as visiting Sanand or local eateries, enhancing your travel experience.

• Booking your taxi a day in advance is recommended, especially during weekends and holiday seasons, to ensure availability and better rates.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

If this is your first time traveling from Ahmedabad to Nalsarovar, follow this simple plan to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

• Step 1: Decide your mode of transport based on budget, comfort, and time. Car or taxi is best for flexibility, while bus suits budget travelers.

• Step 2: If taking a train to Ahmedabad, book tickets on IRCTC well in advance and check train timings to align with your onward road travel.

• Step 3: For bus travel, visit Ahmedabad’s ISBT or Gita Mandir Bus Stand early morning to catch buses towards Sanand or Viramgam, then arrange local transport to Nalsarovar.

• Step 4: If driving, plan your route via NH947 and SH18 using GPS apps like Google Maps, and start early to avoid city traffic and enjoy the sanctuary in cooler hours.

• Step 5: Carry water, snacks, and sun protection as amenities near Nalsarovar are limited; also, check weather forecasts to avoid monsoon disruptions.

• Step 6: On arrival, use local auto-rickshaws or shared taxis to explore the sanctuary area and nearby villages for a complete experience.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry sufficient drinking water and light snacks, as food options near Nalsarovar are limited and basic, especially during off-season months.

• Use prepaid or app-based taxis for airport or railway station transfers in Ahmedabad to avoid overcharging and ensure safe travel.

• During monsoon season, roads to Nalsarovar can be slippery and prone to minor flooding, so check local weather updates before traveling.

• Keep your luggage light and secure, as local transport like auto-rickshaws may have limited space and no storage facilities.

• Wear comfortable footwear and carry binoculars or cameras for bird watching, as the sanctuary involves walking on uneven paths.

• Book train or bus tickets in advance during festivals or holiday weekends to avoid last-minute rush and unavailability.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Nalsarovar is during the cooler months from November to February when migratory birds flock to the sanctuary. Weather is pleasant, making travel comfortable.

Summer months can be hot and dry, while the monsoon season from June to September may cause travel delays due to waterlogged roads and reduced bird visibility.

• Avoid traveling during major Gujarat festivals like Navratri or Diwali when roads and transport hubs are crowded and accommodation is limited.

• Early morning departures are ideal to reach Nalsarovar at sunrise, the best time for bird watching and photography.

• Fog can reduce visibility during December and January mornings, so plan extra travel time if you are driving.

• Monsoon rains may cause occasional roadblocks or slippery conditions on NH947, so check weather and road conditions before departure.

Arrival at Nalsarovar & What to Expect

When you arrive at Nalsarovar, you will find a peaceful environment with limited commercial facilities. The sanctuary entrance is well marked, and parking is available for private vehicles.

Local transport options include auto-rickshaws and shared jeeps that take visitors around the wetland areas. Guided tours are available and recommended for a better understanding of the bird species and ecosystem.

Accommodation options near Nalsarovar are limited, so many visitors prefer staying in Ahmedabad or nearby towns like Sanand. Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are available for return trips, but booking in advance is advised.

Conclusion

Traveling from Ahmedabad to Nalsarovar is straightforward with multiple options to suit different budgets and preferences. Driving or hiring a taxi offers the most convenience and flexibility, while buses provide an economical alternative for budget travelers.

Plan your trip considering seasonal weather and local transport availability. Booking tickets and taxis in advance, carrying essentials, and starting early will ensure a smooth journey. With these tips, you can confidently enjoy the natural beauty and birdlife of Nalsarovar from Ahmedabad.