Top 6 places to visit in Vadodara
Boasting an eventful and glorious history, Vadodara is one of very few cities of India which have been existed for a long time ago. Located on the bank of Vishwamitri River, Vadodara has the honor of being the royal kingdom of many dynasties. Thus, embracing a diverse culture and history together, today it has become a popular tourist destination in Gujarat. Apart from its awe-inspiring tourism, it is also a commercial and industrial hub in Gujarat. However, what makes the city so popular is undoubtedly its heritage tourism. So, let’s check out the wonderful places to visit in Vadodara.
Laxmi Vilas Palace
Thanks to Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III who built this incredibly marvelous palace and give the Vadodara a place in the international tourism. Stretching in a far-reaching area of 700 acres, Laxmi Vilas Palace was the private royal residence of Maharaja Sayajirao. It took nearly 12 years of time and £180,000 amount to get the palace completed finally in 1890 after working unnumbered of labors day and out. Rendering the Hindu-Muslim architecture, Laxmi Vilas Palace is probably the finest royal palace of India from the 19th century. The more ostentatious it appears from outside, the more jaw-breaking interior designs are. The craftsmen and the materials were imported from the foreign countries. The royal palace comprises of 170 royal chambers, golf courses, museums, lush gardens, and every other royal facility. The entire palace is vividly adorned with the embellished art- and mirror work. Certainly a must-visit place!
Sayaji Bagh
I must say Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III was highly fond of the royal lifestyle. Yes, again built by the same person, Satyaji Bagh manifests the same thing we have witnessed in Laxmi Vilas Palace and that is so-called ‘royal luxuriousness’. The entire garden is expanded in a vast area of 113 acres. It houses a zoo, museum, art gallery, and unnumbered of lush trees & flowers and these all were the private property of Maharaja Sayajirao. Being the largest garden of Gujarat, it is always brimmed with the visitors. The garden was built in 1879 and since then, it has been a favorite destination in the city. Whether you want to enjoy a picnic with your family or want to spend some quality time with your loved ones or maybe, you want to spend a day with nature, Sayaji Bagh will enthrall you.
Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park
Ahh, wait! Don’t skim the name of the place. Read it carefully because it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Champaner is actually a historical place amid the Pavagagd hills which dates back the time period of 8th century. At that time, it was the royal kingdom of Maharaja Vanraj of Chavda dynasty. But in the medical era, it got lost in the mist of history. Later, it was discovered again. Though the monuments of Champaner are in a rundown condition, they still are splendid enough to amuse the visitors. Interestingly, you’ll see there Hindu, Muslim, and Jain monuments together. Since it has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004, the cultural heritage and the monuments are well preserved now.
Vadodara Museum
Located within the premises of Sayaji Bagh, Vadodara Museum is one of the largest museums in Gujarat. It was built by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III in 1894 for his kids. At that time, it was a royal museum and only the royal members were allowed to visit the museum. However, now it is managed by the government and is open for the worldwide tourists. Built like a royal palace, Vadodara Museum is an exceptional masterpiece of architecture. As soon as you’ll enter the museum, the rare, diverse, and antique collection of royal materials will amuse you. From the Egyptian Mummy to European paintings and from Mughal miniatures to the endless artifacts of Hindu rulers, you’ll find a huge collection in Vadodara Museum.
Khandero Market
The history of Vadodara revolves around Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III. Whichever place you’ll visit in the city, it would have something to do with Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III. Yes, again it’s Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III who built this vivid market. Actually, it was a gift by him to his people to commemorate the completion of 25 years of his governance. Owing to its such a significant history, it’s a one of the most loved markets in Vadodara. Be it the locals or the tourists, people can never get enough of this place. If you’re a shopping beast, you’re going to love this market. From the traditional materials to modern stuff and from top-class restaurants to the local food stalls, Khandero Market gives an unforgettable experience to its visitors.
EME Temple
If you’re running out of time, skip all other places but not this one. ‘EME Temple’ – as the name of this temple is unique, the concept behind the construction is also unique. Rendering a distinctive architectural style, the temple teaches the people the most important learning of life. Beyond religion, beyond caste, and beyond the boundary, it puts the humanity above all. Built and managed by the Indian army, the temple has been incorporated with the holy architectural symbols of every religion of India. The Kalash on the top of the temple signifies Hindu religion, the dome is for Islam, the high tower is for Christianity, the entrance gate is for the Jainism, and the golden structure on the top of the tower represents the Buddhism. Also known as Dakshinamurti Temple, EME Temple is a not-to-be-missed place in Vadodara.
Best time to visit in Vadodara
Vadodara is extremely hot in summers, so if possible, don’t visit the city during this season. Winters are of course the ideal time to explore the city. The weather makes the journey even more beautiful. You can also visit during the monsoon months.
How to reach Vadodara
Vadodara is a major city in Gujarat, so getting there is convenient and hassle-free. ‘Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport’ is the closest airport, just at 100 km from the city. Vadodara has its own railway station, so you can take a halt there. From the railway station, you can hire the taxis, autos, or busses to get your desired destination. If you’re going by your own vehicle, you can reach the city easily. The major states of India are well-connected to Vadodara.
So, these are the most important places to visit in Vadodara . The list covers only the prominent places of the city but there is a lot more to explore. With its traditional Gujrati zest, Vadodara assures a fun-filled trip for the visitors. So, head over to the city.
