The Statue of Unity is a colossal statue of Indian statesman and independence activist Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel (1875–1950), who was the first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister of independent India and is credited for his role in the country's struggle for independence. The statue is located in the state of Gujarat, India, and stands as a symbol of national unity.
The Statue of Unity is situated on a river island called Sadhu Bet, near Rajpipla, facing the Sardar Sarovar Dam on the river Narmada in Kevadiya colony, about 100 kilometers southeast of the city of Vadodara, Gujarat, India.
The Statue of Unity stands at a height of 182 meters (597 feet), making it one of the world's tallest statues.
The design of the Statue of Unity was crafted by Indian sculptor Ram V. Sutar. It was conceptualized as a naturalistic depiction of Sardar Patel in traditional attire, with a demeanor of authority and compassion.
The Statue of Unity was built to honor the legacy of Sardar Patel, known as the 'Iron Man of India,' for his pivotal role in the country's struggle for independence and subsequent unification of the princely states into a single nation.
The visiting hours for the Statue of Unity are typically from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Tuesday to Sunday. The monument is closed to visitors on Mondays for maintenance. However, visitors are advised to check the latest timings before planning a visit as these can change.
Yes, there is an entry fee for the Statue of Unity, which varies depending on the type of ticket purchased. There are tickets for accessing the viewing gallery, the exhibition floor, the valley of flowers, the Sardar Patel memorial, and other nearby attractions. Fees for adults and children are different and are subject to change, so visitors should check the official website or contact the ticketing office for current rates.
The area surrounding the Statue of Unity includes a number of tourist attractions such as the Sardar Sarovar Dam, the Valley of Flowers, the Sardar Patel Zoological Park, river rafting, boating, eco-tourism, and the children's nutrition park. Visitors can also explore the Shoolpaneshwar Wild Life Sanctuary and the ancient temples located in the vicinity.
Yes, there are various accommodation options near the Statue of Unity, ranging from budget lodgings to more comfortable tent cities. The Narmada Tent City offers luxurious stays with beautiful views of the surrounding nature, and there are several hotels and guesthouses in Kevadia, the town nearest to the statue.
Tourists can reach the Statue of Unity by road, rail, and air. The nearest major city with an airport is Vadodara, which is approximately 100 kilometers away. Kevadia has its own railway station, which is well connected to different parts of Gujarat and other states. By road, there are also bus services and private taxis available from major cities within Gujarat.