Sabarmati Ashram, Ahmedabad | Gujarat Tourism Online

The library of the Sabarmati Ashram encourages guests to discover more about the thoughts that influenced one of history's greatest leaders.

History of Sabarmati Ashram, Ahmedabad

Former leader Mahatma Gandhi established the Gandhi Ashram in 1917, which was an important turning point in Indian history. The Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad was relocated from Kochrab to the peaceful bank of the Sabarmati river, whose earlier name was Satyagraha Ashram. As time passed, the Ashram became an abundance of activity as Gandhiji tried to enhance living in rural areas via a large number of economic and social forms. In the Ashram, Gandhi also tried raising animals, farming, and sustainable methods, pacing a value on simplicity. In this Ashram, Gandhiji received the lessons of nonviolence and an approach to oppose British colonial control based on the peaceful protest of civil disobedience.

The Dandi March on March 12, 1930, was a prominent event connected to Sabarmati Ashram. It was an attempt to make salt in violation of the British salt monopoly. Gandhi and his supporters began a 240-mile journey from Gandhi Ashram to the Arabian Sea. This act grabbed a lot of attention and inspired the nation for India’s independence. Gandhiji inspired a number of individuals who have dedicated their lives to the goals of justice, equality, and freedom.

Life of Mahatma Gandhi at the Ashram

Sabarmati Ashram was the residence of Mahatma Gandhi, so the Sabarmati Ashram history revolves around him. He lived a simple and disciplined life while seeking social and political changes constantly in the ashram. In the year 1917, Gandhiji relocated to the ashram to follow his goal of independence while living in a peaceful place. Gandhiji had a very strict schedule in the Ashram, as he used to start his morning by praying, then working for hours during manual labor, spinning khadi on the charka, and having a huge discussion with his followers about social issues.

To reduce the dependency on imports and to promote Indian handicrafts, Gandhiji encouraged the locals to engage in farming, milk production, and textiles. He utilized the ashram as an evaluation center for truth and non-violence. His thoughts of Ahimsa and Satyagraha, which ultimately became the foundation of the Indian independence struggle, were developed and refined at this ashram. At Sabarmati Ashram, Gandhiji did diligently intellectual and practical tasks, laying the foundation for the strategies that would eventually result in India’s freedom.

Popular Tourist Attractions with the Ashram

There are numerous popular tourist attractions within Sabarmati Ashram, which gives an in-depth glimpse into the life and impact of Mahatma Gandhi to the guests.

Hriday Kunj: The Tiny Cottage, Hriday Kunj, where Mahatma Gandhi used to reside with her wife Kasturba Gandhi from the year 1918 to 1930 is a must-visit place within the ashram. This modest home of Gandhiji has been almost entirely reestablished, including his personal things such as his spinning wheel, writing desk, or charkha. The devotion to leading discipline and severity in the life of Gandhiji is reflected in the simplicity of this cottage.
Smarak Sangrahalaya: Smarak Sangrahalay inside the ashram is a museum with an extensive collection of images, artefacts, and documents about the life of Gandhiji and the independence moment of India. The exhibits of the museum had been carefully chosen to throw light on Gandhiji's campaign, convictions, and the context of his acts.
Upasana Mandir: An outdoor space for prayer, the Upasana Mandir is a place where Gandhiji and his devotees used to assemble every day for prayer and discussion. Visitors come and still use this spot for their meditation and contemplation purposes.
Library: The library of the Ashram is a major attraction for tourists as it holds a huge collection of books, papers, and records about the ideas and life of Gandhiji. A treasure of love for researchers and fans of Gandhiji is also present there.

Sabarmati Ashram Visiting Timings

Including public holidays, the Sabarmati Ashram is open for visitors on all days of the week. Guests can visit the ashram from 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM, as during these times they are free to explore each and every place, including Upasna Mandir, the library, Hriday Kunj, and Smarak Sangrahalay. Visitors who are willing to learn about the life of Mahatma Gandhi, this place provides you with a calm and meditative atmosphere to get to learn the values of his life.

How to Reach Sabarmati Gandhi Ashram in Gujarat?

One can reach Sabarmati Ashram depending upon where one start, as it requires a combination of air, rail, and road travel. Gujarat Tourism has provided a convenient way for all their tourists who visit their place for a memorable time.

By Air: Sardar Vallabhai Patel International Airport is the closest airport to the Gandhi Ashram, which is roughly 7 km away. Guests can use a taxi or cab to reach the ashram from the airport.
By Train: The nearest station from Gandhi Ashram is Ahmedabad Junction, which is roughly 5 km away from the ashram. Visitors can reach the ashram from the railway station through a rickshaw or taxi.
By Road: The Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS) and Ahmedabad Municipal Transport Service (AMTS) run a dependable local bus network in Ahmedabad. There are multiple bus stops close by, so you can take advantage of these services to get to the ashram.

Other Places to Visit Nearby Gandhi Ashram

Kankaria Lake: One of the most prominent and beloved attractions, Kankaria Lake is a fusion of modern amenities, historical significance, and breathtaking scenery to provide an exciting hub for both visitors as well as residents. It was built by Sultan Qutub-Ud-Din in the fifteenth century; it was supposed to be a polygon-shaped water reservoir close to an extensive promenade line with trees. Kankaria Lake has gone through significant improvements recently, which makes it an attractive area for all ages. Held annually in the month of December, the Kankaria carnival is a week-long celebration of the cultural diversity of Gujarat, which includes food, art exhibits, vendors, and entertainment. The lakefront is also home to an exciting aquarium, which offers a great picturesque view if visitors explore a balloon ride around the lake. Additionally, the lake is a must-see place that is also filled with a restaurant nearby that serves both local and foreign food.
Hutheesing Jain Temple: An architectural masterpiece, HutheesingJain Temple is a tribute to the skill and devotion of the Jain community and is also a prominent and must-visit place in Gujarat. Established in 1850 by a rich Hutheesing family, the temple symbolizes Dharamnatha, which is the 15th Teerthankara in the Jain religion. The magnificent, lavishly painted ceilings, finely carved pillars, and marble carvings of the temple are the prominent features of the Indo-Saracenic architectural style. The main hall of the temple is peaceful, with finely carved marble screens that gently and effortlessly shimmer in the sunlight. The temple is the living monument of faith and artistry, which shows the importance of continuing the execution of Jain rituals. In addition to a historic landmark, this is a place to worship that reflects the rich, extensive past of the Jain community in Gujarat. Visitors who have an interest in learning about the diverse religions and artistic traditions of India should visit this place once.
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Memorial: Situated in Ahmedabad, the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Memorial is an honor to one of India’s most admired leaders and freedom fighters, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. This memorial is one of the most popular tourist attractions, situated within the ancient Moti Mahal, which reflects the spirit of strong Vallabhbhai Patel and his important role in establishing modern-day India. Established in the Mughal era, the museum is a place that offers a beautiful setting for the huge collection of exhibits for the memorial. A diverse collection of pictures, art crafts, and documents shows the incredible rise of Patel from a simple man to an ‘Iron Man of India’. This memorable gives an insight into the personal and political life of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel to the visitors. The lush green surrounding the memorial adds a serene aspect to the location and offers a mournful space for contemplating Patel’s legacy. The national museum honors the memory of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and tells visitors about his enduring impact on the success and unity of India by preserving his achievements and rich history.

The Sabarmati Ashram tour is a lot more than just seeing a historical location; it is also an opportunity to discover more about the principles that governed the country and engage in the rich past of Mahatma Gandhi. Visitors will love to observe the simplicity and commitment that defined the life and work of Gandhiji by walking around the beautiful grounds where once he lived and worked. Visiting nearby attractions like Kankaria Lake and Hutheesing Jain Temple boosts the experience by getting introduced to the historical and cultural background of Ahmedabad. By taking all things into account, visiting Gandhi Ashram in Ahmedabad is a blend of emotional and educational experiences.