Aga Khan Palace, Pune

About Aga Khan Palace

The Aga Khan Palace, located on Aga Khan Palace Road in Pune, Maharashtra, was built in 1892 by Sultan Muhammad Shah Aga Khan III. Built during the British Raj, the palace holds immense historical significance as the burial place of Mahatma Gandhi, Kasturba Gandhi, and other freedom fighters during the Quit India Movement of 1942. Spread over approximately 19 acres, the palace has traditional Indian architectural features, including Italian arches and large lawns. Its features, such as high pillared verandas, large courtyards and ornamental fountains, reflect a blend of European and Indian influences, emphasizing both functionality and beauty.

Architecture of Aga Khan Palace

Standing as a fine example of Indo‑Saracenic architecture with European influences, the Aga Khan Palace was constructed between 1892 and 1897 under Sultan Muhammed Shah Aga Khan III during British colonial rule. The palace’s architects employed traditional brick and stucco techniques, creating a three‑storied edifice defined by Italian arches, expansive verandahs, and a continuous 2.5‑metre corridor that encircles the structure, enhancing ventilation suited to Pune’s climate.

The palace reflects a deliberate fusion of Islamic stylistic elements with colonial era sensibilities, set within vast landscaped grounds. Its design emphasises symmetry and spatial fluidity, while corridors and high ceilings respond to environmental needs.

• Main palace building with three floors
• Five principal halls
• Surrounding gardens and lawns
• Long covered corridors and verandahs
• Kasturba Gandhi and Mahadev Desai Samadhis
• Gandhi National Memorial Museum

Interesting facts about Aga Khan Palace

• Many public functions are celebrated at the Aga Khan Palace organized by the Gandhi Memorial Society.
• The Aga Khan Palace is known today for housing the relics of Kasturba and Mahatma Gandhi.
• The palace was donated to India by the Aga Khan in 1969.
• Both Islamic and Italian architecture can be seen in the color of this place.
• During the infamous Quit India Movement of 1942, the Aga Khan Palace served as a prison to hold freedom fighters. The walls of this palace have given some of the most sensational breath-taking feel.
• In memory of Kasturba Gandhi and Mahadev Desai, the architect Charles Correa had erected their monuments in the premises of the palace.

How to reach Aga Khan Palace