TOWN OF SERENDIPITY

Nestled in the Narmada district of Gujarat, Kevadia is a quaint little town popular amongst travellers for its haven of undiscovered spots, and the world’s tallest tower. As I stepped into its beauty for the first time in my life, here’s Kevadia through my eyes.

- Parineeta Sethi

I was invited as a speaker at the Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) Conclave in March, but when I was informed it would be taking place in Kevadia in Gujarat, I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t rather taken aback. Why Kevadia… Well, I decided to set out for the conference and find out more about the destination they had chosen. I thought I knew India very well, but I must admit my ignorance in this case. I have to say, Kevadia was a pleasant surprise. It is certainly not a village in the middle of nowhere that I had presumed I was heading to.

A comfortable two-hour drive from Baroda is situated in this must-visit town. It boasts of the tallest statue in the world - “The Statue of Unity “ - that towers over the superbly well-maintained town. It also houses the famous Sardar Sarovar dam.

The town’s circuit also covers thirty-five inviting tourist spots; some of which are already open and attracting plenty of tourism. The Valley of Flowers, Vishwa Van, Arogya Van, Jungle Safari, Cactus Garden, Butterfly Park, and River Rafting are on the periphery of the Statue and the Narmada Dam – always seen flocking with tourists.

The Statue of Unity that dominates the city with its sheer size and splendour is the world’s tallest statue at 182 meters and is an ode to our first deputy Prime Minister of Independent India - Sardar Vallabhai Patel. A splendid work of art, this statue has been designed by Indian sculptor Ram V. Sutar was inaugurated by our Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 31st October 2018, marking the 143rd birth anniversary of Sardar Patel. It has since become a talking point in tourism circles across the world.