Located in the heart of Vadodara, the Laxmi Vilas Palace is a magnificent structure that combines Indian and European styles of architecture. Built by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III in 1890, it is four times the size of Buckingham Palace and is still the residence of the royal family. The palace is adorned with a collection of sculptures, paintings, and artifacts. A must-visit attraction for history and architecture lovers.
The Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery is a treasure trove of Indian art and artifacts. The museum has a massive collection of art, sculptures, textiles, and handicrafts from across the country. The Picture Gallery boasts an impressive collection of European paintings, including works by famous artists like Raphael, Titian, and Murillo.
Located inside the Hotel Surya Palace, Mandap is a multi-cuisine restaurant that offers a wide range of food choices. The ambiance is elegant, and the service is exceptional. The restaurant is famous for its authentic Gujarati thali, which is a platter of various vegetarian dishes served with rice and bread.
Sayaji Baug is a sprawling garden spread over 45 hectares in the heart of Vadodara. The garden was built in 1879 by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III for the benefit of his subjects. The garden has a mini zoo, a toy train, and a planetarium. The garden is also home to the Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery.
Kirti Mandir is a memorial dedicated to the Gaekwad dynasty that ruled Baroda. The memorial was built in 1936 and is located in the heart of the city. The structure is made of marble and has beautiful carvings and murals. The memorial also houses a small museum that showcases the history of the Gaekwad dynasty.
Don't miss out on the beautiful Swaminarayan Temple and EME Temple if you have extra time. Also, consider taking a day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park located about 50 km from Vadodara.