About Vadodara
The city's highlight is the vast Laxmi Vilas Palace, still home to the royal family. Nearby, Sayaji Baug holds the Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery, and about 50 km away is Champaner-Pavagadh, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with the Mahakali temple on the hilltop.
Vadodara is also an industrial and business centre, and the gateway to the Statue of Unity.
Places to see
- Laxmi Vilas PalaceOne of the largest private residences in India, with guided visits.
- Sayaji Baug, Baroda Museum and Picture GalleryA large garden and one of Gujarat's best museums.
- Champaner-PavagadhUNESCO World Heritage Site with mosques, forts and the Mahakali temple (ropeway).
- EME TempleAn unusual aluminium-clad temple built by the army's engineers.
- Kirti MandirMemorial of the Gaekwad family.
Best time to visit
October to March. Vadodara's Navratri is famous; expect big crowds and late nights.
Getting there from Rajkot
About 290–330 km from Rajkot, roughly 5.5–6 hours. Vadodara has an airport and a major railway junction.
See the full route guide: Rajkot to Vadodara taxi.
Suggested plan
- Day 1Drive from Rajkot, Laxmi Vilas Palace in the afternoon.
- Day 2Champaner-Pavagadh, or on to the Statue of Unity.
Travel tips
- Laxmi Vilas Palace visits have fixed hours; check before you go.
- Pavagadh is very busy during Navratri; go early.
- See the Statue of Unity guide for a combined trip.