The Statue of Unity, located near Kevadia in Gujarat, is the world's tallest statue and a major tourist attraction. Pune, a bustling city in Maharashtra, serves as a popular starting point for travelers eager to explore this iconic monument dedicated to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.

This route is favored by tourists and weekend travelers alike, offering a blend of cultural exploration and scenic travel. In this guide, you will find practical advice on all transport modes from Pune to the Statue of Unity, including train, bus, car, and flight options, along with tips to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

Getting from Pune to Statue of Unity – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a cost-effective and comfortable way to reach the Statue of Unity from Pune. Although there is no direct train to Kevadia, nearby stations like Vadodara and Bharuch connect well with Pune.

• Key stations:

  Pune Junction is the main departure point. You can take trains to Vadodara Junction or Bharuch, which are approximately 400 km from Pune and well connected to Kevadia by road.

• Travel time and cost:

  Trains from Pune to Vadodara take around 8–10 hours, with ticket prices ranging from ₹500 for sleeper class to ₹1,500 for AC classes, depending on the train.

• Frequency and comfort:

  Multiple trains run daily, including the Pune–Vadodara Express and the Pune–Ahmedabad Shatabdi. AC coaches provide comfortable seating, and trains are generally punctual.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  From Vadodara or Bharuch, you can hire taxis or take state transport buses to Kevadia, which is about 90 km away and takes 2–3 hours by road.

• Booking tips:

  Book tickets via IRCTC well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons or weekends to secure preferred classes.

Bus

Buses offer a budget-friendly option, though the journey is longer and less comfortable than trains or flights. Direct buses to Kevadia from Pune are rare, so a combination of buses is usually required.

• Route details:

  Take a Maharashtra State Transport (MSRTC) or private bus from Pune to Vadodara or Surat, then switch to Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation (GSRTC) buses heading to Kevadia.

• Travel time and cost:

  Pune to Vadodara bus journeys take about 10–12 hours, costing ₹600–₹900. Vadodara to Kevadia buses take 2–3 hours, costing around ₹100–₹150.

• Bus types and comfort:

  Opt for Volvo or deluxe buses for better comfort on long routes. Night buses are available but can be tiring due to road conditions.

• Booking and schedules:

  Tickets can be booked online via MSRTC and GSRTC portals. Check timings carefully to coordinate bus changes.

• Challenges:

  Road traffic near Pune and Vadodara can cause delays, and buses may not have frequent stops near Kevadia, so plan accordingly.

Car/Self-Drive

Driving from Pune to the Statue of Unity offers flexibility and the chance to explore scenic routes. The distance is approximately 530 km via NH48 and NH47, taking about 9–10 hours.

• Route details:

  The recommended route is Pune–Mumbai Expressway to NH48 towards Surat and Vadodara, then NH47 to Kevadia. This highway route is well maintained with tolls.

• Road conditions and rest stops:

  The expressways and national highways are smooth, with multiple fuel stations and eateries like McDonald's and local dhabas. Plan stops at Surat or Vadodara for meals and rest.

• Travel tips:

  Start early in the morning to avoid Mumbai and Pune city traffic. Avoid night driving during monsoon due to slippery patches near the Western Ghats.

• Car rentals and tolls:

  Self-drive cars can be rented from Pune with providers like Zoomcar or Revv. Expect toll charges totaling around ₹500–₹700 one way.

• Parking and local commute:

  Parking is available near the Statue of Unity complex, but it can get crowded during peak seasons. Consider hiring local taxis or electric vehicles for sightseeing.

Flight

Flying is the fastest way to cover the long distance between Pune and Kevadia, though Kevadia itself does not have a commercial airport. The nearest airports are Vadodara and Surat.

• Flight details:

  Direct flights from Pune to Vadodara or Surat are limited, often requiring a connection via Mumbai or Ahmedabad. Flight duration is around 1.5 to 3 hours depending on the route.

• Airlines and costs:

  Airlines like IndiGo and Air India operate on these routes. Ticket prices range from ₹3,000 to ₹6,000 one way, varying by season and advance booking.

• Airport to Kevadia:

  From Vadodara or Surat airport, taxis or GSRTC buses can be taken to Kevadia, approximately 90–120 km away, taking 2–3 hours.

• Booking tips:

  Book flights early to get better fares. Check for connecting flights and allow ample transit time to avoid missing connections.

• Advantages:

  Flying saves significant travel time compared to road or train, ideal for short trips or business travelers.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers from Pune to the Statue of Unity, ensuring a hassle-free journey with clear steps and useful tips.

• Book your tickets in advance:

  Whether by train, bus, or flight, secure your tickets early via IRCTC, MSRTC, GSRTC, or airline websites to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Reach the departure point early:

  Arrive at Pune Junction or Pune bus stand at least 30 minutes before departure to find your platform or boarding point without rush.

• Plan your last-mile transport:

  From Vadodara or Surat, pre-book taxis or check GSRTC bus schedules to Kevadia to avoid waiting times upon arrival.

• Pack essentials for the journey:

  Carry water, snacks, and a power bank, especially for long bus or train rides. Comfortable clothing and light luggage help during transfers.

• Use local transport at Kevadia:

  Upon arrival, use prepaid taxis or electric shuttles available at the Statue of Unity complex for sightseeing and nearby attractions.

• Stay updated on weather and traffic:

  Check local weather forecasts and traffic apps like Google Maps or INRIX to adjust your travel times and routes accordingly.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety first:

  Avoid traveling alone at night on highways, especially during monsoon. Use trusted taxi services like Ola or Uber in cities and prepaid counters at stations.

• Food and water:

  Carry bottled water and eat at reputed restaurants or dhabas with good hygiene ratings. Avoid street food during transit to prevent stomach issues.

• Booking strategy:

  Use official portals like IRCTC for trains and MSRTC/GSRTC for buses. For flights, compare fares on multiple platforms and book early for discounts.

• Local commute at destination:

  Kevadia offers electric vehicle rides and battery-operated buses inside the Statue of Unity complex, which are eco-friendly and convenient.

• Luggage management:

  Travel light to ease transfers between trains, buses, and taxis. Keep valuables in a secure bag and carry a small daypack for essentials.

• Seasonal travel warnings:

  Avoid traveling during heavy monsoon rains due to slippery roads and possible delays. Summers can be hot, so carry sunscreen and stay hydrated.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to visit the Statue of Unity from Pune is during the cooler months from October to March. This period offers pleasant weather for travel and sightseeing.

Summer months (April to June) can be hot and humid, while monsoon (July to September) brings heavy rains affecting road conditions and visibility.

• Avoid peak traffic hours in Pune and Vadodara, typically 8–10 AM and 6–8 PM, to minimize delays.

• Plan your departure early morning to reach Kevadia by afternoon, allowing time for sightseeing before sunset.

• Steer clear of major festival weekends like Diwali and Navratri when trains and roads are crowded.

• Check weather forecasts before traveling during monsoon to avoid disruptions due to flooding or landslides.

Arrival at Statue of Unity & What to Expect

On arrival at Kevadia, travelers are greeted by the impressive Statue of Unity complex, which includes museums, gardens, and viewing galleries. The area is well organized with clear signage and facilities.

Local transport options include prepaid taxis, electric shuttles, and battery-operated buses that connect various points within the complex. Nearby attractions like the Valley of Flowers and Sardar Sarovar Dam are easily accessible.

Accommodation options range from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels in Kevadia and Vadodara. It is advisable to book stays in advance during peak tourist seasons.

Conclusion

Among all options, traveling by train to Vadodara followed by a taxi or bus to Kevadia offers the best balance of cost, comfort, and convenience. This route is well connected, affordable, and allows travelers to enjoy the scenic landscapes of Gujarat.

With proper planning and advance bookings, your journey from Pune to the Statue of Unity can be smooth and memorable. This guide equips you with all the necessary information to travel confidently and make the most of your visit to one of India's most iconic landmarks.