The Statue of Unity is located near Kevadia in the Narmada district of Gujarat. It is the world's tallest statue and a popular tourist destination. Ankleshwar, an industrial town in Bharuch district, is a common starting point for visitors heading to this iconic monument.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Ankleshwar to the Statue of Unity. You will learn about different transport options, travel times, fares, and practical tips to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

Getting from Ankleshwar to Statue of Unity – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a comfortable and affordable option for many visitors. Although Ankleshwar has a railway station, you will need to combine train travel with local transport to reach the Statue of Unity.

• Ankleshwar Railway Station is well connected to major cities like Vadodara and Surat, with frequent trains running daily. The distance to Kevadia is about 90 km by road from Ankleshwar station.

• You can take a train from Ankleshwar to Vadodara Junction, which is a major railway hub, and then use a taxi or bus to reach the Statue of Unity. The train journey takes around 30-45 minutes, with fares ranging from ₹50 to ₹150 depending on the class.

• There are also direct trains from Ankleshwar to Kevadiya railway station, which is the nearest station to the Statue of Unity, but these trains are limited. Booking tickets via IRCTC in advance is recommended, especially during holidays and weekends.

• From Kevadiya station, local buses, auto-rickshaws, and prepaid taxis are available to cover the last 3-5 km to the statue. The station is well designed for tourists with signboards and information counters.

Bus

Buses offer a budget-friendly way to travel from Ankleshwar to the Statue of Unity. Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation (GSRTC) runs regular services connecting nearby towns and tourist spots.

• GSRTC buses operate from Ankleshwar bus depot to Kevadia, with journey times of around 3 to 4 hours depending on the service type and route taken. Ticket prices range between ₹100 and ₹200.

• There are both ordinary and deluxe buses; deluxe buses provide more comfort and fewer stops, making the trip smoother especially during peak tourist seasons.

• Bus frequency is higher during weekends and public holidays, so booking tickets in advance at the bus depot or online is advisable to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Be prepared for crowded buses during festivals or long weekends. Carry water and snacks as some routes have limited food stops, and restrooms may be basic.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Ankleshwar to the Statue of Unity is a popular choice for those who prefer flexibility and comfort. The route is scenic and well maintained.

• The distance by road is approximately 90 km via NH47 and NH53, taking about 2 to 2.5 hours depending on traffic conditions. The route passes through Bharuch and Vadodara.

• There are multiple toll plazas on this route, so keep some cash or FASTag ready for smooth passage. Toll charges can add up to ₹150-₹200 one way.

• Fuel stations and eateries are available along the highway, with popular rest stops near Bharuch and Vadodara. It is advisable to start early to avoid city traffic and reach the statue before noon.

• Self-drive car rentals are available in Ankleshwar and nearby cities. Apps like Zoomcar and Revv offer hourly and daily packages. Driving yourself allows you to stop at attractions like Sardar Sarovar Dam en route.

Taxi / Cab

Hiring a taxi or cab from Ankleshwar to the Statue of Unity is convenient for travelers who want a hassle-free journey without driving themselves.

• Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber operate from Ankleshwar, with fares to Kevadia ranging from ₹2000 to ₹3000 one way depending on vehicle type.

• Taxi drivers are usually familiar with the route and can suggest sightseeing stops along the way, making your trip more enjoyable and informative.

• Booking a taxi for a round trip is common, allowing you to spend ample time at the statue and nearby attractions without worrying about return transport.

• During peak tourist seasons, taxi availability may be limited, so booking in advance through apps or local travel agents is recommended to secure your ride.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

If this is your first time traveling from Ankleshwar to the Statue of Unity, follow this simple plan to make your journey smooth and stress-free.

• Step 1: Decide your mode of transport based on budget, comfort, and time. Train and bus are economical, while car or taxi offers more flexibility.

• Step 2: Book your tickets in advance. Use IRCTC for trains and GSRTC online portal for buses. For taxis, use Ola/Uber apps or local agents to avoid last-minute price hikes.

• Step 3: Start early in the morning to avoid city traffic and reach the statue before noon. This helps you avoid afternoon heat and crowds.

• Step 4: Carry water, snacks, and a hat or umbrella for sun protection. Food options near the statue are available but can be crowded during peak hours.

• Step 5: On arrival at Kevadiya station or bus stop, use prepaid taxis or auto-rickshaws to reach the Statue of Unity entrance. Confirm fares beforehand to avoid overcharging.

• Step 6: Keep your ID and entry tickets handy for smooth access. Follow local guidelines and enjoy your visit safely.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety: Avoid traveling alone at night on highways. Use only prepaid or app-based taxis to prevent fare disputes and ensure driver reliability.

• Food and Water: Carry bottled water and light snacks, especially if traveling by bus or train. Street food near Ankleshwar is good but be cautious with hygiene.

• Booking Strategy: Book train and bus tickets at least 3-5 days in advance during holidays. Use official portals like IRCTC and GSRTC for secure bookings.

• Local Transport: Auto-rickshaws and shared jeeps are common near Kevadiya station. Negotiate fares before boarding or use prepaid counters.

• Luggage: Travel light as some buses and trains have limited luggage space. Keep valuables close and avoid carrying too many bags.

• Seasonal Warnings: Monsoon season (July-September) can cause delays due to waterlogging on some roads. Check weather updates before traveling.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit the Statue of Unity from Ankleshwar is during the cooler months from October to March. The weather is pleasant, making travel and sightseeing comfortable.

Summer months can be very hot, with temperatures soaring above 40°C, making daytime travel tiring. Monsoon brings heavy rains that may disrupt road and rail services.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Navratri and Diwali when roads and trains are crowded, and accommodation prices rise sharply.

• Fog in winter mornings can delay trains and buses, so plan for extra travel time if departing early.

• Start your journey early in the day to avoid afternoon heat and traffic jams near Vadodara and Kevadia.

Arrival at Statue of Unity & What to Expect

When you arrive at Kevadiya, the nearest town to the Statue of Unity, you will find good signage and tourist information centers. The area is well developed for visitors with clean facilities.

Local transport options include prepaid taxis, auto-rickshaws, and shuttle buses that take you directly to the statue complex. Many tourists prefer staying in Kevadia town or nearby Vadodara, which offers more hotel choices.

Prepaid taxi counters are available at the station and bus stops to avoid bargaining. App-based cabs like Ola may have limited availability here, so plan accordingly. Walking from Kevadiya station to the statue is possible but not recommended due to distance.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach the Statue of Unity from Ankleshwar depends on your priorities. For budget travelers, train to Vadodara followed by a taxi or bus is practical. For comfort and flexibility, driving or hiring a taxi is best.

Plan your trip by booking tickets early, starting early in the day, and carrying essentials like water and snacks. With proper preparation, your journey from Ankleshwar to the Statue of Unity will be smooth and memorable. You can confidently explore this magnificent landmark and enjoy the surrounding attractions without stress.