About City
Kevadiya
The tribal village of Kevadia is home to the Sardar Sarovar Dam built on the Narmada river and was a popular picnic spot even before the Statue of Unity came up. Nestled between the Satpura and Vindhyachal mountain ranges, the gigantic statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, built at a cost of Rs 2,989 crore, was inaugurated by Prime Minister, Narendra Modi in 2018. The project was carried out by the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Rashtriya Ekta Trust (SVPRET). Designed by the Indian Sculptor, Ram Vanji Sutar, the construction was taken up by the Indian company Larson & Toubro. It is the must-include place in Kevadiya tour packages.
Must Visit Places in Kevadiya
1.Statue of Unity
At a distance of 7 km from Kevadiya Railway Station, and 90 km from Vadodara, the Statue of Unity is a giant statue located on an islet on the Sardar Sarovar Dam at Kevadia village in Gujarat. Situated on Sadhu Bet Island, it is one of the most popular places Gujarat tourist places and among the must include places in Kevadiya tour packages.
Statue of Unity is a memorial to The Iron Man of India, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The statue has been erected to propagate Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's vision of India and to inspire the Citizens of India through his patriotism and freedom struggle. The Bronze statue of the founding father of the Republic of India stands 182 metres tall grabbing the attention of the whole world as the 'Tallest statue in the World'. The statue of Unity is Located in Gujrat, by the banks of River Narmada on the River Island of Sadhu Bet overlooking the Narmada Dam (Sardar Sarovar Dam) from 3.2 km away.
The Statue of Unity will be well connected via expressways, improved rail system and helipads for the convenience of visitors. The surrounding of the statue is proposed to be a haven for clean Industries, Research facilities and educational institutions to improve the economic integrity in and around the region.
The monument compound is expected to get a 3-star hotel Shrestha Bharat Bhavan which is supposed to be a bridge between developing India and an environmentally conscious India. To increase the beauty of the surroundings by multiple folds, the 'Statue of Unity' will be accompanied by the 'Valley of Flowers' which was inaugurated on the same day as that of the Statue.
The Valley of Flowers is a product of the INR 12 crore exclusive grant. There will be a Museum, an Audio Visual hall to depict the life and struggles of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and a laser show on the Unification of India. The Monument will be providing Ferry services to reduce the traffic and effects on the environment due to vehicular pollution.
One of the main attractions of the Statue will be the viewing gallery integrated into the statue that can be reached by a heavy load lift with a panoramic view of the surroundings from an astounding height of nearly 400 feet.
About The Project
The monument compound is spread across 20,000 square metres, surrounded by a 12 km artificial lake. The project was carried out by a Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Rashtriya Ekta Trust (SVPRET) which was established for this purpose.
The magnanimous Statue is designed by the Indian Sculptor, Padma Bhushan awardee Ram Vanji Sutar. The construction of the final product was taken up by the Indian company Larson & Toubro and the total project was estimated to have cost 3000 Crore INR (420 million USD).
The Iron needed for the project was supposed to be collected from the used farming equipment from farmers all around the nation, who were the most cared by Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel. Due to some problems, nearly 5000 tonnes of iron collected was used for a different part of the same project but not the statue.
Along with the project in progress, SVPRET's Statue of Unity Movement organised the Suraaj Petition which included the ideas for good governance by the people and resulted in becoming the world's largest signed petition. These were some of the other essential features of the project.
How to Reach
The site of the Statue of Unity is about 90 km away from Vadodara and can be reached via State Highway 11 and State Highway 63. If you are coming from Mumbai, go north via the NH48 and change to SH64 near Mulad, but the journey from Mumbai via road will be about 420 km long.
Entry Fee
Without the access to Observation Deck
Adults - INR 150 per person
Children - INR 90 per Child
With the access to Observation Deck
INR 380 per person for Adults and Rs. 230 for Children & Rs. 830 for Foreign Adults, Rs.530 for Foreign Children
2. Sardar Sarovar Dam
Located near Navagam in Gujarat, Sardar Sarovar Dam is a massive gravity dam built on the River Narmada which was built to conserve water and help the environment and the people around. The foundation of the project was laid down by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru in 1961 and the construction work for the same was started in 1979. Today, this dam helps provide drinking water to the neighbouring villages and also helps with irrigation, and hydro-power for all of Gujarat.
Over the years, the height of the dam has been increased several times to extract maximum potential. Besides, the natural beauty at the spot- the gushing water of the river and lugh greenery of the littered trees, make it one of the most popular tourist spots in the city. People mostly come here to celebrate picnics and to relax and rejuvenate amidst bounteous nature and peaceful ambiance. There are also some temples at the spot which also draw a lot of tourists and devotees.
The best time to visit the Sardar Sarovar Dam is during the early winter months between October and December as the weather is the most pleasant and agreeable.
What to See at Sardar Sarovar Dam
You can find a guided tour and also a map available at the Sardar Sarovar Dam which can lets you explore the top five tourist spots in the region.
The Garden is the primary place to visit at the dam site. Here you can relax amidst green trees and velvety grass.
The Foundation Stone is another significant spot to visit which holds great historical importance.
The lake, however, draws the maximum tourists. It offers boating facility where you can enjoy a short tour of the lake.
The First Lock Gate is another point where the dam is closed shut. People tend to visit here and take pictures.
The last one is the Trekking Point. Here you can find people registering for nature camps and trekking expeditions.
3. Valley Of Flowers
Valley of Flowers is a flower garden situated along the bank of River Narmada. Also known as Bharat Van, it is one of the top places to visit as part of Statue of Unity tour packages. Valley of Flower is spread across 24 acres of land and is a haven for colorful flowering plants. The garden began with 48,000 plants in 2016 and has now reached up to 22,00,000 plants. More than 300 types of flowers are grown in this garden. A right blend of ornamental flowers, trees, shrubs, herbs, climbers, and creepers are planted along with various shades of foliage, which forms the green cover in this area. This vibrant landscape is also a site for a charismatic flower show every winter. The picturesque site and an enthralling view of the Statue of Unity certainly captivate the visitors always. This vibrant garden is also a site for a charismatic flower show every winter. Besides, several photo booths and selfie points have been developed to take back fond memories of the visit.
Timings: 9 AM - 5.30 PM, Closed on Mondays
Entry: It includes in Statue of Unity Ticket
4. Cactus Garden
The Cactus Garden has developed by GEER Foundation on the opposite end of the Statue of Unity on the bank of river Narmada. This botanical garden was created to exhibit a huge variety of Cacti and succulents, the true miracles of adaptation. The thought behind the development of the cactus garden is to provide an experience of the desert ecosystem amid a landmass well entrenched in an aquatic surrounding.
Spread across 25 acres of open land, the Cactus Garden contains 6 lakh plants of 450 species from 17 countries mainly from North & South America and African continents. Cactus Dome is one of the largest domes in India which contains about 836 Sq.m area. There is also a Selfie point along with a shop that sells Medicinal products of Cactus and souvenirs. The garden is a ravishing landscape of colorful cacti and succulent plants and also an educational and learning opportunity for students and enthusiasts to explore nature's wisdom.
Timings: 9 AM - 5 PM
Entry: Rs. 60 for Adults, & Rs. 40 for Children
5. Butterfly Garden
The Butterfly Garden is situated right next to the Cactus Garden on the bank of River Narmada in Kevadiya. Covering over an area of 10 acres, the garden harbors more than 70 species of butterflies. There are also 150 species of nectar plants and larval host plants as butterflies feed on the nectar of flowers. Special care has been taken in the landscaping of the park to support the diversity of butterfly species. The Butterfly Garden has been developed in a way to create an environment that attracts butterflies and gives them a habitat to proliferate. There are also suitable places for them to lay eggs and host plants for caterpillars to thrive. Walking through this beautifully designed park to get a close view of the different butterfly species along with the life stage of butterflies from laying eggs to caterpillar to chrysalis to adult emerges and finally becomes an adult butterfly. This experience will explore them and will give practical knowledge to kids.
Timings: 9 AM - 5 PM
Entry: Rs. 60 for Adults, & Rs. 40 for Children
6. Unity Glow Garden
Unity Glow Garde in Kevadia is probably the first Glow Garden in India creating a thousand reasons for Joy and Happiness. It has been developed with a glimmering array of installations, figures, and optical illusions. There are many botanical installations, various animals and birds, LED fountains inspired with glowing lights. This was intended to create a zone that gave a different feel and ambiance in the evenings and enable night-tourism to flourish in the vicinity of the Statue of Unity. And, also to boost the local economy by giving additional business to Hotels, Restaurants, Shopping Malls, Local Transportations, etc.
The Unity Glow Garden is a perfect spot to end your visit to the Statue of Unity, especially if you're with kids, as it comes alive once the sun goes down. Perfect to visit after the 7 pm Projection Mapping Show, get ready to be transported to a land of magical lights and light-based art installations at the Statue of Unity Glow Garden. It has earned the title of being a popular destination park already, as more and more tourists are pouring in to experience the beauty of Kevadia at night.
Timings: 8 AM - 10 PM
Entry: Rs. 100 for Adults, Rs. 50 for Children, & Rs. 500 for Foreigners
7. Arogya Van
Spread across 17 acres, Arogya Van houses over 500,000 ancient medicinal plants of 380 species. The main aim of this garden is to raise awareness about the important role played by plants in the holistic wellness of human beings. Emphasis is also laid on Yoga, Ayurveda, and Meditation for being an integral part of a person's well-being. Arogya Van is divided into 5 sections namely Garden of Colours, Aroma Garden, Yoga Garden, Alba Garden, and Leutea Garden.
The key highlight at Arogya Van is the Aushadh Manav, a giant three-dimensional layout of a human body in a resting posture. Each human organ is represented by a medicinal plant that is beneficial for that particular organ. So these plants are planted on the specific part of the body to make the visitors understand the specific plants used for the therapeutic treatment of that particular organ.
The entry gate of Arogya Van has all 12 postures of Surya Namaskar of human size, to emphasize the importance of yoga, which is to be practiced daily for healthy living. The digital information center has been set up to acknowledge visitors and make them understand the heritage and the importance of medicinal plants in our day-to-day life. The indoor plants' section has been created to spread awareness regarding the importance of interior landscape. Interior landscaping plays a vital role in providing a pleasant and tranquil environment in which one can walk and relax.
Timings: 9 AM - 5 PM
Entry: Rs. 30 for Adults, & Rs. 20 for Children
8. Children Nutrition Park
Envisioned & conceptualized by Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Children Nutrition Park has been developed as part of Kevadia Integrated Development to inspire children to eat healthily and understand the role of nutrition in their mental and physical growth. It is the first technologically driven theme park in the world. The Children Nutrition Park provides high-quality entertainment and vital knowledge to the children on healthy eating habits and nutritional values based on the theme of 'SAHI POSHAN DESH ROSHAN.' The entire park is designed and implemented for the benefit of the children and extensive use of state-of-the-art technology is being made, which gives a fascinating experience to the children visiting the park. The main feature of this park is the Nutri Train. Starting from Ekta Junction station, the train runs on a 600 meters long track and takes children to various stations.
The first Station on this route is aptly named Phalshaka Griham, where children should know about agriculture, sowing, caring, and harvesting. There are games and communication panels here, which points to the importance of fresh vegetables and fruits, how they contribute various essential nutrients, and also act as immunity warrior. PayoNagari is the second station where the mascot informs the children about the importance of milk and milk products. Some very engaging games are part of PayoNagari Station such as 'Feed the Cow', 'Churn The Butter', 'Cow Stands Out' and 'Milk Story in a Hologram Box'. There is a long Experience Tunnel between the 2nd & 3rd station that showcases a fantasy farm with a light and sound show.
The third station is Annapurna where a digital mascot - a Mother (Maa) welcomes children with a heart-warming and informative song through a Hologram projection. This song conveys to children, the importance of home-cooked food for great health. The fourth Station on this route is Poshan Puram where the mascot Shakti welcomes the children and points out the two most important elements to complete the wholesome nutrition for our bodies, nuts-seeds, and water. The fifth and the last station on the route is Swastha Bharatam which promotes the importance of physical activity in daily life and features Yoga and the concept of Guru Shishya Parampara in the Indian sports field. This Station has many games like Virtual Tennis, Cricket, a fun-filled dance platform, Ice hockey, etc.
Timings: 10 AM - 6 PM from Tuesday to Friday, & 9 AM - 9 PM on Saturdays & Sundays
Entry: Rs. 200 for Adults, & Rs. 125 for Children
9. Sardar Patel Zoological Park & Jungle
Sardar Patel Zoological Park covers 375 acres at seven different levels ranging from an altitude or elevation of 29 m to 180 m on the right bank of the Narmada River. The park is home to more than 186 species of fauna, covering various biogeographic regions of the world including Africa, Australia, Asia, and America. The main focus of the park is to provide education on the rich biodiversity of our planet, as well as a recreational place for all.
The zoo has 16 different enclosures for animals including carnivores and herbivores. One can spot India's endangered species, which includes the magnificent big cats such as Asiatic Lion, Royal Bengal Tiger, Black Panther, and Leopard here. The zoo is also home to 12 species of deer, antelopes, giraffes, zebras, rhinos, bison, wildebeest, onyx, as well as other exotic animals including alpacas, llamas, a wallaby, and a baby hippo!
The Zoo houses 2 Bird aviaries that are having a state-of-the-art geodesic design designated for Indian and exotic Birds. Covering over an area of 1.5 hectares, the eco domes are considered to be the world's largest geodesic domes for an aviary. These aviaries are housing over 1,000 of the most beautiful birds from India and across the World. Visitors can see the most colorful birds from India like the Red Jungle Fowl, Partridge, Pelican, Ibis, Parrots, along with some exotic birds like the Macaw, Cockatoo, Black Swan, Grey Parrot, Cape Crowned Crane, and more here.
The zoo also organizes Jungle Safari, an adventure ride, which allows exploring the unexplored trails and untouched natural horizons. The safari route has been designed such, that the visitors can view animal activities, spot reptiles, and watch birds. Another highlight is the walkthrough Aviary, harboring the finest of indigenous birds. Here the visitors can walk amidst the birds specific to varied habitats, which have been created simulating the natural habitat of each of the species. Besides, one can enjoy the scenic beauty of the hills surrounding the zoo.
Timings: 8 AM - 5 PM
Entry: Rs. 200 for Adults, & Rs. 125 for Children
10. Ekta Cruise
Ekta Cruise Service was flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 30th October 2020 to mark Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, the birth anniversary of Sri Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The ferry ride starts from Shrestha Bharat Bhavan, behind Ramada Encore to the Statue of Unity. The 6 km-long navigation channel in the river especially is constructed for extending a unique experience to the tourists visiting the Statue of Unity.
The distance between Shreshtha Bharat Bhavan and the Statue is about 6 km which will be covered in 40 minutes by UNITY 1 and 25 minutes by UNITY 2. UNITY 1, 26 m long and 9 m wide, is a Catamaran Type Vessel with two decks and currently carries 200 passengers on the lower deck with fixed seats. UNITY 2 is a monohull boat that can operate at a very high speed. The boat can accommodate up to 25 passengers. There is an additional space on the upper deck for the passengers for an unobstructed and mesmerizing view of the statue and to experience the most hypnotic scenery along the Narmada River. The cruise stops 15-20 minutes at the Statue of Unity.
The guests onboard can enjoy the magnificent view of the World's tallest statue while cruising along with some chilling background music, and cultural programs. This cruise also provides a gripping experience of the 'On Board dinner' during the cruise sailing while the forest night sets in Kevadia and attractive lighting takes over the hearts of the thousands of tourists. The dinner is a lifetime experience as very delicious cuisines are available adding value to the naturally rich surroundings. A Souvenir shop and a food stall are available for the guests to shop on the lower deck.
Tickets are available on location or can be booked in advance on the Statue of Unity tickets website.
Timings: 9 AM - 5.20 PM for Day Cruise, & 5.30 PM - 9.30 PM for Dinner Cruise
Entry: Rs. 413 for Adults, & Rs. 125 for Children (6 -12 years) for Day Cruise, Rs. 1400 for Adults & Rs. 700 for Children (6 -12 years) for Dinner Cruise
11. Khalwani Eco Tourism & River Rafting
Khalwani is located along the bank of a perennial stream fed by the waters released from the Godbole Gate. The area is surrounded by hillocks bearing typical deciduous forests of this area. The chirping of birds, the flowing waters of Narmada, the undulating terrain, and the various shades of green foliage make this place ideal for camping and hiking. The nearby Shoolpaneshwar Sanctuary is a treasure trove for wildlife enthusiasts. Khalwani also provides accommodation in the form of tree houses and tents. It also offers several activities for tourists including bird-watching, breakfast with butterflies, tree walks, and cycling. There are also activities like River Rafting, Trekking, Rock Climbing, botanical exploration, and Selfie on Burma Bridge for adventure enthusiasts. Visitors can get first-hand knowledge of apiary, poultry, pottery, archery, and painting using herbal colors.
River Rafting is undoubtedly one of the most enthralling adventure sports one must try in Kevadiya. Narmada, the largest west-flowing river in the country, has now ushered in the thrilling experience for the adventure enthusiasts who can now enjoy river rafting in a 5 km stretch with whirlpools, rapids, and many turns which provide an exciting and unforgettable rafting experience for the first time in Gujarat. Eligibility of Age for admission is above 14 years to a maximum of 55 years.
Rating Timings: 8 AM - 3.30 PM
Entry: Rs. 300 per Person for Rafting
12. Dino Trail Park
Recent excavations in the Narmada valley, have revealed that Rajasaurus Narmadensis, a species of a carnivorous abelisaurid theropod dinosaur, was existing in the Narmada valley during the Cretaceous period or 'K-period'. The K-period spanned between the Jurassic period (145 million years ago) and Paleogene Period (66 million years ago). The bones of these species were excavated from the Lameta Formation (a sedimentary rock formation found in Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Maharashtra, India) in the Gujarat state of Western India, probably inhabiting what is now the Narmada River Valley.
The Dino Trail is home to a replica of the endemic dinosaur with a distinctive horn. Measuring over 75 feet in length, and 25 feet in height, the replica is about 3 times the estimated size of the original dinosaur. The positioning of the sculptures is in such a way that one can feel the presence of these extinct formidable beasts at this place. A nature trail amidst the forests of Vindyachal takes you to the Rajasarus Narmadensis and a treasurable moment to relive the primeval era when these colossal beasts used to roam in the prehistoric woodlands of Narmada valley.
Entry: Free
Timings: 10 AM - 5 PM
13. Zarwani Waterfalls
Huddled deep inside the heart of Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary, the perennial and gorgeous Zarwani Waterfall is one of the most sought natural spots among tourists and nature lovers from Gujarat. It cascades down from a height of about 25 m into a pool. The water is so clean that one can see through and spot small fish at the bottom. Visitors can take a dip in the flowing waters or simply absorb the calmness and serenity around. The waterfall is in full swing during the monsoon.
If you are looking for absolute tranquility and serenity amid nature, then this is the best place. The place also offers activities like camping, hiking, and trekking. Apart from the splendid waterfall, the place also boasts an eco-tourism campsite, the allied treks in the jungle, and an Adventure Park. This is a must-visit place for the thrill-seekers! One can also spot a gamut of flora & fauna as it is situated inside the Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary. The waterfall is about 7 km from the Thawadia checkpost, where visitors need to pay the entry fee for the vehicles. Local guides are available at the site. One can arrange for day picnics or treks with the help of the forest department, with the forest, waterfalls, and other natural beauty within easy reach.
Timings: 9 AM - 5 PM
Entry: Rs. 400 for Car, Rs. 270 for Bike
14. Panchmuli Lake
Sardar Sarovar Dam has outlet the canal from the medium of 3 lakes on the leftmost side of the dam. Panchmuli Lake is one of them. Also known as 'Dyke-3' of the Sardar Sarovar Dam, it was developed for tourists visiting the Statue of Unity. The Panchmuli Lake features calm waters flanked by the jagged Vindhya mountains range, offering a picturesque and serene experience to all visitors. Gujarat State Forest Development Corporation Ltd. (GSFDC) has initiated a Boat ride in Panchmuli Lake as a part of eco-tourism activity. The duration of each boat ride is for 45 minutes and in a day eight rides are operated. This ride takes you to the waters of dyke-4 as well as the entire waterbody is surrounded by lush green forests. The area is lush with local flora and fauna, offering the unique opportunity to observe the innumerable species in their natural habitat. You may sometimes see the landing and takeoff of the seaplane. However, the lake is home to a large number of crocodiles which was a threat to visitors. In 2019-21, the authorities relocated 194 crocodiles. There are still many crocodiles on the lake, so be careful while visiting the lake.
Boating Timings: 9.30 AM - 6 PM
Entry: Free, Rs. 413 for Boating
15. Vishwa Van
The Global Forest of Vishwa Van is home to herbs, shrubs, and trees native to all 7 continents signifying the underlying theme of 'Unity in Diversity' in context global context. The thought of Vishwa Van was conceptualized by the Hon'ble Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, who after guiding the construction of the Statue of Unity in just 46 months. The motive is to educate the visitors about biogeography - the study of the distribution of species and ecosystems in geographic space. Spread across 5 acres, Vishwa Van symbolizes the life-sustaining potion of forests in the context of all life forms on the planet. It has a diverse assemblage of flora representing every continent of the world. The wavy borders of the blocks representing the continents are shaped to represent the outlines of the continent's map and are painted similar to the colors of the Olympic rings, specific to each continent. The vegetation is arranged in a way to resemble the natural forest of a particular zone. Structures representing the traditional abodes of dwellers from the remotest corners of the world have been created here to introduce visitors to their living. Here one can see a Fiji House, Bali House, African-Louisiana Conference Area, Maloca House, and Pagoda. There is also a Souvenir shop run by tribal self-help groups.
Timings: 8 AM - 6.30 PM
Entry: Rs. 30 for Adults, & Rs. 20 for Children
How to reach Kevadiya
By Air: Nearest Airport: Vadodara - Vadodara International Airport (89 Kms)
By Train: Nearest Train Station: Kevadiya Railway Station (0 Kms)
By Bus: Nearest Bus Station: Kevadiya Bus Station (2 Kms)
Best time to visit Kevadiya
The best time to visit Kevadiya is during the winter months i.e. from October to March. The temperatures are mild and the weather is pleasant during these months. Better to avoid visiting Vadodara during the monsoon and summer months as the town experiences heavy rains between June to September and an extremely hot and humid climate during the summer months.
