Mahatma Gandhi Museum (Alfred High School)

The Mahatma Gandhi Museum, also known as Alfred High School, is one of the most significant historical landmarks in Rajkot, Gujarat. This iconic building, where Mahatma Gandhi studied during his school years, has been transformed into a state-of-the-art museum dedicated to his life and philosophy. It beautifully combines heritage architecture with modern digital storytelling, offering visitors a deeply inspiring experience.

Historical Background

The Alfred High School was established in 1853 during British rule and was one of the oldest educational institutions in Saurashtra. Mahatma Gandhi studied here from 1880 to 1887, before he left for London to study law. After India’s independence, the school was renamed Mohandas Gandhi High School in honor of its most famous student.

In 2018, the Government of Gujarat renovated this historic structure and reopened it as the Mahatma Gandhi Museum, preserving its original charm while adding modern exhibits that reflect Gandhi’s journey from Rajkot to the world stage.

Museum Highlights

• The museum features 39 interactive galleries that chronicle the life, struggles, and ideals of Mahatma Gandhi. Each section is designed with multimedia exhibits, visuals, sound effects, and storytelling that immerse visitors in Gandhi’s world.
• Key Highlights Include:
• Gandhi’s Early Life: Insights into his childhood in Rajkot and school days at Alfred High School.
• Journey to Truth: His transformation from Mohandas to Mahatma through experiences in South Africa and India.
• Freedom Struggle: Interactive galleries depicting key events like the Dandi March, Quit India Movement, and his vision of non-violence.
• Digital Exhibits: 3D models, holograms, and videos that make learning engaging for all ages.

Architecture and Design

The museum retains the colonial-era Gothic-style architecture of the original Alfred High School, with red stone walls and arched windows. The interiors have been carefully modernized to include digital displays, audio-visual installations, and educational touch screens while preserving the heritage façade.

Timings and Entry Fee

Location: Alfred High School Road, Rajkot, Gujarat
Timings: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Entry Fee: ₹25 (Indian visitors), ₹250 (Foreign visitors)

How to Reach

• By Air: Rajkot Airport (3 km away)
• By Train: Rajkot Junction (2 km away)
• By Road: Easily accessible by taxi, auto-rickshaw, or private vehicle

Nearby Attractions

• Kaba Gandhi No Delo - Mahatma Gandhi’s ancestral home. Read more..
• Watson Museum - Explore Gujarat’s history and culture. Read more..
• Rotary Dolls Museum - Dolls from around the world. Read more..
• Jubilee Garden - A relaxing green space near the museum. Read more..

Best Time to Visit

The museum can be visited throughout the year, but the cooler months (October to February) are ideal for exploring comfortably. Morning visits are recommended for a quieter experience.