In the bustling city of Ahmedabad, where traffic, commerce, and daily responsibilities rarely take a pause, the search for brief escapes is not a luxury but a necessity. Families, corporate groups, and even solo travelers often find themselves yearning for fresh air, greenery, and a touch of leisure without straying too far from home. For many, the idea of a one day picnic resort near Ahmedabad has become the perfect balance between relaxation and convenience. Within just an hour or two’s drive, the city’s residents can swap concrete skylines for landscaped lawns, swimming pools, and cultural retreats. This article explores the best resorts and picnic destinations near Ahmedabad, providing detailed insights into activities, amenities, costs, and how to make the most of such short getaways.
The Rise of Day Tourism Around Ahmedabad
Ahmedabad, known as a hub of commerce and culture, has steadily transformed into a city where leisure and short-distance tourism are flourishing. With weekend trips becoming difficult due to time constraints, the trend of one day picnic resorts has risen dramatically. Resorts now cater not only to overnight stays but also to single-day packages tailored for:
- Families seeking children-friendly amenities.
- Corporate teams in need of bonding spaces.
- Couples searching for tranquil hideouts.
- Groups of friends looking for adventure activities.
A resort within a two-hour radius means no overnight luggage, no exhaustive planning, and no heavy expenses—just a quick breather from the ordinary.
Key Features That Define a Good One Day Picnic Resort
Before diving into the specifics of resorts near Ahmedabad, it is essential to understand what makes a property ideal for a one day escape. Visitors typically evaluate these factors:
- Accessibility: Smooth roads and less travel time.
- Natural Setting: Gardens, lakes, or rural landscapes to refresh the senses.
- Recreation: Swimming pools, indoor games, outdoor sports, or cultural activities.
- Dining Options: Buffet or à la carte meals that blend local flavors with popular cuisines.
- Affordability: Packages that do not feel as expensive as overnight trips.
- Cleanliness and Safety: Especially for families with children or elderly members.
“A picnic should never feel like a compromise; it should give you the essence of vacation in a compressed timeframe,” says a leisure industry consultant based in Ahmedabad.
Table 1: Popular Resorts for One Day Picnic Near Ahmedabad
| Resort Name | Distance from Ahmedabad | Highlights | Approx. Cost (Per Person) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gulmohar Greens | 25 km | Golf course, swimming pool, fine dining | ₹1,500 – ₹2,000 | Families, Corporate Events |
| Palm Greens Club | 18 km | Water park, indoor games, banquet halls | ₹1,200 – ₹1,800 | Kids, Day Parties |
| Rann Riders, Dasada | 95 km | Wildlife safaris, rustic cottages, camel rides | ₹2,500 – ₹3,000 | Nature Lovers, Couples |
| Nalsafari | 45 km | Mini zoo, nature park, outdoor activities | ₹800 – ₹1,200 | School Trips, Kids |
| Shanku’s Water World | 60 km | Water slides, wave pools, food courts | ₹1,000 – ₹1,500 | Adventure Seekers, Friends |
The Appeal of Proximity
One of the main attractions of these resorts is their closeness to Ahmedabad. For a family living in Navrangpura, a 30-minute drive can land them at a golf resort surrounded by manicured greens. For college friends from SG Highway, an hour’s drive leads to water slides and dance floors. This accessibility is what sets day resorts apart from distant hill stations or beaches.
“People do not want to spend four hours on the road just to spend two hours at the destination,” observes a tour planner in Gujarat.
Activities That Elevate the Day Picnic Experience
Every resort curates activities to match the varied interests of guests. Some popular experiences include:
- Water-Based Fun: Pools, slides, rain dance, and boating.
- Wellness Retreats: Yoga sessions, spas, meditation corners.
- Adventure Zones: Zip-lining, rock climbing, cycling trails.
- Cultural Engagements: Folk dances, pottery, puppet shows.
- Sports and Games: Badminton, table tennis, cricket nets.
For children, resorts often provide mini zoos, play areas, and supervised activities. For adults, there’s the comfort of unwinding at a spa or simply sipping tea by a lake.
Dining: The Soul of a Picnic Resort
Food plays a pivotal role in how visitors remember their day. Resorts near Ahmedabad often strike a balance between local Gujarati flavors and continental spreads. Expect theplas and khaman alongside pastas and desserts. Some resorts even offer live counters for chaats and barbeques.
“Food must never feel like a rushed cafeteria experience; it should mirror the leisure of the day itself,” a resort manager notes.
Table 2: Sample One Day Itinerary at a Resort
| Time Slot | Activity |
|---|---|
| 9:00 – 10:00 | Arrival, welcome drink, resort orientation |
| 10:00 – 12:00 | Swimming pool or water park activities |
| 12:00 – 1:30 | Buffet lunch with multi-cuisine spread |
| 1:30 – 3:30 | Indoor games, spa, or cultural activities |
| 3:30 – 4:30 | Outdoor adventure sports or nature walks |
| 4:30 – 5:00 | Evening tea and snacks |
| 5:00 – 6:00 | Wind-up, photo sessions, departure |
Cost Considerations: Value for Time and Money
Most one day picnic resorts near Ahmedabad charge between ₹800 and ₹3,000 per person, depending on the facilities. Packages typically include entry, meals, and basic access to recreational zones. Some resorts charge extra for premium services such as spas, golf courses, or safaris.
For a family of four, this often translates into an affordable outing compared to the expenses of overnight trips that include hotel stays, multiple meals, and transport.
Why Corporate Groups Prefer Day Resorts
Companies in Ahmedabad increasingly book resorts for team outings and training sessions. These destinations provide conference rooms alongside leisure spaces, enabling a unique balance of work and fun. Games like treasure hunts, cricket matches, and trust-building exercises are common features of corporate packages.
The Changing Face of Leisure
A decade ago, picnics often meant carrying homemade food to a lake or a park. Today, resorts offer curated experiences where every aspect—food, safety, entertainment—is organized professionally. The ease of simply booking a package and showing up has redefined leisure for urban families.
Tips for Planning a Perfect One Day Picnic Near Ahmedabad
When planning your outing, consider these tips to make the most of the day:
- Book in advance, especially on weekends.
- Carry swimwear and an extra set of clothes.
- Keep sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses handy.
- Check for hidden charges like locker rentals or premium rides.
- Travel early in the day to maximize time.
- Choose resorts with activities matching your group’s interests.
The Sustainability Question
As demand for such resorts rises, concerns about environmental sustainability have also surfaced. Some resorts have begun incorporating eco-friendly practices such as:
- Solar energy for heating and lighting.
- Rainwater harvesting for landscaping.
- Organic farming to supply their restaurants.
- Banning plastic bottles and straws.
These practices ensure that leisure does not come at the cost of ecological harm.
A Glimpse Into the Future
With Ahmedabad growing rapidly as a metro, more resorts are likely to emerge in the coming years, offering even more specialized experiences. From wildlife-themed resorts to tech-enabled adventure parks, the variety will only expand. For city residents, this means more choices for short, fulfilling escapes.
FAQs
1. What is the best one day picnic resort near Ahmedabad for families?
Gulmohar Greens and Palm Greens Club are highly recommended for families due to child-friendly pools, indoor games, and safe environments.
2. Are these resorts affordable for middle-class families?
Yes, many resorts like Nalsafari and Shanku’s Water World offer packages starting from ₹800, making them budget-friendly options.
3. Do I need to book in advance?
Advance booking is strongly advised, especially on weekends and public holidays, to avoid last-minute unavailability.
4. Are food and drinks included in the day package?
Most resorts include breakfast, lunch, and evening snacks in their packages. Premium beverages may cost extra.
5. Which resort is best for adventure activities?
Shanku’s Water World and Rann Riders are ideal for thrill seekers, offering water rides, safaris, and outdoor adventure sports.
