Weather: 15 - 27°C
Label: Top Attraction
Tags: Forts & Palaces
Timings: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Time Required: 3-4 hours
Entry Fee:
- Indians: INR 5
- Foreigners: INR 100
Overview:
Aga Khan Palace, built in 1892 by Sultan Muhammed Shah Aga Khan III, is one of Pune’s most significant landmarks. It holds immense historical value as the site where Mahatma Gandhi, his wife Kasturba, and fellow leaders like Sarojini Naidu and Mahadev Desai were imprisoned during India's independence struggle. The palace is spread across 19 acres and is now the headquarters of the Gandhi National Memorial Society. Visitors can learn about the freedom movement, view a museum with photographs and Gandhi's personal belongings, and even see the memorials of Kasturba Gandhi and Mahadev Desai within the palace grounds.
Historical Significance:
The Aga Khan Palace is closely tied to Mahatma Gandhi. In 1942, after the launch of the Quit India Movement, Gandhi, Kasturba, and Mahadev Desai were imprisoned here. During their captivity, Kasturba and Mahadev Desai passed away. Their memorials are located within the palace. In 1969, Aga Khan donated the palace to India in honor of Gandhi's legacy. The palace remains a site for annual commemorations of key events such as Gandhi's birth anniversary, Independence Day, and Martyr's Day.
Architecture:
The palace blends Italian arches with spacious lawns, housing five halls. A wide corridor wraps around this two-story building, which now serves as a hub for the Gandhi National Memorial Society. The palace also features exhibitions with photographs and artifacts from Gandhi's life and offers a shop selling khadi and handloom textiles.
Important Celebrations:
Public functions are regularly held at the Aga Khan Palace, including Martyr's Day (30th January), Independence Day (15th August), Republic Day (26th January), and Mahatma Gandhi's Birth Anniversary (2nd October).
How to Reach:
Located 7 km from Pune's city center, the Aga Khan Palace is easily accessible by city bus or auto-rickshaw, with auto-rickshaws being the most convenient option. Taxis are also available for direct access.
