Aga Khan Palace or Gandhi National Memorial

Aga Khan Palace alias Gandhi National Memorial situated on the banks of river Mula, in the Yerwada area of Pune is considered as the national monument of India’s freedom movement. It is about 9.5kms away from Pune Station. Built in the year 1892 by Sultan Muhammed Shah, Aga Khan III, the palace is one of the stunning pieces of architecture in western India. Sprawl over an area of 19 acres, this white Italianate marble structure consist of Italian arches, richly decorated suites and guest rooms, which gives it a royal look. The palace was constructed with the aim of providing employment to the famine-struck people of neighboring areas.

Aga Khan Palace is the place where Mahatma Gandhi, Kasturba Gandhi, Mahadev Desai ( secretary of Gandhi), Sarojini Naidu and other important freedom fighters were imprisoned during the Quit India movemnet in 1942. Surrounded by abundant green gardens and lawns, the palace houses the beautiful samadhis of Mahatma Gandhi, Kasturba Gandhi and Mahadev Desai. These beautiful memorials were designed by the famous architect Charles Correa. The ashes of these personalities were also kept at the side of their tombs. Near the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi, there is a statue of Gandhiji. The museum inside the Palace exhibits numerous artifacts, pictures and photographs related to the life of Gandhiji. One can also find the cloths , slippers, specs, bed, writing desk, etc used by Gandhiji , and a letter written by him on the death of his secretary. Kasturba Gndhi's clothes and footwears can also found here. 

Aga Khan Palace was gifted to Govt of India in 1969 by Prince Karim El Husseni , Aga Khan IV, the grand son of Shah Karim Aga Khan III as a mark of respect to Gandhiji and his philosophy. The Gandhi Memorial Society is managing the museum, memorials and campus of the Aga Khan Palace, since 1980. Exhibitions and various other activities held at the palace throughout the year to showcase the life and career of Mahatma Gandhi attracts lots of tourists. A Khaadi and handloom textile shop inside the palace complex is the other attraction. The famous movie 'Gandhi' was shot at this palace.

The Palace opens from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm. Entrance fee for adult is Rs. 5 and for children is Rs. 2 

Contact Address
Agakhan Palace, Nagar Road, Pune - 411006, Maharashtra, India
Phone - 020-2668 0250
Fax - 020-2661 2700