How to Plan a Perfect Trip to the Statue of Unity, the World’s Tallest Statue
Did you also know that the Statue of Unity is the tallest statue in the world at 182 meters i.e. 597 feet. This statue is almost twice the height of the Statue of Liberty in New York. The Statue of Unity is a giant statue of Indian politician and freedom activist Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel i.e. Iron Man of India. He was the first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister of independent India. Visit during One Day Ahmedabad To Statue of Unity Trip By Private Cab
The statue is erected on an island in the river in front of the Sardar Sarovar Dam on the Narmada River at Kevadia in Gujarat. It was inaugurated on 31 October 2018 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the 143rd birth anniversary of Sardar Patel.
The Statue of Unity is not just a statue but a symbol of national pride and unity and is popular as a tourist attraction in Kevadia, for all ages and interests. There are many tourist attractions and many activities can be experienced here. In this article we guide you on how to plan the perfect trip to the Statue of Unity and its surrounding attractions. We’ll cover topics like how to get there, where to stay, what to see, what to do, and what to expect from amazing tourist destinations.
How to get Statue of Unity?
The Statue of Unity is easily accessible by different modes of transportation, such as by air, by train, by bus, or by car. Here are some details on how to reach the Statue of Unity by each mode:
- By air: The nearest airports to the Statue of Unity are Vadodara Airport (90 km) and Ahmedabad Airport (200 km). You can take a flight from any major city in India to either of these airports and then take a cab or a bus to Kevadia. You can also avail free shuttle buses from Vadodara and Ahmedabad airports or railway stations that are provided by the Statue of Unity authorities.
- By train: The nearest railway stations to the Statue of Unity are Vadodara Junction (71 km) and Bharuch Junction (75 km). You can take a train from any major city in India to either of these stations and then take a cab or a bus to Kevadia. You can also avail free shuttle buses from Vadodara and Ahmedabad railway stations that are provided by the Statue of Unity authorities.
- By bus: The nearest bus terminals to the Statue of Unity are Vadodara Central Bus Station (77 km) and Bharuch Bus Station (75 km). You can take a bus from any major city in Gujarat or neighboring states to either of these terminals and then take a cab or a bus to Kevadia. You can also avail free shuttle buses from Vadodara and Ahmedabad bus terminals that are provided by the Statue of Unity authorities.
- By car: You can drive your own car or rent a car from any major city in Gujarat or neighboring states to reach the Statue of Unity. The road network is well-maintained and well-connected. You can follow the Google Maps directions or use the toll-free helpline number 1800 233 7966 for assistance. You can park your car at one of the parking facilities near the statue complex.
Where to stay in Statue of Unity?
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There are various accommodation options near the Statue of Unity that cater to different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the accommodation options that you can choose from:
- Hotels: There are several hotels near the Statue of Unity that offer comfortable rooms with modern amenities, such as AC, TV, Wi-Fi, etc. Some of the hotels also have restaurants, swimming pools, gyms, spas, etc. Some of the popular hotels near the statue are Ramada Encore by Wyndham, Shrestha Niwas, Hotel Grand Mercure, etc.
- Resorts: There are also some resorts near the Statue of Unity that offer luxurious rooms with scenic views, such as river view, garden view, etc. Some of the resorts also have cottages, villas, suites, etc. Some of the resorts also have restaurants, swimming pools, gyms, spas, etc. Some of the popular resorts near the statue are Tent City Narmada, Aaranya Resort, Narmada Eco Camp, etc.
- Tents: If you want to experience camping near the Statue of Unity, you can opt for tents that are available at Tent City Narmada. The tents are spacious and well-equipped with beds, fans, lights, etc. The tents also have attached bathrooms with hot water facility. The tents also have access to common facilities such as dining area, lounge area, etc.
- Cottages: If you want to enjoy a cozy and homely stay near the Statue of Unity, you can opt for cottages that are available at Narmada Eco Camp. The cottages are made of bamboo and have a rustic charm. The cottages have beds, fans, lights, etc. The cottages also have attached bathrooms with hot water facility. The cottages also have access to common facilities such as dining area, lounge area, etc.
We recommend you to book your accommodation in advance, as the demand is high and the availability is limited. You can book your accommodation online through the official website of the Statue of Unity or through other travel portals.
What to see and do at Statue of Unity?
Full Length of The Statue of Unity
There are many tourist attractions near the Statue of Unity that you can visit and enjoy during your trip. Here are some of the main attractions that you should not miss:
- Laser Light and Sound Show: A spectacular show that depicts the life and achievements of Sardar Patel using laser lights, sound effects, and water fountains. The show is held every evening at the Statue of Unity complex and is included in all tickets. The show lasts for about 30 minutes and is a visual treat for the eyes and ears.
- Sardar Patel Zoological Park and Jungle Safari: A wildlife park that houses various animals from different continents, such as lions, tigers, leopards, giraffes, zebras, rhinos, bison, alpacas, llamas, wallabies, and hippos. You can take a bus safari or a walking trail to explore the park and see the animals up close. The park is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm and the entry fee is Rs. 200 per person.
- Riverfront Cycling: A fun and healthy way to enjoy the scenic views of the Narmada river, the Sardar Sarovar Dam, and the Statue of Unity. You can rent cycles for two hours and ride along the riverfront road network. You can choose from solo cycles, tandem cycles, or electric cycles. The cycle rental fee is Rs. 100 per person for solo cycles, Rs. 150 per person for tandem cycles, and Rs. 200 per person for electric cycles.
- Boating Ride: A relaxing and romantic way to admire the Statue of Unity from the water. You can take a 45-minute boat ride or a 75-minute dinner cruise on the Ekta Cruise boat. The boat ride offers panoramic views of the statue, the dam, and the valley of flowers. The dinner cruise includes unlimited veg buffet dinner and live entertainment. The boat ride fee is Rs. 290 per person for adults and Rs. 200 per person for children. The dinner cruise fee is Rs. 1,250 per person for adults and Rs. 750 per person for children.
- Valley of Flowers: A beautiful garden that showcases hundreds of species of native flowers, shrubs, trees, bamboo, grasses, and more. The garden also has many selfie points where you can take photos with the statue and the river in the background. The entry to the valley of flowers is included in all tickets.
Here are some tips on how to make the most of your visit to each attraction of Statue of Unity:
- Laser Light and Sound Show: Make sure to reach the statue complex by 6:30 pm to get a good spot to watch the show. Wear warm clothes as it can get chilly in the evening. Do not use flash photography or video recording during the show.
- Sardar Patel Zoological Park and Jungle Safari: Book your safari tickets online in advance to avoid long queues at the counter. Wear comfortable shoes and clothes as you will be walking a lot. Carry water bottles and snacks as there are no food stalls inside the park.
- Riverfront Cycling: Wear helmets and follow the traffic rules while cycling. Do not cycle beyond the designated areas or on the main road. Return your cycles on time to avoid extra charges.
- Boating Ride: Book your boat ride tickets online in advance to avoid long queues at the counter. Wear life jackets and follow the instructions of the boat staff. Do not litter or feed any animals or birds on the river.
- Valley of Flowers: Wear comfortable shoes and clothes as you will be walking a lot. Carry water bottles and snacks as there are no food stalls inside the garden. Do not pluck any flowers or damage any plants.
There are many other things to do and see near the Statue of Unity that might interest you or suit your taste, such as:
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- Helicopter Ride: A thrilling way to get a bird’s eye view of the Statue of Unity and its surroundings. You can take a 10-minute helicopter ride that covers a distance of about 10 km. The helicopter ride fee is Rs. 2290 per person for adults and Rs. 200 per person for children. The dinner cruise fee is Rs. 1,250 per person for adults and Rs. 750 per person for children.
- Helicopter Ride: A thrilling way to get a bird’s eye view of the Statue of Unity and its surroundings. You can take a 10-minute helicopter ride that covers a distance of about 10 km. The helicopter ride fee is Rs. 2,900 per person for adults and Rs. 1,900 per person for children.
- Cactus Garden: A unique garden that displays more than 450 species of cacti and succulents from around the world. The garden also has a museum that showcases the history and culture of the tribal people of Gujarat. The entry to the cactus garden is included in all tickets.
- Butterfly Garden: A colorful garden that attracts more than 100 species of butterflies and moths. The garden also has a butterfly house that houses various stages of the butterfly life cycle. The entry to the butterfly garden is included in all tickets.
- Children’s Nutrition Park: A fun and educational park that teaches children about the importance of nutrition and health. The park has various interactive games, rides, and exhibits that explain the concepts of food, digestion, metabolism, etc. The park also has a toy train that takes the children around the park. The entry to the children’s nutrition park is Rs. 100 per person for adults and Rs. 50 per person for children.
- Shoolpaneshwar Sanctuary and Temple: A wildlife sanctuary and a Hindu temple that are located about 60 km from the Statue of Unity. The sanctuary is home to various animals, such as leopards, sloth bears, hyenas, deer, monkeys, etc. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is situated on the banks of the Narmada river. You can take a cab or a bus to reach the sanctuary and temple from Kevadia.
These are just some of the amazing attractions that you can experience near the Statue of Unity. There are many more things to discover and enjoy in this area, such as rafting, kayaking, camping, trekking, etc. You can also visit some nearby places of interest, such as Vadodara, Ahmedabad, Surat, etc.
FAQ’s
Q: How can I buy tickets for the Statue of Unity and its attractions?
A: You can buy tickets online through the official website of the Statue of Unity or through other travel portals. You can also buy tickets at the ticket counters near the statue complex. The ticket prices vary depending on the type of ticket and the age of the visitor. You can choose from different types of tickets, such as basic entry ticket, observation deck ticket, express entry ticket, etc. You can also buy combo tickets that include entry to other attractions, such as Sardar Patel Zoological Park, Riverfront Cycling, Boating Ride, etc.
Q: What are the timings and days of operation of the Statue of Unity and its attractions?
A: The Statue of Unity and its attractions are open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm. The statue and its attractions are closed on Mondays for maintenance. The Laser Light and Sound Show is held every evening at 7:30 pm. The Sardar Patel Zoological Park is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. The Riverfront Cycling is open from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm. The Boating Ride is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. The Helicopter Ride is open from 9:30 am to 3:30 pm.
Q: What are the best time and season to visit the Statue of Unity and its surroundings?
A: The best time to visit the Statue of Unity and its surroundings is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant and cool. The winter season is ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The summer season (April to June) can be very hot and humid, so you may want to avoid visiting during this time. The monsoon season (July to September) can be rainy and cloudy, but it can also offer a refreshing and green view of the landscape.
Q: What are the facilities and amenities available at the Statue of Unity and its surroundings?
A: The Statue of Unity and its surroundings offer various facilities and amenities for the convenience and comfort of the visitors, such as:
Parking facilities: There are several parking facilities near the statue complex that can accommodate cars, buses, bikes, etc. The parking fee is Rs. 50 per car, Rs. 100 per bus, Rs. 20 per bike, etc.
Food courts and restaurants: There are many food courts and restaurants near the statue complex that offer a variety of cuisines, such as Gujarati, Punjabi, South Indian, Chinese, etc. You can also find snacks, beverages, ice creams, etc.
Souvenir shops: There are many souvenir shops near the statue complex that sell various items related to the statue and Sardar Patel, such as T-shirts, caps, mugs, key chains, magnets, books, etc.
Medical facilities: There are medical facilities near the statue complex that provide first aid and emergency services. There are also ambulances available in case of any serious injury or illness.
Security facilities: There are security facilities near the statue complex that ensure the safety and security of the visitors. There are CCTV cameras, metal detectors, baggage scanners, etc. There are also police personnel and guards present at all times.
Q: What are some dos and don’ts while visiting the Statue of Unity and its surroundings?
A: Here are some dos and don’ts while visiting the Statue of Unity and its surroundings:
Do respect the statue and its surroundings as a symbol of national pride and unity.
Do follow the instructions and guidelines given by the staff and authorities.
Do carry your ID proof and ticket confirmation while visiting the statue and its attractions.
Do wear comfortable clothes and shoes as you will be walking a lot.
Do carry water bottles, sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, etc. as it can get hot and sunny during the day.
Do enjoy the views and experiences offered by the statue and its surroundings.
Don’t litter or damage any property or plants in or around the statue complex.
Don’t smoke or consume alcohol or drugs in or around the statue complex.
Don’t carry any weapons or explosives in or around the statue complex.
Don’t use flash photography or video recording inside the observation deck or during the laser show.
Don’t feed or disturb any animals or birds in or around the statue complex.
Conclusion
We have reached the end of this article on how to plan a perfect trip to the Statue of Unity, the world’s tallest statue. We hope you have found this article helpful and informative. We hope you have learned some interesting facts and tips about the statue and its surroundings. We hope you are excited to visit this amazing destination and experience its beauty and glory.
The Statue of Unity is not just a statue, but a symbol of national pride and unity. It is also a major tourist attraction that offers a variety of experiences and activities for visitors of all ages and interests. You can visit the statue and its attractions by different modes of transportation, such as by air, by train, by bus, or by car. You can stay at various accommodation options near the statue, such as hotels, resorts, tents, or cottages.
You can see and do many things near the statue, such as laser light and sound show, zoological park and jungle safari, riverfront cycling, boating ride, valley of flowers, etc. You can also enjoy other things to do and see in this area, such as helicopter ride, cactus garden, butterfly garden, children’s nutrition park, Shoolpaneshwar sanctuary and temple, etc.