The $390 Million Wonder: What Lies Inside the Statue of Unity?

The $390 Million Wonder: What Lies Inside the Statue of Unity?: Near by Airport, Railway Station, Hotels, and others Tourism Spots

Have you heard about the remarkable "Statue of Unity"? This isn't your typical statue; it's a magnificent tribute to one of India's most iconic leaders, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Let's delve into the fascinating story behind this colossal marvel.

The Birth of the Statue:

The Statue of Unity didn't just materialize out of thin air; it was born to mark the 143rd birthday of Sardar Patel, India's first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister. His pivotal role in unifying 562 princely states into a single nation earned him the revered title, the "Iron Man of India."

The Making of a Giant:

This statue's creation was no small feat. The government of Gujarat invested a whopping ₹298 crore (equivalent to US$390 million) to bring this monumental project to life. The creative genius behind its design was sculptor Ram V Sutar, renowned for his work on over 50 monuments. The construction was expertly handled by Larsen & Toubro, a prominent Indian multinational in engineering and construction.

Inauguration and Location:

The grand unveiling took place on October 31, 2018, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi presiding over the ceremony. The statue proudly stands on the banks of the Narmada River in Kevadiya, Gujarat.

A Closer Look:

But what's so special about this colossal sculpture? Well, it's not just massive; it's a masterpiece. Rising to a staggering 182 meters (about 597 feet), it's crafted from 6,000 tonnes of bronze and fortified with 2,500 tonnes of steel. And to support this giant, there's a colossal 210meter (690foot) concrete pedestal.

Inside the Statue:

This colossal monument offers more than meets the eye. At the top, there's a breathtaking viewing gallery, perched at a height of 153 meters (approximately 502 feet). It can host up to 200 visitors at a time. Inside the statue, you'll discover a museum featuring 40 galleries and over 400 artifacts, each narrating the incredible life and work of Sardar Patel.

A Symbol of Unity:

The Statue of Unity isn't just a work of art; it symbolizes unity and pride for India. It stands as a tribute to Sardar Patel's vision of a united nation. Not only does it hold the title of the world's tallest statue (surpassing China's Spring Temple Buddha), but it also signifies India's journey towards progress and development.

Interesting Tidbits:

It's so colossal that you can spot it from a whopping 30 kilometers away!

Designed to withstand earthquakes and winds of up to 180 kilometers per hour.

Equipped with stateoftheart security systems, including CCTV cameras and motion sensors.

And don't worry about lightning; it's got that covered too with a lightning protection system.

Plan Your Visit:

If you're eager to witness this marvel, plan your visit in advance. You can conveniently book your tickets online through the official website [soutickets.in](http://www.soutickets.in/). They offer various ticket options, including basic entry, access to the viewing gallery, and combo packages.

Where to Stay:

There's no shortage of accommodation options nearby, catering to various budgets:

1. Ramada Encore By Wyndham Statue of Unity: Just 2.5 kilometers away, offering a range of rooms, a restaurant, bar, and a swimming pool.
2. The Fern Sardar Sarovar Resort Kevadia: Located about 5 kilometers away, it offers ayurvedic treatments, a spa, and even a golf course.
3. Unity Holiday Resort: Situated 7 kilometers from the statue, it provides cottages and villas with stunning river views.
4. Galaxy@SOU: Found 8 kilometers away, it features airconditioned rooms and complimentary WiFi.
5. KK Luxurious Home Stay: Located 9 kilometers from the statue, offering a traditional Gujarati homestay experience with homecooked meals.

Getting There:

Reaching the Statue of Unity is a breeze:

• Nearest Railway Station: Kevadiya Railway Station (KDCY), approximately 27 kilometers away. Regular trains connect Kevadiya to Ahmedabad, Vadodara, and Surat.
• Nearest Airport: Vadodara Airport (BDQ), roughly 120 kilometers away. It offers flights from major cities.
• Other Transportation: Buses link the Statue of Unity to major Gujarat cities. You can also hire a car or taxi for convenience.

Explore Nearby:

While you're in the area, explore these attractions:

1. Valley of Flowers: Just 6 kilometers away, it's a floral paradise with orchids, lilies, and roses.
2. Sardar Sarovar Dam: A colossal dam 3.5 kilometers from the statue, ranking as the world's secondlargest concrete gravity dam.
3. Gir National Park: Located 130 kilometers away, it's home to the Asiatic lion and a variety of incredible wildlife.
4. ChampanerPavagadh Archaeological Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site 100 kilometers away, boasting historical treasures.
5. Auroville: Situated 150 kilometers away, it's a utopian community dedicated to peace and sustainability.

So, on your next visit to India, make sure not to miss this colossal masterpiece and the rich history it represents. The Statue of Unity is more than just a statue; it's a tribute to a visionary leader who played a pivotal role in shaping a united India.