Nearest Railway Station to Statue of Unity: A Complete Travel Guide

Standing at a colossal 182 meters, the Statue of Unity isn’t just a monument—it’s an engineering marvel that has put the small town of Kevadiya on the world map. If you are planning to visit this tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, you might be wondering: How do I actually get there?

Unlike major metros with airports right in the city center, the Statue of Unity is tucked away in a scenic corner of Gujarat. The good news? Indian Railways has done a fantastic job connecting it.

This guide will tell you exactly which station to book, how to handle the “last mile” connectivity, and what to expect when you step off the train.

The Nearest Railway Station: Ekta Nagar (EKNR)

The closest railway station to the Statue of Unity is Ekta Nagar Railway Station (EKNR).

(Note: It was formerly known as Kevadiya Railway Station, so don’t get confused if you see the old name on some maps!)

• Distance to Statue: Approx. 5–7 km.

• Time by Road: 10–15 minutes.

• Why it’s the best choice: It was built specifically for tourists. The station is modern, clean, and has direct connectivity to the Statue complex via electric buses and auto-rickshaws.

Top Train Connections to Ekta Nagar

You don’t need to break your journey at Vadodara anymore. You can take a direct train from several major cities.

1. From Ahmedabad (Most Popular)

• Train: Jan Shatabdi Express (20947/20949)

  

• Time: Approx. 2.5 – 3 hours.

• Why take it: It features the “Vistadome” coach—a glass-roofed coach that offers stunning views of the countryside. Highly recommended!

2. From Mumbai

• Train: Dadar – Ekta Nagar SF Express (12927)

• Schedule: Runs daily. Leaves Dadar around midnight and reaches Ekta Nagar by morning (approx. 7:25 AM).

• Why take it: It’s an overnight journey, saving you a day of travel. You arrive fresh in the morning.

3. From Delhi

• Train: Gujarat Sampark Kranti Express (20945)

• Schedule: Bi-weekly options are available.

• Travel Time: ~14 hours.

(Pro Tip: If you can’t find a direct train to Ekta Nagar, book a ticket to Vadodara Junction (BRC). It is a major hub about 90 km away, and you can easily grab a taxi or bus for the remaining 2-hour drive.)

How to Reach the Statue from the Station

Once you get off at Ekta Nagar, you are in an “Electric Vehicle Only” zone. Here is how you cover the last 5 km:

1. The Free AC Bus (Best Value)

• Cost: Free (included with your Statue of Unity entry ticket).

  

• Where to catch it: Right outside the station exit.

• Route: The buses run in a loop, connecting the Railway Station -> Parking -> Statue Entry Gate -> Other attractions (like Jungle Safari).

2. Pink Auto Rickshaws (Fastest)

• Cost: ₹50 – ₹100 approx. (Rates are fixed by the administration).

• What are they: These are electric rickshaws driven exclusively by local tribal women. They are safe, quick, and support the local livelihood.

• Availability: You will find a line of them waiting just outside the station.

Where to Stay: Hotels Near the Station

Since the laser show ends late in the evening, I highly recommend staying overnight.

• Luxury: The Tent City (1 & 2). These are premium glamping tents right next to the river. It’s expensive but offers a unique experience.

• Mid-Range: Ramada Encore. Located very close to the statue, offering standard 4-star comfort.

• Budget: BRG Budget Stay. A government-run facility that is clean and very affordable, though you need to book it well in advance online.

Traveler Tips for a Smooth Visit

• Closed on Mondays: The Statue of Unity and most surrounding attractions are closed for maintenance every Monday. Do not plan your trip for this day!

• Book Everything Online: Tickets are rarely sold offline effectively. You must book your entry ticket, viewing gallery ticket, and even the glow garden ticket on the official website (soutickets.in) before you arrive.

• Viewing Gallery Slots: The ticket to go up the statue (to the chest level) has specific time slots. If you miss your slot, they might not let you in.

• Laser Show: This happens around 7:00 PM – 7:30 PM. The best view is from the campus ground, not from the dam view point.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Is there a cloakroom at Ekta Nagar Railway Station?

A: Yes, there is a cloakroom (locker facility) at the station where you can leave your luggage if you are visiting for just one day.

Q: Can I drive my own car to the Statue?

A: You can drive up to the parking area near Ekta Nagar. From there, private vehicles are generally not allowed inside the main complex; you must hop on the free shuttle bus.

Q: How far is Vadodara airport from the Statue of Unity?

A: Vadodara Airport is the nearest airport, about 90 km away. A taxi from the airport will cost roughly ₹2,000 – ₹3,000.

Conclusion

Reaching the Statue of Unity is easier than ever with the dedicated Ekta Nagar Railway Station. Whether you take the scenic Vistadome train from Ahmedabad or an overnight express from Mumbai, the journey is comfortable and well-organized.

Just remember: Book your tickets online, avoid Mondays, and definitely take a ride in the Pink Autos to support the local women.