Read More on Aga Khan Palace
History
Sultan Muhammed Shah Aga Khan III constructed the magnificent Aga Khan Palace in Pune in 1892. The Aga Khan Castle has a longstanding experience of association with Gandhiji, the nation's father. Shortly after the commencement of the Quit India Movement, he, his wife Kasturba Gandhi, and their assistant Mahadev Desai were detained in the Castle from 9 August 1942 until 6 May 1944. Unfortunately, both Kasturba Gandhi and Mahadev Desai perished while imprisoned in the Aga Khan Palace, and their Samadhis are also erected there. In 1969, Aga Khan dedicated the Aga Khan Palace to the Indian people for the purpose to honor Mahatma Gandhi and his ideology.
Architecture
The Aga Khan Palace building is a one-of-a-kind mixture of Italian awnings and wide gardens, where Gandhi Smarak Samiti events are held on a continuous basis. The structure comprises approximately 19 acres and has 5 halls on its grounds. A 2.5-meter-wide walkway surrounds this two-story edifice, which today serves as the Gandhi National Memorial Society's administration. In conjunction with all these, the Aga Khan Castle has a variety of Gandhi-related paintings, pictures, and relics. There's also a khadi and other hand-loomed fabrics shop nearby.
Activities
- Tourists could also see Gandhiji's handiwork at the Sewagram, which is situated 8 kilometers from Wardha town.
- The chamber in which he lived with Kasturba Gandhi, his charkha, shoes, as well as other personal items, are some other features of the residence that are made available to the public.
- Only at Aga Khan Palace in Pune, one may observe various artifacts and records related to Mahatma Gandhi's lifetime.
- The Gandhi National Memorial Society has its office at this house. There's also a khadi as well as other hand-loomed fabric shops there. Tourists can purchase fabrics if they wish to.
- Daily prayer services have been conducted at the samadhi for years, in addition to yearly celebrations which can be attended by you if you wish to.
Tips for visiting
- There are glass doors in the chamber where Gandhi was imprisoned. This implies it can't be accessible from the inside, so proceed with caution.
- Although the tourist industry isn’t as focused on this castle, ensure to get all necessary details and see the magnificent structure.
- Within the palace, canteen service is also provided. So you wouldn't have to be concerned if you get hungry.
- Within the property, photography is permitted.
Best time to visit
Pune is enchanting in both the rainy season and the wintertime, thus the seasons of July to February are ideal for a vacation to this enormous Marathi metropolitan area. The climate has remained chilly and pleasant. The city celebrates the famed Sawai Gandharva Sangeeth Mahotsav in December, which is a celebratory event. Summer months, on the other hand, are best avoided because the climate is oppressive and might sabotage your travel arrangements.
Nearby Atractions
- Shaniwar Wada
- Osho Ashram
- Sinhagad Fort
- Katraj Snake Park
- Mulshi lake
- Rajmachi Fort
- Pune Okayama Friendship Garden
Nearby market/ shopping places
- Hong Kong Lane: It is dominated by accouterments such as purses, novels, and smartphone retailers. Mobile phone covers abound in the stores, which are also kitted out with eyeglasses, hats, and purses.
- Fashion Street: One of Pune's most renowned shopping destinations, Fashion Street provides anyone a fashion overhaul on a shoestring budget. The apparel is quite inexpensive there.
- Bajirao Road: It is ideal for home interior lovers or those looking for a low-cost home remodel. This location competes directly with elevated furniture companies.
- Juna Bazar: If anyone enjoys acquiring rare antiquities, this is the spot for them. This flea market, also known as Old Market or Chor Bazar, is a premier shopping destination in Pune.
Nearby Hotels
- Novotel Pune
- Radisson Blu
- Fairfield By Marriott
- Ritz Carlton
- Marriott Suites
- Hyatt Regency
- The Corinthians Resort & Club
Interesting Facts About Aga Khan Palace
- In 1972, Prince Karim Aga Khan bequeathed this castle to the Gandhi Smarak Samiti and has been maintained by the Parks and Gardens organization since thereafter.
- In July 1999, a demonstration was organized beside the Mahatma Gandhi memorial near the Pune train station to vigil the monument's deteriorating state. The current situation has improved greatly.
- At a cost of Rs 12,00,000, it took 5 years and 1000 employees to construct the castle.