Things to Do Near the Statue of Unity
Most people arrive in Ekta Nagar, Gujarat, for the Statue of Unity and never realize the variety of attractions waiting within the same complex. I spent three days in this area and never lacked for something to see or do. The Statue of Unity is the headline, but the complex surrounding it has been built into one of India’s most ambitious tourism destinations, and there is genuinely something here for every type of traveler.
If you have already read my guide, Tallest Statue in the World: The Ultimate Guide, this is the companion piece. If not, that is the best place to start to make the most of your time here.
All pricing below is for Indian residents and was current at the time of writing. Foreign visitor pricing differs.
Most attractions within the Statue of Unity Complex require separate entry tickets beyond your basic Statue of Unity ticket. Always verify current pricing and availability on soutickets before you go.
First, Understand How the Complex Works
Before getting into individual attractions, a logistical note that will save you time and eliminate frustration before your day begins.
Private vehicles are not permitted within 100 feet of the statue. If you are driving in for the day, you will park at Shreshtha Bharat Bhavan and take the complimentary air-conditioned bus service that runs regularly into the complex.
If you are staying overnight in Ekta Nagar, the most seamless option by far is arranging a pink rickshaw through your hotel before you head out for the day. Your driver will drop you directly at the entrance to the Statue of Unity or at the first attraction you are heading to. If you are planning a multi-attraction day, it is a convenient and enjoyable way to move around the area at your own pace.
Two transport options worth knowing about
The pink rickshaws charge ₹110–150 one-way per drop between sites. You can also hire a driver for the full day directly through your hotel. I did this, and the peace of mind knowing my driver was waiting whenever I was ready to move on made the whole day more relaxed.
The golf cart service covers most major attractions in a full-day loop, carrying up to seven people, and is worth considering for families, seniors, or anyone who wants to cover significant ground without walking. Check current golf cart pricing at soutickets.in before your visit.
From the entry gate to the statue base, there is approximately 1.5 kilometers of walking. Wheelchairs are available at the entry gate for seniors. Buggies are also available for seniors and young children, located about 300 meters from the gate.
A map of the complex is available at Shreshtha Bharat Bhavan on arrival and covers all attractions and routes.
On the Water
The Narmada River offers several ways to get out on the water. The Ekta Cruise runs a seven-kilometer scenic loop, particularly popular at sunset. A dinner cruise option is also available in the evening. For something quieter, the Nauka Vihar boating experience heads toward Panchmuli Lake. Adventure travelers can try river rafting on the Khalwani River, Gujarat’s first rafting spot.
Sardar Sarovar Dam: Viewpoints and Evening Laser Show
The Sardar Sarovar Dam viewpoints are included with all Statue of Unity entry tickets and are worth more than a passing stop. Standing on the bluff overlooking the dam, the scale of the Narmada valley stretches out in every direction, mountains, reservoir, and the statue visible in the distance. It is an impressive viewpoint of the entire complex.
In the evening, the dam transforms into something else entirely. A separate laser and music show illuminates the night sky above the water, distinct from the projection mapping show on the statue. Multi-colored lasers dance to the music in a display far more expansive than I expected. I would not miss this one.
The venue is large and relaxed in a genuinely refreshing way. Families spread blankets on the ground, children dance to the music, and the whole atmosphere feels more like an open-air concert than a ticketed attraction.
Your pink rickshaw can pull right up to the viewing area, which makes it easy to step out for photographs and return to your seat whenever you like. I watched part of the show from the rickshaw itself, and walked closer for photographs; both worked perfectly well. Verify current show timings before your visit.
What I Did: Personal Highlights
Cactus Garden and Trails
The Cactus Garden is more than a single exhibit. Once you move through the main display of over 500 species, the trails that follow are genuinely lovely, with cacti and flowering plants lining open paths, grassy areas to rest, and art installations scattered throughout. Some of the trails have inclines and small hills, so wear comfortable shoes. Allow more time than you think you need here.
Best View Garden — The Secret Photo Spot
On the way to the Cactus Garden, do not blink. One memorable stop on my visit was a small garden called Best View, which my rickshaw driver, Ms. Komai, took me to, and that I would never have found on my own.
A raised circular platform sits among beautiful flowers and trees, with the Statue of Unity perfectly framed in the background. It was peaceful and uncrowded, and it produced some fantastic photos of my trip.
The Best View is exactly the kind of place you only find when you hire a driver for the day who knows the area. Ask your driver about it.
Kamalam Park
Kamalam Park was the most unexpected stop of the visit. A giant pink dragon fruit structure, hard to miss and impossible to forget, houses an air-conditioned theatre inside showing films about India’s efforts to grow dragon fruit as a significant export crop.
I took the opportunity to walk away genuinely informed about India’s agricultural future and job-creation ambitions.
If you need a break from the Gujarat heat, the cool theatre and surrounding garden trails make this a perfect mid-day stop.
Unity Glow Garden
The Unity Glow Garden is best saved for after dark. Lights, installations, interactive displays, and an LED fountain come to life after sunset. It can become very crowded with families and is geared toward younger visitors, but as a solo traveler, I enjoyed it. The energy is contagious. There are many beautiful photo backdrops to remember your visit, as well as small concessions on-site for drinks and snacks.
Nature Trails
A note on nature trails, most major sites have them once you move past the main exhibit. They are worth exploring at a slower pace, giving you a break from the crowds. There is also a longer nature walk near the statue, close to the water, that I did not attempt in the Gujarat heat.
If that appeals to you, go early morning before the temperature builds.
Also Worth Your Time
Depending on your schedule, you can spend a single day or easily fill three days without repeating yourself at the Statue of Unity complex.
Jungle Safari
The Sardar Patel Zoological Park, commonly known as the Jungle Safari, covers 375 acres and houses more than 186 species, including the Asiatic Lion, the Royal Bengal Tiger, Black Panther, and Leopards.
Plan at least two to three hours and visit in the morning or late afternoon when the animals are most active.
Gardens and Nature
The Valley of Flowers, Arogya Van, Miyawaki Forest, and Vishwa Van offer a variety of garden and nature experiences across the complex, ranging from medicinal plant landscapes to a global forest representing all seven continents.
For Families
The Children’s Nutrition Park offers an interactive theme park experience focused on healthy eating, open Tuesday to Sunday. The Pets Zone and Dino Trail Park are well-suited for younger children.
Shopping
Ekta Mall is located within the Ekta Nagar complex, approximately 5 kilometers from the statue. It spans two floors and 35,000 square feet, showcasing handloom and handicraft products from across India, textiles, jewelry, wooden and metal crafts, and local souvenirs. Worth a stop if shopping is on your agenda. Most vendors prefer cash.
Adventure
For those wanting something different, a 10-minute helicopter ride over the statue and dam area is available every day except Monday from 9:30 AM until one hour before sunset, carrying five to seven people at a time.
Riverfront cycling along the Narmada is also available and is a popular option for early morning, before the Gujarat heat builds. Verify current pricing and availability in advance.
FAQ
What is there to do near the Statue of Unity?
After visiting the Statue of Unity, Ekta Nagar has well over a dozen attractions to explore, including the Jungle Safari, river cruises, the Sardar Sarovar Dam evening laser show, Cactus Garden, Butterfly Garden, Kamalam Park, Unity Glow Garden, valley and nature gardens, riverfront cycling, helicopter rides, and river rafting. You can easily fill two to three days without repeating yourself.
How many days do you need at Ekta Nagar?
One full day covers the Statue of Unity, the museum, and the evening projection mapping show.
Two days gives you time for the surrounding attractions, and for me, it was the sweet spot.
Three days allow you to move at a relaxed pace and see nearly everything the complex has to offer without feeling rushed, taking breaks for the afternoon heat.
Is the Statue of Unity worth visiting?
Absolutely. The statue alone is unlike anything I have seen. The museum, the viewing gallery, and the evening laser show are a must. The surrounding complex complements the total destination experience.
The Statue of Unity holds its own against any major attraction in the world.
What is the best time to visit the Statue of Unity?
October through February. I visited in January, and the weather was pleasant, warm in the afternoon, and comfortable in the evenings. The gardens are at their best during this period, and the evenings are ideal for the outdoor shows.
Summer in Gujarat buildsto extreme heat quickly, making outdoor attractions significantly less pleasant.
How do I get around the Statue of Unity complex without a car?
Private vehicles are not permitted inside the complex. The most flexible option is hiring a pink rickshaw driven by local women, available through your hotel or at designated stops throughout the complex.
A complimentary bus service also runs regularly between major attractions for those who park at Shreshtha Bharat Bhavan.
Is it safe for solo female travelers?
In my experience, yes. The Statue of Unity complex is protected by military personnel and staff throughout the venue, who are there to assist if needed.
I received many smiles and warm welcomes during my visit.
As with any large, crowded tourist destination anywhere in the world, common sense applies: be aware of your surroundings and watch your belongings.
I had a wonderful experience and would not hesitate to return.
Where should I stay?
Ekta Nagar offers accommodation across all price ranges. For a unique experience, two glamping properties operate near the Statue of Unity Tent City 1, with luxury lake-facing cottages, and Tent City Narmada, offering comfortable tented accommodation with amenities including a swimming pool and cultural evening entertainment.
Several hotels and resorts are also available, ranging from three to five stars. I stayed at a hotel with exceptional staff and full amenities, including a spa, swimming pool, and game room. Staying inside Ekta Nagar rather than driving in daily makes a genuine difference.
You can catch the evening shows and be back at your hotel in minutes.
In Conclusion
Ekta Nagar (Statue of Unity complex) was off my radar and exceeded every expectation and more.
You arrive at the Statue of Unity and leave with a full experience that brings history, culture, and nature together.
The laser show at the Sardar Sarovar Dam, the secret garden-Best View Ms. Komai took me to, the giant pink dragon fruit at Kamalam Park, I never expected these to be the moments that make a trip memorable.
If this guide helped you plan your visit, I would love to hear about your experience. Drop a comment below or DM me on Instagram @soloherway and tell me what surprised you most.
If you found this helpful, share it with someone planning a trip to India.
Don’t miss my companion guide, Tallest Statue in the World: The Ultimate Guide, which has everything you need to know before you visit the Statue of Unity itself.
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