The Royal City, Vadodara awaits you with all its grandeur

Vadodara or Baroda as it’s often known is a beautiful city and has some interesting sights to offer to its visitors. The city is way less hectic and crowded than Ahmedabad, but most of all, it is home to many beautiful royal palaces such as the Laxmi Vilas Palace, and many more. Vadodara was conquered by the Maratha general Pilaji Gaekwad from the Mughals in 1726. Before the Gaekwads captured Baroda, it was ruled by the Babi Nawabs, who were the officers of the Mughal rulers. Except for a short period, Baroda continued to be in the reign of the Gaekwads from 1734 to 1948. These rulers left behind a rich legacy as they built many beautiful palaces and monuments in and around the city that are now considered architectural marvels. Here is a list of few places that you can visit during your visit to the city.

Laxmi Vilas Palace

Laxmi Vilas Palace

If you are a lover of forts, palaces and castles then this extravagant royal palace built by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III in 1890 will definitely keep you awestruck. At that time it was built at a cost of GBP 180,000. The Laxmi Vilas Palace is reputed to be the largest private dwelling built till date and is four times the size of Buckingham Palace. It remains the residence of the Royal Family, who continues to be held in high esteem by the residents of Vadodara.

Khanderao Market

Khanderao Market

Khanderao Market is a famous and palatial building located in Vadodara. It was built by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III in 1906 and named after Khande Rao Gaekwad, who was the Maharaja of Baroda from 1856–1870. The offices of the Vadodara Municipal Corporation are now located in this building. A fresh vegetable and flower market is also located in the back garden. A visit to this place could give you an introduction to rustic Vadodara.

Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park

Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park

Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is located in close proximity to Vadodara. It is located around the historical city of Champaner, a city which was built by Sultan Mahmud Begada of Gujarat. The heritage site is studded with forts with bastions starting from the hills of Pavagadh, and extending into the city of Champaner. With palaces, entrance gates and arches, mosques, tombs and temples, residential complexes, agricultural structures and water installations such as step wells and tanks, dating from the 8th to the 14th centuries, it is definitely a must visit when in Vadodara.

Sayaji Baug 

Sayaji Baug 

Sayaji Baug is a beautiful garden located in Vadodara that built by Maharaja Sayajirao III in 1879 and then he dedicated it to the citizens of Vadodara. It is also known as Kamati Baug and lies by the river Vishwamitri. Sayaji Baug has the distinction of being the largest garden in Western India, stretching over 113 acres of sprawling land. It is rich in flora and is home to more than 98 species of trees. The garden is also home to the Baroda Museum & Picture Gallery, the Sardar Patel Planetarium, and the Sayaji Baug Zoo. 

Sursagar Lake

Sursagar Lake

The Sur Sagar Lake also known as the Chand Talao is a beautiful lake situated right in the middle of Vadodara. The lake was rebuilt with stone masonry in the 18th Century which is why water remains in it throughout the year. A 120 ft tall statue of lord Shiva stands tall with grandeur in the middle of the Sur Sagar Lake. It is popular destination for people to just sit by it and admire its serenity and tranquillity. 

So, the next time you visit the historic and royal city Vadodara, you know which places to visit first. A new place is always meant to be explored, as one day you will definitely recollect these experiences which will bring a smile on your face while you walk down the memory lane.