Sarita Udyan · Sector 9 riverside garden
A linear garden along the Sabarmati at the southern edge of Gandhinagar's sectors. A place for walks, picnics and river views.
What it is
Sarita Udyan is a riverside garden on the west bank of the Sabarmati. It lies at the edge of Sector 9, where the planned grid of Gandhinagar meets the river. The garden is a narrow strip of green that follows the river for some distance. It was developed as part of the city's original landscape plan, which gave Gandhinagar many open spaces and green belts. The name Sarita Udyan means 'river garden' in Sanskrit. It is one of several riverside parks along the Sabarmati within the city limits.
The garden is not a large park but a calm, linear space. It has paved walking paths, grass lawns and benches facing the water. Trees line the path and provide shade. The river here is wide and slow-moving, especially in the dry season. You can see the opposite bank, which is less developed. The garden is maintained by the local municipal authority. It is popular with morning walkers and families on weekends.
What to see
The main attraction is the view of the Sabarmati. The river is broad at this point and the banks are green. You can walk along the paved path that runs parallel to the water. There are several small pavilions and seating areas where you can sit and watch the river. The garden has flowering shrubs and some mature trees. In winter, the air is clear and the light is good for photography. You may see birds such as kingfishers, egrets and cormorants near the water.
There is no major monument or structure inside the garden. The experience is about the open space and the river. A small children's play area with swings and slides is located near the entrance. The lawns are suitable for a picnic or a rest. The garden is not crowded on weekdays. It is a quiet spot away from the traffic of the sectors.
- River views from the paved walking path.
- Shaded benches and small pavilions.
- Children's play area near the entrance.
- Birdwatching along the riverbank.
How to get there
Sarita Udyan is in Sector 9, on the road that runs along the river. If you are coming from the centre of Gandhinagar, head south on the main sector roads towards the river. The garden is at the end of the road that leads to the water. You can take a taxi or auto-rickshaw from anywhere in the city. The Ahmedabad Metro has a station at Sector 1, which is about 3 km away. From there, you can take a short rickshaw ride. Check the current metro service to Gandhinagar before travelling.
If you are driving, there is parking space along the road near the garden entrance. The road is not very wide, so parking can be limited on weekends. You can also cycle to the garden; the sectors are flat and have wide roads. The garden is about 15.5 km from Ahmedabad airport. A taxi from the airport takes about 30-40 minutes depending on traffic.
When to go and how long to allow
The best time to visit Sarita Udyan is from November to February. The weather is cool and pleasant, and the river level is moderate. March to June is very hot, with temperatures often above 40 °C in May. The garden has some shade but not enough for a long stay in the heat. The monsoon season from July to September brings rain and humidity. The river rises during the monsoon, and parts of the garden may be closed if the water level is high.
You can see the garden in about 30 to 45 minutes. If you plan to sit and relax or have a picnic, allow one to one and a half hours. The garden is open from early morning until evening. Check the exact opening hours with the municipal office, as they may change seasonally. Morning is the quietest time. Evenings are busier with local families.
Nearby sights
Akshardham temple in Sector 20 is 1.8 km from Sarita Udyan. This large Swaminarayan complex has pink sandstone architecture, gardens and exhibitions. It is open to visitors but check the photography rules and show timings before you go. Sector 11 and Ch Road are about 2.9 km away. That area has shops and local markets. The river continues south towards GIFT City, which is about 8 km away. GIFT City is India's first International Financial Services Centre and has modern architecture.
Other nearby parks include Punit Van, a botanical garden on the riverbank, and Indroda Nature Park, which has a dinosaur fossil park and deer park. Both are within a few kilometres. The Adalaj stepwell is about 12 km away, in the town of Adalaj. It is a five-storey stepwell built in 1498. The Trimandir temple is also nearby. You can combine a visit to Sarita Udyan with Akshardham and the stepwell in one day.
- Akshardham temple 1.8 km south.
- Punit Van botanical garden on the river.
- Indroda Nature Park with dinosaur fossils.
- Adalaj stepwell 12 km away.
Practical tips
Dress for the weather. In winter, a light jacket is useful in the morning and evening. In summer, wear light cotton clothing, a hat and sunglasses. Carry water, especially in the hot months. There are no food or drink vendors inside the garden. You should bring your own snacks or picnic. The garden is clean and well-maintained. Litter bins are available. Please use them. The garden is suitable for all ages. The paths are flat and easy to walk on.
Photography is allowed. There are no restrictions for personal cameras. The river and the trees make good subjects. The garden is not crowded on weekdays. Weekends can be busier, especially in the late afternoon. There are no entry fees. The garden is a public space. Toilets are available near the entrance but may not always be clean. Carry hand sanitiser. The nearest areas to stay are Sector 11 and Sector 20, which have many guesthouses and lodges. Always book in advance.
