Vadodara, the cultural hub of Gujarat, is where modernization and traditional culture come together. This city has everything for everyone, from peaceful gardens to magnificent palaces, temples, and other heritage sites. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the city’s numerous galleries and museums.
With this list of the best things to do in Vadodara, prepare to discover hidden gems and meet surprising experiences that await you in the lap of civilization. Book a comfortable car rental in Ahmedabad and travel to Vadodara in chauffeur-driven Savaari cabs, enjoying a hassle-free travel experience.
Table of Contents
- Things to Do in Vadodara
- About Vadodara
- How to Plan a Trip to Vadodara
- Accommodation: Hotels and Resorts in Vadodara
- Best Road Trips from Vadodara
- Useful Links
Things to Do in Vadodara
Vadodara provides the ideal fusion of environment, history, and culture. There are several things to do in Vadodara:
- Explore Vadodara Gallery and Museum: Constructed by the Gaekwads in 1894, this museum has quite a remarkable collection of geology and archaeology. It has an 11th-century Shiva Natraj, a Persian Mahabharata, and rare Mughal miniature paintings. Museum visits here provide a deep dive into the region’s rich history.
- Entry Fee: ₹5 for adults, free for children below 12 years
- Timings: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
- Open Days: Friday–Wednesday (Closed on Thursday)
- Visit the Sayaji Garden: The 100-acre garden, also known as Kamati Baug, is one of India’s biggest public parks. It claims 98 tree species, a floral clock, a zoo, and the Sardar Patel Planetarium. The Sayaji Toy Train offers a delightful tour for children.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 5:00 AM–10:45 PM
- Open Days: Everyday
- Spend time at the Kirti Mandir: Designed in 1936 for the Gaekwads, this architectural wonder with complex carvings and paintings is a cenotaph. Beautiful paintings by well-known painters like Nandalal Bose can be seen during a heritage walk along its corridors—one of the best things to do in Vadodara.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 9:00 AM–12:00 PM; 2:30 PM–5 PM
- Open Days: Everyday
- Experience the tranquility in Shri Aurobindo Ashram: This ashram, where Shri Aurobindo resided from 1894 to 1906, provides a peaceful retreat. It includes a library, bookstore, and meditation halls open to all visitors.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 10 AM–6 PM
- Open Days: Everyday
Shopping in Vadodara
Shopping in Vadodara offers a diverse experience, from traditional markets to modern malls. Here’s a guide to the city’s top shopping destinations:
- Alkapuri: This posh neighborhood is a sanctuary for brand lovers. Alkapri has luxury stores, showrooms, and shopping centers with branded clothes, shoes, and accessories. It’s the go-to place for those seeking a premium shopping experience in Vadodara.
- Raopura: Raopura is a busy retail center distinguished by its energetic environment and varied selection of products. You will discover traditional attire, ornate jewelry, and fine handicrafts here. Raopura’s busy streets provide a real, local retail experience.
- Mandvi: Mandvi is one of Vadodara’s oldest marketplaces. Local textiles, vibrant Bandhani sarees, and distinctive handicrafts are well-known wares. Mandvi is ideal for anybody wishing to buy traditional Gujarati textiles and handicrafts.
- Inorbit Mall: Inorbit Mall offers a wide range of national and international brands and a modern shopping experience. This mall meets a variety of shopping requirements, from fashion to electronics and home decor, under one roof.
- Seven Seas Mall: Fashion-conscious consumers really like Seven Seas Mall. Both locals and visitors love it for its stylish interiors and an extensive range of clothing, shoes, and accessories from well-known companies.
- Lehripura New Road: Lehripura New Road is a gold and silver jewelry haven for accessory lovers. The street is also distinctive in the retail scene in Vadodara, as it offers traditional attire and handicrafts.
Nightlife in Vadodara
Nightlife in Vadodara has a special fusion of social events, cultural experiences, and gourmet pleasures. These are some well-liked choices to explore after dark:
- Ratri Bazar: Vadodara nightlife is synonymous with street food. Ratri Bazar, the center of nightlife in Vadodara, is a dream come true for food lovers. From Indian and Chinese favorites to real Gujarati food, this busy night market offers many cuisines. It’s open until late hours, making it the ideal place to satiate your midnight desires while also experiencing the city’s unique culinary culture.
- Ajwa Nimeta Garden: For a calmer evening experience, Ajwa Nimeta Garden is a must-visit. The park’s major draw is its 100-meter row of melodic fountains, which produce an enchanting show of water and light. This family-friendly location is perfect for a laid-back night out amidst nature.
- Garba Nights: Vadodara bursts with Garba celebrations during Navratri. This classic Gujarati folk dance turns the city’s evening scene into a vibrant, lively show. Taking part in or seeing a Garba event during the Garba season is a wonderful experience and provides a unique window into the local way of life.
- Vishwamitri Bridge: As the evening sets in, Vishwamitri Bridge turns into a center of cultural activities. Street performers, musicians, and artists gather here, creating a lively atmosphere. This is a great place to take an evening walk, admire local talent, and see the beautiful nocturnal cityscape by the Vishwamitri River.
- Discotheques Across the City: Vadodara may be a dry state, but it doesn’t mean that you can’t chill over mocktails and finger foods in lively discotheques. Relish the nightlife in Vadodara with nightclubs like Bakda Group, Lucky Soda House, and Disco Hangama Night. Dance the night away to pulsating beats and friendly party folk.
[Also Read: Gujarati, Kathiwadi, or Kutchchi, which is the language of Gujarat?]
Places to Visit in Vadodara
The best places to visit in Vadodara include spiritual experiences, historical importance, and natural beauty:
- Sur Sagar Lake: Originally called Chandan Talav, this lake was built in the 18th century and is a main attraction in Vadodara. Especially remarkable during Maha Shivratri festivities is its 120-foot-tall Lord Shiva monument. Events involving boating and sailing also take place around the lake.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Open Days: Everyday
- Kabirvad: One of the holy sites in Vadodara, Kabirvad, is an island in the Narmada River noted for its massive banyan tree and Saint Kabir’s shrine. It’s a serene spot for spiritual reflection and meditation.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Open Days: Everyday
- Gaekwad Baroda Golf Club: Established by the Gaekwad family, Gujarat’s first golf club offers a first-rate sporting environment. It is special because it is the first golf club in India constructed around a magnificent estate.
- Entry Fee: Membership required
- Timings: 6:00 AM–9:00 PM; 5:00 AM–9:00 PM (on Sunday)
- Open Days: Everyday
- Hazira Maqbara: History buffs will find great value in visiting this Mughal-style mausoleum in Vadodara, which houses the tomb of Qutubuddin Muhammad Khan, renowned scholar and childhood tutor of Emperor Jahangir. Its majestic design and the well-decorated adjacent gardens draw many visitors.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 10:00 AM–7:00 PM
- Open Days: Everyday
- BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir: Another of the notable places to visit in Vadodara, this temple is famous for its stunning architecture and peaceful atmosphere. For anybody looking for spiritual comfort and divine blessings, this place is an absolute must-visit.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 9:30 AM–6:30 PM
- Open Days: Tuesday–Sunday (Monday closed)
Places to Visit Near Vadodara
The places to visit near Vadodara provide diverse experiences, from wildlife sanctuaries to religious sites and natural wonders:
Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary, Khathiar-Gir Eco-region
This sanctuary, located a short drive away from Vadodara, is a nature paradise. Its undulating green hills and thick woods support a variety of plant and animal life—including sloth bears and Indian flying foxes. The Tardol and Kada tanks add to this scenic beauty that provides great hiking and trekking opportunities.
- Entry Fee: ₹50
- Timings: 6:00 AM–7:00 PM
- Open Days: Everyday
Anand, Charotar
Though known for housing Amul dairy, the Anand municipality township offers more than milk goods. History lovers and families alike will find the town a great day trip destination with its ancient landmarks, such as Bharuch Fort and Jama Masjid.
- Entry Fee: Free, but separate fees for the heritage sites
- Timings: 10:00 AM–4:00 PM
- Open Days: Everyday
Zarwani Falls, Dhirkhadi
Nestled in the Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary, the Zarwani Waterfalls is a natural beauty around 90 kilometers from Vadodara. The ideal time to visit the falls is from November to February. For those who like the outdoors, this permanent waterfall has chances for hiking, picnics, birding, and animal photography.
- Entry Fee: ₹400
- Timings: 8:00 AM–6:00 PM
- Open Days: Everyday
The Ranchhodraiji Temple, Dakor
Dakor has a well-respected 18th-century Krishna temple, the Ranchhodraiji Temple. The temple’s notable architecture and design draw visitors and devotees alike. It’s ideal for a short day trip from Vadodara.
- Entry Fee: Free, ₹500 per person for VIP Darshan
- Timings: 6:00 AM–12:00 PM, 4:00 PM–7:00 PM
- Open Days: Everyday
Savaari Recommends: Places to Eat in Vadodara
Vadodara has a varied culinary scene, ranging from traditional Gujarati food to other cuisines. Here are some notable places to eat in Vadodara:
- Jassi De Parathe: Jassi De Parathe is a great midnight spot for those longing for North Indian food. Celebrated for its real Punjabi cuisine, especially its parathas, this restaurant is also a feast for the eyes.
- Mandap: Mandap is worth visiting for a real Gujarati meal. Under a classic mandap canopy, this restaurant presents a rich thali with over twenty courses. Savor local favorites like dhokla, moong dal halwa, undhiyu, and puran poli here.
- Saffron Restaurant: Using a thali system and a live BBQ station right at your table, Saffron offers a distinctive dining experience. Popular for its cheese paneer kebabs, giant papad, and rajma kebab, this restaurant offers a fusion of old and new tastes.
- Jay Mahakali Sev Usal: A local treasure for those who like street food, Jay Mahakali Sev Usal is renowned for its trademark dish: Sev usal. It is a rich onion-based sauce made with sev and presented with soft buns. This restaurant has 25 versions of this well-liked snack!
- Pyarelal Ki Kachori: If you want a quick, tasty snack, go to Pyarelal Ki Kachori. Their Gujarati-style packed kachoris are topped with various toppings, including pepper, tamarind sauce, garlic sauce, puffed rice, and boondi.
- Bayleaf Multi Cuisine Restaurant: Bayleaf has a spectrum of cuisines, including Indian, Mughlai, Chinese, Thai, and Italian, for anyone looking for diversity.
About Vadodara
Once known as Baroda, Vadodara is Gujarat’s third-largest city. It boasts a rich heritage blending history, art, and education. The city is home to notable academic institutions, such as the Maharaja Sayajirao University, which promotes intellectual growth. Testaments to its regal history are its architectural wonders, which include the Laxmi Vilas Palace.
Vadodara’s vibrant artistic scene, showcased in several galleries and museums, draws cultural enthusiasts and art lovers from all over. Deeply ingrained customs and celebrations make the city famous as a “Sanskari Nagari,” or cultured city. With a population of more than a million, Vadodara keeps expanding as a hub of tourism, business, and education in western India.
History of Vadodara
The history of Vadodara is a rich tapestry woven over centuries. The city’s narrative unfolds on the banks of the Vishwamitri River, named after the famous sage Vishwamitra. The location, presently known as “Akota” and formerly “Ankottaka,” was a tiny town famed for its Jain influences in the 9th century.
The city witnessed several rulers, from Hindu kings to Muslim sultans and Mughal emperors. When the Maratha commander Pilaji Rao Gaekwad took Songadh from the Mughals in 1726, an important chapter of Vadodara began. In 1734, Gaekwad’s son Damajirao seized the state of Baroda and founded the Gaekwad dynasty.
Vadodara flourished into a royal capital, thriving as a hub of art and culture. The city’s great architectural wonders and cultural institutions reflect the opulence and political influence of the Gaekwads.
Lesser-Known Facts About Vadodara
- Baroda installed India’s first underground drainage system in 1894, demonstrating its early adoption of modern urban planning.
- During Navratri, the city comes alive with colorful Garba celebrations that attract people from all around the world.
- Both Vadodara’s architectural wonders, Kirti Mandir and the Laxmi Vilas Palace, are fine specimens of Indo-Saracenic style.
- The city’s museums house priceless Buddhist relics from Dev Ni Mori.
- With projects like the Vishwamitri Riverfront Development project protecting its natural resources, Vadodara actively promotes environmental preservation.
How to Plan a Trip to Vadodara?
Planning a trip to Vadodara requires careful consideration. Book your lodging beforehand from an endless array of luxury and budget hotels and homestays. Think about the ideal time to travel, preferably avoiding the strong summer heat.
Plan your transportation, whether you decide to use local transportation services or rent a car. Most importantly, carry sufficient proof of identity and related documents.
If you want to see Vadodara during the Garba season, plan your trip around Navratri and festivals like Diwali and Holi. Leave some free time to socialize with friendly residents and absorb and photograph the place’s particular vibe.
How to Reach Vadodara?
Numerous modes of transportation connect Vadodara to other regions of India:
By Train
Vadodara Junction Railway Station is a significant railway hub in India and the busiest in Gujarat. It is well-connected to big cities such as Delhi and Mumbai through excellent trains like the Shatabdi and the Rajdhani Expresses. The station’s central position makes it easy for visitors to reach many city areas once they arrive. You can book a car rental in Vadodara station and travel to any destination within the city.
By Road
One frequently used and quickest way to reach Vadodara is by road. Developed roadways link the city to other parts of the country. Situated close to Vadodara Junction, the STC bus station provides bus services to all of Gujarat’s main cities and those of surrounding states like Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Maharashtra. You can book a cab from Mumbai to Vadodara or from other major cities and travel comfortably in chauffeur-driven vehicles with Savaari.
By Flight
Vadodara has its own airport, primarily serving domestic flights. It’s close to major Indian cities, so domestic visitors find air travel a practical choice. For international travelers, the closest international airport is Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad, about 118 kilometers away. From the airport, you can easily book an airport taxi in Vadodara using Savaari’s car rental app and reach your desired destination in the city.
Things to Do Near Vadodara Airport
If you have some time to explore the area around Vadodara airport, here are some places that you can visit for some quick sightseeing:
- Laxmi Vilas Palace: Home to the Royal Family of Vadodara, the Gaekwads, this majestic palace is a famous landmark in the city. It is believed to be four times the size of Buckingham Palace and has a blend of Indo-Saracenic, Gothic, and Renaissance architectural styles. Apart from a Golf Course and the museum, you should also visit the Durbar Hall, which is famous for its hanging Venetian chandeliers and stained glass windows.
- Entry Fees: Different parts of the palace have different fees; entry to the main palace is ₹200 per ticket
- Timings: 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM
- Open Days: All days except Monday
- Vadodara Central Mall: This is a popular destination in the city for both tourists and locals alike, thanks to its multiple shopping, dining, and entertainment options. The mall has stores of many popular brands across all categories, like electronics, clothes, home decor, etc. It is also famous for its multiple food joints for fast food, fine dining and specialty cuisine.
- Timings: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Open Days: All days of the week
- Vadodara Museum and Picture Gallery: This museum was established in 1894 by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, who was a patron of the arts and education. When visiting the museum, you can view their vast collection of Indian sculptures, textiles, and artifacts, most belonging to the Gupta and Chola dynasties. They also have a collection of European paintings, tribal artifacts, and traditional costumes.
- Entry Fee: ₹10 per visitor
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Open Days: All days of the week
Best Time to Visit Vadodara
The best time to visit Vadodara is from October to March. Post monsoons, the pleasant temperature of these months makes touring and outdoor activities ideal. This time also falls during the colorful Navratri Festival, which allows guests to explore the city’s rich cultural legacy during the Garba season.
With temperatures sometimes reaching 42 ºC, Vadodara’s summers may be rather hot. This makes outdoor exploring difficult. The monsoon season, which runs from July to September, delivers plenty of rain that could complicate travel plans. However, if you are okay with occasional rains, early monsoons might be a fascinating visit as the city seems to be covered in a rich, green appearance.
Hotels and Resorts in Vadodara
Vadodara provides an array of hotels and resorts to suit every taste and budget. From luxurious accommodations with first-rate amenities to little boutique hotels, there is something for every kind of visitor.
Let’s explore some of the best hotels and resorts in Vadodara for a comfortable and memorable stay.
| Name | Address | Contact |
| Royal Orchid Central | Mujmahuda Rd, Pratham Avenue, Akota, Vadodara, Gujarat–390020 | 0265 230 1234 |
| Hampton by Hilton | 14, Friends Co-op Society, Gujarat–390007 | 0265 230 3000 |
| Banyan Paradise Resort | Near Dumad Road, Vemali, Vadodara, Gujarat–390008 | 070435 55111 |
| Kabir Hotel and Spa | Sevasi-Bhimpura Road, opposite FGI, Gujarat–391101 | 070698 77755 |
Best Road Trips from Vadodara
Travel enthusiasts can try out short trips from Vadodara to other historical sites and tourist places around the city. Here are some popular destinations that you can choose for a road trip from Vadodara:
| Destination | Distance by Road (approx.) | Price |
| Vadodara to Ahmedabad | 112 Km | ₹1443 |
| Vadodara to Surat | 150 Km | ₹2028 |
| Vadodara to Indore | 335 Km | ₹4407 |
| Vadodara to Rajkot | 282 Km | ₹3757 |
| Vadodara to Nashik | 378 Km | ₹4536 |
Make this blog your bucket list of the must things to do in Vadodara. Plan your adventure with ease and comfort by booking a ride with Savaari Car Rentals, your trusted partner for premium intercity and local car rental services. Download Savaari’s cab booking app and make your journey seamless and enjoyable through this historic city. Pack your bags and book your ride today!
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Last Updated on August 21, 2024 by V Subhadra
