Baroda, also known as Vadodara, is a cosmopolitan city in the state of Gujarat, India. It is renowned for its rich historical background, vibrant cultural festivals, and architectural marvels. As the cultural capital of Gujarat, Baroda offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity, making it a fascinating destination for travelers. The city is also famous for the Lakshmi Vilas Palace, one of the grandest palaces in India, which encapsulates the essence of the city's royal past.
Top places to visit in Baroda
Explore the popular places to visit in Baroda:
Lakshmi Vilas Palace:
- Must-visit places: This majestic palace is four times the size of Buckingham Palace and features stunning architecture with a blend of Indian and European elements.
- Weather: Baroda experiences a tropical savannah climate, with mild winters perfect for visiting from October to March.
- Things to do: Tour the palace complex to see the Durbar Hall, museum, and beautifully landscaped gardens. Don't miss the royal armory and artworks.
Sayaji Baug (Kamati Baug):
- Must-visit places: One of the largest gardens in Western India, established in 1879 by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III.
- Weather: The park is especially pleasant in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
- Things to do: Enjoy a relaxing walk, visit the Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery within the park, and take a ride on the toy train.
Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery:
- Must-visit places: Located within Sayaji Baug, this museum hosts a rich collection of art, sculpture, ethnography, and ethnology.
- Weather: Being indoors, it's a perfect year-round destination.
- Things to do: Explore artifacts ranging from the Mughal miniatures to Egyptian antiquities and marvel at the works of European masters.
EME Temple:
- Must-visit places: A unique geodesic structure built entirely of aluminum and dedicated to Lord Dakshinamurthy, a form of Shiva as supreme teacher.
- Weather: The temple is open year-round, with the cooler months being more comfortable for visitation.
- Things to do: Appreciate the modern architectural design and participate in the peaceful evening Aartis.
Kirti Mandir:
- Must-visit places: This temple was built to commemorate the cremation of the royal Gaekwad family and features murals by artist Nandalal Bose.
- Weather: Best visited during the cooler months from November to February.
- Things to do: Observe the exquisite murals and architecture that tell the story of the Maratha dynasty and its heroes.
Which is the best time to visit Baroda?
The ideal time to visit Baroda (Vadodara) is during the cooler months from October to March. During this season, the weather is pleasantly mild, perfect for exploring outdoor attractions such as the majestic Lakshmi Vilas Palace, the serene Sayaji Baug, and other historical sites comfortably. October is particularly notable as it marks the celebration of Navratri, one of the most significant and colourful festivals in Vadodara, famous for its vibrant dance performances and lively cultural events. Additionally, the cooler weather enhances the experience of walking through the city's bustling bazaars and spacious parks, making it a prime time for tourists to fully enjoy what Vadodara has to offer.
Things to do in Baroda
Here is a quick guide to things you can explore in Baroda:
- Cultural exploration: Dive deep into the rich cultural heritage of Baroda by visiting its numerous palaces, museums, and art galleries.
- Leisure activities: Relax in the expansive Sayaji Baug, take a boat ride on the Sursagar Lake, especially beautiful on moonlit nights.
- Festivals: Participate in local festivals such as Navratri, celebrated with great enthusiasm and featuring traditional dance, music, and colorful attire.
- Shopping: Explore local markets for handicrafts, traditional Garba attire, and exquisite jewelry, particularly in areas around Mandvi.
