Mahatma Gandhi Memorial (Gandhi Mandapam) Kanyakumari (Entry Fee, Timings & History)
The Mahatma Gandhi Memorial, which honors the father of our country, Mahatma Gandhi, is situated close to the coasts of Kanyakumari. Often referred to as Gandhi Mandapam, it is a crucial component of any Kanyakumari visit, offering an insight into the historical depths of India and the life of the great Indian leader.
Both in 1925 and 1937, Mahatma Gandhi made two trips to Kanyakumari. His ashes were stored in twelve separate urns after his death in 1948 in order to be distributed throughout the nation. They carried one of these urns to Kanyakumari. Prior to immersions, it was stored for the public to pay their final respects to one of India’s finest sons at the location where the memorial is presently located. At Kanyakumari, the ashes were later submerged in the sea. At the same location, the Gandhi Mandapam or Mahatma Gandhi Memorial was later constructed.
In 1956, the Gandhi Memorial’s construction was finished. Inspired by the architecture of Orissa, it is a superb example of modern architecture. The center spire of this mandapam with pink portico has a height of 79 feet which is indicative of the age of Mahatma Gandhi at the time of his demise. The building’s ceiling is Gandhi Mandapam’s most remarkable feature. It features an opening that is designed such that sunlight shines precisely on the location where Mahatma Gandhi’s ashes were stored on October 2nd, which is his birthday.
The spectacular view of the surrounding areas from the top of the Gandhi Memorial is another notable feature. Therefore, enjoy the breathtaking scenery and take your time when you visit Gandhi Memorial.
Additionally, there is a library that features books, periodicals, pamphlets, and other works of literature from before independence. Every Friday and Saturday of the week, this library is open for visits. Mahatma Gandhi and other notable figures who have made significant contributions to India and the world are also depicted in a variety of images.
The Mahatma Gandhi Memorial was placed under the administrative jurisdiction of the Tamil Nadu government’s Public Department in 1978.Since it is close to Kanyakumari Devi Temple, it is possible to visit both locations at the same time.
Architecture of Gandhi Mandapam
The Gandhi Memorial is a distinctive building that was finished in 1956 and was constructed entirely in the Orissa architectural style. Gandhi’s age is symbolized by the structure’s core form, which is 79 feet high. The memorial’s structure’s architecture is another noteworthy aspect. It was constructed so that on October 2, Mahatma Gandhi’s birthdate, the sun’s rays fall through a hole at the top of the structure and land precisely where his ashes were scattered before being submerged.
Timings and Entry Fee of Gandhi Memorial, Kanyakumari
The Gandhi Memorial is open from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
The Mahatma Gandhi Memorial does not charge admission. Nevertheless, since shoes are not permitted within the memorial, you must pay a small fee of Re.1 to keep your shoes outside.
Reaching Gandhi Memorial, Kanyakumari
The Gandhi Memorial and Kanyakumari railway station are separated by 1.3 km. Cabs and autorickshaws can get there with ease. Visitors can approach the memorial on foot as well.
