MissTtravels

Brilliant day, around Ahmedabad.

Some views as we drove to our first destination….

As you can see, a bit grubby and mildly chaotic, but seems very liveable.

Our first destination was the ashram where Mahatma Gandhi lived between 1917 and 1930. It was from here in Ahmedabad that he organised his first non-violent protests. He lived a peaceful, prayerful life in a lovely cottage by the river.

The ashram complex now includes a stunning building designed by Charles Correa. It houses exhibitions relating to Gandhi’s life and work.

We had lunch at a cute little restaurant called The Greenhouse at a hotel called the House of MG.

After lunch, we were taken to the Calico Museum of Textiles. A mind blowing experience. The museum is privately run, and is housed in an old palace in a beautiful garden. Possibly the best collection of Indian textiles anywhere. It includes wall hangings from emperors’ tents, costumes, saris and much more. Glorious ancient rooms full of amazing stuff.

Very strangely run. Only 20 people at a time allowed, only twice a day, (so we were really lucky to have seen it). The guide is a weird old witch who speaks only broken English, imparts limited information and CONTROLS YOUR EVERY MOVE while you are there. The place is full of security and they are so protective. No photos allowed. As usual here, the exhibits are poorly conserved, despite their immense value.

Very glad to have seen it, but slightly weirded out by it. Also found it problematic to walk around on cold stone floors without shoes for so long.

In a nearby building, there was an exhibition of modern art relating to the dye indigo. Really amazing pieces. Also nearby was an exhibition of carpets and weaving from Turkmenistan, which we also enjoyed.

Had a delicious dinner at the rooftop restaurant of the House of MG.