Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, also known as the “Iron Man of India,” played a crucial role in India’s freedom struggle and the country’s unification after Independence. The Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Statue, also known as the Statue of Unity, is a tribute to his legacy and an engineering marvel. Standing at a staggering height of 182 meters, the statue is the tallest in the world, and it attracts millions of visitors from all over the world every year. If you’re wondering why you should visit the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Statue, read on to find out. But let us first take a glimpse of who Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel is.
Who is Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel & What is he famous for?
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was an Indian statesman and one of the founding fathers of independent India. He is famously known as the “Iron Man of India” for his unwavering dedication and pivotal role in integrating the country after independence.
As the first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister of India, Patel played a significant role in unifying more than 562 princely states into a single nation. He also played a critical role in the Indian Independence Movement, serving as a trusted advisor to Mahatma Gandhi. Patel’s leadership, determination, and vision were instrumental in creating a strong, united India that stands today as a shining example of democracy and diversity.
Why should you visit the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Statue?
A symbol of India’s Unity
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was instrumental in uniting the different princely states after India gained Independence. The Statue of Unity stands as a symbol of India’s unity, diversity, and strength. It serves as a reminder of Sardar Patel’s contribution to the country and his vision of a united India. By visiting the statue, you can pay your respects to the man who dedicated his life to the service of the nation and learn about the history of India’s unification.
Visiting the statue is a powerful reminder of Patel’s efforts to bring together India’s diverse states and cultures, and to establish a sense of national unity. It is a tribute to his leadership and vision, as well as a symbol of the strength and resilience of the Indian people.
An architectural masterpiece
The Statue of Unity is not only the tallest statue in the world but also an architectural masterpiece. The statue was designed by a renowned Indian sculptor, Ram V. Sutar, and constructed by the engineering firm Larsen & Toubro. The statue is made up of bronze, iron, and steel and has a unique design that incorporates several elements of Indian culture and history. The viewing gallery located at the chest level of the statue offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape.
The intricate details of the statue, such as the folds of Sardar Patel’s clothing, the buttons on his shirt, and the intricate facial features, are a testament to the skilled craftsmanship that went into its construction. The statue’s location on a river island surrounded by the beautiful Narmada Dam adds to its picturesque beauty.
A place of education and entertainment
Visiting the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Statue is an enriching experience, providing an opportunity to learn about India’s history, culture, and heritage. The statue complex houses a museum, an audio-visual gallery, and a research center, which showcase Patel’s life and contributions to the country.
Apart from being a tourist attraction, the Statue of Unity is also a place of education and entertainment. The statue has a museum that showcases the life and times of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and the history of India’s unification. The museum has interactive exhibits, audio-visual presentations, and 3D models that provide a unique learning experience. Additionally, the statue also has a laser light and sound show that depicts the life and times of Sardar Patel and the history of India’s freedom struggle. The show is a visual treat and a must-see for all visitors.
A hub of adventure activities
Visitors can indulge in a range of thrilling activities in the nearby location, such as hiking, trekking, and camping in the surrounding hills and valleys. There is also a 1.5 km long ‘Valley of Flowers’ trail. The statue also has a riverfront where tourists can enjoy boating and river rafting.
The Statue of Unity is not just a place for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts, but also a hub of adventure activities. The nearby location of the statue has several adventure activities that visitors can enjoy, such as the valley of flowers, jungle safari, river rafting, and trekking. The Valley of Flowers is a beautiful garden that showcases the flora of the region, while the jungle safari takes visitors through the natural habitat of the region’s wildlife. River rafting and trekking are also popular activities that offer an adrenaline rush and an opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the region.
A family-friendly destination
The Statue of Unity is a family-friendly destination that has something for everyone. Children can enjoy the adventure activities, while parents can explore the history and culture of India. The statue also has a children’s park and a toy train that takes visitors around the statue. The park has several rides and activities that keep children entertained, and the toy train is a fun way to explore the statue’s surroundings.
Families can also take a boat ride to the nearby Sardar Sarovar Dam or enjoy the view from the observation deck. The statue itself is a magnificent sight to behold, and visitors can learn about Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s life and contributions through the museum and audio-visual displays.
Information you must have before visiting the Statue of Unity
Tickets and Timing
- For children below 3 years: Free
- For Children between 3 to 15 years: Rs 90
- For visitors above 16 years: Rs 150
Additionally, the time to visit and explore the statue is between 8 am to 6 pm, so plan your trip wisely to explore the nearby attractions as well.
How to Reach?
- The distance between Vadodara and the Statue of Unity is approximately 90 kilometers. To reach the Statue of Unity from Vadodara, you can take a taxi or use public transportation.
- The distance between Jaipur and the Statue of Unity is approximately 700 kilometers. You can reach the Statue of Unity from Jaipur by air or train followed by a road journey.
- The Statue of Unity is approximately 400 km from Mumbai. It can be reached by road via the NH48 Highway or by train to Vadodara, followed by a local transfer.
- The Statue of Unity is approximately 150 kilometers from Surat. To reach there, you can take a taxi, bus, or train from Surat to Kevadia and then proceed to the statue complex.
- To reach the Statue of Unity from Ahmedabad (200 km), you can take a taxi, hire a private car, or use public transportation such as buses or trains.
Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or simply looking for a fun day out with the family, the statue offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. From exploring the beautiful gardens and Children’s Nutrition Park to taking a boat ride to the nearby Sardar Sarovar Dam.
 and learn more about the Indian Ironman.){kind=link}