Baroda/Vadodara, Vadodara Tourism - Gujarat

Baroda, or Vadodara, was formerly the capital city of the Gaekwar rulers. Situated on the banks of River Vishwamitri, this region, southeast of Ahmedabad, has seen many civilizations from prehistoric times. The original village on which Baroda now stands was known as Vadpatra named after the banyan leaf. The city is divided into eastern and western parts by the river. The former comprises of the old city, with crowded bazaars and colourful pols (self-contained blocks of houses that are home to hundreds of families). The city also has myriad temples and shrines, the regal Laxmi Vilas Palace, and the famous Maharaja Sayajirao University.

Sightseeing Highlights:

From palaces, monuments and museums, to well-laid out gardens, Vadodara has a range of places for the tourists to visit. Laxmi Vilas Palace, Nazar Baug Palace, Makarpura Palace, Pratap Vilas Palace are replete with historical artefacts, architechture and stories. Maharaja Sayajirao University is a well-known institution that has nurtured the arts as well as scientific enquiry in an equal manner. Kirti Mandir, Kirti Stambh, Nyay Mandir, Mandvi, the Walled City, Hazira Maqbara are places worth seeing. For the history lover, there is Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum and Baroda Museum with interesting artefacts on display. After a hectic day of touring you can unwind at gardens like Sayaji Baug, Jubilee Gardens, and Lal Baug.