How to Reach Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Statue from Mumbai – Travel Guide
Learn how to reach the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Statue from Mumbai by train, bus, car, or flight with practical tips for a smooth journey.
The Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Statue, also known as the Statue of Unity, is located near Kevadia in Gujarat. It is the world’s tallest statue and a popular tourist destination for visitors from Mumbai and across India.
This route from Mumbai to the Statue of Unity is frequently traveled by tourists and families eager to witness this iconic monument. This guide will help you understand the best transport options, travel tips, and what to expect upon arrival.
Getting from Mumbai to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Statue – Main Options
Train
Traveling by train is a popular and economical option for many travelers from Mumbai to Kevadia. It offers a comfortable journey with scenic views and several train options.
Mumbai’s major stations like Mumbai Central and Bandra Terminus connect to Vadodara Junction, the nearest major railway station to Kevadia, about 90 km away.
The train journey takes approximately 7 to 9 hours depending on the train, with fares ranging from ₹300 for sleeper class to ₹1500 for AC classes.
From Vadodara, you can take a local bus or taxi to Kevadia, which takes around 2 hours and costs ₹300 to ₹600.
Trains run frequently but book tickets early on IRCTC, especially during peak tourist seasons and holidays to avoid last-minute unavailability.
Night trains are available, allowing you to save daytime for sightseeing, but be prepared for crowded trains during festivals and weekends.
Bus
Buses offer a direct and affordable way to reach Kevadia from Mumbai, suitable for budget travelers and those who prefer road travel.
MSRTC and private operators run buses from Mumbai’s central bus depots like Dadar and Borivali to Kevadia, with journey times around 12 to 14 hours covering roughly 400 km.
Bus fares range from ₹400 to ₹900 depending on the type of bus, such as non-AC, AC sleeper, or Volvo coaches.
Most buses depart in the evening or night, allowing you to rest and arrive early the next day, but roads can be busy during monsoon and festival seasons.
Rest stops are available along NH48 and NH53 highways with basic food options, but carrying snacks and water is advisable for comfort.
Booking tickets online via MSRTC or private bus portals is recommended to secure seats and check bus timings.
Car / Self-Drive
Driving from Mumbai to the Statue of Unity is a flexible and scenic option, ideal for travelers who want to explore en route or travel at their own pace.
The distance is approximately 400 km via NH48 and NH53, with a driving time of around 7 to 9 hours depending on traffic and stops.
The route passes through important cities like Surat and Vadodara, where you can stop for meals and refueling at well-maintained highway dhabas and restaurants.
Toll plazas are present on the highways, so keep cash or FASTag ready; toll charges can total around ₹500 to ₹700 one way.
Driving during early morning hours helps avoid Mumbai city traffic and ensures smoother travel through Gujarat highways.
Ensure your vehicle is well-serviced, and carry a physical map or GPS device as mobile network coverage can be patchy near Kevadia.
Flight
Although there is no direct airport near the Statue of Unity, flying to Vadodara or Surat is a fast option combined with road travel.
Flights from Mumbai to Vadodara take about 1 hour, with fares ranging from ₹1500 to ₹4000 depending on the airline and booking time.
Vadodara Airport is approximately 90 km from Kevadia, and you can hire prepaid taxis or book Ola/Uber cabs for the onward journey, which takes around 2 hours.
Surat Airport is another option, about 140 km from Kevadia, with similar taxi and bus connections available.
Flight schedules vary, so book tickets well in advance, especially during holiday seasons when demand is high.
Combining flight and road travel offers a balance of speed and comfort, ideal for short trips or weekend visits.
Step-by-Step Travel Plan
This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers from Mumbai to the Statue of Unity, ensuring a hassle-free and enjoyable journey.
Book your train or bus tickets early through IRCTC or MSRTC websites to avoid last-minute issues, especially during holidays and weekends.
If traveling by train, choose a train that arrives in Vadodara early morning to have ample time for the road journey to Kevadia the same day.
Arrange local transport from Vadodara to Kevadia in advance, either by prepaid taxi or shared cabs, to avoid waiting and inflated fares.
If driving, plan your route via NH48 and NH53, start early to avoid Mumbai traffic, and schedule breaks at Surat or Vadodara for meals and rest.
Carry sufficient water, snacks, and a power bank, as mobile connectivity can be weak near the statue area and on highways.
On arrival at Kevadia, use local shuttle buses or battery-operated vehicles to reach the statue complex, as private vehicles are restricted close to the monument.
Practical Travel Tips
Always use prepaid taxi services or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber in Vadodara and Kevadia to avoid overcharging and ensure safety.
Carry bottled water and avoid drinking tap water during the journey, especially on buses and trains, to prevent stomach issues.
Book tickets online well in advance on IRCTC for trains and MSRTC for buses, as last-minute bookings are difficult during peak seasons.
Use local buses or shared autos within Kevadia for short distances, as private vehicles have limited access near the statue.
Pack light but include rain gear during monsoon months (July to September) as heavy rains can cause road delays and slippery conditions.
Keep your luggage secure and avoid carrying valuables openly, especially in crowded trains and buses, to prevent theft.
Best Time & Travel Conditions
The best time to visit the Statue of Unity from Mumbai is during the cooler months from October to March. The weather is pleasant, making travel and sightseeing comfortable.
Avoid traveling during the peak monsoon season (July to September) when heavy rains can cause roadblocks and delays. Also, major festivals like Diwali and Navratri can increase traffic and crowd levels.
Peak travel periods include winter holidays and long weekends, so book tickets early to avoid sold-out trains and buses.
Summer months (April to June) can be very hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C, making daytime travel tiring.
Early morning departures from Mumbai help avoid city traffic and allow you to reach Vadodara or Kevadia with daylight for easier navigation.
Monsoon rains can cause slippery roads and occasional flooding, so check weather forecasts and road conditions before traveling.
Arrival at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Statue & What to Expect
Upon arrival at Kevadia, you will find well-organized local transport options including shuttle buses and battery-operated vehicles that take visitors from parking areas to the statue complex. Private vehicles are restricted near the monument to preserve the environment.
Accommodation options are available in Kevadia town, ranging from budget hotels to resorts. Many visitors also stay in Vadodara, which is well connected and offers more facilities. Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber operate in Vadodara and Kevadia for easy local travel.
Conclusion
The most efficient way to reach the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Statue from Mumbai depends on your budget and time. Trains to Vadodara followed by a taxi or bus to Kevadia offer a balanced mix of comfort and cost. Driving gives flexibility, while flights to Vadodara combined with road travel save time.
Plan your journey by booking tickets early, choosing the right travel time, and preparing for local conditions. With this guide, you can confidently travel from Mumbai to the Statue of Unity and enjoy one of India’s most impressive landmarks without hassle.