Gandhi Jayanti, celebrated on the 2nd of October, marks the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, one of the most revered figures in the history of peace and non-violence. As a global icon, his influence reaches far beyond the borders of India. Every year, people around the world celebrate this day by reflecting on his teachings, and several destinations across the globe provide a perfect opportunity to honor his legacy.

If you are planning a journey to commemorate Gandhi Jayanti, Travel Crafters brings you the best destinations worldwide where you can feel connected to his ideals of peace, truth, and humanity.

1. Sabarmati Ashram, Ahmedabad, India

Why It’s Famous: Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad is one of the most prominent places linked with Mahatma Gandhi’s life. It served as Gandhi’s home for over a decade and was a key center for the Indian independence movement. Visitors can explore the ashram’s museum and learn about Gandhi’s life, philosophy, and his deep commitment to non-violence.

What to Experience:

  • Visit the rooms where Gandhi lived and worked.
  • Explore the museum that houses manuscripts, letters, and photographs.
  • Participate in prayers or walks along the Sabarmati river, experiencing the serenity that inspired Gandhi.

2. Raj Ghat, New Delhi, India

Why It’s Famous: Raj Ghat is the memorial where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated in 1948. Located on the banks of the Yamuna River, this peaceful site is a popular spot for people to pay their respects to the Father of the Nation. The simplicity of the black marble platform, which marks his cremation spot, reflects Gandhi’s humble way of life.

What to Experience:

  • Attend the prayer meetings held every Gandhi Jayanti at Raj Ghat.
  • Witness tributes from world leaders and dignitaries.
  • Enjoy the peaceful gardens that surround the memorial, which is a reflection of Gandhi’s spiritual values.

3. Pietermaritzburg, South Africa

Why It’s Famous: Pietermaritzburg is where Gandhi first experienced racial discrimination, an event that profoundly influenced his future activism. After being thrown off a train because of his race, Gandhi’s resolve to fight injustice was strengthened, shaping his philosophy of Satyagraha (non-violent resistance). The city honors his memory with the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial in Church Street.

What to Experience:

  • Visit the Gandhi Statue and Memorial in Pietermaritzburg Railway Station.
  • Explore the history of Gandhi’s life in South Africa and his early struggles against apartheid.
  • Walk in the footsteps of history and reflect on how this moment became a turning point for global civil rights movements.

4. London, United Kingdom

Why It’s Famous: London was significant in Gandhi’s life as he studied law there in the late 19th century. Today, a statue of Mahatma Gandhi stands in Parliament Square, where he is honored alongside other world leaders who fought for freedom and justice. The British capital also houses the India Office Library and records on Gandhi’s time in the UK.

What to Experience:

  • Pay your respects at the Gandhi Statue in Parliament Square.
  • Visit the Gandhi House Museum in South London.
  • Discover more about Gandhi’s early days in law at the Inner Temple, where he qualified as a barrister.

5. Phoenix Settlement, Durban, South Africa

Why It’s Famous: Founded by Gandhi in 1904, the Phoenix Settlement in Durban served as a communal living experiment and a training ground for his ideas on non-violent resistance. Gandhi’s philosophy and his journal, “Indian Opinion,” were born here, making it a significant location in his life and work.

What to Experience:

  • Explore the reconstructed Gandhi family home and the museum.
  • Learn about the early days of Satyagraha and Gandhi’s mission in South Africa.
  • Experience the simplicity of life at Phoenix and reflect on Gandhi’s ideals.

6. Porbandar, Gujarat, India

Why It’s Famous: As the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi, Porbandar holds immense historical importance. Kirti Mandir, the house where he was born, has been preserved as a museum dedicated to his life and achievements. Visitors can gain insight into his upbringing and the early influences that shaped his philosophy.

What to Experience:

  • Visit Kirti Mandir, the ancestral home of Gandhi.
  • Explore the museum displaying artifacts, letters, and photos related to Gandhi’s life.
  • Enjoy the peaceful town atmosphere that echoes the simplicity of Gandhi’s teachings.

7. Gandhi Memorial Museum, Madurai, India

Why It’s Famous: This museum in Madurai is one of the five Gandhi Sangrahalayas (museums) in India. It commemorates his life and highlights his involvement in the Indian independence movement. Madurai also holds significance as the place where Gandhi decided to adopt the loincloth as a symbol of his solidarity with India’s poor.

What to Experience:

  • Explore the exhibits detailing Gandhi’s fight for Indian independence.
  • Visit the gallery displaying the blood-stained dhoti Gandhi wore when he was assassinated.
  • Reflect on Gandhi’s decision to embrace simplicity during a visit to Madurai.

Conclusion

Traveling on Gandhi Jayanti is not only a way to honor the legacy of Mahatma Gandhi but also an opportunity to connect with places around the world that embody his values. Whether you visit India, South Africa, or the UK, these destinations provide unique insights into the life and teachings of a man who changed the course of history.

Let Travel Crafters be your companion in this journey of reflection and exploration. Explore the world in the footsteps of Gandhi, and discover how his message of peace continues to inspire millions. To plan your Gandhi Jayanti trip, visit our website at www.travelcrafters.com.au, or contact us at [email protected] or 02 8964 4221.