First stay (1888-1891):
- Gandhi first arrived in London in September 1888 at the age of 18 to study law. He enrolled at the University College London and became a student at the Inner Temple, one of the four Inns of Court in London.
- During this time, he gained exposure to various aspects of British culture and society, but he also experienced challenges and discrimination as an Indian student.
Second stay (1895-1896):
- After completing his law studies and returning to India, Gandhi traveled back to London in 1895 to appear for the bar exams. He passed the exams and was called to the bar in June 1895.
- He spent about a year in London during this period, practicing law and gaining further experience in the British legal system.
Third stay (1906):
- Gandhi visited London again in 1906, this time as a representative of the Indian National Congress. He came to London to meet with British officials and discuss issues related to Indian independence.
- He spent several months in London during this visit, actively participating in political discussions and seeking support for the cause of Indian self-rule.
Fourth stay (1914):
- In 1914, Gandhi briefly visited London again, primarily for health reasons. He was suffering from ill health and sought medical treatment in London, where he stayed for a short period before returning to India.
Throughout his stays in London, Gandhi engaged in a variety of activities, including law studies, political discussions, and advocacy for Indian rights and independence. He also encountered diverse cultural and societal influences during his time in the British capital, which shaped his perspectives and later contributed to his role in leading India's nonviolent struggle for freedom from colonial rule.