The Statue of Liberty, Christ the Redeemer in Rio, Copenhagen’s Little Mermaid, the Great Sphinx of Giza, Easter Island’s Moai—some statues are undeniably famous, standing as witnesses to our world and our times. Yet the tallest of them all remains surprisingly unknown to most people. Perhaps that’s because it was only completed in India as recently as 2018.
597 Feet—Even 787 Feet Including Its Base
After five years of construction and over $360 million invested, the Statue of Unity was inaugurated on October 31, 2018, on an island near the Sardar Sarovar Dam in the Indian state of Gujarat.
Standing 597 feet tall (182 meters), or 787 feet (240 meters) including its base, it’s now the world’s tallest statue—four times the height of the Statue of Liberty. The monument depicts Indian political leader Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, who, like Gandhi, hailed from Gujarat. This connection explains why this western Indian state was chosen as its home.
As a powerful symbol, its name “Statue of Unity” emphasizes its mission to serve future generations as a beacon of India’s unity and integrity despite its diversity.
A Monument Built from the Ground Up
Designed by Indian sculptor Ram V. Sutar, this 3,500-ton statue combines reinforced concrete, steel, and bronze. In an additional symbolic gesture, materials from melted-down agricultural tools donated by Indian farmers were incorporated into its structure.
Since its inauguration, the statue and its surrounding complex have naturally become a major tourist destination. Visitors can ascend to the observation gallery at 443 feet (135 meters) high for panoramic views of the Narmada River flowing below, the surrounding mountains, and the dam. The site also features a comprehensive complex including a museum dedicated to both the monument and the historical figure it represents, a memorial, a hotel, and an artificial lake.
Hello! I’m Ben Fischer, a travel enthusiast who has journeyed far and wide to bring you unique and inspiring stories. Each destination is a new adventure for me, a chance to explore diverse cultures and share unforgettable experiences.
In my articles, I take you beyond mere descriptions of places. I share the encounters, special moments, and anecdotes that make each trip unique. My writing is an invitation to see the world through my eyes, blending practical tips with personal insights.
As a lifelong traveler, I approach each journey with respect and curiosity, eager to uncover the stories hidden in every corner of the globe.
