India's Iconic Tribute: The Statue of Unity

The Statue of Unity is a colossal statue located in the Indian state of Gujarat. It was unveiled on October 31, 2018, and stands as a tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, a prominent leader in the Indian independence movement and the country's first Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Home Affairs. he statue is in standing posture with both hands are placed on the side faces the Sardar Sarovar dam on river Narmada. The statue of the Sardar Patel is an aged one around the time of Independence, wearing kurta-dhoti, a Jacket and a shawl. The facial expressions are so well designed that it reflects his true "Iron Man" spirit.

How to reach the Statue of Unity from Ahmedabad:

1. By Car:

Distance: The Statue of Unity is approximately 200 kilometers (124 miles) from Ahmedabad, and the journey takes around 3-4 hours by car, depending on traffic conditions. Toll roads are avaialble.

2. By Train: You can also reach the Statue of Unity by train. The nearest major railway station is Vadodara Junction (Station Code: BRC). From Ahmedabad, you can board a train to Vadodara Junction. Many trains connect these two cities, and the journey typically takes around 2-3 hours, depending on the train you choose. Once you reach Vadodara Junction, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to the Statue of Unity, which is approximately 90 kilometers away from Vadodara.

3. By Bus: Several private and government-operated buses run between Ahmedabad and the Statue of Unity. These buses often depart from the Ahmedabad Central Bus Station (Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation - GSTRC) or other bus terminals in the city.

4. By Tour Package: Some tour operators offer day trips or packages from Ahmedabad to the Statue of Unity. These packages typically include transportation, entry tickets, and guided tours. You can check with local travel agencies for such options.

On our vacation to Gujarat, we have decided to do a day trip to Statue of Unity to witness the World's tallest statue. though we had visited in the Dussehra holiday time but still it was hot and humid. It was so sunny too. We left early morning from Ahmedabad by a pre-booked Innova. Statue of Unity is approximately 200kms which will take 3-4 hrs. After covering some distance stopped for breakfast in one of the road side hotel. As its a state of dhokla & thepla we managed to get masala dosa which was ok, then we proceeded for the Kevadiya. Huge car parking is available.

Here's the guide on how to plan a day trip to the Statue of Unity :

1. Start Early: To make the most of your day trip, it's advisable to start early in the morning. The statue complex typically opens at around 8:00 AM, but it's a good idea to check the official website for the latest opening hours and ticket information.

2. Travel to the Statue of Unity:

-- If you're coming from Ahmedabad (the largest city in Gujarat), you can either drive to the statue or take a train or bus to the nearby town of Vadodara and then continue to the statue from there.

3. Entry Tickets: Purchase your entry tickets in advance to save time and avoid long lines at the ticket counter. You can often buy tickets online through the official website.

One can buy tickets there itself by standing on the queue depending on the weekdays or weekends.. There are 4 types of SOU tickets.

a) BASIC ENTRY TICKET - The Basic Entry Ticket is priced at ₹150 for Adults and ₹90 for Children between 3-15 years, which includes access to the Monument, Museum, Exhibition Areas, Projection Mapping show, Valley of Flowers, Sardar Sarovar Dam Viewpoints, and Bus Service.

b) VIEWING GALLERY TICKET - Located 500 feet above ground within the Statue, the Viewing Gallery offers a panoramic view of the Sardar Sarovar Dam, its 256 km long reservoir. For visiting the Viewing Gallery, you’ll then need to purchase the Viewing Gallery Ticket priced at ₹380 for Adults and ₹230 for Children.

c) EXPRESS ENTRY TICKET - If you’d like to avoid any wait time at the elevators when visiting the Statue of Unity Viewing Gallery, then you can opt for the SOU Express Entry Ticket. Priced at ₹1030 for both Adults and Children, this ticket offers all the Basic and Viewing Gallery Ticket benefits, with the added benefit of priority elevator access to go up to the Viewing Gallery.

d) FOREIGNER EXPRESS ENTRY TICKET - The last type of entry ticket is only for international tourists, known as a SOU Foreigner Express Entry Ticket. Priced at ₹1530 for Adults and ₹830 for Children, this ticket is for all non-Indian guests from abroad, and includes all the benefits of the 'Express Entry Ticket'.

4. Explore the Statue Complex:

-- Upon arrival, explore the statue complex, which includes the statue itself, the museum, the exhibition hall, the research center, and the convention center.

-- Spend time admiring the statue from different angles, and don't forget to take an elevator to the observation deck for panoramic views.

5. Museum and Exhibition Hall: Visit the museum and exhibition hall to learn about Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's life, his role in India's independence movement, and his efforts in unifying the country.

6. Lunch: The complex has various dining options, including restaurants and food stalls. Enjoy a meal at one of these spots.

7. Souvenir Shopping: Explore the souvenir shops to purchase mementos and gifts related to the Statue of Unity.

8. Return Journey: Plan your return journey in the late afternoon or early evening. Make sure to account for travel time and any traffic conditions.

9. Evening Light and Sound Show: If you're interested and your schedule permits, check if there's an evening light and sound show at the statue complex. These shows often provide a dramatic presentation of Sardar Patel's life and achievements.

Remember to check the official website of the Statue of Unity for the most up-to-date information on opening hours, ticket prices, and any special events or exhibitions happening during your visit. Planning your day trip in advance will help you make the most of your visit to this iconic monument.

Thank you...