Introduction
GIFT City, India's upcoming global financial district, is often envisioned as a cityscape of skyscrapers, suited professionals (despite the heat), or a fast-paced district imitating a developing Wall Street. While finance remains its backbone, GIFT City is evolving into a vibrant hub that demands lifestyle, entertainment, and cultural experiences.
The master plan for GIFT City aims to develop 62 million sq. ft. of built-up area with an allocation of 67% for commercial spaces, 22% for residential space and 11% for social space. As this project takes flight, GIFT City also has the added advantage of being nestled between Gandhinagar and Ahmedabad, two centres of cultural and historical significance in Gujarat. Beyond the financial appeal, GIFT City is developing into a destination for holistic urban living.
Must-Visit Attractions in GIFT City
Prominent buildings:
GIFT City features iconic structures like GIFT Tower One and GIFT Tower Two, both 123 meters tall with 28 floors. GIFT Tower One is the tallest in Gandhinagar. There is a World Trade Centre in GIFT City which houses similar businesses and retail spaces. “Curv”, GIFT City’s first twisted skyscraper, is under construction. With an estimated cost of 700 crore rupees, it is set to become another prominent landmark.
Social clubs:
GIFT City Club is a sophisticated centre that caters to both leisure and business needs. It provides accommodation, fine dining and other recreational activities like the gym, spa and sports turfs to its members. Non-members can also enjoy the dining experience.
Green spaces and promenades:
The Indian Green Building Council has given the 'Platinum' certification to GIFT City due to its focus on sustainability and open spaces. With the same vision, the ‘Central Park’ spanning an area of 21 acres is under construction. Similarly, even the Samruddhi Path, a serpentine promenade along the banks of Sardar Sarovar, is underway.
Luxury and budget-friendly accommodations:
The hospitality industry in GIFT City offers a wide variety of accommodations. Options for accommodation range from the GIFT City Club to the Grand Mercure Hotel. They offer luxury services and world-class amenities. Some other top hotels closer to Gandhinagar and Ahmedabad include the Fern Residency, Aranya Van Farm, Infocity Club and Resort and many more.
International Universities:
The first international university to inaugurate a campus and begin operations in India is the Deakin University in GIFT City. With its parent entity in Victoria, Australia, Deakin is ranked 197 on the QS World University Rankings 2025. The University of Wollongong, also an Australian institution that ranks 167 (QS world rankings), has been set up here. Two British universities, Queen’s University Belfast and Coventry University, are in their application phase.
Events and Entertainment in GIFT City
Runfest: The Runfest is an annual event hosted at GIFT City to promote community engagement. It included three race categories: 3 km, 5 km, and 10 km.
Fun Chowk: This entertainment centre in Gandhinagar is known to host customers from various regions of Gujarat. The arcade games, dining options and other activities make it a perfect stop for a weekend outing.
Concerts: GIFT City has recently hosted famous artists, including the global sensation Diljit Dosanjh. Vishal Mishra and B Praak have also performed here. Apart from music concerts, GIFT City also hosts an annual Garba festival.
Dining & Shopping in GIFT City
Fine dining: The luxury hotels and clubs in GIFT City host a fine dining experience. Both members and non-members are welcome. The GIFT City Club and the Grand Mercure are famous for the same.
Casual dining: The restaurant options in GIFT City are rapidly expanding. Food courts like the Happiness Food Court and Mapel 99 have already become popular hangout spots. GIFT City has something for everyone: coffee lovers must try the Rubiaceae Coffee Brewers, and there are multiple eateries that serve authentic Gujarati cuisine.
Craftsmen's Village: Located in Gandhinagar, the Craftsmen's Village is a huge community of artists skilled at various world-famous crafts. This centre is especially known for its Bandhani saris, which are made using natural colours. Another famous handicraft is a beautiful wooden block with artistic carvings on it.
Shopping centres: The GIFT City authorities are working on developing large-scale social infrastructure, including malls and theatres. While this is underway, there are many malls a little away in Gandhinagar, such as the Sarthak Pulse Mall and Shree Rang Mall.
Wellness, Nature & Historic Landmarks
Sant Sarovar Dam: For nature enthusiasts looking for a quiet escape, the Sant Sarovar Dam is a scenic gateway in Gandhinagar. Constructed on the Sabarmati River in 1978, it stands tall as a unique blend of natural and artificial beauty.
Sabarmati Ashram: Directly tied to the freedom struggle, this ashram is where Mahatma Gandhi lived and worked until the Dandi march. A short drive from Gandhinagar, the ashram houses a religious community and a museum dedicated to the life and principles of Gandhi.
Sarita Udhyan: Another beautiful location on the banks of the Sabarmati River is Sarita Udhyan. This large garden is a perfect picnic spot with multiple recreational and entertainment facilities. It also shelters one of the most visited deer parks in India.
Children’s Park: Located in sector 28 in Gandhinagar, this park is loved by children and adults alike. The perfect place for an evening stroll, the park also has a mini train and a lake with boating facilities.
Cultural & Historical Landmarks
Adalaj Stepwell: This 15th-century stepwell, which is the perfect example of Indo-Islamic architecture, is a must-visit for history buffs.The 3-storey structure, which has an octagonal opening, is 6 degrees cooler than the outside. It is also widely visited by photography enthusiasts.
Akshardham Temple: This is one of the biggest temples built in honour of Swaminarayan’s life. It is constructed on a 23-acre plot using 6000 tonnes of pink sandstone without any steel. Akshardham is more than just a pilgrim destination. It’s an architectural marvel as well.
Punit Van: This botanical garden, which literally translates to “holy forest”, has been built and arranged according to Hindu mythology and astrological significance. Named after planets, stars and zodiacs the 3500 varieties of trees and plants are divided into 4 astronomical divisions. The garden also has amenities for cycling, jogging, birdwatching and much more.
Veechar Museum: The only one of its kind in the world, this hut-like museum displays the evolution and diversity of Indian utensils. With over 4500 pieces of urns, jugs, spittoons, pots and locks, it includes an age-old collection from around India.
The Future of GIFT City: Exciting Developments Ahead
GIFT City itself is growing at a rapid pace with an increase in financial activities. International firms, banks, insurance companies and fintech setting up their base in GIFT City. With this, people from diverse walks of life will call GIFT City their home. There are exciting developments underway in GIFT City that will cater to these people.
Since the development of the 21-acre Central Park is underway in GIFT City, the residents will soon have the option to rejuvenate themselves in nature after work. Residents will find more options to recharge after work with malls and activity centres opening.
Conclusion
GIFT City is no longer just a financial project. Despite being in a nascent stage, the upcoming developments are exciting. GIFT City is growing rapidly to accommodate the diverse needs of urban living.
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