A memorable journey to Vadodara and Ahmedabad 

By Soham Sudhir Sane

Winter holidays typically commence around the 25th of December, following the first set of pre boards. These vacations provide the much-needed relaxation and break after the exhausting days of examinations. Just like my fellow classmates, I eagerly await the winter break, and this year was no different. Our plans included a refreshing trip to Vadodara and Ahmedabad in Gujarat, with my elder sister and uncle-aunt joining us.

This trip held special significance for me as it marked the end of my school life. Excitement filled me as the trip unfolded precisely as expected. After disembarking from the well-known Rajdhani Express at Vadodara Junction, we headed to our hotel. Our day out included a visit to the renowned ‘Statue of Unity’ and various activities on the campus, such as a jungle safari, a cactus and butterfly garden, and a replenishing boat ride on the holy Narmada River.

The jungle safari showcased animals like the one-horned rhinoceros, saltwater crocodile, Bengal tiger, and more, making the visit worthwhile. The cactus garden housed around 450 species of succulent plants grown in a normal environment through adaptations. The butterfly garden, with seventy different species, including monarchs, viceroys, and the Mexican butterfly weed, stood out as one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever visited.

The ‘Statue of Unity,’ situated near the Narmada River project, pays tribute to India’s first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister, Vallabhbhai Patel. Standing at a colossal height of one hundred and eighty-two meters, it is the world’s tallest statue. The laser show depicted Vallabhbhai’s dedication to uniting unwilling provinces, evoking a sense of pride and respect for India’s independence activists.

The next day, we visited a palace built by Maharaja Sayaji Rao III, which vividly portrayed the cultural heritage of Indian rulers. After the visit, we indulged in scrumptious Gujarati cuisine, making the day unforgettable. The day ended with a visit to the renowned Surat cloth market.

Returning from our rejuvenating vacation, my mother ensured I caught up on my studies and completed any pending work. I also indulged in my passion for drawing and played cricket with friends. As the year drew to a close, we planned enthusiastic celebrations for New Year’s Eve. We decided to welcome the new year at Mumbai’s famous Marine Lines, inviting family friends to join us.

In conclusion, this winter vacation will hold a special place in my heart, filled with cherished moments spent with my beloved parents and relatives. These childhood memories will forever rest in my heart.