Text by SHASHI SUNNY

The next time you are craving for a sumptious pampering break, try something different from the usual elite staycation. Opt instead for the Statue of Unity Tent City 1 at formerly Kevadia, now Ekta Nagar in Gujarat. This is the perfect gateway for those who want luxury, the best of modern amenities and the excitement of novelty in a holiday. The SOU Tent City 1 is situated in close proximity to the world’s tallest statue of Sardar Vallabhai Patel standing at a record 182 meters making it the newest thrill on the domestic tourist circuit.

The  SOU Tent City 1 is situated within the new beautifully laid out Ekta Nagar. It nestles in the thick greens of the Narmada Valley which itself has great significance in Indian history and mythology. Spend a couple of nights here and soak in unique immersive experiences on offer at the resort as well as at the circuit. These include a spectacular laser display that lights up the sky at the statue venue, a sophisticated sound and light show, a glow garden and picturesque boat cruises on the sparkling Narmada waters. You will in all likelihood spot a White Throated kingfisher diving for fish or a stately Greyheron wading near the bank, listen to the music of a Tickell’s Blue Flycatcher’s call along its lush green banks. On the shore getting up close with the local tribal traditions is an interesting hiatus.

Staying at Statue of Unity Tent City, a luxe tented cottage style resort by the riverfront and close to the Patel Statue is a return to a natural rhythm of life. With every modern comfort made available in an unspoilt landscape, this serene sustainable getaway has a large outdoor pool flanked by the picturesque Vindhya and Satpura mountain ranges, an events hall, an expansive dining area and open airamphitheatre all within its premises making it ideal for solo, couple, family staycations as well as special occasions like weddings and conferences

Once you check in at the Tent City 1, you are in proximity to all the major attractions the area offers. Opt for one or alll of the package tours to the nearby  Statue of Unity, the Narmada Dam, jungle safari, boat cruises to relish the stunning habitat along the Narmada, adventure activities like river rafting, walks through the curated welness, butterfly, cacti gardens, the sound and light show, or participate in a spiritual aarti at dusk. Alternatively, enjoy spectacular sunrises over hills from vantage points. At the SOU Tent City 1 itself  there is a wealth of regional enjoyments  at hand.Sample the gourmet local cuisine that is replete with local spices and flavours, take walks that lead to charming tribal settlements, ride boats wafting in sacred waters.At  sundown  unwind as you relish stories of a bygone era and soak in the heritagethrough immersive story telling sessions, folk dances and music. Customised package tours are available to ease your itinerary.

What sets this journey of discovery apart is the variety in the diversity of experiences –the engineering feat of the massive structure, a high deck view of the landscape, a state of the art laser show and revelling in the surprisingly rich biodiversity of the Narmada valley, it is a multi layered itinerary that is accessible from an glamourous accommodation that anticipates your every need. SOU Tent City 1 is a beacon for responsible tourism for those who want a peaceful communion with nature. The curated luxury tents, freshly made local cuisine, warm hospitality take the healing experience to awholesome new level. It is easily accessible by flight, train and road from Varodara.