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Vadodara!

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Population

1.7 million

schedule

Best Time

October to March

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Time Needed

2-3 days minimum

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Currency

Rupee (β‚Ή)

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location_on Gujarat map West India πŸ™οΈ Urban πŸ›οΈ Heritage Cultural Travel Vadodara Gujarat cultural city Lakshmi Vilas Palace travel guide

Vadodara, also known as Baroda, is a major city in Gujarat, known for its rich cultural heritage and the legacy of the Gaekwad dynasty. It's a blend of historical grandeur and modern development, serving as an educational and industrial hub.

Vadodara offers a glimpse into royal Indian history with its palaces and museums, but it can also feel crowded and polluted. The city has a vibrant cultural scene and delicious Gujarati cuisine, but expect persistent touts near tourist spots. It's a good destination for those interested in history and culture, but less so for those seeking tranquility.

To explore Vadodara's main attractions, allow at least 2-3 days. Getting around is relatively easy with auto-rickshaws and taxis readily available. Consider visiting during the cooler months for a more comfortable experience.

When To Visit

Best Time

October to March

20-32 degrees C

The weather is pleasant and dry, ideal for sightseeing. Days are sunny and evenings are cool.

Why Visit:

This is the best time to explore the city's historical sites and enjoy outdoor activities. The weather is perfect for walking around and experiencing the local culture. Several festivals also take place during this period.

Tip: This is peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and more crowds. Book accommodations and transportation in advance.

Shoulder Season

July to September

28-35 degrees C

Monsoon season brings heavy rainfall and high humidity. The city turns green, and the atmosphere is refreshing after the dry summer.

Why Visit:

The monsoon season offers a unique perspective of Vadodara, with lush greenery and fewer tourists. However, heavy rainfall can disrupt travel plans and make sightseeing difficult.

Tip: Some attractions may have limited hours due to the rain. Check the weather forecast before planning your trip.

Avoid

April to June

35-45 degrees C

The summer months are extremely hot and dry, making it uncomfortable to be outdoors. Heat waves are common.

Why Avoid:

The scorching heat makes it difficult to enjoy the city's attractions. Exploring outdoors can be exhausting and potentially dangerous. Many locals stay indoors during the day.

Note: If you must visit during this time, stay hydrated and avoid strenuous activities during the hottest part of the day.

Top Sights - Top Attractions!

Lakshmi Vilas Palace

⏱ 3-4 hours β‚Ή225 (Indians), β‚Ή600 (foreigners)

Lakshmi Vilas Palace is the residence of the Gaekwad family, rulers of Baroda State. It's one of the largest private residences in the world, four tim...

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Sayaji Baug

⏱ 2-3 hours Free

Sayaji Baug is a large garden named after Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, offering a green oasis in...

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Baroda Museum & Picture Gallery

⏱ 2-3 hours β‚Ή20 (Indians), β‚Ή500 (foreigners)

The Baroda Museum & Picture Gallery houses a diverse collection of art, archaeology, and ethnography. It showcases artifacts from various periods of I...

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EME Temple

⏱ 1 hour Free

The EME Temple, also known as the Dakshinamurthy Temple, is a unique temple run by the Indian Army. Its architecture represents the diversity of India...

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Kirti Mandir

⏱ 1 hour Free

Kirti Mandir is a memorial dedicated to the Gaekwad rulers. It houses statues and paintings of the family members....

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Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum

⏱ 2 hours β‚Ή40 (Indians), β‚Ή500 (foreigners)

The Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum houses a collection of paintings, sculptures, and artifacts collected by the Gaekwad rulers. It is located within the ...

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Hazira Maqbara

⏱ 1 hour Free

Hazira Maqbara is a mausoleum complex housing the tombs of Qutb-ud-din Muhammad Khan and his son Naser-ud-din Muhammad Khan. It showcases Mughal archi...

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Things To Do

attractions

Heritage Walk

⏱ 2-3 hours πŸ’° β‚Ή500-800 per person

Explore the old city of Vadodara on foot with a guided heritage walk. Discover hidden gems and learn about the city's hi...

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attractions

Cooking Class

⏱ 3-4 hours πŸ’° β‚Ή1200-2000 per person

Learn to prepare authentic Gujarati dishes in a hands-on cooking class. Discover the secrets of local cuisine and enjoy ...

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attractions

Visit a Local Market

⏱ 2 hours πŸ’° Free (shopping costs extra)

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of a local market. Explore the stalls selling textiles, handicrafts, and spices....

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attractions

Garba Dance Workshop

⏱ 1.5 hours πŸ’° β‚Ή500-700 per person

Learn the traditional Gujarati folk dance, Garba. Experience the rhythm and energy of this vibrant dance form....

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Cultural Experiences

celebration

Navratri Festival

9 nights | β‚Ή100-500 per night (pass)

Navratri is a major festival in Gujarat, celebrated with traditional Garba dances. It's a vibrant an...

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celebration

Uttarayan (Kite Flying Festival)

1 day | Free (kite costs extra)

Uttarayan is the kite flying festival, celebrated with enthusiasm in Gujarat. The sky is filled with...

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celebration

Attend a Gujarati Wedding

1-2 days | By invitation only

Gujarati weddings are elaborate and colorful affairs. They offer a glimpse into the rich cultural tr...

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celebration

Visit a Local Temple

1 hour | Free

Explore the intricate architecture and religious significance of local temples. Experience the spiri...

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celebration

Watch a Traditional Folk Performance

2-3 hours | β‚Ή300-500

Experience the vibrant folk music and dance traditions of Gujarat. Witness the energetic performance...

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celebration

Attend an Aarti Ceremony

30 minutes | Free

Experience the spiritual atmosphere of an Aarti ceremony. Observe the rituals, chants, and devotiona...

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View all cultural experiences

Eat This!

Must-Try Dishes

Sev Usal
Sev Usal

Spicy and tangy snack made with sev and white peas (try at local street food stalls)

Fafda Jalebi
Fafda Jalebi

Crispy fafda served with sweet jalebi (try at Jagdish Farsan)

Undhiyu
Undhiyu

Mixed vegetable casserole cooked in earthen pots (try during winter months)

Khakhra
Khakhra

Thin and crispy crackers made from wheat flour (try different flavors at local stores)

Where to Eat

Mandap Restaurant

Mandap Restaurant

β‚Ήβ‚Ή

Gujarati, North Indian

πŸ“ Sayajigunj

Offers authentic Gujarati cuisine in a traditional setting. The thali is a must-try for experiencing the variety of Gujarati dishes. Expect a warm and hospitable atmosphere.

Gujarati Thali

β‚Ή800-1200 for two

The Blue Oven

The Blue Oven

β‚Ήβ‚Ή

Italian, Continental

πŸ“ Alkapuri

A popular spot for Italian and Continental cuisine. The wood-fired pizzas are highly recommended. Enjoy the cozy and relaxed ambiance.

Wood-fired pizzas

β‚Ή1000-1500 for two

Street Food Spots

Mangal Bazaar

Mangal Bazaar

πŸ’° Budget: β‚Ή50-150 per person

⚠️ Tips: Visit in the evening for the best experience. Be mindful of hygiene and choose vendors with a good reputation.

🍽️
Discover More on
Foodie Finder: Vadodara

More restaurants & dishes from Vadodara

Where To Stay ?

Best Neighborhoods

Sayajigunj

A central area with hotels, restaurants, and shopping. It's a convenient location but can be noisy.

Best For: First-time visitors

Alkapuri

An upscale area with luxury hotels and restaurants. It's a quieter and more refined neighborhood.

Best For: Business travelers, luxury travelers

Accommodation Options

Budget

πŸ’°

β‚Ή800-1200/night

Hotel Apex International

πŸ“ Near Railway Station

Offers basic amenities and clean rooms. Convenient location for travelers arriving by train.

β‚Ή800-1200/night

Hotel President

πŸ“ Sayajigunj

Provides decent rooms at an affordable price. Close to shopping areas and restaurants.

β‚Ή900-1300/night

Mid-Range

🏨

β‚Ή2000-3000/night

Hotel Express Towers

πŸ“ Fatehgunj

Features comfortable rooms and a multi-cuisine restaurant. Offers good value for money.

β‚Ή2000-3000/night

Sayaji Hotel Vadodara

πŸ“ Near Airport

A modern hotel with well-appointed rooms and good amenities. Ideal for business travelers.

β‚Ή2500-3500/night

Luxury

✨

β‚Ή4000+/night

Grand Mercure Vadodara Surya Palace

πŸ“ Sayajigunj

Offers luxurious rooms, a spa, and multiple dining options. Provides a premium experience.

β‚Ή4000+/night

Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Alkapuri, Vadodara

πŸ“ Alkapuri

A high-end hotel with elegant rooms and excellent service. Ideal for discerning travelers.

β‚Ή5000+/night

View all stay & eat options

How To Get There ?

flight

By Air

Airport: Vadodara Airport (BDQ), 7km from city

train

By Train

Stations:

Vadodara Junction (BRC)

Major railway station with connections to various cities.

Routes:
  • From Delhi: 12-14 hours (β‚Ή800-2000)
  • From Mumbai: 4-5 hours (β‚Ή500-1200)

Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia

directions_bus

By Bus

Terminals:
  • Central Bus Depot, Makarpura Bus Stand
Routes:
  • From Ahmedabad: 3-4 hours (β‚Ή300-500)

Note: Trains more comfortable

Getting Around

local_taxi

Auto-rickshaw

πŸ’° β‚Ή50-150 depending on distance

Best for: Short distances, negotiating traffic

Bargain before starting the ride. Ensure the meter is running (though rare).

directions

Taxi/Uber/Ola

πŸ’° β‚Ή150-400

Best for: Comfort, longer distances

Book through the app for transparent pricing. Easier than haggling with auto drivers.

Practical Tips

checkroom

What To Wear

Light cotton clothing is recommended, especially during summer. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

payments

Money

Daily Budget: Budget: β‚Ή1500, Mid: β‚Ή3000, Luxury: β‚Ή5000+

ATMs: Widely available

Cash vs Card: Cash is useful for small transactions, while cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants.

Bargaining: Expected in local markets and for auto-rickshaw fares

health_and_safety

Health

Water: Drink bottled water or filtered water to avoid stomach issues.

Food: Eat at reputable restaurants or street food stalls with good hygiene practices.

Common Issues: Heatstroke is a risk during summer. Carry sunscreen, a hat, and stay hydrated.

sim_card

Communication

SIM Cards: Available at the airport and local stores. Airtel and Vodafone are popular networks.

WiFi: Available at most hotels and cafes

translate

Language & Tipping

Language: English is spoken by many, but learning a few basic Gujarati phrases can be helpful.

Tipping: Restaurant: 5-10%, drivers: β‚Ή20-50

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