SABARMATI ASHRAM, AHMEDABAD

Gandhi Ashram also known as Sabarmati Ashram, is a serene retreat in Ahmedabad. It served as the home of Mahatma Gandhi during India’s struggle for independence, which was acquired on 15th August 1947. This peaceful haven reflects the essence of simplicity and determination that India fought to have freedom. The ashram houses a museum that preserves Gandhi's letters, photographs, and personal belongings, offering a glimpse into his life, ideology, and day-to-day matters. It is said that Gandhi chose this location because it was halfway between a prison and a crematorium, as to symbolise his readiness for the extreme highs and lows of life.

A side view of Mahatma Gandhi's statue at Sabarmati Ashram.

History

Established in 1917 on the banks of the Sabarmati River, the ashram became the centre of Gandhi’s movement for freedom. It was from here that Gandhi initiated the iconic Dandi March in 1930, which to this day plays a large role in symbolising India's fight against colonial salt laws.


Top 5 Interesting Facts about Sabarmati Ashram

Original Name: The ashram was initially called the Satyagraha Ashram and is also known as Harijan Ashram.
Relocation: It was renamed Sabarmati Ashram after being moved to the banks of the Sabarmati River.
Autobiography: Gandhi began writing his autobiography, "The Story of My Experiments with Truth," at the Sabarmati Ashram during the 1920s.
Dandi March: The historic Dandi March commenced from the Sabarmati Ashram on March 12, 1930.
Gandhi Smarak Sangrahalaya: The museum's archive includes 34,066 letters, 8,633 articles, 6,367 photographic negatives, 134 reels of microfilm of Gandhi's writings, and 210 films related to his life and the freedom struggle.

A side view of a cottage surrounded by trees, illuminated by bright daylight.

Opening Hours and Ticket Prices

The ashram is open to visitors every day from 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM, and entry is free of charge, making it an ideal place to visit.
Not only is it accessible, but it also holds history and rich architecture, such as Hriday Kunj, Gandhi's personal cottage, with its simplistic yet profound design, and the Vinoba Kutir, which housed notable guests like Vinoba Bhave.


Top Reasons to Visit Gandhi Ashram

While there are many reasons to visit the Gandhi Ashram, some of the major ones are:

Relive history: Walk in the footsteps of Gandhi and learn about India’s freedom movement.
Experience tranquillity: The ashram’s peaceful ambience makes it ideal for meditation and other mindful activities.
Educational value: The museum and library are full of information about Gandhi’s life and principles.
Cultural connection: Engage with workshops and programmes that promote Gandhian philosophy and connect with the man who helped free your country.


Accommodation

The ashram is conveniently located just 8 km (about 20 minutes) from The Ummed Ahmedabad Hotel, making it an ideal spot for a cultural and historical visit. The Ummed Ahmedabad Hotel is the perfect place for you to stay while you visit this amazing Gandhi Ashram.

View of a pool with a building in the background, surrounded by trees for added decor.

A visit to Gandhi Ashram is more than just a journey through history. It is an invitation to embrace the timeless principles of truth, non-violence, and simplicity which got India its independence that continue to inspire not just India but the world today.