Top 5 Iconic Museums to Visit on Gandhi Jayanti

Table of Contents
1) National Gandhi Museum
2) Gandhi Memorial Museum
3) Sabarmati Ashram Museum
4) Mani Bhavan Gandhi Museum
5) Aga Khan Palace

Celebrated on 2nd of October every year, Gandhi Jayanti marks the birth anniversary of the Father of our Nation - Mahatma Gandhi. He is one of the most influential figures in Indian history.  His tireless efforts toward India's independence, using non-violent resistance and civil disobedience movement still remains afresh in the heart and soul of every Indian and the day holds great significance not just in India but around the world. 
 

It is a day of reflection, tribute, and remembrance of the values that Gandhi lived by and people from all walks of life come together to commemorate his invaluable contributions to India’s independence on this special day. Various events, prayers, and cultural programs are organized across the country to promote his teachings and you can visit several museums dedicated to his memory to understand his contributions and his life.

In this blog, we are going to have a look at five iconic museums in India dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi that you can visit this Gandhi Jayanti.

Iconic Museum Dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi Across India

1. National Gandhi Museum – Delhi

The National Gandhi Museum, located in the heart of Delhi, was established in 1961 and remains one of the most significant repositories of Gandhi’s life and work. If you haven’t visited this museum yet book flights to Delhi on our website and visit this museum in the National Capital. This museum houses an extensive collection of books, photographs, and personal relics of Mahatma Gandhi. Exhibits include letters written by Gandhi, newspapers from the freedom struggle era, and rare documents.

Ticket Details:

- Entry Fee: Free  

- Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM (Closed on Mondays)

What to Expect:

- Personal artifacts such as Gandhi's walking stick, his iconic round glasses, and the spinning wheel.

- A gallery showcasing photographs of important events in Gandhi's life.

- A film room where visitors can watch documentaries about Gandhi.

2. Gandhi Memorial Museum – Madurai

The Gandhi Memorial Museum in Madurai is one of the five Gandhi Sangrahalayas in India, inaugurated in 1959. This museum commemorates Gandhi’s historic visit to Madurai, where he decided to adopt the simple dhoti as his attire for life, reflecting his commitment to the poor and marginalized.

Ticket Details:  

- Entry Fee: Free  

- Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM (Closed on Fridays)

What to Expect:

- The blood-stained dhoti Gandhi wore when he was assassinated in 1948.

- Detailed timelines of Gandhi’s life, achievements, and struggles.

- An open-air theatre where discussions and events related to Gandhi’s philosophies are held.

3. Sabarmati Ashram Museum – Ahmedabad

Sabarmati Ashram, located on the banks of the Sabarmati River in Ahmedabad, was home to Gandhi for over 12 years. It served as the base for many of his revolutionary movements, including the famous Dandi March in 1930. The museum is within the ashram premises and we would recommend you to plan a 2 day trip at least to explore the place to the fullest. Book hotels in Ahmedabad at lowest prices and in advance to avoid last minute hassles.
 

Ticket Details:  

- Entry Fee: Free  

- Timings: 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM (Open all days)

What to Expect:

- Rooms preserved as they were during Gandhi's stay.

- Archival footage of Gandhi’s speeches and the Dandi March.

- Handwritten letters and manuscripts authored by Gandhi.

4. Mani Bhavan Gandhi Museum – Mumbai

Mani Bhavan was Gandhi’s Mumbai residence from 1917 to 1934. This building was the nerve center of Gandhi’s political activities in Mumbai. It was from here that he launched many of his significant movements, including the Non-Cooperation and Civil Disobedience movements.

Ticket Details:    

- Entry Fee: Free  

- Timings: 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM (Open all days)

What to Expect: 

- A room where Gandhi stayed, preserved in its original state.

- Exhibits including rare photographs and letters exchanged between Gandhi and other leaders.

- A research library with over 50,000 books on Gandhi and related topics.

Suggested Read: Top Destinations Having Strong Connection with Mahatma Gandhi

5. Aga Khan Palace – Pune

The Aga Khan Palace, built in 1892, is closely associated with the life of Mahatma Gandhi. During the Quit India Movement in 1942, Gandhi, along with other leaders, was imprisoned here. The palace also serves as the resting place of his wife, Kasturba Gandhi, and his secretary, Mahadev Desai.

Ticket Details:  

- Entry Fee: INR 25 for Indians, INR 300 for foreigners  

- Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM (Open all days)

What to Expect:

- Memorials of Kasturba Gandhi and Mahadev Desai.

- Photographs and paintings depicting Gandhi's time in the palace.

- Personal artifacts including Gandhi’s belongings during his imprisonment.
 

Wrapping Up!

Visiting these iconic museums offers a rare opportunity to connect deeply with Mahatma Gandhi's life and work. Whether you’re a history buff or someone seeking inspiration from Gandhi’s values, these museums are treasure troves of information, reflection, and tribute to his legacy.

So what are you waiting for? This Gandhi Jayanti, immerse yourself in the world of Gandhi by visiting one of these historically significant places and reflect on how his teachings continue to impact not only India but the world. A visit to these museums will not only enhance your understanding of Gandhi’s life but also encourage you to incorporate his principles of peace, truth, and non-violence into your daily life.