Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport is not yet one of the major gateways into India, but its connections are increasing rapidly and development of the terminal’s infrastructure has been made a priority. Daily flights are available on a large number of domestic routes including those to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata along with Chennai, Bangalore and Goa.

Currently, international connections to Ahmedabad are still limited, but it is possible to fly here from the likes of London, New York, San Francisco, Qatar and Singapore. Most flights to Europe or the US require a change in Delhi or Mumbai, however. Most carriers that fly here are domestic, such as Air India and luxury operator Kingfisher Airlines, but a handful of international airlines also fly here too, the most prominent being Kuwait Airways and Singapore Airlines. Both Emirates and Thai Airways are also scheduled to start services here from the UAE and Thailand respectively.

The international and domestic terminals are separated, meaning a short drive between the two is required for passengers in transit. A new domestic arrivals terminal will follow the opening of a new departures terminal which was completed in December 2006. Facilities at the airport are modern and being improved with the usual array of exchange kiosks, ATMs and duty-free shops available. The State Bank of India is on hand for international travellers looking to change money. The terminal building also features a book and newspaper store along with a handicrafts shop selling Gujarati-produced items.

Getting to the city from the airport is a straightforward journey of just nine miles (15kms) to the heart of the city, which typically takes less than 30 minutes. Taxis generally take the form of auto-rickshaws or SUV-taxis with the rate being negotiable. A handful of Indian car rental companies such as Vidhi Travels operate out of the Arrivals hall, but most international travellers opt for private taxis to get around during their stay in the city.

Options for public transport in Ahmedabad are fairly limited. There are no inner city train services, trams or metro systems that operate around the city, meaning visitors here rely on private taxis mostly and occasionally buses.

Taxis take the form of the classic Indian auto-rickshaws seen all over the country, three-wheeled vehicles that are almost always painted yellow and green with space for three passengers in the back. The main problem facing international passengers is that most drivers don’t speak English so it pays to know where you are going.

Car taxis are available but can’t be flagged down in the street. The best way to arrange one is to ask your hotel to call for one. Ahmedabad’s private transport also includes what are locally known as qualis. These SUV-taxis are often a good option for tourists as they are more comfortable then the standard rickshaw and many of the drivers are able to speak English well. These taxis can be hired for just about any period you may wish to use them, so make sure to bargain hard when negotiating a fee.

Buses are perhaps the most economical and fun way to travel, but present numerous challenges to the casual tourist. During rush hours they can get very busy on popular routes and destinations are posted in Gujarati only. If you do need to take a bus, find a friendly English-speaking local who can help you.