Top 7 Weekend Getaways from Ahmedabad Under Rupee 5000

List of 7 Places

1. Gir National Park

• Location: Talala Gir, Gujarat
• Distance from Ahmedabad: ~330 km (6-7 hours by road)
• Things to Do: Famous as the last refuge of Asiatic lions, Gir National Park is a wildlife enthusiast’s paradise. Book a jeep safari ( Rs 800- Rs 1000 per person) to spot lions, leopards, and deer. Visit the nearby Kamleshwar Dam for scenic views or the Crocodile Breeding Centre for a unique experience. Early morning safaris offer the best sightings.
• Approx Cost: Rs 4000 - Rs 4500 (includes transport by bus ~ Rs1000 round trip, safari ~ Rs 1000, budget stay ~ Rs 1500, food ~ Rs 500 - Rs 1000).

2. Saputara

• Location: Dang District, Gujarat
• Distance from Ahmedabad: ~400 km (7-8 hours by road)
• Things to Do: Gujarat’s only hill station, Saputara offers cool weather and stunning landscapes. Enjoy boating at Saputara Lake ( Rs 50 - Rs 100), trek to Sunrise Point, or explore the lush Artist Village to buy local handicrafts. The ropeway ride ( Rs 100) provides panoramic views of the Sahyadri hills.
• Approx Cost: Rs 4500 - Rs 5000 (bus ~ Rs 1200 round trip, stay ~ Rs 1500 - Rs 2000, food ~ Rs 800, activities ~ Rs 500 - Rs 1000).

3. Polo Forest

• Location: Vijayanagar, Gujarat
• Distance from Ahmedabad: ~150 km (3-4 hours by road)
• Things to Do: A hidden gem for nature lovers, Polo Forest is ideal for camping, trekking, and photography. Explore the ancient Polo Jain Temple ruins, hike through dense greenery, or relax by the Harnav River. It’s perfect for a peaceful retreat with minimal crowds.
• Approx Cost: Rs 3000 - Rs 3500 (self-drive or bus ~ Rs 500 - Rs 800 round trip, camping/stay ~ Rs 1000 - Rs 1500, food ~ Rs 500 - Rs 1000).

4. Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary

• Location: Sanand, Gujarat
• Distance from Ahmedabad: ~65 km (1-1.5 hours by road)
• Things to Do: A haven for birdwatchers, Nal Sarovar hosts over 250 bird species, including flamingos and pelicans. Take a boat ride ( Rs 220 - Rs 500) to explore the lake, enjoy a picnic, or simply soak in the serene vibes. Winter is the best time for migratory birds.
• Approx Cost: Rs 1500 - Rs 2000 (self-drive or cab ~ Rs 500 - Rs 800 round trip, boat ride ~ Rs 500, food ~ Rs 500 - Rs 700).

5. Lothal

• Location: Saragwala, Gujarat
• Distance from Ahmedabad: ~80 km (1.5-2 hours by road)
• Things to Do: Step back in time at this Indus Valley Civilization site. Visit the archaeological museum ( Rs 5 entry), explore the ancient dockyard, and marvel at Harappan ruins. It’s a budget-friendly day trip for history enthusiasts. Pair it with a stop at nearby villages for local food.
• Approx Cost: Rs 1000 - Rs 1500 (self-drive or bus ~ Rs 300 - Rs 500 round trip, stay optional ~ Rs 700, food ~ Rs 300 - Rs 500).

6. Mount Abu

• Location: Sirohi District, Rajasthan
• Distance from Ahmedabad: ~220 km (4-5 hours by road)
• Things to Do: Rajasthan’s only hill station, Mount Abu offers a refreshing escape. Visit Nakki Lake for boating ( Rs 100 - Rs 200), explore the stunning Dilwara Jain Temples (free entry), or hike to Sunset Point. The cool climate is a bonus!
• Approx Cost: Rs 3500 - Rs 4000 (bus ~ Rs 800 - Rs 1000 round trip, stay ~ Rs 1500, food ~ Rs 700, activities ~ Rs 500 - Rs 1000).

7. Vadodara

• Location: Vadodara, Gujarat
• Distance from Ahmedabad: ~110 km (2-3 hours by road)
• Things to Do: Known for its cultural heritage, Vadodara boasts attractions like Laxmi Vilas Palace ( Rs 225 entry), Sayaji Baug (free), and the vibrant Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park (~1 hour away). Enjoy local street food like sev usal for a tasty, cheap bite.
• Approx Cost: Rs 2000- Rs 2500 (train/bus ~ Rs 300- Rs 500 round trip, stay ~ Rs 1000, food ~ Rs 500, entry fees ~ Rs 200- Rs 500).

Budget Tips

Cheap Stay Options

• Hostels & Guesthouses: Look for budget stays on platforms like Booking.com or OYO. Places like Vadodara and Mount Abu have guesthouses starting at Rs 500 - Rs 1000 per night.
• Camping: In Polo Forest or near Gir, opt for camping (Rs 500 - Rs 1000) instead of hotels to save money and enjoy nature.
• Dharamshalas: Near Mount Abu’s temples or Lothal, basic dharamshalas offer stays for as low as Rs 300 - Rs 500.

Affordable Food Choices

• Local Eateries: Skip fancy restaurants and eat at roadside dhabas or street vendors. A plate of pav bhaji or khaman in Vadodara costs Rs 30 - Rs 50.
• Pack Snacks: Carry homemade snacks like thepla or dry fruits for day trips like Nal Sarovar or Lothal to cut food expenses.
• Avoid Peak Season: Visiting during off-season (e.g., avoiding winters for Mount Abu) can lower food and stay costs.

Cost-Effective Transport

• State Buses: Gujarat State Road Transport (GSRTC) buses are cheap and reliable. A round trip to Vadodara or Gir costs Rs 300 - Rs 1200.
• Carpooling: Share a cab or self-drive with friends to split fuel costs (e.g., Rs 500 - Rs 800 for Polo Forest).
• Trains: For Vadodara or Mount Abu, book sleeper class tickets (Rs 150 - Rs 300 one way) well in advance.

By planning smartly—traveling in groups, choosing offbeat spots, and sticking to local options—you can keep your weekend getaway under Rs 5000 without compromising fun.

Conclusion

Ahmedabad’s proximity to diverse destinations makes it a goldmine for budget travelers. From the wildlife thrills of Gir to the serene hills of Saputara and the historical charm of Lothal, these seven getaways prove you don’t need a fat wallet for a memorable weekend. With costs ranging from Rs 1000 to Rs 5000, there’s something for every traveler. Use the budget tips to stretch your rupees further and plan a trip that’s both affordable and exciting. So, pack your bags, pick a spot, and hit the road—your perfect weekend escape is waiting! Plan your trip now and make the most of your next break!