If you're on a quest to delve deep into India's rich culture and historical tapestry, the Statue of Unity in Gujarat should top your travel bucket list. Known formally as the Statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, this awe-inspiring monument isn't just a visual marvel - it's a powerful emblem of India's united spirit and enduring legacy. Situated majestically along the banks of the Narmada River, the statue transcends being a mere tourist spot; it's a symbol of national pride and historical significance.

Historical Significance of the Statue of Unity

The Statue of Unity was erected to honor Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, a pivotal figure in India's fight for independence and the subsequent unification of the country. Sardar Patel played a crucial role in persuading various princely states to join the newly independent India, earning him the title of ‘Iron Man of India.’ The statue is located in Gujarat for several reasons:

• Sardar Patel was born in Nadiad, Gujarat, making the state a fitting location to honor its native son.
• The statue's placement near the Sardar Sarovar Dam on the Narmada River serves a dual purpose: it pays homage to Patel's vision for water resource management in India and also aims to boost tourism in the region.
• The state of Gujarat has a robust infrastructure and the political will to undertake such a mammoth project, which was in line with the state's broader tourism and development initiatives.

Inaugurated on October 31, 2018, the date marking Sardar Patel's birth anniversary, the 182-meter-tall Sardar Vallabhbhai Statue is currently the world's tallest statue. Beyond serving as a tourist attraction, the Statue of Unity is designed to be a hub for academic and historical research, including a museum and exhibition halls that celebrate Patel's life and contributions to India's history.

How to Reach the Statue of Unity?

Reaching the Statue of Unity in Kevadia, Gujarat, is an effortless journey as it's well connected through various modes of transport. Here's a comprehensive travel guide to the Statue of Unity:

By Air

The nearest airport to the Statue of Unity is in Vadodara, approximately 90 kms away. It's well-connected to major cities in India, with regular domestic flights from Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, and more. Upon arrival at the airport, you can hire a taxi or use the bus service that operates to and from the statue.

Another nearest airport to the Statue of Unity is in Ahmedabad which is around 200 kms away. This airport has better connectivity, including international flights. From there, you can rent a car or take a bus to Kevadia.

By Rail

The nearest railway station to the Statue of Unity is Vadodara Railway Station, offering excellent connectivity to significant urban centers via a range of high-speed trains including but not limited to Rajkot Express, Shatabdi Express, Saurashtra Express, and Tejas Rajdhani Express. Once you arrive at Vadodara, an array of transportation options like cabs, public buses, or private car hires are readily available to take you to the iconic monument.

By Road

The Statue of Unity is in a prime location, making it easily reachable from several major cities. It's situated about 25 kilometers from the closest city of Rajpipla, around 90 kilometers from Vadodara, and roughly 150 kilometers from Surat. Ahmedabad to Statue of Unity distance is nearly 200 kilometers.

For those using bus services, Kevadia serves as the nearest bus terminal. Once in Kevadia, local rickshaws and taxis are readily available to ferry you to this magnificent monument.

With such a variety of transportation choices, getting to this exceptional landmark promises to be both comfortable and hassle-free, no matter where you're coming from.

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Must-Know Information: Timings and Tickets

Statue of Unity Operating Hours:

• Open: Tuesday to Sunday, 8:00 am to 6:00 pm
• Closed: Mondays

Ticket Booking Timings:

• Shreshta Bharat Bhavan: 7:30 am to 5:00 pm
• SOU Ticketing Centre: 7:30 am to 5:30 pm

Plan your visit accordingly to explore the Statue of Unity and enjoy all that it has to offer, including the mesmerizing Laser Light and Sound Show.

Places to Visit Near Statue of Unity

• Observation Deck: Experience a breathtaking 360-degree view from the observation deck situated at a height of 153 meters.
• Museum and Exhibition Hall: Learn about the life and contributions of Sardar Patel through interactive exhibits.
• Laser Light and Sound Show: Any Statue of Unity guide will suggest you witness this spellbinding Laser Light and Sound Show that narrates the tale of India's unification. This is one of the most interesting things to do at the Statue of Unity.
• Valley of Flowers: Extending over the Satpuda-Vindhyachal side and adjacent to the Narmada River, the Valley of Flowers is at its peak during monsoon, boasting 2.4 million different types of plants.
• Sardar Sarovar Dam: The third tallest concrete dam in India, it is an engineering marvel that also happens to be the second-largest gravity dam in the world.
• Unity Glow Garden: The area surrounding the Statue of Unity in Ekta Nagar comes alive at night, thanks to the dazzling Unity Glow Garden. This one-of-a-kind theme park is a visual spectacle, featuring many illuminated installations, sculptures, and optical illusions. From glow-in-the-dark flora to animals and birds aglow with LED lights, the park is a feast for the eyes. There's even an LED fountain that adds a touch of magic to the setting.

Where to Stay?

Considering a trip to the Statue of Unity on your next Gujarat getaway? Why not kick off your adventure in Ahmedabad, soaking up the local culture before making your way to this monumental landmark? When it comes to stay, Club Mahindra Kensville Golf Resort in Ahmedabad offers the perfect blend of opulence, relaxation, and natural beauty.

Nestled within a sprawling 900-acre estate filled with lush greenery, serene water features, and towering trees, this premium resort is a sanctuary of natural wonders. Here, you'll get a taste of the true meaning of luxury. The resort offers generously sized rooms decked out with contemporary decor, guaranteeing the ultimate comfort. Indulge in an array of lavish amenities tailored to meet your every need, and for the golf aficionados, a breathtaking golf course is available to help you refine your swing.

So, go beyond just planning a trip; craft an experience you'll cherish forever. For a deep dive into both luxury and the stunning beauty of nature, make Club Mahindra Kensville Golf Resort your home away from home on your next vacation.

Ready to plan your Stay? Book Now