4-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary to Statue of Unity

Monday, August 28: Arriving at Vadodara

Start your trip by arriving at Vadodara, the nearest airport to the Statue of Unity. Check flight prices and book your tickets here. Once you reach Vadodara, check-in at a hotel and rest for a while. In the afternoon, visit the beautiful Laxmi Vilas Palace, one of the largest private residences in the world, known for its stunning architecture and lush gardens. In the evening, explore the bustling Mandvi Gate and indulge in some local street food.

• Laxmi Vilas Palace: Entrance fee: INR 200 per person, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Mandvi Gate: Free entry, Time spent: 1-2 hours

Tuesday, August 29: Excursion to Champaner-Pavagadh

Embark on a day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Champaner-Pavagadh. Start your morning by visiting the Champaner Fort, an impressive historical site with ancient ruins. Take a cable car ride to the top of Pavagadh Hill, where you'll find the Kalika Mata Temple. Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. In the afternoon, explore the Jami Masjid, a beautifully crafted mosque. In the evening, return to Vadodara and relax at your hotel.

• Champaner Fort: Entrance fee: INR 20 per person, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Kalika Mata Temple: Free entry, Cable car ride: INR 120 per person, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Jami Masjid: Entrance fee: INR 20 per person, Time spent: 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• A popular breakfast spot near Champaner-Pavagadh is Panchamrut Restaurant, known for its delicious traditional Indian breakfast dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 150 rupees per person.
• For lunch, try The Grand Pavilion, a charming restaurant in Vadodara that serves a variety of cuisines including Indian, Chinese, and Continental. Average cost for a meal is about 300 rupees per person.
• In the evening, dine at Dynasty Restaurant, a fine dining establishment in Vadodara known for its exquisite Chinese and Thai cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 500 rupees per person.

Wednesday, August 30: Exploring Vadodara

Spend the day exploring Vadodara's cultural and historical sites. Start your morning with a visit to the Sayaji Gardens, a peaceful park perfect for a leisurely stroll. Then, head to the Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery, where you can admire a diverse collection of art, artifacts, and historical exhibits. In the afternoon, visit the EME Temple, a unique temple dedicated to the Indian Army. In the evening, take a relaxing boat ride at Sursagar Lake and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

• Sayaji Gardens: Free entry, Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery: Entrance fee: INR 10 per person, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• EME Temple: Free entry, Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Sursagar Lake: Boat ride: INR 20 per person, Time spent: 1-2 hours

Thursday, August 31: Statue of Unity

On your last day, visit the spectacular Statue of Unity, the world's tallest statue dedicated to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Start your morning by exploring the statue complex, where you can learn about the life and achievements of Sardar Patel. Take an elevator to the viewing gallery for panoramic views of the surrounding area. In the afternoon, visit the Sardar Sarovar Dam, a remarkable engineering marvel. Enjoy a boat ride to get a closer look at the dam. In the evening, return to Vadodara and depart for your next destination.

• Statue of Unity: Entrance fee: INR 350 per person, Time spent: 3-4 hours
• Sardar Sarovar Dam: Entrance fee: INR 30 per person, Boat ride: INR 100 per person, Time spent: 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

If you have some extra time during your visit to Vadodara, consider exploring the following off the beaten path attractions and local favorites:

• Kirti Mandir: Pay homage to Mahatma Gandhi at this memorial dedicated to his life and teachings.
• Mandvi Gate Night Market: Visit this bustling market in the evening to experience the vibrant atmosphere and indulge in delicious street food.
• Chakli Circle: Take a leisurely walk or go for a morning jog at this beautiful circular garden surrounded by lush greenery.