Statue of Unity – World’s Tallest Statue | Iron Man of India
The Statue of Unity is a tribute to Indian leader Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, which was unveiled on 31 October 2018. It is a patriotic symbol of the legacy of a man who lived his life during India’s freedom struggle and played a vital role in uniting it. His efforts to integrate all the princely states into the Republic of India earned him the title of “Iron Man of India“. As a symbol of respect, this statue is located at his birthplace in Gujarat.
Who is Sardar Patel
The Sardar Patel Statue is a monumental statue of Vallabhbhai Patel, the Indian politician and independence activist who was the first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister of independent India and a follower of Mahatma Gandhi during the nonviolent Indian independence movement. Patel was highly respected for his leadership in creating a single federation of India by uniting 562 princely states of India with a large part of the former British Raj. He was an important figure in the struggle for India’s independence and subsequent nation-building. Sardar Patel, a lawyer by profession, entered the political scene relatively late but became a prominent leader in the Indian National Congress (INC). He strategically organized important non-violent civil disobedience movements against British rule, especially in Gujarat. While advocating self-rule, Patel’s pragmatism differed from that of some of his contemporaries. He believed in a united India free from internal princely divisions. Patel’s greatest achievement was the unification of India after independence in 1947. Through expansion diplomacy and political maneuvering, he successfully incorporated more than 550 princely states into the Indian Union, preventing potential fragmentation and ensuring a stable, unified nation. As the first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister of India, Patel played a key role in establishing law and order during the turbulent period. The legacy of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel continues to inspire generations in India. His dedication to national unity and strong leadership remain important even today.About Sardar Patel’s Statue of Unity
- Address – Sardar Sarovar Dam, Statue of Unity Rd, Kevadia, Gujarat 393155
- Viewing Hours – SOU remains closed on Monday for maintenance work. Open on other days from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm.
- Opened – 31 October 2018
- Height – 182 m
- Architect – Ram V. Sutar
- Material – Steel framing, reinforced by concrete and brass coating, bronze cladding.
Interesting Facts about the Statue of Unity:
– Symbolic Height
The height of the statue, 182 meters, is not just a random number. It symbolically matches the number of 182 seats in the Gujarat Legislative Assembly, highlighting Patel’s significant contributions to the governance of Gujarat.– Record-Breaking Construction
The construction of the Statue of Unity was a feat of engineering marvel. It took over 2,500 workers nearly four years to complete the statue using a staggering amount of materials, including 5,700 tons of steel, 18,500 tons of reinforced steel rods, and 1,700 tons of bronze cladding.– World’s Tallest Statue
The Statue of Unity holds the distinction of being the tallest statue in the world, towering over its competitors at a staggering 182 meters (597 feet). This makes it nearly twice as tall as the Statue of Liberty in New York City, USA.Remember Before Visit to SoU
- Reservation recommended: Yes
- Cold Drinking water facility is here free of charge.
- Washroom is available
- Free Bus Service is available.
- Car parking is available in paid mode. (Approx. Rs 50)
- Book Tickets at https://www.soutickets.in
Transportation
- Air – Nearest Airports to the Statue of Unity are Ahmedabad, Surat and Vadodara International Airports.
- Rail – Nearest Railway station is Vadodara railway station which is around 91 kms or 3 hours by road.
- Bus – One can access the GSRTC transport facility till the Sardar Sarovar Monument.
Places to see at the Statue of Unity
Exhibition Hall / Museum of Unity
A visit to the Statue of Unity is not complete without exploring the Museum of Unity located at the base of the statue. This museum offers insights into the life and achievements of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, as well as the meticulous planning and construction process that brought this engineering marvel to life.Audio Visual Show
An audio-visual show is organized in the museum about the surrounding areas and culture, which the visitors like very much.Viewing Gallery
For a breathtaking perspective, ascend to the viewing gallery situated at 135 meters (443 ft) within the statue. This vantage point offers mesmerizing panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape, including the Narmada River, the Sardar Sarovar Dam, and of course, the sprawling statue itself.Light and Sound Show
Enhance your experience with the captivating evening light and sound show. This vibrant spectacle illuminates the life and achievements of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, leaving a lasting impression on viewers.Vishwa Van
There is a Vishwa Van in front of the Statue of Unity and there is a separate ticket for it. Vishwa Van, translated as “Global Forest” in English, is a botanical garden located near the Statue of Unity in Kevadiya, Gujarat, India. The garden is spread over 2 hectares (5 acres) and contains native herbs, shrubs, and trees from all 7 continents reflecting the underlying theme of ‘Unity in Diversity’ in a global context. It is a must-see for anyone interested in learning about the world’s diverse plant life. Vishwa Van was conceptualized by India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi to educate visitors about biogeography – the study of how plants and animals are distributed on Earth. Each continent’s unique flora has been thoughtfully arranged to mimic its natural forest environment. Vishwa Van is a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature after visiting the Statue of Unity. It’s a relatively small garden, so you can visit it in about 30 minutes to an hour. There are also walking paths and benches where you can sit and enjoy the surroundings.Children Nutrition Park
This Park is a fun and educational park designed to teach kids about healthy eating. It uses interactive exhibits, games, and a train ride through themed stations to make learning enjoyable. The park follows the concept of ‘SAHI POSHAN DESH ROSHAN,’ which translates to “Healthy Nutrition Brightens the Nation.”Nutri Train
This train ride takes visitors on a 600-meter journey through various stations, each with a unique theme related to nutrition. Some of the stations include Phalshaka Griham (Fruit House), Payo Nagari (Milk City), Sabzi Khetra (Vegetable Farm), and Annapurna (Grain Store).Interactive Exhibits
The park has several interactive exhibits that teach children about different food groups, the importance of balanced meals, and the benefits of healthy eating.Gaming Zone
The park also has a gaming zone with fun and educational games that help children reinforce what they learn about nutrition.Nutri Cafe
The park has a cafe that serves healthy and nutritious food options for children and adults. Here’s some additional information you might find helpful: Timings – Generally open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM on weekdays and from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM on weekends. Entry Fee – There is an entry fee for the Children’s Nutrition Park. The fees are typically reasonable and there are often discounts for children. The Children’s Nutrition Park is a great place for families to visit and learn about the importance of healthy eating in a fun and interactive way. It’s a perfect complement to visiting the Statue of Unity and makes for a well-rounded educational and entertaining experience.Ekta Mall
Ekta Mall is a two-story air-conditioned mall that houses 20 different emporiums representing the handicrafts and handloom traditions of different Indian states. This is a great place to find unique souvenirs and gifts from all over India. The mall also has a multiplex cinema, a food court, and a gaming zone.Arogya Cafe at Arogya Van
The Arogya Van is a 17-acre park featuring over 500,000 medicinal plants of 380 species. It’s a great place to learn about the role plants play in holistic wellness and explore the connection between Yoga, Ayurveda, and meditation with overall health.River Rafting at Statue of Unity
River rafting is a popular activity offered near the Statue of Unity (SOU) of India. Rafting here takes place on the Narmada River, the largest west-flowing river in India. The journey covers a distance of 5 kilometers with whirlpools, rapids, and many turns, providing an exciting experience for both beginners and experienced rafters. Here is some information to consider for your river rafting adventure in SOU: Location – The starting point of river rafting is at the Shrestha Bharat Bhawan parking area, near the SoU. Age Limit – The minimum age limit for participation is 14 years. Time Slots – Rafting trips are operated during the day, usually between 8:00 am to 6:00 pm. Tariff – River rafting costs around ₹1,200 per person, which includes service charge and GST. Facilities – Shrestha Bharat Bhawan parking area has facilities like changing rooms, lockers, and a cafeteria. Here are some additional tips for your river rafting trip:- Wear comfortable clothes and shoes that may get wet.
- Apply sunscreen and insect repellent before your trip.
- Bring a change of clothes and a towel.
- Follow the guide’s instructions and give priority to safety during the ride.
Some other activities here are – Riverfront Couple Cycling, Riverfront Electric Cycling, Riverfront Cycling
Boating
There are two main sailing experiences available at the Statue of Unity (SOU) in Gujarat, India:1. High-Speed Boat Ride on Narmada River – (15 minute Ride)
This is a short and thrilling 15-minute ride on a high-speed boat, which offers spectacular views of the Statue of Unity from the river.2. Sardar Sarovar Boating – (45 minute Ride)
This is a scenic 45-minute boat trip on the Narmada River through the beautiful Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary in the upper reaches of the Sardar Sarovar Dam. The boats usually have a covered top for shade, making them comfortable for a leisurely ride. Timings – The timings of sailing near the Statue of Unity may vary depending on the season, season, and operating schedule. It is always best to confirm current times with the sailing operator or local authorities before your trip. Safety – Life jackets are provided on all boats. Make sure to wear them properly while traveling.Sardar Sarovar Dam View Point
It offers stunning panoramic views of the Sardar Sarovar Dam, one of the largest concrete dams in the world. Dam View Point is a well-maintained platform that provides a clear view of the huge dam, the Narmada River, and the surrounding landscape. There is also a small photo exhibition displaying the construction of the dam. The viewpoint is easily accessible and can be reached by car or e-rickshaw from the Statue of Unity ticketing area. It is also wheelchair accessible. Timings – The Statue of Unity complex as well as the viewpoint is generally open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Tickets – The entry fee for the viewpoint is included in the main Statue of Unity ticket. There is no separate fee for visiting the viewpoint. The viewpoint is a great place to click panoramic photos of the dam and surrounding beauty. Toilets and basic refreshment stalls are available near the viewpoint.Dino Trails at the Statue of Unity
This path is a recreational and educational attraction, especially for children, located near the Sardar Sarovar Dam in Gujarat, India, part of the huge Statue of Unity tourist complex. Dinosaur Trails features life-size dinosaur replicas and informative exhibits, allowing visitors to step back in time and learn about the prehistoric creatures that once roamed this area. Realistic models and scenarios are designed to create an immersive experience. Dinosaur Trails is located at a distance of 2.5 km from Sardar Sarovar Dam, 4 km from the Statue of Unity, and 9 km from Kevadiya Railway Station. It is part of a larger tourist complex that also includes the Valley of Flowers. Exhibits – The trails display various dinosaur species that would have roamed in the area around the Narmada River during the Cretaceous period. The main attraction is the nearly 30-foot-tall Tyrannosaurus Rex replica, which will awe visitors! Besides the T-Rex, you can find other famous dinosaurs like the Triceratops, Stegosaurus, and Velociraptor. Overall, the Dinosaur Trails at the Statue of Unity provide a unique and educational experience for visitors of all ages. If you’re planning a visit to the Statue of Unity, make sure to include Dinosaur Trails in your itinerary!Valley of Flowers & Selfie Point
The Valley of Flowers and the Selfie Point are part of a garden complex called ‘Bharat Van’. It is a popular tourist destination known for its natural beauty and diversity of flowers. Valley of Flowers – This area within the ‘Bharat Van’ has a variety of flowering plants, creating a colorful and vibrant landscape. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings. Selfie Points – ‘Bharat Van’ offers several designated selfie points with beautiful backdrops, perfect for clicking memorable photos with the Statue of Unity in the distance. Bharat One is located at a distance of about 3 km from the Statue of Unity. If you prefer a stroll, you can reach there by car, e-rickshaw, or even on foot. If you are visiting the Statue of Unity, the selfie points at the Valley of Flowers and ‘Bharat Van’ offer a pleasant respite amid the historical and cultural significance of the area. It is a perfect place to relax, click some pictures, and experience the beauty of nature.Jungle Safari
It is part of the Sardar Patel Zoological Park, a state-of-the-art zoo that houses a unique collection of native and exotic animals and birds from different biogeographical regions of the world. Jungle safaris offer visitors the opportunity to view a diverse range of wildlife in a controlled, natural environment. The Jungle Safari has over 186 species of fauna including animals from Asia, America, Australia and Africa. Tourists can marvel at an array of magnificent big cats such as the Asiatic Lion, the Royal Bengal Tiger and the Leopard. The park is also home to rhinos, giraffes, various deer species, zebras, and many other exotic creatures. Safari Route – Statue of Unity The Jungle Safari Route has been designed to allow visitors to observe animal activities, see reptiles, and observe birds as closely as possible in their natural habitats. Unique Features – The park is spread over 375 acres at seven different levels, ranging in height from 29 meters to 180 meters, providing a diverse landscape for the animals. The enclosures are designed continent-wise, allowing visitors to see wildlife in settings similar to their native habitat. Here are some additional things to keep in mind for your visit to the Jungle Safari at SOU: A jungle safari can be done through a tram ride. Photography is allowed within the jungle safari. However, the use of flash photography can disturb animals, so it is best to avoid it. It is a must-visit for nature lovers and anyone who wants to experience the thrill of seeing wildlife up close.Food Court’ at Statue of Unity
There is a food court complex called Ekta Nagar near the Statue of Unity. This large complex has a variety of restaurants serving a wide range of traditional Gujarati cuisine to South Indian cuisine, pizza, and street food options. A variety of dishes like Indian (Gujarati, South Indian, North Indian), fast food, and street food are served here. The food court provides ample seating for a comfortable dining experience. The food court is well maintained and hygiene standards are ensured. Although there is no central food court building right next to the Statue of Unity, the Ekta Nagar Food Court offers a convenient and varied dining option a short distance away. Other dining options near the Statue of Unity, here are a couple:- Shreshtha Bharat Bhavan – A museum complex that includes a restaurant.
- Maa Narmada Restaurant And Cafe is located about 5.6 km from the Arogya Van.
- Pizzawala’s SoU is located about 0.58 km from the Arogya Van (This is a quick-service QSR restaurant).
- Arogya Cafe at Arogya Van
