Calico Museum of Textiles,Gujarat

• Patola (double ikat) from Patan — rare, precisely woven double-ikat saris renowned for complex geometric patterns.
• Bandhani and tie-dye — dazzling embroidered and resist-dyed textiles from Gujarat and Rajasthan.
• Ajrakh and block-printed cottons — traditional Ajrakh from Kutch with indigo and madder natural dyes.
• Mughal and court textiles — lavish brocades, painted and embroidered pieces reflecting elite patronage.
• South Asian embroidered garments — regional embroideries including kutch, phulkari and kantha.
• Early chintzes and European-influenced prints — examples showing global trade influences on Indian cottons.
• Costume and accessories — traditional garments, turbans, shawls and ceremonial textiles across centuries.

• A strong conservation and research program with a textile conservation laboratory.
• Context rooms and installations that display textiles with historical information on usage and provenance.
• Rare manuscripts and archival materials related to textile production and trade.
• Exhibits that show techniques (weaving, dyeing, printing, embroidery) and sometimes working looms.

• Guided, appointment-only tours led by knowledgeable museum staff (generally included with admission).
• Short educational talks/demonstrations on dyeing, block-printing and conservation (when scheduled).
• Research visits for scholars by prior arrangement to consult the museum's archives and collections.
• Temporary exhibitions that spotlight particular techniques, regions or historical themes.

October to March — cooler, dry weather makes city travel more comfortable. Early mornings are best for quieter, focused visits.

Ahmedabad has a hot semi-arid climate: hot summers (April–June), monsoon rains (July–September) and pleasant winters (November–February). Dress for heat in summer.

The museum operates largely on appointment-based guided visits; entry is typically by scheduled tour and may involve a modest fee or donation. Photography is usually restricted inside galleries. Exact entry fees, tour timings and days of operation vary—check the museum's official website or contact them by phone/email before planning.

Located in Ahmedabad city. Nearest major transport hubs: Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (Ahmedabad) and Ahmedabad Junction railway station. Local taxis, ride-hailing services and city cabs provide convenient access. Because visits are guided and scheduled, inform the museum in advance about mobility needs; they can advise on on-site accessibility.

1–2 hours for the standard guided tour; longer if you are a researcher or wish to attend special sessions.

Wear comfortable, respectful clothing for a cultural site and comfortable shoes for walking. Carry a hat, water and sunscreen in hot months. Bring a small notebook or camera only if permitted.

Try Ahmedabad's street and Gujarati cuisine (dhokla, khaman, khandvi, fafda and local sweets). For souvenirs look for block-printed scarves, ajrakh textiles, embroidered pieces, or ethically sourced reproductions of traditional patterns from reputable shops or museum-affiliated outlets.