A 15th-century complex of tombs, a mosque and pavilions around a large stepped tank, in Indo-Islamic style with lattice screens and domes. It is uncrowded and reflective at dawn.
Sarkhej Roza is a large complex on the southwestern edge of Ahmedabad, built in the 15th century around the tomb of the Sufi saint Shaikh Ahmed Khattu and later used by the Gujarat sultans. Its courtyards, colonnades, chhatris and the large stepped tank make it one of the most photogenic and least crowded monuments in the city. Listings give hours of about 6:00AM to 8:00PM and free entry. The best frames are the domed tombs against morning light, the geometry of the pillared corridors and the tank reflections when the water is still. It is an active shrine, so modest dress is expected, footwear is removed in the tomb areas and photography inside the tombs may be restricted. Dust and traffic on the approach road are heavy, and the site is easiest reached by auto-rickshaw or ride-hailing.
| Best time | 6:00-8:30AM or the hour before closing at about 8:00PM |
|---|---|
| Best season | October to March |
| Address | Sarkhej Roza, Makarba Road, Sarkhej, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380055, India |
Shooting notes
- Equipment
- 24-70mm zoom, wide-angle for the courtyards, polarizer for the tank
Location
Sarkhej Roza, Makarba Road, Sarkhej, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380055, India
22.9843, 72.5027 View on map
Highlights
- Domed tombs and pillared colonnades in Indo-Islamic style
- Large stepped tank with reflections
- Very few tourists compared with central sites
- Free entry and long opening hours
Tips for visiting
- Go at first light for empty courtyards
- Dress modestly and cover shoulders
- Check whether photography is allowed inside the tomb chambers
- Use ride-hailing for the return, as autos are scarce late
When to visit
6:00-8:30AM or the hour before closing at about 8:00PM
Frequently asked questions
What are the timings?
About 6:00AM to 8:00PM according to listings.
Is there a fee?
Entry is reported to be free.
Is it crowded?
Usually not, apart from Thursday evenings and festival days when devotees visit the shrine.