The Statue of Unity is a tribute to the freedom fighter and the Ironman of India, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. It was unveiled on his 143rd birth anniversary on 31st October 2018. The Statue stands 182 meters high, making it one of the tallest monuments in the world. Also, it adds new name in the wonders of India. Even though the statue in itself is the greatest attraction of the place but the place has lots of recreation activities to keep everyone from our group of visitors happily busy on the trip. So here we have discussed the 9-things to do at the Statue of Unity.
More about Statue of Unity
Statues of Unity
The Statue is situated on the Sadhu Bet island, near Rajpipla and Narmada river in Gujarat. It stands facing Sardar Sarovar Dam and 3.2 km away from it. Shining between the Satpura and Vindhyachal mountain ranges.
Things to do at the Statue of Unity
To have an action-packed holiday, the Statue of Unity is the most trending place among travellers. This place also has incredible and astonishing gems for you to explore. Check out these nine activities to do at the Statue of Unity.
1. Laser Light and Sound Show
Laser Light Show
The Laser Light and Sound Show is organized with proper technological advancements at the Statue of Unity. The most popular Laser Light and Sound Show is a Projection Mapping Show. The mighty tall Statue of 182 meters is as well a canvas of the screen where light and sound show depicts the life and times of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The 30 minutes show is conducted through 51 high-resolution projectors fixed at a distance of 600 meters.
2. Tour to Valley of Flowers
Colourful Valley of Flowers, Gujarat
The magnificent Valley of flowers has more than 100 types of flowers, climbers, bamboos and types of grass spread across the Satpura-Vindhyachal side. This Valley of the Flower is currently covers around 250 hectares of area. There is a selfie zone also to create memories.
3. Tour to Sardar Sarovar Dam
Majestic Sardar Sarovar Dam
The majestic view of the dam and a large water reservoir has attracted millions of tourists around the globe. It would be a magnificent sight in the monsoon when the floodgates are open. So one should visit during the monsoon to see it in its full glory. It supplies water to neighbouring states, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat.
4. Nauka Vihar (Boat Ride)
The total duration of each ride is of 45 minutes and eight rides in a day. This ride takes you to the waters of dyke-4 surrounded by lush green forests. The ecosystem around the lake is fascinating. This boating facility at Panchmuli lake has become a popular spot for tourists.
5. Zarwani Cycling Tour
Zarwani means tour of the jungle. If you want an absolute adventurous experience, cycling in this area is a great idea. Zarwani cycling tour starts from the Shrestha Bharat Bhavan complex. This 3 hours cycling tour for 22 km lets you discover beautiful waterfalls, up-down hills and jungles, and splendid points like Dhirakhadi waterfall. You can have tea, snacks, refreshments along with two ‘Makke ki roti’ with ‘Sarson ki chutney’ after enjoying the waterfall and bathing in it. Tickets are available online as well as offline.
6. Khalwani Cycling Tour
The Khalwani cycling tour is open for a limited number of people, only after permission to access this area. The cycling route is 14 km, starting from the Valley of Flowers and then rides through the dam, tent city area and Godbole door. SOU also offers snacks and refreshments to keep you energized while you are cycling.
7. Stay at Tent City
Aerial view of the tent cityRiverside tent city
Resorts near the Statue of Unity include the Narmada Tent City, situated in the Kevadia Colony. The statue of unity tents booking provide comfortable accommodations with luxurious air-conditioned tents and delicious cuisine. The tents are luxurious, with modern amenities, like air conditioners, plush beds, exclusive furniture and private washrooms.
8. Shopping
The Ekta Mall at Statue of Unity covers a 35,000 square feet area. Ekta Mall has handlooms, handicrafts and traditional textile showrooms from various states of India to promote Indian Handicrafts. It is a one-stop-shop for India’s traditional textiles and artisanal handicrafts.
9. Eating Enjoyment
There are a few restaurants near the Statue of Unity which are on the main road. However, an in-house cafeteria is preferable. It has many options, you can buy coupons and order food. There is a huge sitting area. If you have a booking at the Tent City then lavish and delicious cuisine is included in the package.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the statue of unity tent city is during the winter months of October to February, though the site is open all through the year. The Statue of Unity opens at 8:00 AM and closes at 6:00 PM from Tuesday to Sunday.
Concluding we can add that visitors can make their trip memorable by taking a helicopter ride to enjoy a full magnificent view of the Statue of Unity. Those people who like adventurous activities can do night trekking and experience the nature and wooden surroundings of Tent City Narmada. Tour to Statue of Unity has the package with all the aspects of tourism. Be it the adventure, nature or lifestyle tourism. Take a trip for a mixed trip fun.
Have friends in Mumbai Pune and want to spend time together or want to have a perfect relaxing weekend with your family? But aren’t we all tired of taking the weekend trip to the same old Lonavala and Mahabaleshwar? So if you are young at heart and do not look behind easily on the paths less traveled, so here is a list of,
10 untrodden locations/places to visit near Mumbai-Pune.
Valley of Flowers: Kaas plateau
Serenic view of plateau during monsoon
A UNESCO world heritage site, Kaas has colorful wildflowers from purple to white to green to yellow, stretching over a 1000 hectare area. The serene landscape and picturesque greenery are overlooked by a 16th-century Ajinkyatara fort from a height of 3300m. Approximately 01 km away from the plateau is Kamudini Pond dipped in fog, covered with thousand of Kamudini Flower floating on it and lots of cactuses at the edges. One can also visit Bamnoli lake; 10 km away from Kaas Plateau.
Best season to visit
During and after Monsoon
Distance from Pune
137
Distance from Mumbai
267
Things to do
Photography, outdoor camping, trekking and caving
Crocodile and Dolphin Safari at Dapoli
Rare close view of crocodile
Want to see dolphins and crocodiles closely but never got the chance? Want to enjoy a weekend leisurely? A weekend to Dapoli not only offers you tranquil waves crashing on to sand but also amazes you with adventurous water sports activities. “Crocodile Safari” in Maldoli backwaters of Vashishth River gives you an opportunity to spot crocodiles basking on the bank of backwaters. Whereas a boat ride from Karde beach to deep sea offers you early morning Safari, sighting Dolphin Pods. Unhavare about 20 km from Dapoli is known for hot sulfur springs believed to have medicinal value. Enjoy a dip in the hot spring if you are on a long holiday in Dapoli.
Best season to visit
September to February
Distance from Pune
184
Distance from Mumbai
267
Things to do
Sightseeing, safari, dip in hot spring, water sports, Konkani cuisine
Cherapunji of Maharashtra: Amboli
Flabbergasting Falls
Amboli lies in the Sahyadri hills of Western India, one of the world’s “Eco Hot-Spots”. It’s a paradise for Amphibian and Reptiles lover. You may have heard experts saying that “Forest gets Alive at night.” It’s time to come and feel it in Amboli, during exclusive “Night Trails”. And even if snakes and amphibians is not your calling, Amboli is enchantingly beautiful just after the monsoons, when the entire region is covered in a lush green carpet, with flowers blooming everywhere! Mist shrouded jungle paths and huge waterfalls are some of Amboli’s magical sights.
Best season to visit
August to March
Distance from Pune
348
Distance from Mumbai
489
Things to do
Sightseeing, safari, photography, Konkani cuisine
Troplical Paradise: Maachli Farmstay
Life amidst nature
Situated in beautiful village Parule, on Konkan coast and in Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra, Maachli offers tropical paradise away from all the hustle bustle of the cities. The Cottages are conceptualized as Maachli which is a regional term for the huts made to protect the crop. The cottages are tucked away in a very dense plantation, thus offer abundant, rich, pollution free and healthy environment for the Nature lovers. A 15-minute drive from the property enables you to be amidst the near-white beaches along the seas. The host’s mother herself strives to provide Saraswat cuisine to the guests. It’s a treat for food lovers.
Best season to visit
All Year Long
Distance from Pune
412
Distance from Mumbai
555
Things to do
Hikes, pottery, sightseeing, boat ride
Dual City: Nashik
Panoramic view of Nashik
Famous for its numerous temples, the city is also much famed for its numerous vineyards and wine tasting tours. Sula Vineyard is popular all across the nation for being the finest place in the country to produce wines. Then, what can be better than packing your bags for a tour to these vineyards and getting a chance to taste the wines relaxing in the vineyards itself? Offering many thrilling activities as well for the travellers to indulge in, Nashik is a good option for a driveable vacation.
Velas is a small eco-village in the Ratnagiri district of Maharashtra. It is well known for its beaches which reflect nature in its best preserved and pristine form. An NGO named Sahyadri Nisargmitra and the villagers committee has taken the initiative to conserve Olive Ridley Turtles by providing protection to their eggs till they hatch. It’s indeed a magical moment to see a baby turtle coming out of the egg and then finding its way to the sea by taking those little baby steps. Besides Velas beach, there are several other tourist attractions like the Bankot Fort and the Harihareshwar Temple.
Best season to visit
February to April
Distance from Pune
194
Distance from Mumbai
224
Things to do
Bird watching, ferry rides, sightseeing
Blessed with all: Bhandardara
Bhandardara, in the Sahyadri ranges, is bestowed with all the nature’s blessings. From lush greenery to waterfalls to the mountains in the backdrop, it becomes a perfect weekend gateway for city dwellers. Apart from its scenic beauty, Bhandardara has its share of historical places too. If you are a history buff, make sure you visit Ratangad Fort. Amruteshwar Temple and Kalsubai Temple are the known temples in this hill town. The place also hosts fireflies’ festival in the pre-monsoon season.
Best season to visit
All Year Long
Distance from Pune
172
Distance from Mumbai
163
Things to do
Camping, trekking, bike and cycle rides, ecotours, caving
Abode of peacocks: Morachi Chincholi
Dance your soul with peacocks.
A village with more peacocks than people, Morachi Chincholi is actually an unofficial peacock sanctuary. It’s a great weekend getaway for natural rejuvenation. The mango farms, the tractor ride, the bullock cart ride and the peacock dances give a glimpse of rural life. One can also visit Nighoj village around which is famous for the potholes of river Kukadi & hub of other birds.
Best season to visit
June to January
Distance from Pune
55
Distance from Mumbai
188
Things to do
Bird watching, star gazing, magic and puppet shows
Durshet
Scenic beauty of durshet
Set against the stunning Sahyadri ranges, Durshet is situated between two Ganesh temples of Pali and Mahad and is just off the highway near the village of Khopoli. Nestled amidst a pictorial landscape, resorts in Durshet are ideal to rejuvenate your mind and put your soul at ease. It offers a plethora of activities such as butterfly trails, nature trails, waterfalls exploration to name a few. The proximity of this place with famous attractions like Sidi Ashtavnayak Temples at Pali and IMAGICA Park are some other added perks that make this escapade worth visiting.
Best season to visit
September To February
Distance from Pune
98
Distance from Mumbai
76
Things to do
Bird watching, star gazing, magic and puppet shows
BhimaShankar
En-route Bhimashankar
Bhimashankar is a popular temple town. It is among one of the twelve traditional ‘Jyotirlingam’ shrines in India. For people having a great interest in nature and trekking, Bhimashankar is an ideal destination to visit. The Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary has rich fauna and numerous sacred groves, making it a beautiful place to visit especially during the offset of the monsoon season. Lush greenery and calm surrounding make it the best picnic spots near Mumbai and Pune.
Monsoon is a great time to pack up your bags and do the outbound to observe nature at its raw best. Touring in a country like India, which is rich in its natural heritage. Here is the list of places you can visit to look for the pleasure of monsoon in India. These places are best to visit in India during July-September.
List of 20 most popular places one can visit during monsoon.
Saputara
Falls amidst greenery
Gujarat’s solitary hill station is a popular tourist spot as soon as the rains begin. With the tourism department organizing the monsoon festival every year. It is a perfect place for a weekend getaway. Relax at the lakeside with corn on the cob. Paddle boat with friends in the lake. Witness the magnanimity of Gira Waterfalls. Get awed by the variety of flora at Waghai Botanical gardens and get familiar with the Warli paintings and art, as you breathe in a bit of Gujarat.
Lonavala
Photo of Lonavala, Maharashtra
This one needs no introduction, as it stands out to be every Mumbaikar’s and Punekar’s favourite weekend destination. Located exactly at the midpoint of two cities, the journey is as pleasant as the destination. Mumbai-Pune express highway offers a completely different sight in the monsoons, with waterfalls mushrooming all along the road. Enjoy the long drives with near and dear ones while having a bite at the famous Chikki and jelly chocolates.
Matheran
Ways in Matheran. Clicked by Krutarth Vashi
India’s smallest hill station offers you the biggest of surprises in the monsoons. As the entire area gets covered with a blanket of greens, the viewpoints present a soothing view to sore eyes. The entire hill station is a no-vehicle zone. The only way to explore is by foot or horseback, which is an excitement in itself. Witness the sunrise and sunset behind the hills in the company of macaques while sipping a cup of tea among the clouds.
For those looking for a peaceful weekend, India’s first planned hill station is where you need to head to. On the banks of an artificial lake, stands a peaceful town, away from the hustle and monotony, with lovely views all around. There are lots of waterfalls on the way to the city and the valleys offer breathtaking views. In short, an ideal place to visit for spending a lazy weekend. Counting in the list of places to visit near Mumbai and Pune during monsoon.
Goa
Image of Arambol Beach, Goa. Clicked by Rohit Gupta
Image of Vagator Beach, Goa. Clicked by Rohit Gupta
For all those who think Goa is a beach destination, they must visit Goa during monsoon to see its other side. Charao Island, a little-known place just 30 mins from Panaji is the place to be in Goa when it rains. For hikers and nature lovers, Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is equivalent to a utopian society. But the cherry on the cake is the magnificent Dudhsagar Falls which offers a completely mesmerizing view of the monsoon. Explore an unknown side of Goa at a dirt cheap rate while devouring the Goan Fish Curry and nip of Fenny.
Agumbe
Forests in Agumbe
An absolute gem of a place in the heart of the Western Ghats. The serpentine roads lead you up to the peak which offers a breathtaking view of the forests. The ruins of Kaveladurg fort are perfect for a day out. Trek across the paddy fields enjoying the nature at its very best and hike all the way to the endpoint to witness a spectacular sight on three sides.
A trekker’s paradise and a bike rider’s holy grail, Kudremukh National Park is yet another hidden gem of Karnataka. It springs to life during monsoon. If green pastures, misty backdrops & cool breeze are your things, Kudremukh should be on your bucket list. These places are best to visit in August in India.
Gokarna
Beachside in Gokarna.
For those who feel that Goa is too mainstream, Gokarna is where you must head to. A few hours ride from Goa, Gokarna is an amalgamation of beaches and mountains. It has the lesser hustle and is more peaceful than any of the beaches in Goa. The beaches are secluded, peaceful and offer a beautiful view of the sun setting into the Arabian Sea. Relax on the shacks of the beachside cafes with chilled beer and Chicken Ghee Roast. Its the speciality of the region, while enjoying the stunning view around.
Munnar
Serene tea plantations
The gorgeous tea estates will escort you all through curvy roads of this tiny hill station hidden in the Western Ghats. More reasons to visit Munnar in August of 2018 is the blooming of Neelakurunji, a rare blue flower that blooms once in 12 years, covering the region in a blanket of blue. Witness the raw beauty of nature at Eravikulam National Park. The enigma of nature in Neelakurunji Flowers, freshness of the tea gardens and the aura of the indigenous Nilgiri Tahr at Munnar this August.
Pristine and surreal backwaters surrounded by the beautiful paddy fields and coconut plantations on either side await you as you set your foot aboard the houseboats and sail lazily into them. August marks the harvesting festival, Onam, in Kerala and is celebrated with great pomp and gaiety. The snake boat races are the main attraction of Onam and it is one experience to witness them. 100-120 men row the boats in an absolute synchronization while singing “Kuttanadan Punjayile” in the spirits as high as the coconut trees surrounding the area. Such places are must visit in August in India with family.
Wayanad
Surreal steps in nature
Adorning the northern hills of Kerala is the beautiful district of Wayanad. This area is famous for its large amount of camping and trekking trails, breathtaking waterfalls, caves, bird watching sites, flora, fauna and an overall plethora of magnificent sights. At Neelimala’s summit, you can get a view of the Meenmutty Falls, the largest of its kind in Wayanad. Get delighted by the range of exotic products including spices, coffee, tea, bamboo products, honey and herbal plants available here. Release your tensions with the Ayurvedic massage and get refreshed by the aura of the place.
Andaman Islands
View from the Island. Clicked by Krutarth Vashi.
Far off the mainland, there are a group of 400 little islands collectively known as the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The volcanic islands are home to the best beaches in India. A rich underwater diversity makes it a top spot for scuba diving and snorkelling. Relive the moments of Indian Freedom Struggle at Cellular Jail. Witness the architectural genius at Ross Island. Get awed by the beauty of Radhanagar beach. Swim with fishes at North Bay Island and get lost in the mystical Chidiya Tapu beach while witnessing the unaltered beauty of nature.
Meghalaya
Live root bridges.
‘It always rains in Meghalaya! That’s why it’s so beautiful!’ Meghalaya is gaining a reputation as a natural adventure playground, a prime destination for trekking, caving and canyoning and tribal encounters. Clouds and forests all around, Meghalaya has the best of the natural heritage in India. Be it the natural root bridges at Khasi hills or the clandestine caves at Jaintia. The magnanimous Nohkalikai waterfalls, these all are unique in their own ways. Experience the spectacle of rains and virgin beauty of the wettest place on earth like never before.
Valley of Flowers
Blooming flowers at the Valley
Perched at an altitude of 14000 feet above sea level, with the verdant beauty of the snow-capped Himalayas in the backdrop, the green meadows and cotton-like clouds blend in to make a dreamlike valley of flowers trek. Known as the most beautiful trek in the world with the blue Primula, Valley of Flowers Uttarakhand is a must do the trek for nature lovers. Blessed with exotic flowers, faunas and magnificent views this trek will take you to the world of snow clad mountains and high cliffs. Listen to the sound of birds chirping and the musical sound of the stream during the trek. The soothing breeze and the enchanting beauty lure away nature and the photography lovers.
Rishikesh
It is every adventure enthusiast’s dream destination, Rishikesh offers you a plethora of options to try to satiate the adrenaline appetite. The gushing waters of Alaknanda create roaring rapids as you paddle your raft through them without ending up in the water. Rishikesh also hosts India’s highest bungee jump platform, paragliding, hang-gliding, kayaking and bridge slithering among various activities one can choose from. Camp by the riverside with barbeque and music for a perfect ending to a wonderful adventure. Also, soothe with some peace through yogic training.
Five days of Hampta Pass & Chandratal Lake trekking will enable you to spend ample time amidst the flabbergasting serenity mixed with fun and excitement. The Chandratal Lake Trek is a treasure trove for the ardent as well as amateur trekkers and holds the charm and allurement like any other treks in the Himalayas. The scenic landscape exposes trails that meander through alpine forests, huge rock formations, and remarkably rich vegetation. Chandratal Lake trekking experience introduces you to the captivating beauty of the Himalayan meadows, flora and fauna of the Lahaul and Spiti valley. It also gets you close to the life and spirit amidst the lofty peaks. With easy gradients, climbs and descends, this trek will definitely satiate all your quench for trekking in the Indian Himalayas. It is the best place to visit in August in Himachal.
The forts have been strongholds of the Maratha rulers since the reigns of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Tactically built over hilltop overseeing the valleys, these forts provide a gem of a sight after the rains turn everything green. Lohgadh, Raigadh & Sinhagadh forts are the most famous of the forts, offering a stunning view alongside a brilliant architecture. Visapur fort, Harihar fort and Torna fort are a few other in this long list of breathtaking beauty and architectural marvel. Be amazed by the rich history and the magnificent view of the Maratha bastions this monsoon in Maharashtra.
Pondicherry
Magnificent view at Pondicherry
‘Bonjour’ is what you’ll say as you step foot on the erstwhile French Colony in India. The hotels, restaurants and ‘lifestyle’ shops sell a seductive vision of the French-subcontinental aesthetic, enhanced by Gallic creative types and Indian artists and designers. The internationally famous Sri Aurobindo Ashram and its offshoot just north of town, Auroville, draw large numbers of spiritually minded visitors. Pondicherry’s vibe: less faded colonial-era villa, more bohemian-chic, New Age–meets–Old World hang-out on the international travel trail. The beaches are just as peaceful as the city, making it a must visit place for seeking inner peace.
Rajasthan’s best-kept secret, shining on the shores of the shimmering Lake Pichola and surrounded by the brilliant Aravali ranges, Udaipur has a romance of setting unmatched in all India. The grandiloquent palaces, havelis & the narrow streets add a human touch to the city’s natural charms. For a tourist, the tranquillity of boat ride on the lake, colourful bazaars, lively arts and the tempting shops along the lovely countryside that can be explored and enjoyed to the fullest. Make it more enriching while feasting on some of the most delicious street food the city has to offer.
Situated on a ridge, above a dense alpine forest, a small village in the Uttarakhand offers lovely panoramic views of the snow clad mountain peaks, fresh air & relaxed atmosphere. Kausani is a backpacker’s happy place and an author’s dreamland, offering exquisite views of the massive Nanda Devi and Panchachuli Peaks. The glory of the views reaches its pinnacle at dawn and dusk. Sun-rays turn the peaks into golden during sunrise and crimson at sunset, making a spectacle to observe and relieved in the memory box.
Dear couples, this might also solve your problem. These are the best honeymoon destinations in India during monsoon. Breeze with your partner in the ‘awesome mausam’.
There you have the best 20 places to visit this monsoon, so pack up your bags, pick up a place or two and blend in the surroundings of the mesmerizing places of our Incredible India. India is happening during New Year’s too. So also have a look at New Year celebrating destinations of India.
Professional Travel Blogger and founder of The Ghumakkads. Bhawna Mohinani is graduate in Mass Communication & Postgraduate in Travel and Tourism Management.
