Quick answer: The Statue of Belief, also called Vishwas Swaroopam, is a 369-foot (112-metre) statue of Lord Shiva at Ganesh Tekri in Nathdwara, Rajasthan. It’s widely described as the world’s tallest Shiva statue. It was unveiled on 29 October 2022 by the spiritual leader Morari Bapu, with then Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot present. Lifts take visitors to viewing galleries at about 20, 110 and 270 feet. The complex is usually open from about 10 am to 10 pm, with an evening light show. It’s about 1 km from the famous Shrinathji Temple and roughly 300 km, or 5.5 to 6 hours by road, from Ahmedabad.
A Giant Shiva in the Hills of Mewar
Imagine driving through the low hills of southern Rajasthan. Then, as you round a bend, you see it. A huge figure of Lord Shiva sits calmly on a hilltop, eyes half-closed in meditation, a trident by his side. It towers over the town below. That’s the Statue of Belief.
Since it opened in 2022, this statue has become one of the most talked-about sights near Gujarat. For families in Ahmedabad, it’s now a popular weekend trip, often combined with darshan at the Shrinathji Temple and a visit to Udaipur.
In this complete guide, we cover everything you need to know about the Statue of Belief. First, we explain what it is, why it was built and how big it really is. Next, we look at what’s inside and the attractions around it. Then, we share tickets, timings, how to reach and where to stay. Finally, we suggest nearby places, plans and tips.
A note on sources: We’ve used reference works and news reports from the time of the opening. Ticket prices and timings can change, so we flag them and suggest you check before you go.
Statue of Belief: Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Vishwas Swaroopam, Vishwas Swarupam |
| Deity | Lord Shiva, seated in meditation |
| Height | 369 feet (about 112 metres) |
| Pedestal | About 110 feet (34 metres) |
| Location | Ganesh Tekri, Nathdwara, Rajsamand district, Rajasthan |
| Unveiled | 29 October 2022 |
| Unveiled by | Morari Bapu, with CM Ashok Gehlot and Speaker CP Joshi present |
| Conceived by | Businessman Madan Paliwal, chairman of the Miraj Group |
| Sculptor | Naresh Kumawat |
| Viewing galleries | At about 20 ft, 110 ft and 270 ft, reached by lifts |
| Nandi statue | About 25 ft tall and 37 ft long |
| Site area | About 16 to 17 acres |
| Timings | About 10 am to 10 pm (confirm locally) |
| Distance from Ahmedabad | About 300 km |
| Nearest airport | Maharana Pratap Airport, Udaipur |
What Is the Statue of Belief?
The Statue of Belief is a giant statue of Lord Shiva in Nathdwara, a holy town in Rajasthan’s Rajsamand district. It shows Shiva seated with crossed legs, in a calm, meditative pose, holding his trishul, or trident.
Its Hindi name, Vishwas Swaroopam, means “the form of belief” or “the image of faith”. So, the statue is meant as a symbol of faith, standing in a town already famous for devotion to Lord Krishna as Shrinathji.
Today, it’s both a religious landmark and a tourist attraction. Besides the statue, the site has gardens, viewing galleries, a light show, food courts and adventure rides.
Find it: Open map
How Tall Is the Statue of Belief?
The Statue of Belief stands 369 feet, or about 112 metres, tall, according to reference works. This includes a pedestal of about 110 feet. In other words, it’s roughly as tall as a 30- to 35-storey building.
Reference works describe it as the world’s tallest Shiva statue and among the tallest statues in the world. News reports at the time of the opening said it could be seen from about 20 km away. Also, special lighting makes it glow at night.
How It Compares
| Statue | Location | Approx. height |
|---|---|---|
| Statue of Unity (Sardar Patel) | Ekta Nagar, Gujarat | 182 m (597 ft) |
| Statue of Belief (Shiva) | Nathdwara, Rajasthan | 112 m (369 ft) |
| Statue of Liberty (incl. pedestal) | New York, USA | 93 m (305 ft) |
| Christ the Redeemer | Rio de Janeiro, Brazil | About 30 m (98 ft) |
Note: Heights vary slightly between sources, depending on whether pedestals are counted. So, use this table as a rough guide.
Who Built It, and Why?
The statue was the idea of Madan Paliwal, a businessman from the region and chairman of the Miraj Group. He set up the project through a trust, which news reports name as Tat Padam Sansthan and Sant Kripa Sanatan Sansthan. The sculptor was Naresh Kumawat.
According to reference works, design work began in 2011, and building took place over several years. News reports say the whole project took about ten years. Reference works also name the Shapoorji Pallonji Group as the builder.
So, why build it? The aim, as described at the opening, was to create a symbol of faith and to boost tourism in Nathdwara. Since Nathdwara already draws huge numbers of pilgrims to the Shrinathji Temple, the statue gives them one more reason to visit and stay longer.
The Opening in 2022
The Statue of Belief was unveiled on 29 October 2022. The spiritual leader Morari Bapu, famous for his Ram Katha, unveiled it. Rajasthan’s then Chief Minister, Ashok Gehlot, and Assembly Speaker CP Joshi were also present, according to news reports.
The opening was part of a nine-day festival, from 29 October to 6 November 2022. During this time, Morari Bapu held a Ram Katha, and there were many religious and cultural events. As a result, the opening drew large crowds from Rajasthan, Gujarat and beyond.
How Was It Built?
Building a statue this tall is a huge feat of engineering. Here’s what reports say about it.
- Frame: A strong steel frame, held firm with concrete.
- Skin: Metal cladding, treated with zinc and then given a copper coat, as per reference works.
- Materials: News reports mention about 3,000 tonnes of steel and iron, plus vast amounts of concrete and sand.
- Wind: Reports say it was built to stand winds of up to 250 km per hour.
- Life span: Reports say it was designed to last about 250 years.
- Inside: Reports mention four lifts, three staircases and a hall for devotees.
Note: These figures come from news reports at the time of the opening. Some details differ between sources.
What Does Shiva’s Pose Mean?
The Statue of Belief shows Lord Shiva seated with crossed legs, in a pose of deep meditation. So, what does this mean?
In Hindu tradition, Shiva is often seen as the great yogi. He sits still on Mount Kailash, lost in meditation, beyond all worry and desire. As a result, a seated, calm Shiva stands for peace, inner strength and control of the mind.
The trishul, or trident, is one of Shiva’s main symbols. Its three points are often linked with ideas such as creation, protection and destruction, or with the three qualities of nature. Also, Shiva is often shown with a crescent moon in his hair, the river Ganga flowing from his locks, a snake around his neck and a third eye on his forehead.
Then there’s Nandi, the bull who faces the statue. In Shiva temples, Nandi always sits facing the shrine. He stands for loyal devotion, waiting patiently for his lord.
Note: These are common meanings in Hindu tradition. Different schools of thought explain them in different ways.
Inside the Statue: The Viewing Galleries
One of the best parts of a visit is going inside the statue. According to reference works and news reports, lifts take visitors up to viewing galleries at three levels.
| Level | Approx. height | What you see |
|---|---|---|
| First level | About 20 ft | Close views of the base and the grounds |
| Second level | About 110 ft | Wider views over Nathdwara town |
| Top level | About 270 ft | Sweeping views of the hills and the countryside |
From the top gallery, you can see far across the Aravalli hills on a clear day. Also, there’s an exhibition hall inside that shares the story of the statue.
Good to know: Visitors say different ticket types give access to different levels. So, check what your ticket includes before you buy. Also, visitors report that the galleries close for a short time around the evening light show.
Attractions Around the Statue
The statue stands in a large park, often called Tat Padam Upvan. Here’s what you’ll find.
The Nandi Statue
Facing Shiva sits a large statue of Nandi, his loyal bull. According to reference works, it’s about 25 feet tall and 37 feet long. Many visitors stop here first, since it’s a lovely spot for photos with the main statue behind.
Gardens
The site has three herbal gardens, along with lawns and walking paths, as per reports. They add green space and shade to the hilltop.
Light and Sound Show
In the evening, a light and sound show lights up the statue. Visitors say it starts at about 8 pm. It’s one of the highlights, so try to stay for it. Also, the statue looks stunning at night under coloured lights.
Musical and Laser Fountains
Reports mention a laser fountain and musical fountains on the grounds. They add to the fun, mainly in the evening.
Adventure Activities
For thrill-seekers, visitors report activities such as a zipline and bungee jumping. These have separate tickets. Also, check age, weight and health rules before you sign up.
Food Courts and Shops
The site has food courts and outlets serving snacks and meals. In addition, there are souvenir and handicraft shops where you can pick up gifts.
Electric Carts
The grounds are large, and you’ll walk a lot. So, visitors say paid electric carts are available, which are handy for elders and families with kids.
Statue of Belief Timings
Map listings show the Statue of Belief open from about 10 am to 10 pm, every day of the week. However, timings for different sections, such as the galleries and rides, may differ.
- Complex: About 10 am to 10 pm.
- Light show: Around 8 pm, as per visitors.
- Viewing galleries: May close briefly during the light show.
Tip: Timings can change on festivals and busy days. So, call the helpline listed on map listings, 1800 120 0351, or check the official website before you go.
Statue of Belief Ticket Price
The Statue of Belief has several ticket types. Some cover only the park and lower viewpoint, while others include higher galleries, rides or combos. However, we couldn’t confirm a current official price list.
Here’s what visitors have reported recently.
- A basic ticket of around ₹200 covered park entry and the first viewpoint at the foot of the statue, according to one visitor.
- Higher galleries, rides and combos cost extra.
- Electric carts cost about ₹100 per person, as per one visitor.
- Bag deposit costs about ₹30, as per one visitor.
Note: These are visitor reports, not official rates. Prices change, so check the official website or counter before you plan your budget.
Rules You Should Know
- Bags and water bottles: Visitors say you can’t carry them in, and must use the paid baggage counter.
- Security: There’s a security check at the entry.
- Respect: It’s a religious site too, so dress modestly and behave with care.
- Litter: Use bins, and keep the grounds clean.
- Rides: Follow all safety rules for adventure activities.
Your Visit, Step by Step
- First, park and leave extras behind. Keep bags and bottles in the car if you can.
- Then, buy your ticket. Pick the type that covers the galleries or rides you want.
- Next, pass the security check. Staff check all visitors at the entry.
- After that, walk the grounds. Or, take an electric cart if the walk is too long.
- Then, stop at Nandi. It’s a great spot for your first photo.
- Next, go inside. Take the lift to your gallery and enjoy the view.
- Then, explore the park. Visit the gardens, shops and food courts.
- Finally, stay for the show. Find a good spot by about 7:45 pm for the light show.
How Long Do You Need?
Most visitors spend about 2 to 3 hours at the Statue of Belief. That gives you time for the park, a gallery visit, photos and a snack. However, if you want to stay for the light show and try the rides, plan for 3 to 4 hours.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit is from October to March, when the weather in Rajasthan is pleasant. Summers, from April to June, can be very hot, so visit in the evening then. The monsoon, from July to September, makes the hills green, but rain may affect views and rides.
Best Time of Day
Many visitors say the evening is the best time. First, the heat drops. Then, as the sun sets, the statue starts to glow under its lights. Finally, the light show begins around 8 pm. So, arriving at about 5 pm works well for most people.
| Time | Why go |
|---|---|
| Morning (10 am to 12 pm) | Fewer crowds, clear daytime views |
| Afternoon (12 pm to 4 pm) | Hot in summer, but quieter |
| Evening (5 pm to 8 pm) | Sunset, cooler air, lights come on |
| Night (8 pm to 10 pm) | Light show and glowing statue |
An Evening at the Statue: What It Might Feel Like
This is an imagined scene, based on what many visitors describe.
It’s 5 pm. You walk up the path as the heat of the day fades. Ahead, Shiva rises against a soft orange sky. At first, you just stand and stare. It’s even bigger than it looked from the road.
Then, you take the lift up. The doors open, and the whole valley spreads out below. You can see the white houses of Nathdwara, the hills beyond and the long road you drove in on. Families point and take photos. A child gasps at the view.
Back on the ground, the lights come on one by one. Soon, the statue glows gold, then blue, then red. Finally, at 8 pm, music fills the air, and the light show begins. For a few minutes, everyone is quiet. In the end, you leave with tired feet and a full heart.
Nathdwara: The Town of Shrinathji
Nathdwara means “the gateway of the Lord”. It’s a small town on the banks of the Banas river, in the Aravalli hills. According to tradition, the image of Shrinathji was brought here from the Braj region near Mathura in the 17th century. Since then, the town has grown around the temple.
Nathdwara is also famous for pichwai paintings. These are large cloth paintings of Shrinathji, made to hang behind the deity. Today, local artists sell them in the lanes near the temple. So, if you love art, look out for them.
In short, Nathdwara was a holy town long before the Statue of Belief. The statue simply adds a new chapter to its story.
Shrinathji Temple: Nathdwara’s Heart
No trip to the Statue of Belief is complete without a visit to the Shrinathji Temple, about a kilometre away. It’s one of India’s most important Krishna temples and the main shrine of the Pushtimarg tradition. The deity, Shrinathji, is a form of Krishna as a child, lifting Govardhan hill.
The temple follows a fixed schedule of short darshans through the day, called jhankis. Since timings change with the season and festivals, check the day’s schedule before you go. Also, the lanes around the temple are famous for sweets, especially rabdi, and for pichwai paintings.
Find it: Open map
Tips for Shrinathji Darshan
- Darshan windows are short, so reach early and be ready to move quickly.
- Phones and bags may not be allowed inside, so carry very little.
- Crowds can be large, mainly on festivals and weekends.
- Try the local rabdi and thor sweets in the market.
How to Reach the Statue of Belief
The Statue of Belief is in Nathdwara, about 45 to 50 km north of Udaipur. The easiest way to get there is by road.
From Ahmedabad
From Ahmedabad, take the highway towards Udaipur via Himmatnagar and Shamlaji. Then, continue past Udaipur to Nathdwara. The drive is about 300 km and takes around 5.5 to 6 hours, depending on traffic and stops.
Alternatively, many private buses run from Ahmedabad to Udaipur and Nathdwara, mainly overnight. As a result, you can reach early in the morning and start your day fresh.
From Udaipur
Udaipur is the closest big city, about 45 to 50 km away. A taxi or bus takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. So, many people visit Nathdwara as a day trip from Udaipur.
By Air
The nearest airport is Maharana Pratap Airport at Dabok, Udaipur. It’s roughly 40 to 45 km from Nathdwara. From the airport, hire a taxi.
Udaipur Airport: Open map
By Train
- Mavli Junction: About 30 km away, and a common stop for Nathdwara pilgrims. Taxis, autos and buses run from here.
- Nathdwara Road: A small station about 10 km away, with very few trains, as per visitors.
- Udaipur City: About 50 km away, with the widest choice of trains.
Mavli Junction: Open map
Nathdwara Road: Open map
| From | Approx. distance | Approx. road time |
|---|---|---|
| Shrinathji Temple | About 1 km | 5 minutes |
| Udaipur | 45 to 50 km | 1 to 1.5 hours |
| Udaipur Airport | 40 to 45 km | 1 hour |
| Mavli Junction | About 30 km | 45 minutes |
| Ahmedabad | About 300 km | 5.5 to 6 hours |
| Vadodara | About 400 km | 7 to 8 hours |
| Jaipur | About 350 km | 6 to 7 hours |
Note: Distances and times are rough and depend on the route you take.
Where to Stay
You can stay in Nathdwara or in Udaipur. Here’s how to choose.
- Nathdwara: Best for early Shrinathji darshan and an evening at the statue. The town has many hotels, guest houses and dharamshalas.
- Udaipur: Best if you also want to explore lakes, palaces and nightlife. It has a huge range of hotels.
- Dharamshalas: Budget-friendly stays run by trusts, popular with pilgrims.
Tip: Book early for Janmashtami, Diwali, Holi and long weekends, when Nathdwara gets very busy.
Food in Nathdwara
Nathdwara is a temple town, so most food is vegetarian. Here’s what to try.
- Rabdi: A rich, sweet milk dish, famous in Nathdwara.
- Thor: A local sweet, often linked with the temple.
- Dal-baati-churma: Rajasthan’s classic meal.
- Kachori and mirchi vada: Popular street snacks.
- Thalis: Many local restaurants serve Gujarati and Rajasthani thalis.
Also, the food courts at the Statue of Belief serve snacks and meals, so you won’t go hungry during your visit.
Places to Visit Near the Statue of Belief
1. Shrinathji Temple
About 1 km away, this is Nathdwara’s main temple and a must for every visitor. See the section above for tips.
2. Haldighati
About 15 to 20 km away, Haldighati is where the famous Battle of Haldighati was fought in 1576. The Maharana Pratap Museum here tells the story of Maharana Pratap and his horse, Chetak.
Find it: Open map
3. Eklingji Temple
About 25 km away, near Udaipur, this ancient Shiva temple is the family deity of the Mewar rulers. Visitors say it follows strict darshan timings, with separate morning, midday and evening windows.
Find it: Open map
4. Rajsamand Lake and Kankroli
About 15 to 20 km away, Rajsamand Lake is a large lake with marble steps and pavilions. Nearby, at Kankroli, stands the Dwarkadhish Temple, another important Pushtimarg shrine.
Find it: Open map
5. Kumbhalgarh Fort
About 50 to 60 km away, Kumbhalgarh is a mighty hill fort with a very long wall, part of the UNESCO-listed Hill Forts of Rajasthan. It’s also known as the birthplace of Maharana Pratap.
Find it: Open map
6. Udaipur
About 45 to 50 km away, Udaipur is the City of Lakes. Don’t miss the City Palace, Lake Pichola and an evening boat ride.
City Palace: Open map
| Place | Approx. distance | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Shrinathji Temple | About 1 km | Darshan |
| Haldighati | 15 to 20 km | History |
| Rajsamand Lake | 15 to 20 km | Lake views and temples |
| Eklingji | About 25 km | Ancient Shiva temple |
| Udaipur | 45 to 50 km | Palaces and lakes |
| Kumbhalgarh | 50 to 60 km | Hill fort |
A Weekend Plan From Ahmedabad
Day 1: First, leave Ahmedabad early in the morning. Then, reach Nathdwara by early afternoon and check in. In the late afternoon, go to the Statue of Belief. Watch the sunset, explore the galleries and stay for the light show at around 8 pm.
Day 2: Next morning, go for an early Shrinathji darshan. After breakfast, visit Haldighati or Rajsamand Lake. Finally, have lunch and drive back to Ahmedabad by night.
Have an extra day? Then, add Udaipur or Kumbhalgarh. As a result, you’ll see faith, history and lakes in one trip.
A One-Day Plan From Udaipur
- Morning: Leave Udaipur early and stop at Eklingji on the way.
- Late morning: Take darshan at Shrinathji Temple.
- Lunch: Eat in Nathdwara and try the rabdi.
- Afternoon: Visit Haldighati.
- Evening: Spend the evening at the Statue of Belief, including the light show.
- Night: Drive back to Udaipur.
Tips for Visiting the Statue of Belief
- Go in the evening: Enjoy sunset, cooler air, lights and the show.
- Travel light: Leave bags and bottles in your car or hotel to skip the baggage counter.
- Check your ticket: Make sure it covers the gallery level you want.
- Wear comfy shoes: You’ll walk a lot on the grounds.
- Use carts if needed: They help elders and kids.
- Plan Shrinathji darshan: Check the jhanki timings for the day.
- Avoid peak days: Festivals and long weekends bring big crowds.
Visiting With Kids and Elders
- Use the electric carts to save walking.
- Visit in the evening to avoid the heat.
- Keep children close in crowds, and agree on a meeting point.
- Check ride rules before letting kids try adventure activities.
- Ask staff about lift access to the galleries if anyone has trouble walking.
Photography Tips
- Golden hour: Shoot just before sunset for warm light on the statue.
- Night shots: Capture the statue glowing after dark.
- Wide angle: The statue is huge, so a wide lens or panorama helps.
- Nandi frame: Use the Nandi statue in the foreground for a great composition.
- From the town: Try shots from Nathdwara’s streets, with the statue rising above.
Budget Guide
Here’s a rough guide to costs for a weekend trip from Ahmedabad. Prices vary, so treat these as broad ranges only.
| Item | Rough guide |
|---|---|
| Statue entry | From around ₹200 for a basic ticket, as per visitors |
| Galleries, rides and combos | Extra; check current prices |
| Fuel and tolls (car) | Moderate for about 600 km return |
| Bus from Ahmedabad | Budget to mid-range, depending on type |
| Stay | Dharamshala to mid-range hotel |
| Food | Affordable vegetarian meals and sweets |
Why Vishwas Swaroopam Matters
The Statue of Belief has changed Nathdwara in just a few years. First, it gives pilgrims a reason to stay longer, which helps local hotels, shops and guides. Second, it has put the town on the map for young travellers, not just pilgrims. Third, it’s a striking piece of modern engineering, built on a scale India rarely tried before.
In addition, its name, Vishwas Swaroopam, carries a simple message: faith. So, whether you come to pray, to look or simply to see something huge, the statue invites you to pause and reflect.
Explaining the Statue of Belief to Kids in Five Sentences
- The Statue of Belief is a giant statue of Lord Shiva in a town called Nathdwara, in Rajasthan.
- It’s as tall as a building with more than 30 floors.
- Shiva is sitting with his eyes half closed, thinking calm thoughts.
- You can ride a lift inside the statue and look out over the hills.
- At night, the statue glows with bright coloured lights.
What to Pack
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Modest, light clothes
- Cap, sunglasses and sunscreen
- Light jacket for winter evenings
- Small wallet and phone, with little else
- Power bank for night photos
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Arriving at noon in summer. It’s very hot. Instead, come after 5 pm.
- Carrying a big bag. You’ll need to deposit it. So, travel light.
- Buying the wrong ticket. Check which galleries and rides it covers.
- Leaving before the show. The light show is a highlight. Therefore, stay until about 8:30 pm.
- Missing Shrinathji darshan. Its timings are fixed and short. Hence, check the jhanki schedule in advance.
Myths and Facts
| Myth | Fact |
|---|---|
| The Statue of Belief is in Gujarat. | It’s in Nathdwara, Rajasthan, about 300 km from Ahmedabad. |
| It’s taller than the Statue of Unity. | No. The Statue of Unity is about 182 m, while the Statue of Belief is about 112 m. |
| It’s only a temple. | It’s a religious landmark plus a park with galleries, shows and rides. |
| One ticket covers everything. | Different tickets cover different areas and rides. |
| You can see it only in the day. | It’s open late, and the evening light show is a highlight. |
Revision Notes: 12 Key Points
- The Statue of Belief is also called Vishwas Swaroopam.
- It shows Lord Shiva seated in meditation.
- It’s about 369 feet, or 112 metres, tall.
- It stands at Ganesh Tekri in Nathdwara, Rajasthan.
- Morari Bapu unveiled it on 29 October 2022.
- Madan Paliwal of the Miraj Group conceived the project.
- The sculptor was Naresh Kumawat.
- Lifts reach galleries at about 20, 110 and 270 feet.
- A large Nandi statue faces Shiva.
- The complex is open roughly 10 am to 10 pm.
- A light show runs around 8 pm.
- It’s about 1 km from the Shrinathji Temple.
Statue of Belief in Numbers
- 369 ft: Total height of the statue.
- 112 m: The same height in metres.
- 110 ft: Height of the pedestal.
- 270 ft: Height of the top viewing gallery.
- 25 ft: Height of the Nandi statue.
- 16 to 17 acres: Size of the site.
- 250 km/h: Wind speed it was built to withstand, as per news reports.
- 250 years: Its design life, as per news reports.
- 20 km: Distance from which it can be seen, as per reports.
- 29 October 2022: The day it was unveiled.
Numbers aside, the best way to feel its size is to stand at its feet and look up.
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Quick Recap
Let’s sum it all up. The Statue of Belief, or Vishwas Swaroopam, is a 369-foot statue of Lord Shiva in Nathdwara, Rajasthan. Morari Bapu unveiled it on 29 October 2022. Inside, lifts take you to galleries at about 20, 110 and 270 feet.
The complex is open roughly from 10 am to 10 pm, with a light show at about 8 pm. It’s about 1 km from the Shrinathji Temple, 45 to 50 km from Udaipur and about 300 km from Ahmedabad. So, plan an evening visit, travel light and pair it with Shrinathji darshan for a perfect weekend.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Statue of Belief?
The Statue of Belief, also called Vishwas Swaroopam, is a 369-foot statue of Lord Shiva at Nathdwara in Rajasthan. It’s widely described as the world’s tallest Shiva statue.
Where is the Statue of Belief located?
The Statue of Belief stands at Ganesh Tekri in Nathdwara, Rajsamand district, Rajasthan. It’s about 1 km from the Shrinathji Temple and about 45 to 50 km from Udaipur.
How tall is the Statue of Belief?
The Statue of Belief is about 369 feet, or 112 metres, tall, including a pedestal of about 110 feet.
Who inaugurated the Statue of Belief?
Spiritual leader Morari Bapu unveiled the Statue of Belief on 29 October 2022, with then Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and Assembly Speaker CP Joshi present.
Who built the Statue of Belief?
The statue was conceived by businessman Madan Paliwal, chairman of the Miraj Group, through a trust. The sculptor was Naresh Kumawat.
What are the Statue of Belief timings?
Map listings show the Statue of Belief open from about 10 am to 10 pm daily. The light show runs around 8 pm. Timings can change, so check before you visit.
What is the Statue of Belief ticket price?
Ticket prices vary by the areas and rides included. Visitors have reported a basic ticket of around ₹200 for park entry and the first viewpoint, with higher galleries and rides costing extra. Check current rates before you go.
Can you go inside the Statue of Belief?
Yes. Lifts take visitors to viewing galleries inside the statue at about 20, 110 and 270 feet, depending on your ticket.
Is there a light show at the Statue of Belief?
Yes. Visitors say an evening light and sound show runs at about 8 pm, and the statue glows under special lighting at night.
How far is the Statue of Belief from Ahmedabad?
The Statue of Belief is about 300 km from Ahmedabad by road, a drive of around 5.5 to 6 hours via Udaipur.
How far is the Statue of Belief from Udaipur?
Nathdwara is about 45 to 50 km from Udaipur, a drive of about 1 to 1.5 hours.
Which is the nearest railway station to the Statue of Belief?
Mavli Junction, about 30 km away, is a common stop for Nathdwara. Nathdwara Road station is closer but has very few trains, and Udaipur City is about 50 km away.
Is the Statue of Belief taller than the Statue of Unity?
No. The Statue of Unity in Gujarat is about 182 metres tall, while the Statue of Belief is about 112 metres tall.
What is the best time to visit the Statue of Belief?
The best time is from October to March. Many visitors prefer the evening, for sunset, cooler weather and the 8 pm light show.
Are bags allowed at the Statue of Belief?
Visitors say bags and water bottles aren’t allowed inside and must be left at a paid baggage counter, so it’s best to travel light.
The Bottom Line
The Statue of Belief is a striking new landmark in the hills of Mewar. Lord Shiva sits in calm meditation, 369 feet tall, looking over the holy town of Nathdwara. Inside, lifts take you high above the hills. Outside, gardens, fountains and an evening light show add to the magic.
So, plan a weekend from Ahmedabad. Pair the statue with Shrinathji darshan, a bowl of rabdi and a trip to Haldighati or Udaipur. Go in the evening, travel light and stay for the lights. Har Har Mahadev!
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References
- Wikipedia – Statue of Belief
- Statue of Belief – Official website
- Hinduism Today – Tallest Shiva statue inaugurated in Rajsamand (2022)
- Free Press Journal – Tallest Shiva statue unveiled in Rajasthan (2022)
- Rajasthan Tourism – Official website
Ticket prices, timings and attractions can change, so please check with the official website or helpline before you visit. Distances are approximate. Construction figures come from news reports and reference works.
