Start with a budget-friendly, quickly served breakfast at the university mess for authentic and very economical food; alternatively walk/take a short auto to Chappan Dukaan in Mandvi for local Gujarati breakfast snacks (fafda, jalebi, kachori) if you prefer street flavors.
Short auto/ride to Sayaji Baug — reach early to enjoy gardens before crowds and to have time for the zoo and museum; this keeps the day efficient because several attractions are inside/next to the park.
Sayaji Baug (Kamati Baug) is Vadodara’s large city park with a Butterfly Garden, the zoo, and broad lawns — perfect for a relaxed morning and bird/butterfly sightings. The zoo typically opens around 9:00am, so arriving now maximizes viewing time.
The Baroda Museum (inside Sayaji Baug) houses art, archaeology and natural history collections — excellent for a quick cultural deep-dive and photography. Note: usual opening hours are ~10:30am–5:00pm; closed on Mondays — confirm before you go.
Head to Mandvi’s Chappan Dukaan (56-shops cluster) for a varied, budget-friendly lunch — choose simple thalis, local Gujarati snacks, or light North Indian options depending on taste; good for sampling local flavors quickly.
Visit the Laxmi Vilas Palace exterior and its museum/grounds to see royal architecture, photographs and artefacts — the palace illustrates Baroda’s princely past and offers great photo opportunities. Typical visiting hours are ~10:30am–5:30pm; check ticket counter times.
A short drive/walk to the city center to see Sursagar Lake and Kirti Mandir (memorial temple) — pleasant for an afternoon stroll and quick heritage shots; Kirti Mandir usually stays open into the evening.
Return to Maharaja Sayajirao University for a relaxed heritage walk around the campus — MSU’s architecture and small on-campus galleries are educational and close at hand since you’re staying there.
Attend a local light & sound or cultural show in the evening if scheduled (some events are held at palace grounds or university auditoriums). Timing and availability vary seasonally — confirm a few days ahead and book tickets if needed; this satisfies your interest in an evening show without leaving the city.
Enjoy a relaxed dinner near Mandvi or back near the university — choose simple thali or vegetarian Gujarati options for budget comfort; Mandvi offers many small, clean places serving local favorites and sweets.
Head back to your MSU accommodation to rest and prepare for the early morning train on the 22nd. Use any remaining time to confirm train timings and arrange transport to the station.