On our 2 weeks road trip to Gujarat, we visited Sabarmati Aashram Ahmedabad on our first day in Ahmedabad, as we arrived here after visiting the Statue of Unity. Along with spending the evening at Sabarmati Riverfront Ahmedabad. Visiting the Gandhi Aashram Ahmedabad is one of the top things to do in Ahmedabad. And also a very peaceful and tranquil experience. Similar to what I have experienced earlier at the Aurobindo Aashram in White Town Pondicherry. And Auroville Pondicherry on my trip to Pondicherry. So, let me take you on a virtual trip through the Gandi Aashram Ahmedabad. And highly recommend you to visit here on your trip to Ahmedabad.
About Sabarmati Aashram Ahmedabad
The Sabarmati Aashram Ahmedabad also known as Gandhi Aashram in Ahmedabad is one of the most significant landmarks in India, both historically and symbolically. It was here that Mahatma Gandhi spent a significant part of his life, especially during the Indian freedom struggle. The Ashram holds immense cultural and historical value and is a place of reflection for anyone interested in the life and principles of Gandhiji.
Historical Significance of Gandhi Aashram
We grew up reading about the Indian Freedon Struggle. Topic has always been close to heart. And Gandhi Aashram is so closely related to it. That there was no way we won’t have visited this place on our trip to Ahmedabad. Also, now that our elder daughter is in the right age, starting to read about and understanding the significance of India’s freedom struggle, we thought it would be a very good educative trip for her as well.
- The Sabarmati Ashram was established by Mahatma Gandhi in 1917 and served as his residence for around 12 years. It was from here that he led several major movements for India’s independence, most notably the Salt March (Dandi March) in 1930.
- The Ashram became the center of non-violent resistance and the Satyagraha movement, where Gandhi championed the idea of truth, non-violence, and self-reliance.
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A virtual tour through Sabarmati Aashram Ahmedabad
There are 2-3 entryways to Sabarmati Aashram Ahmedabad. We entered through the back gate as our autorickshaw dropped us there. If you are self-driving and need a parking, then you can go to the front gate. There is a huge four wheeler and two wheeler parking here.
There is no entry fee to the Sabarmati Aashram. You just need to make a guest entry in the register at the entrance. After entering inside, as you walk around the campus (in no particular order), you will come across these prominent places –
Hriday Kunj
This is where Gandhi and his wife, Kasturba Gandhi, lived during their time at the Ashram. The room has been preserved as it was during their stay, and it holds many personal belongings of Gandhiji, including his famous spinning wheel.
Gandhi Smarak Sangrahalay (Gandhi Memorial Museum)
This museum is an important part of the Ashram. It showcases photographs, documents, and artifacts that depict Gandhi’s life, his philosophy, and his role in India’s freedom struggle. There are exhibitions on his travels, his influence on the world, and the many historical events he was part of. And a replica of a lot of personal things that Mahatma Gandhi personally used. Like his stick, specs, khadaon (the wooden slipper) that he used to wear. Some of these are original as well. It’s written which are original and which are replica.
Magan Niwas
This was the residence of one of Gandhi’s trusted followers, Maganlal Gandhi, and is now a museum showcasing Gandhi’s thoughts and writings on self-reliance and the importance of handloom and khadi. It exhibits several types of “Charkhas” – the spinning wheels used to make threads out of cotton. And explains their functioning.
The Sabarmati Riverfront
The Ashram is located on the banks of the Sabarmati River, offering a peaceful atmosphere and scenic views. It’s a tranquil setting for anyone wishing to reflect on the philosophy and life of Gandhi. There are several steps leading to the walkway to the riverfront. you can either sit on the steps or on the benches mounted in the Gandhi Aashram campus along the boundary wall. And enjoy a tranquil time watching life go by on the other side of the river – in the bustling city of Ahmedabad.
Gandhi’s Spinning Wheel
One of the most iconic images of Gandhi is him spinning yarn on a charkha. The Ashram still maintains his charkha, symbolizing his push for self-sufficiency and his call to boycott British goods, particularly textiles.
Salt March Starting Point
The Ashram is famously linked to the Salt March, which started in 1930 from Sabarmati Ashram and ended at Dandi, where Gandhi defied the British monopoly on salt.
Gandhi’s Philosophy
Visitors to the Ashram can get a deep dive into his philosophy of Ahimsa (Non-Violence), Satyagraha (Truth Force), and Sarvodaya (Universal Upliftment), and can understand how these principles shaped the Indian independence movement.
Activities at Gandhi Aashram Ahmedabad
There are several activities and events that you can enjoy and participate in at the Gandhi Aashram Ahmedabad. Some of these include –
- Walking Tours: You can take a guided walking tour through the Ashram to understand its history and significance in greater detail.
- The Sabarmati Riverfront: The Ashram area is also a great place to take a stroll along the river, enjoy the tranquil environment, and reflect on the ideals of non-violence.
- Regular Cultural Programs and Events: The Ashram hosts lectures, exhibitions, and cultural programs that focus on Gandhi’s philosophy and related topics, especially during key anniversaries like Gandhi Jayanti (October 2).
Other facilities at Sabarmati Aashram Ahmedabad
- Restroom facilities are available inside the campus at Sabarmati Aashram
- Drinking water facilities are also available on Sabarmati Aashram campus
- There is a four wheeler and two wheeler parking facility right outside the main gate of Sabarmati Aashram
Tips on visiting the Sabarmati Aashram Ahmedabad
- The Sabarmati Ashram is generally open every day from 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM. Entry is free for the museum, though there may be a nominal charge for certain exhibitions or activities. However, best is to visit in the first hour of morning or later in the evening to get least crowd.
- It is a peaceful and spiritual place, so visitors are expected to maintain silence and respect the sanctity of the place.
- You can easily reach here from anywhere in Ahmedabad using Uber app booking a taxi or an autorickshaw. Also, there is an autorickshaw stand right besides the back entrance to Sabarmati Aashram Ahmedabad.
Overall, Gandhi Ashram is a place for anyone interested in learning about India’s independence movement, Mahatma Gandhi’s life and philosophy, or even for those looking for a peaceful, reflective environment. It is one of the top historical and cultural attractions in Ahmedabad and holds immense significance in understanding India’s journey to independence and its moral foundations.