“For me, the present is merged in eternity. I may not sacrifice the latter for the present.”
-Mahatma Gandhi
Raj Ghat, the memorial to Mahatma Gandhi in New Delhi, reflects the depth of these words. The aura, simplicity, and patience of Gandhi have always stood the test of time.
This simple black marble platform marks the cremation site of Gandhi, where the final rites were performed on 31st January 1948. It is situated between the main Ring Road and the banks of the Yamuna River in New Delhi.
The memorial is designed as a plain black marble platform with his last words, “Hey Ram” (Oh God), inscribed on it. A stone footpath bordered by lush green lawns leads to the walled enclosure that houses the memorial. As a mark of respect, every visitor must remove their shoes before entering the Raj Ghat premises.
From locals to international travelers, from VIPs to everyday visitors, all come here to pay homage to the man affectionately known as the “Father of the Nation.” Since Gandhi passed away on a Friday, a prayer service is held here every Friday.
The landscaping around the memorials was designed by Sydney Percy-Lancaster, Secretary of the Agri Horticultural Society of India and the last Englishman to serve as Superintendent of Horticultural Operations for the Government of India.
Visitors can also see labelled trees around the Raj Ghat complex. These trees were planted by various dignitaries during their visits, including Queen Elizabeth II, former Australian Prime Minister Gough Whitlam, and former US President Dwight Eisenhower.
Nearby destinations from Raj Ghat
Several cremation sites of other notable Indian leaders are located nearby. Shanti Van, the cremation site of India’s first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, lies 1 km away. Vijay Ghat, the memorial of India’s second Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri, is around 1.7 km away. The cremation sites of Indira Gandhi and her sons Sanjay Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi are also situated along the riverside in dedicated memorial parks.
The Gandhi Memorial Museum is located close to Raj Ghat. It houses an extensive collection of books, documents, original relics, exhibitions, artworks, and memorabilia related to Mahatma Gandhi’s life and his role in India’s independence movement.
Timing
The site is open every day from 6 am to 7 pm. A prayer service is held every Friday. Political leaders visit the memorial annually on Gandhi’s birth anniversary (2nd October) and death anniversary (30th January).
How to Reach
Admission is free for all, and no photography charges apply. Kashmere Gate is the nearest metro station to Raj Ghat, while Old Delhi Railway Station is the closest railhead, located 4 km away.
Experience the nostalgic presence and serene aura of Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat. No biography, museum, or film can touch your heart the way a visit to this sacred place can.
