Aga Khan Palace, also known as Gandhi National Memorial, is a historic site in Pune, Maharashtra, with a close connection to the Quit India Movement. Its history, marble memorials and museum make it a significant Pune heritage site; check visitor details before planning your visit.
- Location: Nagar Road, Pune
- Rail connection: Pune railway station is 6–7 km away
- Listed museum hours: Open daily
- Site features: Italian arches, lawns, memorials and a picture gallery
Why Aga Khan Palace matters
Aga Khan Palace is important for its role in the history of the Quit India Movement and the lives commemorated there. Sultan Muhammed Shah Aga Khan III built the palace in 1892.
During the movement, the British detained Mahatma Gandhi, Kasturba Gandhi and Mahadev Desai at the palace. Kasturba Gandhi and Mahadev Desai died there, and marble memorials were later established in their memory. That history gives the site a meaning beyond its architecture.
The palace grounds and memorial
The palace grounds combine Italian arches and lawns with memorials to Kasturba Gandhi and Mahadev Desai. The grounds and building connect the site’s architecture with the events that took place there.
The Gandhi National Memorial museum’s picture gallery occupies five halls. It displays photographs, textiles, murals, statues, belongings of Gandhi and oil paintings of Gandhi and Kasturba Gandhi. The memorial also has a library and photography facilities.
Opening details and visitor rules
A Government of India museum directory gives the Gandhi National Memorial’s hours as 9:00 a.m.–5:40 p.m., though other visitor listings give a closing time of 5:30 p.m. Confirm the hours before setting out, as listings differ.
Opening hours
- Monday to Sunday: 9:00–17:30
Last checked November 2026. Hours can change on holidays and for special events.
The directory’s admission figures were published in 2023 and do not establish current prices, so it’s best not to rely on them when budgeting. For current visitor arrangements, check the official site before you go.
How do you get from Chakan to Aga Khan Palace?
Aga Khan Palace is about 31.8 km from a three-star hotel in Chakan. The palace is on Nagar Road, and Pune district government identifies Pune airport and Pune railway station as the nearest air and rail connections. The palace is 6–7 km from Pune railway station.
The district government does not specify local bus routes or fares. If you’re arranging public transport from Chakan, build that research into your plans using this guide to public transport from Chakan to Pune.
Pairing the palace with other Pune sights
Aga Khan Palace can be part of a wider Pune day out. If you’re fitting it into a planned city visit, a one-day Pune itinerary from Chakan can help you think through the day as a whole. The palace’s history and museum displays provide a focused heritage stop within that broader plan.
FAQs
What is Aga Khan Palace also called?
It is also known as Gandhi National Memorial.
Who built Aga Khan Palace?
Sultan Muhammed Shah Aga Khan III built it in 1892.
What can you see in the museum gallery?
The five-hall picture gallery displays photographs, textiles, murals, statues, belongings of Gandhi and oil paintings of Gandhi and Kasturba Gandhi.
How far is the palace from Pune railway station?
Pune district government gives the distance as 6–7 km.