Leave early to allow check-in security time for domestic flights; Pune Airport is typically busy in the morning. Allow 2–2.5 hours before flight for domestic departures.
Take a morning flight (approx. 1.5–2h) to Vadodara to maximize daytime driving and arrival at Kevadia by early afternoon. If you prefer overnight train, switch to an overnight train option from Pune to Vadodara/Surat.
Private taxi or pre-booked transfer to Kevadia; drive time ~2.5–3h depending on traffic (approx. 125–140 km). Stop briefly en route for refreshments if needed.
Have a relaxed first lunch at your Kevadia hotel (recommended: The Fern Sardar Resort or Narmada Tent City restaurant) — they serve multi-cuisine meals and are convenient after the drive. Check hotel kitchen hours; most serve lunch till 3:00pm.
Check in, freshen up, and review the next day's tickets (Statue of Unity reservations, safari slots, boating/time-slots) — many SoU attractions use timed entry.
Stroll the riverfront promenade and nearby gardens (Valley of Flowers/Butterfly Garden exterior areas) for light evening activity; some gardens stay open until sunset (~6:00–7:00pm). Confirm local closing times at your hotel.
Dine at your hotel or a nearby multi-cuisine restaurant; many properties offer Gujarati thali and Indian mains. If you want local flavors, request a regional Gujarati thali (confirm kitchen closing times).
Rest early to be fresh for a full Statue of Unity day tomorrow; verify next-day attraction booking confirmations and slot times (gallery, boat, safari, light show).
Hearty breakfast at your hotel to prepare for a full day of walking and transfers; hotels usually serve breakfast 7:00–10:00am. Ask for an early plate if you have an early viewing slot.
Visit the Statue of Unity elevator/gallery. Typical visiting hours for the gallery are roughly 9:00am–5:00pm with timed-slot entries; arrive at your booked slot 20–30 minutes early for security and boarding. The gallery gives panoramic views and is the main must-see.
Explore the nearby gardens, valley of flowers, and Ekta Nursery; these landscaped areas are great for photos and easy walking. Gardens typically open from morning until around sunset (check seasonal hours).
Eat at the complex food court or a nearby hotel restaurant for convenient, quick service so you can return for afternoon activities; many stalls serve Indian and light continental options. Food outlets usually operate through mid-afternoon.
Visit the Sardar Sarovar Dam viewpoint and the Museum/Gallery (Museum hours typically 10:00am–6:00pm). The museum explains Sardar Patel's legacy and dam history and pairs well with dam-top views.
Take the river/boat shuttle which runs on scheduled slots (commonly daytime until late afternoon) to view the statue from the water — this is weather and schedule dependent, so confirm your slot in advance.
Attend the Statue of Unity light & sound or laser show if running that evening (start times often between 7:00–8:30pm, check exact schedule & days). Shows are ticketed and popular—book ahead.
Return to your hotel for dinner or choose a nearby resort restaurant; try a Gujarati thali for local flavors. Kitchen closing times vary—confirm with the property.
Get an early breakfast or packed breakfast from the hotel if you have an early jungle safari or birdwatching slot; many safaris depart at sunrise (seasonal).
Join a morning safari (if available) or guided nature walk in the nearby forest/reserve. Safari timings are typically early morning or late afternoon—book slots in advance through the SoU site or your hotel.
Visit the Butterfly Garden and interpretive centers near the Statue complex to learn about local flora and fauna; these are good gentle activities after a safari. Check local opening times, usually morning to evening.
Enjoy a relaxed lunch at Narmada Tent City's restaurant or your hotel — they serve a mix of local and pan-Indian dishes and are convenient for midday downtime.
Explore the small tribal museum and shops selling local crafts and handlooms; great for picking souvenirs and supporting local artisans. Most craft stalls open late morning through early evening.
Return to the hotel for rest, pool time, or a spa treatment if available — a good way to recharge after active mornings. Spa services are subject to availability/advance booking.
Try a specialty or themed dinner at your hotel — many resorts in Kevadia offer regional cuisine nights or multi-cuisine menus. Confirm reservation and kitchen hours.
Eat an early breakfast and either check out if switching hotels or store luggage at your Kevadia hotel if returning the same night. Plan ~2.5–3h drive to Vadodara.
Tour the grand Laxmi Vilas Palace and grounds — palace tours and museum visits usually open by mid-morning; check the palace timing on the day of travel.
Enjoy a popular local restaurant in Vadodara: try traditional Gujarati thali at a recommended place (e.g., 'Mandap' style establishments) or a well-rated multi-cuisine restaurant for a varied menu.
Walk Sayaji Baug's gardens and visit Baroda Museum & Picture Gallery; both are family-friendly and give cultural context to Vadodara. Typical hours: mid-morning to late afternoon—verify for special closures.
Arrive at Pune airport and travel home; wrap up the trip, review photos, and save digital copies of tickets/receipts. If you have energy, enjoy a relaxed dinner at home or a nearby restaurant.
Relax with dinner at home or dine at a local Pune favorite to celebrate the trip end; many Pune restaurants are open late evening. Confirm closing times for specific restaurants.