Here’s a comprehensive guide to local transportation in Patan, Gujarat, including options for car, rail, buses, and more, along with essential tourist information.
1. By Bus
- GSRTC (Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation):
- Operates buses connecting Patan to major cities like Ahmedabad, Surat, Rajkot, and Gandhinagar.
- For schedules and bookings, visit GSRTC Official Website.
- Private Bus Operators:
- Services like Ghanshyam Travels and Patel Tours offer luxury and sleeper buses.
- Tickets can be booked via redBus.
2. By Train
- Patan Railway Station: Well-connected to Ahmedabad, Mehsana, and Bhildi.
- Train Options:
- Patan–Mehsana Passenger (Train No. 59482): Departs at 7:30 AM.
- Patan–Mehsana Passenger (Train No. 50476): Departs at 12:05 PM.
- Patan–Mehsana Passenger (Train No. 59478): Departs at 5:05 PM.
- For detailed schedules and bookings, visit IRCTC.
3. By Auto-Rickshaw
- Auto-rickshaws are a convenient mode of transport for short distances within Patan.
- Fares are negotiable; it’s advisable to agree on a price before starting the journey.
4. By Foot
- Exploring Patan’s historic sites, such as Rani Ki Vav and the Patola Heritage Museum, is best done on foot to fully appreciate the architecture and local culture.
5. By Car
- Private Cabs: Available for local sightseeing and intercity travel. Rates typically start from ₹1,000–₹1,500 per day. Bargaining is common.
- Car Rentals: Services like Zoomcar and Revv offer self-drive options.
Tourist Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Best Time to Visit | October to March (cool and pleasant weather) |
| Language | Gujarati, Hindi, English |
| Currency | Indian Rupee (₹) |
| Emergency Numbers | Police: 100, Ambulance: 108, Fire: 101 |
| Local Cuisine | Dhokla, Khandvi, Undhiyu, Patra, and local sweets like Ghari and Mohanthal |
| Shopping | Patola Silk Sarees, Bandhnis, Wooden Toys, and Handicrafts |
| Connectivity | Mobile networks like Jio, Airtel, BSNL, and Vi have good coverage. |
Additional Tips
- Language: While Gujarati is the local language, Hindi and English are widely understood, especially in tourist areas.
- Safety: Patan is generally safe for tourists. However, it’s advisable to keep your belongings secure and be cautious in crowded areas.
- Local Etiquette: Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
- Climate: Carry sunscreen, a hat, and stay hydrated, as Patan can get quite hot during the summer months.