Statue of Unity: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction
The Statue of Unity stands as a colossal tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, one of India's greatest freedom fighters and the first Deputy Prime Minister. Located in the Narmada district of Gujarat, about 100 km from Vadodara, this monumental statue is the world's tallest, with a height of 182 meters. It was inaugurated on October 31, 2018, marking the 143rd birth anniversary of Sardar Patel.
Statue of Unity: Pride of India
Historical Significance
The statue commemorates the unparalleled contributions of Sardar Patel in uniting the 562 princely states of India to form a single nation. Known as the 'Iron Man of India,' his diplomatic acumen and strong leadership played a crucial role in shaping modern India.
Architectural Marvel
Designed by Indian sculptor Ram V. Sutar, the statue is an engineering marvel. It is built to withstand wind speeds of up to 180 km/h and earthquakes measuring up to 6.5 on the Richter scale. The core consists of reinforced concrete, while the exterior is covered with 1,700 tonnes of bronze plates and 1,850 tonnes of bronze cladding.
Visitor Experience
The statue complex offers a range of experiences for visitors. The exhibition hall at the base showcases the life and contributions of Sardar Patel. A high-speed elevator takes visitors to the viewing gallery at a height of 153 meters, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the Sardar Sarovar Dam and the Satpura and Vindhya mountain ranges.
Nearby Attractions
The Sardar Sarovar Dam, located nearby, is another significant attraction. The dam is one of India's largest and most important irrigation and hydroelectric projects. The Valley of Flowers, a beautifully landscaped garden, and the Shrestha Bharat Bhavan, a guest house designed by architect Bimal Patel, are other attractions in the vicinity.
| Distance | Airport: 94.2km , JBT: 99.5km | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Time | 08.00AM - 06.00PM on all days of the week 07.00PM [Monday] Laser-light and Sound Show | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Best time to visit | The best months to visit the Statue of Unity are from October to March. During these months the weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging between 10°C to 25°C. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Within the city | No | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| Vehicle allowed | Car, Bus, Motorbike |
Conclusion
The Statue of Unity is not just a tribute to a great leader; it is a symbol of national unity and integrity. It serves as an educational and inspirational site, attracting millions of visitors from around the world. Its grandeur and the range of experiences it offers make it a must-visit destination when in Gujarat.