IPL Fever Grips Ahmedabad Hospitality Sector: Hotel Rates, Airfares Soar as Fans Rush to Witness RCB vs Gujarat Titans Title Clash

Ahmedabad is experiencing an unprecedented surge in travel and hospitality demand after the IPL 2026 final was confirmed at Narendra Modi Stadium, with premium hotel tariffs reaching ₹25,000–₹30,000 per night and airfares climbing to ₹13,000–₹15,000 on key routes like Mumbai-Ahmedabad.

The title showdown, scheduled for May 31 between defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Gujarat Titans, has triggered a booking frenzy across hotels, airlines, restaurants and tourism businesses. The RCB’s qualification has been the primary catalyst, with airfares from Bengaluru to Ahmedabad doubling compared to normal days.

₹200 Crore Boost for Hotel Sector

Industry estimates suggest Ahmedabad’s hotel sector alone could generate direct business worth over ₹200 crore during the two-day final weekend. Nearly all of the city’s approximately 20,000 hotel rooms are expected to be sold out, with properties near the stadium and along SG Highway, Motera and Chandkheda reporting 100% occupancy.

Off-Season Spike

The impact is particularly significant as late May is traditionally the hospitality off-season. Premium hotels that typically charge ₹8,000–₹10,000 per night are now quoting ₹25,000–₹30,000, reflecting a 20–45% surge.

Economic Ripple Effect

The final’s economic impact extends beyond hospitality. Train and bus bookings have surged, while restaurants are offering live-screening deals. Narendra Somani, President of the Hotel and Restaurant Association, noted the summer holiday timing is amplifying attendance, with families and young fans travelling specifically for the match.

Ahmedabad’s 132,000-seater Narendra Modi Stadium—the world’s largest cricket venue—will host the high-voltage clash, marking one of the city’s most profitable hospitality weekends in recent years.