Once home to Mahatma Gandhi, the timeless Sabarmati Ashram completed its centenary in 2017. Located in the Sabarmati suburb of Ahmedabad, it is a popular tourist spot for both national tourists and foreigners from across the globe. Atul Pandya, the director of Sabarmati Ashram Preservation and Memorial Trust, says that the ashram receives more than 4,000 visitors each day, as reported by The Hindustan Times. In case you are planning to pay a visit to this historic place, there are plenty of domestic flights between Delhi and Ahmedabad with flexible timings to choose from.
Sabarmati Ashram offers a deep insight into the life and times of Gandhiji, his works and his principals. Here are a few things you must see when visiting the premises:
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Visit the Gandhi Memorial Museum
The Gandhi Memorial Ashram is the most serene unit of the ashram. Made of brick columns, ceramic tiled roofs, stone floors and wooden doors, it represents the true ‘swadeshi’ spirit. The museum has both open and closed spaces for tourists to enjoy nature while touring the museum. The museum is a perfect blend of modern planning and traditional architecture. There are three galleries here, the Painting Gallery, My Life My Message Gallery and the Ahmedabad Gallery. You can see the personal belongings of Gandhiji here, such as his spectacles, letter, books, photos and paintings.
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Take part in the events
If you are planning to visit the ashram on the death anniversary of Gandhiji, you can attend the prayer meeting that takes place at Hriday Kunj from 8:30AM. Other than this, you can also attend the flag hoisting program on 15th August and 26th January, in case you are in Ahmedabad around that time. Check the flights between Delhi and Ahmedabad to reach on time for the events.
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Volunteer at Manav Sadhna
This is an NGO within the ashram, mainly dedicated to taking care of underprivileged children. Around 8,000 women and children are looked after through 35 projects. They also provide healthcare and educational support to individuals in need. Children are mainly taught the values and teachings of Gandhiji and are also taught how to read and write through various art and craft activities. You are free to volunteer here and take part in the teaching process or help during lunch hours. If you are travelling from Delhi, check the Delhi to Ahmedabad flights to reach the city smoothly.
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Visit the Upasana Mandir
This unit is located between Hriday Kunj and Magan Kutir. Congregational prayer services were held by Gandhiji for everyone, every morning and evening here. He also offered spiritual support through many Bhagvad Gita based sermons. Gandhiji also delivered “Discourses on the Gita” at this place.
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Stroll Along the Sabarmati Riverbank
Lastly, don’t forget to take a walk along the banks of the Sabarmati River. You can also take a boat ride here, go for water sports, enjoy fresh air and a spectacular view.
There is no entry fee for the ashram, and you can visit anytime between 8:30AM to 6:00PM. While preparing to return, make sure you reach the airport on time for your Ahmedabad to Delhi flight.