Statue of Unity
Visiting the Statue of Unity in December: A Perfect One-Day Trip
December in Gujarat is cool and comfortable, making it the best time to visit the Statue of Unity (SoU) without worrying about heat or humidity. My visit to Ekta Nagar was nothing short of magical, with a mix of history, adventure, and nature all in one place.
If you’re planning a trip to see the world’s tallest statue, this blog will help you plan your visit, covering everything from transport to must-visit attractions nearby.
Getting to the Statue of Unity by Train
I took an early morning train from Ahmedabad to Ekta Nagar (Kevadiya). It was a smooth 3.5-hour journey, and the station was clean and well-organized.
Train Options:
Shatabdi Express – Quick and comfortable
Janshatabdi Express – Budget-friendly option
Pro Tip: If you’re planning a same-day return, book your return tickets in advance!
Walking Towards the Statue: A Scenic Journey
The first glimpse of the statue from afar was breathtaking. The massive 182-meter-tall figure of Sardar Patel stood proudly against the blue sky, overlooking the Narmada River. As I walked closer, the sheer scale of the monument left me in awe.
Exploring the Statue of Unity
Entry Fee:
- ₹380 for Viewing Gallery Access
- ₹150 for Basic Entry
Timings:
- 8 AM – 6 PM
I had already booked my ticket online (highly recommended), which helped me skip long queues.
Viewing Gallery Experience – The high-speed elevator took me 135 meters up inside the statue to the viewing gallery, where I could see panoramic views of the Narmada River and Sardar Sarovar Dam. The view from the top was truly mesmerizing!
Pro Tip: Visit in winter for clear views and a pleasant walking experience.
Must-Visit Places Near the Statue of Unity
Valley of Flowers – A Colorful Paradise
Distance: 2 km from SoU
Jungle Safari – Up Close with Wildlife
I then headed to the Jungle Safari, a 45-minute ride through a massive zoo that houses tigers, lions, giraffes, zebras, and leopards. It was an unexpected adventure, and seeing these animals up close was exciting!
Entry Fee: ₹200 per person
Distance: 3 km from SoU
Sardar Sarovar Dam – A Scenic Marvel
The Sardar Sarovar Dam, located just 5 km away, was another must-visit spot. Standing in front of one of India’s largest dams, with the water gushing down, was an awe-inspiring experience.
Distance: 5 km from SoU
Sunset Cruise on Narmada River
As evening approached, I decided to go on a sunset cruise along the Narmada River. The sky turned into shades of orange and pink, reflecting beautifully on the water, making it the perfect way to end my trip.
Cost: ₹300 per person
Boarding Point: Shreshtha Bharat Bhavan
My One-Day Itinerary at the Statue of Unity
- 8:00 AM – Arrive at Ekta Nagar Station
- 9:00 AM – Walk to the Statue of Unity & explore the Viewing Gallery
- 11:00 AM – Visit the Valley of Flowers
- 12:30 PM – Lunch break at Ekta Food Court (Tried a delicious Gujarati Thali!)
- 1:30 PM – Explore the Jungle Safari
- 3:00 PM – Visit Sardar Sarovar Dam
- 4:30 PM – Enjoy the Sunset Cruise on Narmada River
- 6:00 PM – Depart from Ekta Nagar Station
Pro Tip: Avoid weekends & public holidays for a peaceful experience without long queues.
Final Thoughts: Why Visiting the Statue of Unity in December Was Perfect
- Winter is the best season – The cool weather makes exploring easy.
- Be ready to walk – It's a huge area, so wear comfortable shoes.
- Book tickets online – Saves time and avoids long lines.
- The sunset cruise is a must – A perfect ending to a great day.
Want more travel tips?
Rinkal
Rinkal is a passionate traveler from Ahmedabad who loves exploring hidden gems, savoring local foods, and sharing adventures with fellow wanderers. Rinkal’s goal is to inspire others to travel on a budget while truly experiencing the essence of each place.
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