The Statues of Liberty and Unity are two towering monuments of their respective countries.
The Lady Liberty at Liberty Island has dominated the Manhattan skyline since its inception in 1886 and represents powerful ideals of freedom and hope.
The Statue of Unity, inaugurated in 2018, is a tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and celebrates the unity of Indians on the mainland of Gujrat.
So, which monument would you like to visit first?
Does Lady Liberty’s torch fascinate you, or is it the 360-degree view of the world’s tallest statue?
This article will compare everything between these masterpieces, from their location, height, and significance to the best ticketing options and more, helping you make an informed decision.
Our Recommendation
When it comes to immigration and American history, the Statue of Liberty is a must-visit.
On the other hand, the Statue of Unity is a must-see for anyone interested in Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s or Indian history.
Both prominent statues reflect diverse values, histories, and civilizations, making each unique in its own way and present in two different countries.
The Statue of Liberty symbolizes liberty and previous American history. The Statue of Unity is a party memorial to a legendary Indian politician.
We recommend you visit both statues on your visit to New York or India, respectively.
| Statue of Liberty | Statue of Unity |
|---|---|
| Location: Liberty Island, New York Harbor, USA | Location: Narmada River, Sardar Sarovar Dam, Gujarat, India |
| Height: 305 feet from the ground to the tip of the torch | Height: 813 feet |
| Height of Statue: 151 feet | Height of Statue: 597 feet |
| Accessibility: By Ferry | Accessibility: public and private transport |
| Time needed: 4 to 6 hours | Time needed: 2 to 3 hours |
| Views: Ellis Island and Cityline around the New York Harbor | Views: panoramic views of the Narmada River and Sardar Sarovar Dam |
| Experience: connects to American history and the monument’s relevance | Experience: connects with Sardar Vallabh Bhai’s legacy as an Indian freedom fighter |
| Ticket cost: $32 | Ticket cost: $144 |
| Ticket link | Ticket link |
Historical Significance of Liberty and Unity
France gave Lady Liberty to the United States in response to a proposal by French political thinker Edouard de Laboulaye.
It reached New York Harbor on June 17, 1885, and took another year to assemble.
On October 28, 1886, it was finally open to the public.
Meanwhile, the Statue of Unity project was announced in 2013 by Gujarat Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The statue is a tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and represents the unity and strength of India.
It was unveiled to the public on October 31, 2018, and is also known as the Sardar Vallabh Bhai Statue.
Location & Accessibility
Statue of Liberty
Statue Of Unity
The Statue of Liberty is on Liberty Island, New York City, on the Hudson River. It is roughly 1.5 miles (2.4 km) from New Jersey and 2.6 miles (4.2 km) from New York.
Ferry rides to Liberty Island are available from Battery Park and Liberty State Park. Find Directions
The ferry ride will take around 20 minutes, excluding the time needed for security checks.
The Statue of Unity is located at Sardar Sarovar Dam, Kevadia, Gujarat.
Its central location and the city’s well-connected transport network ensure that it can be reached by both public and private transport.
Height: Statue of Liberty vs Statue of Unity
From the base to the tip of the torch, Lady Liberty stands 305 feet (93 meters) tall.
The statue is 151 feet (46 meters) tall, whereas its pedestal is 154 feet (47 meters) tall.
On the other hand, the Statue of Unity is 597 feet (182 meters), making it the World’s tallest statue.
Given this, its height nearly doubles that of the Lady Liberty Statue.
Experience
A visit to the Statue of Liberty enhances appreciation for and knowledge of American history.
A ferry ride to Liberty Island offers breathtaking views of New York Harbor and the city skyline.
However, visitors report that long lines and limited crown access impede monument exploration.
The experience of seeing the Statue of Unity goes beyond simple sightseeing.
Tourists commend the site’s facilities and administration, and the Vindhyachal and Satpura ranges offer the ideal backdrop for this monument.
It is well worth the effort for anyone interested in Indian history, even though large crowds may make exploration more difficult.
Ticket Prices – Which One is Cheaper?
The entry ticket to the Statue of Liberty and its attractions costs $32 for adults over 13.
Children between 4 and 12 and seniors above 62 get reduced costs of $22 and $28, respectively.
Infants under 3 can access the attraction for free.
This entry ticket grants you access to the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and its museums.
Audio guides in your preferred language will also be provided.
However, access to the crown is not included in the entry ticket.
The Statue of Unity tour costs $144 for a group of 3 people.
You will visit the world’s tallest statue and climb its top to enjoy spectacular views.
Also, explore the lush surroundings and the nearby Sardar Sarovar Dam.
Pick-up and drop-off are also included in this private tour.
FAQs
1. Which statue is taller, the Statue of Liberty or the Statue of Unity?
The Statue of Unity is almost twice as tall as the Statue of Liberty.
2. Where are the Statue of Liberty and the Statue of Unity located?
The Statue of Liberty is on Liberty Island, New York Harbor, USA.
The Statue of Unity is located on the Narmada River in Gujarat, India
3. When were the Statue of Liberty and the Statue of Unity built?
The Statue of Liberty was gifted to the USA by France. It opened to the public in 1886.
The Statue of Liberty is a recent addition to the world of towering statues.
Its construction was finished in 2018
4. Which statue offers better views: the Statue of Liberty or the Statue of Unity?
The Statue of Liberty offers magical views of Ellis Island, Liberty Island, and the surrounding landscapes from its crown. However, views from its pedestal are limited.
The Statue of Unity provides 360-degree views of the Sardar Sarovar Dam, the Narmada River, and the surrounding countryside.
5. Are there any historical connections between the Statue of Liberty and the Statue of Unity?
No, there is no historical connection between these statues.
While the Statue of Liberty is connected to American idols of hope and freedom, the Statue of Unity represents the importance of a prominent figure in Indian history.
Featured Image: Vichi81 /Getty, KUNJ PATEL
