1. A Palace Fit For Any Royal Dynasty
For centuries, Vadodara (or Baroda) was the seat of the Gujarati royal family, and architectural reminders of its glorious past remain all over town, and none are more splendid than Laxmi Vilas Palace. Built in the 1890s as a fitting home for the royal family, it was created in a style known as "Indo-Saracenic" (a fusion of Mughal, traditional Indian, and British influences), and few corners were cut. It's an impressive sight, with opulent interiors, chandeliers, waterfall fountains, and much more to discover as you explore.
2. A Humble House With Miraculous Murals
A brilliant counterpoint to the magnificence of Laxmi Vilas, Tambekar Wada is just as special in its way. Located in the Dandia Bazaar area of Vadodara, this townhouse dates back to the 1840s, and was built in a multi-storied style for one of the city's leading merchants. Be sure to enter the mansion to uncover the treasures within, including murals showing episodes from the Mahabharata and 18th and 19th century regional history, as well as some charming scenes from everyday life. It's a great fusion of historical education and pure artistic beauty.
3. Gujarat's Most Gorgeous Garden
Vadodara's premier park, Sajayi Baug can be found to the north-west of the city center, and finding it is definitely recommended. Laid out in the 1870s, the park is really more of a pleasure garden, offering much more than beautiful green space for visitors. For instance, it's home to the city's main zoo, where you can meet tigers, hippos, and exotic Indian birds. There's a planetarium with daily shows, a toy train that kids can ride around the grounds, and the chance to get away from the traffic of the city center.
4. Great Art, From Turner To Tibet
Also within the grounds of Sajayi Baug, visitors will find this excellent museum, which is almost certainly the finest in town. Created by the local Gaekwad royal family in the 1890s, Vadodara's Museum is another Indo-Saracenic masterpiece. And there are some notable masterworks inside, too, including originals by British painters like Constable and Turner, Indian bronze sculptures from 500 AD, exquisite miniatures from the Mughal era, and an assortment of Tibetan and European works that the royals accumulated over the years. It's the kind of place where a breath-taking sight is just around the corner.
5. Heaven For Ancient History Fans
It's not actually in Vadodara itself, but Champaner is well worth visiting if you get the chance. This gorgeous historic town is around 30 miles northeast of Vadodara, so it's easily accessible by road. Founded by the Chavda Dynasty in the 8th century, Champaner is one of India's most important archaeological locations, including the extensive fortifications of this ancient Hindu capital, and the soaring bulk of Pavagadh, a 750 meter tall volcanic hill. If you love history, it's a wonderland.
