Built on the Narmada River, Sardar Sarovar Dam is the second largest dam in the world. With its magnificent structure, this dam aims to provide water for irrigation and drinking. Due to its structure and breathtaking views, the dam has gained popularity among tourists. With scenic views and technological importance, the dam has significantly boosted the region’s economy. You can enjoy the sunset here and explore the Statue of Unity. Witness the fast-flowing Narmada River and the functional role of the Sardar Sarovar Dam.
Sardar Sarovar Dam History
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Our first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, laid the foundation of Sardar Sarovar Dam in 1961. The dam was the vision of our first deputy prime minister Sardar Vallabhai Patel. The purpose of the dam was to boost agriculture and generate hydroelectricity. The construction started in 1988 under the leadership of Chief Minister Narendra Modi. It was delayed due to environmental and legal concerns. The building was completed in September 2017. The dam is a significant architectural marvel and has boosted the state’s infrastructure and economy.
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Sardar Sarovar Dam Location
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The Sardar Sarovar Dam was built on the Narmada River in Gujarat. It is located in the Kevadia district, developed for tourism. The nearest city to the Dam is Vadodara. The city is 90 km from the dam and has well-developed infrastructure connecting to major cities.
Sardar Sarovar Dam Architecture
The Sardar Sarovar Dam is the lifeline of Gujarat and the result of decades of dedication from the government. It is a concrete gravity dam built at a height of 163 metres and spread over 1.2 km in length. It ranks second among the concrete dams all over the world. The dam has a discharging capacity of 87,000 cubic metres per second and irrigates the drier regions of Kutch. This Dam is an engineering prowess and offers picturesque views of the Narmada. The Statue of Unity is 3 km away from Sardar Sarovar Dam. Tourists can easily cover these two attractions in a day’s visit.
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Sardar Sarovar Dam Facts
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Here are some quick facts which would enhance your experience while visiting the Sardar Sarovar Dam:
- The Sardar Sarovar Dam has 30 gates, weighing 450 tonnes. It takes around 1 hour to close them.
- The water from the dam is used to irrigate 53 per cent of Gujarat. It is also provided to Rajasthan, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh.
- This Dam has two powerhouses: a riverbed powerhouse and a canal head powerhouse. Each has a capacity of 1200 MW and 250 MW, respectively.
- The dam has earned more than twice its construction cost.
- Significant resistance existed during the construction of the Dam. The constitution led to the displacement of hundreds of families, ecological imbalance, and environmental concerns, but the government overlooked these and went on with the construction.
Sardar Sarovar Dam Visiting Hours And Entry Fees
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The Sardar Sarovar Dam’s infrastructure and environment attract tourists to admire the Narmada River. The dam remains open from 8 AM to 6 PM on all days of the week. Make sure to check the official website before leaving. The entry ticket includes the entrance to the Statue of Unity as well. The entry fees for the Dam are:
- Adult: INR 120
- Children: INR 60
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Vadodara
Places To Visit Near Sardar Sarovar Dam
Multiple attractions for tourists surround the Dam. Here are the details of the places to visit near Sardar Sarovar Dam:
1. Statue Of Unity
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Located 3 km from the Dam, the Statue of Unity is built in memory of the Iron Man of India, Sardar Vallabhai Patel. The statue has a staggering height of 182 metres, making it the tallest statue in the world. There is a Valley of Flowers located within the same area. It is a well-designed garden offering a visual like none other. There is an exhibition hall in the museum at the base of the statue. It highlights the life and struggles of Sardar Vallabhai Patel. There are laser light shows on the unification of India starting at 7:30 PM.
- Visiting hours: 9 AM to 6 PM
- Entry fees: INR 120 (adults); INR 60 (children); INR 350 (Observation deck)
2. Zarwani Waterfall
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Located 50 km from the Dam, Zarwani waterfall is a perfect weekend getaway. It is situated within the Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary and offers an adventurous experience. With opportunities to trek, hike, swim, and photograph wildlife, you can explore the forest trails. Forests and uneven trails surround the path to the waterfall, so make sure to wear sturdy shoes. Enjoy the cascading waterfall to remove all your tiredness. You can also organise a picnic for a day in this embrace of nature.
- Visiting hours: 24 hours
- Entry fees: None
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Gujarat
3. Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary
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Located 50 km from the Dam, Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary is one of India’s most diverse sanctuaries. Spread over a massive 607 square kilometres, the sanctuary houses 575 species of plants and the largest variety of nearly extinct animals. Visitors can go on a safari to explore the beauty of this sanctuary. With the pristine Zarwani waterfall and coveted forests, this ecosystem would be the highlight of your trip. The sanitary is also home to the migratory birds from the Himalayas and Western Ghats.
- Visiting hours: 7 AM to 9 PM
- Entry fees: INR 200 (Adults); INR 100 ( Children)
4. Sardar Patel Zoological Park
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Located 7 km from the Dam, Sardar Patel Zoological Park is a must-visit attraction. Inaugurated on 31st October 2020, the zoo is dedicated to celebrating the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhai Patel. The zoo is spread over 1300 acres and offers a more natural environment to the animals. You can ride the golf cart to explore this massive zoo. The animals are not kept in a cage and are bred in a free environment. The zoo is the abode of 170 wildlife species like the royal Bengal tiger, deer, leopards and much more. There is a dedicated aviary for indigenous and endemic birds as well.
- Visiting hours:8 AM to 5 PM
- Entry fees: INR 200 (Adults); INR 125 (children)
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How To Reach Sardar Sarovar Dam
By Air: The nearest airport is Vadodara Airport. It is an international airport that connects Vadodara to major cities worldwide. From the Vadodara airport, you have to cover a 90 km distance to reach the Sardar Sarovar Dam. The city is well-connected by private cabs, buses, and taxis.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Sardar Sarovar Dam is Kevadia Railway Station, 5 km away. Most trains stop at Vadodara or Ahmedabad railway stations. You can also consider these stations and cover the remaining distance by private cabs.
By Road: You can take a bus or cab from Vadodara to the Dam. Many bus services and cab-sharing services are available for tourists.
Further Read: Picnic Spots In Vadodara
Sardar Sarovar Dam is an architectural gem and symbol of culture and heritage. Serving as a water source in the city, this scenic spot is a must-visit for picnics. If this guide about the Dam motivates you, here are some of the best packages for a trip to Vadodara. Explore the cultural heritage and landmarks of Vadodara.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Sardar Sarovar Dam
What is the best time to visit Sardar Sarovar Dam?
The best time to visit Sardar Sarovar Dam is in the winter months from October to March. The temperature ranges around 15 degrees to 25 degrees Celsius suitable for enjoying a day out.
How much time is required for a trip to Sardar Sarovar Dam?
Around 2 to 3 hours is enough to enjoy the attractions of Sardar Sarovar Dam. You can explore the nearby places in the remaining time to get the most out of your day.
On which day is the Statue of Unity closed?
The Statue of Unity is closed only on Mondays. It remains open from Tuesday to Sunday from 8 AM to 6:30 PM.
What should I take while visiting the Statue of Unity?
While going to visit the Statue of Unity, make sure to carry an ID proof. It is checked before allowing entry to the premises.
What activities can be enjoyed at Sardar Sarovar Dam?
Boat riding is famous here and also visitors can visit the observation deck for panoramic views or explore the nearby attractions.
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