Vadodara Travel Guide
| Today in India: Guru Rabindranath Jayanti (8 May) |
Facts and practical information
Vadodara, located in the vibrant Gujarat region of India, is a city that seamlessly blends history, culture, and natural beauty. As a travel destination, Vadodara offers a unique experience that will leave visitors captivated.
One of the city's most iconic landmarks is the majestic Laxmi Vilas Palace. This opulent palace, built by the Gaekwads, the former rulers of Vadodara, is four times the size of Buckingham Palace. Its exquisite architecture and sprawling gardens make it a must-visit attraction. Inside the palace, visitors can explore the Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum, which houses an impressive collection of artwork and artifacts.
Vadodara is also known for its rich cultural heritage. The city is a hub for traditional music and dance forms, such as Garba and Raas. During the festival of Navratri, the streets of Vadodara come alive with vibrant processions and energetic performances. Visitors can immerse themselves in the festivities and witness the city's cultural vibrancy firsthand.
For nature enthusiasts, Vadodara offers several serene retreats. The Sayaji Garden, spread over 100 acres, is a lush green oasis in the heart of the city. It features beautifully landscaped gardens, a zoo, and a planetarium, making it a perfect destination for families. Additionally, the nearby Ajwa Waterfall provides a picturesque setting for picnics and relaxation.
Food lovers will be delighted by the diverse culinary scene in Vadodara. From street food stalls offering delectable snacks like pav bhaji and sev puri to fine dining restaurants serving authentic Gujarati cuisine, the city caters to every palate. Don't miss the opportunity to try the local specialty, the delicious and savory Gujarati thali, a platter filled with a variety of vegetarian dishes.
Lastly, Vadodara is home to numerous temples and religious sites that hold great significance for the local community. The EME Temple, dedicated to Lord Dakshinamurti, is renowned for its unique architecture and tranquil atmosphere. The Kirti Mandir, a memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, is another important landmark that attracts tourists and history enthusiasts.
Vadodara Attractions - What to See and Explore
Vadodara offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Sayaji Baug, Khanderao Market, Baroda Museum & Picture Gallery, Sursagar Lake. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
Vadodara – popular in the area (distance from the center)
In the vicinity of Vadodara, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Galteshwar Temple (Dakor), Jama Mosque (Champaner), Tomb of Sikandar Shah (Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park).
Best Time To Visit Vadodara
Learn when is the best time to travel to Vadodara weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience the City
Food & drink
CuisineA guide to some of the best local dishes and drinks that you will meet in the region.
Chutney
The term chutney refers to a number of sauces native to the Indian subcontinent, forming an integral part of the cuisines of the Indian subcontinent.
Biryani
Biryani is a mixed rice dish with its origins among the Muslims of the Indian subcontinent. It can be compared to mixing a curry, later combining it with semi-cooked rice separately.
Dish
Sambar
Sambar, also spelled sambaar, is a lentil-based vegetable stew or chowder, cooked with dal and tamarind broth. It is popular in South Indian and Sri Lankan cuisines.
Stew
Idli
Idli or idly are a type of savoury rice cake, originating from the Indian subcontinent, popular as breakfast foods in Southern India especially Tamilnadu and among Tamils in Sri Lanka.
Indian dish
Dosa
A dosa is a rice pancake, originating from South India, made from a fermented batter. It is somewhat similar to a crepe in appearance. Its main ingredients are rice and black gram, ground...
Indian dish
Gujarat