Sabarmati Ashram

Sabarmati Ashram (also called Gandhi Ashram or Harijan Ashram) was Mahatma Gandhi's primary residence between 1917 and 1930. Established initially at Kochrab, it shifted in June 1917 to its present 36-acre site on the western bank of the Sabarmati river. From here Gandhi led the Indian independence movement for 13 years, organised the Non-Cooperation movement, and on 12 March 1930 began the famous 240-mile Salt March to Dandi — vowing not to return until India was free. Key on-site structures include Hridaya Kunj ('Heart's Cottage') — Gandhi's spartan living quarters, with the spinning wheel, low writing desk, and reed mat preserved as he left them; Vinoba Kutir (where Vinoba Bhave stayed); Magan Niwas (Maganlal Gandhi's residence); Nandini (the guesthouse); and the Upasana Mandir (the open-air prayer ground). The Gandhi Memorial Museum holds his letters, photographs, the iconic round glasses, and the bowl in which he ate his last meal. The ashram remains a working institution with educational and craft programmes. Free entry; the donation box at the exit funds the trust. Allow two hours minimum.