Raj Ghat – Gandhi Memorial

Raj Ghat (Hindi: राज घाट) is a memorial to Mahatma Gandhi. It is a black marble platform that marks the spot of Gandhi’s cremation on 31 January 1948. It is left open to the sky while an eternal flame burns perpetually at one end. It is located on the banks of the river Yamuna in Delhi in India on Ring Road officially known as Mahatma Gandhi Road. A stone footpath flanked by lawns leads to the walled enclosure that houses the memorial.

The memorial was designed by Vanu G. Bhuta. The memorial has gone through a number of design changes since then, a few at the behest of Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of independent India.

In recent years, it has become customary for foreign dignitaries visiting India to pay their respects to Gandhi at the Raj Ghat by laying flowers or wreaths on the platform. As a sign of respect, visitors are required to remove footwear before approaching the memorial. A commemorative ceremony is held every Friday. Prayer sessions are held at the Raj Ghat on Gandhi’s birth and death anniversaries.

Nearby Attractions:
Vijay Ghat, Vir Bhumi, Shakti Sthal, Shanti Van, National Gandhi Museum, Zinat-ul-masjid, Feroz Shah Kotla and Khuni Darwaza

Nearby Places to Eat:
Hotel Inter-Continental in Connaught Place, Karim Hotel, Ghantewala sweet shop, food stalls near Jama Masjid, Paranthewali gali, Natraj hotel, Chor Bizarre of Broadway Hotel, Daryaganj’s Flora, Peshwari, Moti Mahal Restaurant, Worker’s canteen of Inter-State Bus terminal and many roadside food stalls are there for refreshment.

Nearby Shopping Venues:
Chandni Chowk (curios, souvenirs, silver and glass bead jewelry) Nai Sarak (books), Chor bazaar (electronic goods), Daryaganj book market (on Sunday) and Chatta Chowk in Red Fort (traditional and contemporary jewelry and handicrafts).

Attractions