There is something special about the rainy season in Gujarat. The first rains after months of dry heat turn the area around Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar into a lush green paradise. The weather is excellent for road trips, while lakes fill up, hills get a new coat of green, and the weather is perfect for road excursions. The monsoon is the greatest time to organize fast vacations if you like to drive without a plan.

And what better way to see the sights than by renting a car from Pushparides and driving it yourself? You don’t have to rely on drivers, rush with tour groups, or give up luxury. You can go as fast or as slowly as you want and stop whenever you want to appreciate the landscape in the rain.

In this blog post, I’ll tell you about seven amazing sites you may go near Ahmedabad during the rainy season. These places are great for short drives, weekend getaways, or even day visits. Let’s get started.

1. Polo Forest – A Rainy Paradise of Ruins and Greenery

Distance from Ahmedabad: ~150 km
Drive Time: Around 3.5 hours

Polo Forest, which is close to Vijaynagar, is one of the most beautiful places to visit during the monsoon season near Ahmedabad. The forest is home to old temples, ruins, and thick flora. It used to be the capital of the Idar dynasty.

The whole forest comes to life when it rains. There are streams in the area, and the misty hills give it a magical feel. Nature enthusiasts, photographers, and history aficionados can all find calm here.

Why visit Polo Forest in monsoon?

Shiva temples from long ago concealed in the woods.
Trails for hiking and trekking.
Mornings with fog and fresh air.
More natural beauty, less business.

If you rent a Pushparides self-drive automobile, you can stop at beautiful places along the journey.

2. Saputara – Gujarat’s Hill Station in Full Bloom

Distance from Ahmedabad: ~400 km
Drive Time: Around 8 hours

Yes, it’s a long drive, but every kilometer is worth it, especially during the monsoon. Saputara is the only hill station in Gujarat and lies in the Sahyadri range. Waterfalls pour down, lakes fill up, and clouds play hide-and-seek with the mountains during the rainy season.

The drive itself is beautiful, with roads that twist and turn and views that go on forever. It’s the kind of road journey that makes you want to open the windows and smell the rain on the ground.

Highlights of Saputara in monsoon:

Gira Waterfalls are in full swing.
Rides on a ropeway with views of the misty valley.
Boating on the lake in Saputara.
Trails for hiking through green areas.

If you want to spend a weekend with family or friends, this vacation is perfect. If you have a car that you can drive yourself, you can go to places in Saputara that many tourists overlook.

3. Nalsarovar Lake – Migratory Birds and Rainy Landscapes

Distance from Ahmedabad: ~65 km
Drive Time: About 1.5 hours

In the winter, Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary is known for its migratory birds, but even during the rainy season, the lake and wetlands around it look amazing. The tiny lake fills up with rain, and now it’s a big body of water with lotus blooms and reeds growing in it.

The monsoon makes the place feel calm and peaceful, even though winter is the ideal time to see birds. If you don’t want to drive too far from the city, it’s a quick getaway.

Why it’s magical in monsoon:

A calm lake with lots of trees and plants around it.
Great for taking pictures of nature.
It’s a short and straightforward drive from Ahmedabad.

You can arrange a leisurely morning trip and be back home by evening without feeling pressured if you rent a car from Pushparides.

4. Zanzari Waterfalls – Monsoon Adventure at Its Best

Distance from Ahmedabad: ~75 km
Drive Time: Around 2 hours

If you’re craving the thrill of waterfalls, Zanzari is the spot for you. Located on the Vatrak River near Dehgam, Zanzari Waterfalls come alive during the rainy season. The water cascades down rocky cliffs, and the sound of the falls mixed with rain is an experience you won’t forget.

The drive is straightforward, and once you reach, you can hike down a bit to get closer to the falls. Just be careful because the rocks get slippery during rains.

Why Zanzari should be on your list:

Stunning waterfall views.
Quick drive, perfect for a half-day trip.
Scenic landscapes for photography.

This is one of those journeys that you decide to take on the spur of the moment, and having a car makes it easier. You can go anytime you want, bring some snacks, and turn it into an expedition on a rainy day.

5. Mount Abu – Rajasthan’s Monsoon Jewel

Distance from Ahmedabad: ~230 km
Drive Time: 5–6 hours

People from Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar love to go to Mount Abu during the monsoon, even though it is technically in Rajasthan. Mount Abu is the only hill station in Rajasthan. It gets very green during the rainy season. The Nakki Lake fills up, waterfalls form along the mountain routes, and the cold temperature makes it a great place to relax.

Must-do activities in monsoon:

Boating on Nakki Lake with rain clouds above.
Go to the Dilwara Temples, which are beautiful even in the fog.
Hike to Guru Shikhar, the highest point in Rajasthan.
Stop at roadside dhabas along the way to eat hot meals.

The drive itself is fun, with many of small towns along the way where you may stop for tea and pakoras. When you rent a self-drive car from Pushparides, you are in charge of your own schedule.

6. Thol Lake – A Quick Rainy Escape

Distance from Ahmedabad: ~30 km
Drive Time: Less than 1 hour

Thol Lake is the place to go if you don’t want to go on a long road trip. The lake is quiet and surrounded by trees. When it rains, the water rises, which makes it even more beautiful.

Thol is a popular place for bird watchers in the winter, but in the rainy season, it’s more about appreciating the tranquil water and pure air just outside of the city’s turmoil.

Why it’s worth visiting:

Very close to Gandhinagar and Ahmedabad.
Great for a trip in the morning or evening.
A calm atmosphere while it rains.

This is one of the nicest short journeys you can take in a Pushparides car without having to plan too much.

7. Ratanmahal Sloth Bear Sanctuary – A Rainforest Experience

Distance from Ahmedabad: ~210 km
Drive Time: 5 hours

Ratanmahal Sloth Bear Sanctuary near Dahod is a hidden gem if you want to do something new. There are sloth bears and other animals in the sanctuary, but during the monsoon season, the heavy forest cover and mountainous terrain convert into a green paradise.

What to expect:

Trails through thick forests.
Waterfalls in the sanctuary.
There is a chance (but not a guarantee) that you will see wildlife.
Not as busy as other places.

This vacation is a little different, so it’s great that you can drive your own car. You may explore at your own speed without having to worry about getting around.

Why Choose a Self-Drive Car from Pushparides?

You might be asking yourself, Why rent a car when there are buses and taxis?” Pushparides makes sense, especially during monsoon road trips, for the following reasons:

Stop anywhere the view makes you want to.
Comfort: Pick automobiles that meet the size and style of your group.
Travel exclusively with people you know, such family or friends.
Safety: Pushparides autos are in good shape for extended trips.
Convenience: You can easily pick up and drop off a car close to you.

People in Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar can use this to turn their weekends into mini-vacations.

Travel Tips for Monsoon Road Trips Near Ahmedabad

Bring light raincoats or umbrellas. Don’t only use car shelters.
Be careful when driving because roads can be slick.
Bring some dry snacks because small dhabas could close when it rains hard.
Have a first-aid kit and some cash on hand in case digital payments don’t work.
Before you leave, always check the weather.

FAQs

1. Which is the best place to visit near Ahmedabad in the rainy season?

If you want something close, Zanzari Waterfalls is great. For a longer trip, Saputara or Mount Abu are magical during rains.

2. Are these places safe to visit during heavy rainfall?

Most are safe, but be cautious near waterfalls and hilly areas. Avoid trekking in extreme weather.

3. How much does a self-drive car from Pushparides cost?

Pricing depends on the car type and duration. Generally, you can find options that fit both budget and premium preferences.

4. Do I need a special permit to drive to these places?

No special permits are needed for these destinations, but carry your driving license and car rental papers.

5. Can I do these trips in a single day?

Yes, places like Thol, Nalsarovar, and Zanzari can be done in one day. Saputara and Mount Abu are better as weekend trips.

6. Is it safe to travel with kids during monsoon road trips?

Yes, as long as you take basic precautions. Carry snacks, medicines, and avoid risky spots like slippery rocks near waterfalls.

7. What is the best time during monsoon to plan these trips?

Early monsoon (June–July) is fresh and green, but August–September is when waterfalls are at their best.

Final Thoughts

Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar are lucky to be near so many lovely areas that come to life during the monsoon. There is something for everyone within driving distance, whether you want to go on a short excursion for half a day or a full weekend.

And if you drive yourself with a Pushparides automobile, the trip will be just as fun as the destination. So, choose a weekend, collect your travel pals, and go on an adventure in the rain.