Exploring Vadodara: A Treasure Trove of Tourist Places

Vadodara, known for its rich culture and history, is a gem in Gujarat. If you're wondering what to explore in this vibrant city, let's dive into some must-visit tourist spots.

1. Laxmi Vilas Palace: A Royal Experience

Imagine stepping into a palace that feels like a fairy tale! Laxmi Vilas Palace is the home of the Maratha Royal Family and is truly breathtaking. With its stunning architecture and vast gardens, it’s like walking into a piece of history. You can explore the ornate interiors, including intricate carvings and paintings. Don’t forget your camera, as every corner of this palace presents a new photo opportunity.

2. Sayaji Garden: Nature’s Oasis

Need a break from the hustle and bustle? Sayaji Garden is your go-to spot! This sprawling park is perfect for picnics, leisurely walks, or just soaking up the sun. With beautiful ponds and lush greenery, it’s like a mini paradise in the city. You can even find a zoo and a museum within the garden, making it a great place for families.

3. Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery: A Dive into Art and History

If you’re an art lover, the Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery are a must-see. It’s packed with interesting artifacts, both from India and overseas. The museum features ancient sculptures, armors, and a stunning collection of paintings. It’s like taking a time machine and exploring different eras, all under one roof.

4. EME Temple: A Unique Architectonic Marvel

Ever seen a temple made of aluminum? The EME Temple is one of a kind! Built by the Indian Army, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and showcases a beautiful fusion of modern and traditional design. The shimmering aluminum structure glistens in the sunlight, making it a sight to behold. It’s a peaceful place to reflect and admire the artistry.

5. Narmada Canal: A Scenic Walkway

Strolling along the Narmada Canal is like taking a peaceful journey through nature. The manicured pathways and serene waters make for a fantastic evening walk. You can enjoy the sunset while watching locals cycling or jogging. It’s a simple escape that rejuvenates the soul.

6. Sardar Patel Planetarium: Explore the Stars

For those curious about space, the Sardar Patel Planetarium offers an out-of-this-world experience! Catch a show that takes you on a journey through galaxies, planets, and stars. It’s both fun and educational, making it perfect for kids and adults alike. Just like looking through a telescope but way cooler!

7. Ajwa Water Park: Splash into Fun

Looking for a thrill? Ajwa Water Park is where the fun begins! With exciting rides, splash pools, and lazy rivers, it’s a fantastic spot for families and friends. It’s the perfect way to beat the heat and make a splash while creating unforgettable memories.

8. Tambekar Wadi: An Artistic Gem

Tucked away in Vadodara, Tambekar Wadi is a place where art comes alive. Known for its intricate wall paintings and traditional architecture, it’s a hidden treasure. This spot showcases the local craftsmanship and tells fascinating stories through its murals. It’s like stepping into an artist's dream!

Conclusion: Your Next Adventure Awaits

Vadodara is a city that beautifully combines history, culture, and natural beauty. From the majestic Laxmi Vilas Palace to the serene pathways along the Narmada Canal, each tourist place has its own charm. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to explore this wonderful city. Your adventure in Vadodara is just a visit away!

About Vadodara Tourist Places List Gujarat India

About Vadodara graceful city of magnificent palaces, museums, splendid temples, lush gardens, shady avenues and world renowned institutions of learningis perhaps the de-facto cultural capital of Gujarat.  It served as the capital of princely Gaekwads III (1885 – 1920), a great patron of art and learning is said to be the golden era of Vadodara.  Today, the city on the banks of river Vishwamitri is a thriving industrial and commercial centre and is also regarded as the ‘industrial capital’ of Gujarat.

Vadodara City

About Vadodara is located at 22.3° N and 73.2° E.  It has an average elevation of about 194m (636ft).  It is located on the Vishwamitri River, southeast of Ahmadabad.

Vadodara Climate

The summers tend to e fairly warm with average temperatures of around 32°C in the months of April, May and June.  The months of June, July and August receive as much as 365mm of rainfall but average temperatures remain at around 28°C.  Winter is more pleasant with temperatures coming down to 20°C.

Vadodara History

The earliest mention of Vadodara dates back to about 812AD.  The region was ruled by Hindu rulers till 1297.  By 1537, the Gujarat Sultan ruled Vadodara.  Their domination over most of central India continued unchallenged for over a hundred years till the Marathas emerged as strong contenders in the 1730s.  Vadodara became the new stronghold of the Marathas and Gaekwads, who made it their capital in 1735.  However, the rule continued uninterrupted till Indian Independence in 1947.

Tourist Places in Vadodara

Vadodara is a graceful city of palaces, parks, temples and museums.  It is the industrial and cultural capital of Gujarat.  Vadodara, was originally called as 'Vadapadraka' mean a village amidst the banyan trees.  Baroda is known as the garden city of Gujarat.  In the centre of Vadodara town, is a huge lake.

Vadodara Museum & Picture Gallery

It was founded by Sayajirao III in 1894 and is one of the finest museums in Asia.

Maharaja Sayajirao University

This prestigious university was set-up by Maharaja Sayajirao in 1840.  The campus is noted for its architectural grandeur.

Sayaji Baug

The public garden with an excellent zoo is the heart throb of Vadodara.

Nazabaugh Palace

It was built in 1721 and is noted for the ‘Sheesh Mahal’ or mirror palace made in old classical style.

Kirti Mandir

It is adorned with murals painted by Nandlal Bose.

Dakshinamoorthy Temple

It was constructed by EME school in the cantonment area.  The temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is set amidst five banyan trees and is unique in concept and design.  Some other places of interest are Tambekar Wada, ISCKON Temple, Clock Tower, Khanderao market, Sursagar lake, Tapovan Complex etc.

Places to Visit in Vadodara

Ajwa & Nimeta (20km)

The twin gardens here are designed on the lines of famous brindavan Gardens of Mysore.   There is also an amusement park and resort nearby.

Dakor (80km)

This is the second most sacred town in Gujarat, after Dwarka, for the devotees of Lord Krishna.  The nearest railhead is at Kheda 54km.

Kayavarohan (29km)

The pilgrim site is associated with Lord Lakulish (Shiva).  Main attractions are, the idol of Lakulish, a Shivalinga and pictures showing various yoga forms.

Pavagadh (51km)

The sacred hill of Pavagadh, near Champaner is was Jain temples, a Kali temple and a fort on the hill.

Suklatirth (87km)

It is known for the legendary shrine of Lord Vishnu, on the banks of river Narmada.  An annual fair is held in November.  The nearest railhead is at Bharuch (16km).

Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum

This is the royal collection of art treasures of old masters like Raphael, Titian and Murillo a well as modern western and Indian painting, Graeco-Roman exhibits, Chinese and Japanese art, and a large collection of contemporary Indian art.

Makara Palace

A beautiful palace designed in the Italinate style, the Makarpura is now used as a training school of the Indian Air Force.

Pratap Vilas Palace at Lalbagh

Built as the residence of the royal family, the Pratap Vilas in an extravagant and flambuoyant building in the Indo-Sarcenic style. The palace houses a remarkable collection of old armory, and sculptures in bronze, marble and terracotta.

Vadodara Museum

Founded by the Gaekwad in 1894, it has impressive collections of Art and Archaeology, Natural History, and Geology.  The adjoining Art Gallery has a great collection of European old masters: Veronese, Giordano, Zurbaran, some Flemist and Dutch school paintings; Turner and Constable, a collection of Mughal miniatures, and valuable palm-leaf manuscripts of the Buddhist and Jain origin.

Navaratri at Vadodara (Baroda)

Baroda is a well-known centre of music and culture, and many streets have their own garba mandals, or garba groups.  A bhavai performance is held at Baroda's Ambaji temple, during Navaratri.  Many other places within Gujarat have their own local customs and celebrate Navaratri in their own special way.