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Raj Ghat, Delhi
Visitor Guide
Raj Ghat: The Memorial of Mahatma Gandhi in Delhi
Raj Ghat is the memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, the leader of India’s freedom
movement and one of the most influential figures of the 20th century. Located on the banks of the Yamuna River,
Raj Ghat marks the spot where Gandhi was cremated in 1948. Unlike grand monuments, this site is intentionally
simple and peaceful, reflecting Gandhi’s philosophy of humility and non-violence.
Visitors come to Raj Ghat for quiet reflection rather than sightseeing. It is an important stop for travelers who
want to understand modern Indian history and Gandhi’s legacy. For planning your Delhi itinerary, you may also find
it useful to explore
Top Places to Visit in Delhi and
Delhi Travel Guide.
Quick Facts: Raj Ghat, Delhi
Dedicated to: Mahatma Gandhi
Location: Central Delhi, near the Yamuna River
Established: 1948
Famous for: Gandhi’s cremation site and eternal flame
Time required: 30–60 minutes
Why Visit Raj Ghat?
Raj Ghat offers a very different experience from Delhi’s forts and temples. It is calm, green, and reflective.
Many visitors say it is one of the few places in the city where you can pause and think quietly. For international
travelers, Raj Ghat helps put India’s freedom struggle into context, especially when combined with museums or
heritage sites related to the colonial period.
Raj Ghat is often combined with nearby landmarks such as
Red Fort,
Jama Masjid, and
Purana Qila as part of a central or Old Delhi sightseeing day.
History & Significance
Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated on 30 January 1948, and Raj Ghat was chosen as the site of his cremation. The memorial
consists of a simple black marble platform with an eternal flame at one end. The words “Hey Ram,” believed to be
Gandhi’s last words, are inscribed on the stone. Over the years, Raj Ghat has become a national place of remembrance,
visited by world leaders, dignitaries, and people from around the globe.
What to See at Raj Ghat
Black marble platform: Marks the exact cremation spot of Mahatma Gandhi.
Eternal flame: Symbolizes Gandhi’s enduring influence and ideals.
Landscaped gardens: Well-maintained lawns and shaded paths for quiet walks.
Surrounding memorials: Nearby memorials dedicated to other Indian leaders.
Visitor Information: Timings, Entry & Etiquette
Opening hours: Usually open daily from morning to evening.
Exact timings may vary slightly by season or official announcements.
Entry fee:Free for all visitors.
Shoes: Visitors are required to remove footwear before stepping onto the main memorial platform.
Behavior: Silence and respectful conduct are expected. Loud conversations, eating, or casual behavior is discouraged.
Photography: Allowed in the gardens, but should be done respectfully near the memorial.
Best Time to Visit Raj Ghat
The best season to visit is October to March, when Delhi’s weather is pleasant for walking.
Early morning visits are especially peaceful and are preferred by many visitors. National days such as
Gandhi Jayanti (2 October) attract larger crowds and official ceremonies.
How to Reach Raj Ghat
By Metro:Delhi Gate or Indraprastha Metro stations are commonly used. A short walk or auto-rickshaw ride connects to the memorial.
By Taxi / Cab: Easily accessible from Central Delhi and Old Delhi.
From Old Delhi: Can be combined conveniently with Red Fort and Jama Masjid.
Unlike forts and palaces, Raj Ghat is a simple memorial designed for reflection. Its minimalist design reflects
Mahatma Gandhi’s values of simplicity and non-violence rather than architectural grandeur.
Yes. Visitors are expected to maintain silence, remove shoes before stepping onto the memorial platform,
and behave respectfully as Raj Ghat is a place of remembrance rather than a tourist attraction.
Yes. Raj Ghat is often visited by school groups and families as it helps children understand Mahatma Gandhi’s
role in Indian history and the values he stood for.
Most visitors spend 30 to 60 minutes at Raj Ghat, which is enough time to visit the memorial,
walk through the gardens, and reflect quietly.
Yes. Raj Ghat is well-located and is often combined with Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk,
and India Gate as part of a central or Old Delhi sightseeing itinerary.
