The tourism history at the Statue of Unity, which is the primary attraction in the region, started with its inauguration on October 31, 2018. As the world's tallest statue standing at a height of 182 meters, it depicts Vallabhbhai Patel, one of the prominent leaders in Indian history often referred to as the 'Iron Man of India'. The area around the statue was developed to include attractions such as the Unity Glow Garden, and the development itself marked a new beginning for tourism in the region.
While Gujarat has been a significant tourist destination due to its rich cultural heritage and historical sites, the introduction of the Statue of Unity gave a modern twist to the tourism landscape of the state, combining history with contemporary attractions. The incorporation of the Unity Glow Garden specifically aimed to extend the visitor experience beyond daylight hours, with an impressive display of lights and landscaping.
The Unity Glow Garden is a unique nocturnal garden spread across a vast area near the Statue of Unity. It was designed as an eco-friendly attraction native to a theme based on the glow concept, the first of its kind in India. Featuring illustrious lighting embedded within its horticulture, the garden transforms into a fantasy land at night. The technologically driven designs and thematic installations within the garden supplement the grandeur of the Statue of Unity with a vibrant blend of tradition and innovation.
In recent years, tourism trends have seen a shift towards experiential and immersive travel. Visitors to the Statue of Unity and Unity Glow Garden are looking for more than just sightseeing; they're seeking educational, inspirational, and interactive experiences. The government has recognized this trend and has worked towards enhancing these components by:
With constant development and the integration of technological advances to enhance visitor experience, tourism at the Statue of Unity and the adjoining attractions like Unity Glow Garden has been witnessing a considerable surge. Initiatives towards sustainable tourism are also emerging as part of the latest trends, ensuring that the influx of tourists contributes positively to the region without compromising its environmental integrity.
The future of tourism at the Statue of Unity and Unity Glow Garden looks promising. With plans for expanding the range of attractions and improving connectivity to and within the region, the site is expected to attract an even larger number of international and domestic visitors. For instance, the announcement of the upcoming Sea Plane Service is anticipated to open new vistas for tourism in the area. The continued fusion of cultural magnificence, historical significance, and modern attractions holds the potential to make the Unity Glow Garden a continued favorite among the diverse trends and preferences of global travelers.