Diwali’s almost here, and honestly, after two days of family gatherings and endless mithai, don’t you just want to get out of the city? I mean, I love the festival and everything, but that third day when you’ve got some free time, why not make the most of it?
That’s where renting a car makes so much sense. Pushparides in Ahmedabad has made this whole self-drive thing super easy. You pick up a car, load your stuff, and just go. No driver giving you weird looks when you want to stop for photos, no bus timings to worry about.
I’m sharing ten places you can actually visit from Ahmedabad this Diwali. Some are close enough for quick day trips, others need you to stay overnight. But each one’s worth it.
Why Rent Instead of Using Your Own Car?
Your car’s probably already done enough running around during Diwali shopping and visiting relatives. Taking it on a highway trip right after might not be smart, especially if it needs servicing.
Rental cars come ready for highways. They’re checked, serviced, and you get to pick what suits your trip. Maybe you need an SUV for comfort, or a smaller car to save on fuel. Plus, Pushparides has offices in Ahmedabad, so picking up and dropping off is convenient.
And let’s be real, driving a different car on a road trip just feels more like a vacation.
1. Statue of Unity, Kevadia
Everyone talks about this place, but if you haven’t been yet, Diwali’s a good time. It’s about 200 kilometers from Ahmedabad, around four hours of driving.
The statue’s massive, 182 meters tall. Photos really don’t capture how huge it actually is. The whole area’s well-developed now with the Valley of Flowers, Sardar Sarovar Dam, and evening light shows. Since you’ve got your own car, you can spend the whole day there without rushing.
Stop at some dhaba on the way for breakfast. That’s half the fun of road trips anyway. The tourism department has done a decent job with facilities there, so taking family along works fine.
2. Saputara Hill Station
Gujarat’s only hill station, sitting about 250 kilometers away in Dang district. The drive’s longish but during Diwali weather, it’s actually enjoyable.
You’ll pass through tribal areas, and the temperature drops as you climb up. There’s a lake, ropeway, sunset point, and tribal museum. I’d say spend a night there if possible. Hotels aren’t too expensive, and mornings in the hills hit different.
With a self-drive car, you can check out nearby spots like Artist Village or Echo Point without haggling with local taxi guys. The tribal culture stuff is genuinely interesting, shows you a side of Gujarat most city folks never see.
3. Champaner-Pavagadh
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is only 150 kilometers away near Vadodara. Old mosques, temples, forts, stepwells from the 15th-16th century, all surprisingly well-preserved.
If you’re up for it, trek up Pavagadh Hill to Kalika Mata Temple. The view’s great from the top. There’s a ropeway too, but Diwali crowds can be heavy, so go early morning.
Since you’re driving yourself, combine this with Rani ki Vav in Patan. Two UNESCO sites in one trip, that’s pretty solid. Architecture photography folks love this area for good reason.
4. Gir National Park
Want to see actual lions? Gir’s the only place in the world with wild Asiatic lions. It’s about 350 kilometers away in Junagadh, so plan for a weekend.
Safari bookings need to be done advance, especially during holidays. Besides lions, you’ll spot leopards, deer, birds, lots of wildlife. The forest department runs safaris twice daily.
Best part of driving yourself is you can continue to Somnath Temple, just 45 kilometers more. The temple by the sea is beautiful, and evening aarti there is quite something. If you’ve got another day, Diu’s beaches are 90 kilometers ahead. The whole coastal belt from Gir to Diu makes for an excellent extended trip.
5. Modhera Sun Temple
Crazy that many Ahmedabad people haven’t visited this yet. It’s barely 100 kilometers away in Mehsana district.
Built in the 11th century, this Sun Temple has insane detailed carvings in yellow sandstone. Even the ruined parts are stunning. Go during sunrise or sunset when lighting’s natural and beautiful. Photographers will have a field day.
There’s also Surya Kund, a stepped water tank that’s architecturally impressive. Combine with Rani ki Vav in Patan since it’s nearby. Both together make a perfect culture-filled day trip, and you’re back home by evening for Diwali celebrations.
6. Udaipur City of Lakes
Got three-four days off? Head to Udaipur. Yeah, it’s in Rajasthan, 260 kilometers away, but totally worth it.
Udaipur during Diwali is magical with palaces lit up, markets buzzing, lakes reflecting all that sparkle. City Palace, Lake Pichola boat rides, Jagdish Temple, local bazaars, there’s plenty to do.
Self-drive means you can stop at roadside dhabas for authentic dal baati churma. Way better than restaurant versions. Just tell Pushparides beforehand that you’re going to Rajasthan. Most companies allow it but need advance notice. The tourism board has good information about routes and attractions.
7. Dwarka Dham
For a spiritual Diwali trip, head to Dwarka. One of the Char Dham sites, it’s about 440 kilometers away. Definitely a two-day trip minimum.
Dwarkadhish Temple’s the main spot, believed to be built over Krishna’s original temple. Nageshwar Jyotirlinga, Rukmini Temple, and Beyt Dwarka island are also worth visiting. The coastal views are peaceful and scenic.
Your own car means visiting temples at their timings without tour group pressure. Long drive though, so take breaks, don’t push yourself. The Archaeological Survey maintains several historical spots worth exploring in Dwarka.
8. Gandhinagar Green Capital
Sometimes the best trips are next door. Gandhinagar’s just 30 kilometers away, under an hour’s drive from Ahmedabad.
Akshardham Temple during Diwali is spectacular with decorations and lighting. Evening aarti is peaceful. Sarita Udyan’s good for bird watching. Kids will enjoy Indroda Nature Park with its dinosaur museum.
The whole city’s planned nicely with wide roads and greenery. Much quieter than Ahmedabad’s chaos. Since it’s so close, half-day or full-day trip works. Go after lunch, explore, attend evening aarti, back for dinner. Self-drive makes it super flexible.
9. Thol Lake Bird Sanctuary
Nature lovers, here’s yours. Thol Lake’s in Mehsana, just 40 kilometers from Ahmedabad. During winter, migratory birds flock here like flamingos, pelicans, cranes.
Early morning’s best when birds are active and light’s perfect for photos. The sanctuary’s peaceful, not crowded like typical tourist spots. Well-maintained by Gujarat’s forest department with observation towers and walking paths.
Perfect short trip. Leave after breakfast, spend two-three hours, back by lunch. Great escape from Diwali crackers and traffic. Carry binoculars and camera. Entry fee’s minimal. Pack snacks since food options are limited nearby.
10. Polo Forest
Want complete disconnection from festive chaos? Polo Forest in Sabarkantha district, 150 kilometers away.
Not mainstream at all, which makes it special. Ancient Jain temple ruins, tribal villages, trekking trails. Green, quiet, refreshing. Good for camping or day trips.
Pack picnic food, water, wear comfortable shoes. Mobile network’s weak in areas, so download offline maps. Perfect if you want peaceful Diwali rather than noise and crowds. Kids enjoy exploring ruins and bird spotting. Self-drive’s essential here since public transport doesn’t reach.
Quick Tips for Your Diwali Road Trip
Check the car properly before leaving. Note any scratches, inform the company, take photos. Prevents blame later.
Keep documents handy – license, Aadhar, rental agreement. Traffic cops might check.
Plan fuel stops. Highway pumps aren’t all trustworthy. Fill at reliable ones, keep tank reasonably full.
Use Google Maps but also ask locals. Sometimes shortcuts exist that maps don’t show.
Avoid long night drives, especially highways. Diwali season means fast drivers, stay safe.
Pack emergency kit with water, medicines, snacks, phone charger, flashlight.
Most importantly, enjoy the journey, not just the destination. Stop for chai, click photos, try local food.
Common Questions People Ask
What documents needed for renting from Pushparides?
Valid driving license held for minimum one year, Aadhar or passport for ID, refundable security deposit. Carrying PAN card helps too.
Is Diwali travel to these places safe?
Yes, highways are well-maintained, police patrolling increases during festivals. Just avoid night driving, stick to daytime travel.
Can I take the car outside Gujarat?
Usually yes, but inform Pushparides beforehand if heading to Rajasthan or other states. They need advance notice for interstate trips.
What if car breaks down mid-trip?
Most rentals include roadside assistance. Keep their contact number handy, they’ll guide you or send help.
Rental costs for Diwali?
Depends on car type, typically ₹1,500 to ₹4,000 daily. Diwali might see slight premium, so book early.
Do I refuel before returning?
Yes, return with same fuel level as pickup. Some companies offer full-to-empty policy, clarify beforehand.
Can I extend rental if trip gets longer?
Usually yes, inform Pushparides quickly. Extra charges apply, but doable if car’s not booked next.
Diwali’s about celebrating with people you care about. Why not make it memorable by exploring new places together? Self-drive rental from Pushparides gives you freedom and flexibility that tour packages or public transport simply can’t match.
Whether you’re chasing temple blessings at Dwarka, spotting lions at Gir, or just relaxing at Thol Lake watching birds, each destination offers something unique. And you control the journey.
So this Diwali, skip the usual routine. Rent a car, pack your bags, make some memories. Happy Diwali and safe travels!