Just think of entering a palace where the royal children used to play, only to find that many of the rooms are now home to some of the amazing art collections in India. The Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum in the Lakshmi Vilas Palace Vadodara offers time travel and geographical expeditions. But here’s the bizarre twist: For instance, one of the most famous sculptures in the museum is a bronze sculpture which was made by an Italian artist who had never been to India. The art gallery has been established as a cultural asset, and Fellicci is a master sculptor. If you are an art lover or simply interested in the peculiarities of the royal lifestyle, this museum will not disappoint.
History Of Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum
The Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum has a fascinating history connected with the history of the Gaekwad dynasty. Constructed as a school for the royal children of the kingdom, this magnificent structure was converted into a museum in 1961.
The museum’s art collection was assembled mainly by Maharaja Sir Sayajirao Gaekwad III, a great patron of art who travelled to Europe and Asia to collect masterpieces. The museum has paintings of Raja Ravi Varma and sculptures of Fellicci and other European artists. The museum reflects the cultural policy of the Gaekwad rulers.
Also Read: Things To Do In Ahmedabad
Architecture Of Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum
Image Credit: Sharadsy for Wikipedia Commons
The Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum is a place for art collection and architectural significance. The building was initially constructed as a school for the royal children, and the structure combines Indian and European architecture.
It has domes, arches, and carvings on the walls, which makes it a very important structure in Vadodara. The museum’s building design is a true representation of the royal lifestyle of the Maratha royals and their love for the art of the region as well as the world.
Places To See Near Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum
Explore the history of Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum and the grandeur of Laxmi Vilas Palace, along with other famous places such as:
1. Laxmi Vilas Palace
Image Credit: Birsa Murmu for Wikimedia Commons
Laxmi Vilas Palace is one of the wealthiest palaces in India, which is built in Indo-Saracenic style that is a combination of Hindu, Mughal-Gothic and European architecture. This palace was constructed in 1890 by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III and was the royal palace, four times the size of Buckingham Palace. The palace complex comprises several buildings, such as the Moti Baug Palace and the Pratap Vilas Palace, which are reminiscent of the Gaekwad royalty. It has Venetian mosaics, chandeliers, and intricate woodwork inside, and therefore, it is a place that should not be missed.
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: INR 250 for adults and INR 150 for children.
Related Post: Romantic Places Near Ahmedabad
2. Sur Sagar Lake
Image Credit: Rajeswaran Sivasankar for Wikimedia Commons
Sur Sagar Lake is situated in the middle of Vadodara and is a perfect place to relax in the middle of the city. Once a small pond developed by Shri Sureshwar Desai, the lake now has a statue of Lord Shiva measuring 120 feet in height. The underground gates of the lake are an engineering wonder used to regulate the water level during the monsoon season. On the weekends, the lake is full of lights, and seeing the water glowing at night is just stunning. It is an excellent place for a walk in the evening or just sitting at the water’s edge for some time.
Opening Hours: It operates round the clock.
Entry Fee: Free
3. Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park
Image Credit: Meghdhanu for Wikimedia Commons
Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites and is famous for its historical structures. It is located at a distance of 47 kilometres from Vadodara and has Hindu and Islamic architectural elements. Vanraj Chavda founded it in the 8th century, and it is believed that Lord Hanuman took a rest here during the search of Sanjeevani. The place is located on the hill, provides scenic beauty, and has many historical structures like temples, mosques, and palaces. This site is ideal for history lovers and nature lovers as well.
Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: INR 40 (Indian Nationals), INR 600 (Foreign Nationals)
Related Post: Places to Visit near Ahmedabad within 100 km
4. Sayaji Garden
Image Credit: Snehrashmi for Wikimedia Commons
Sayaji Garden is one of the most extensive gardens in Vadodara, and it is spread over an area of 113 acres of land. This garden was developed by Maharaja Sayajirao III in 1879 and is spread over a large area of 93 acres and has a zoo, aquarium, planetarium, and museum. The garden has a Flowerbed Clock and the Sayaji Toy Train for children, which takes a round of the garden. The place is well endowed with vegetation and has a lot of history behind it; therefore, it is an excellent place for a family picnic or just a day in the countryside.
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free (Some activities within the park attract a fee)
5. Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery
Image Credit: Ranjith Kumar Inbasekaran for Wikimedia Commons
Situated on the premises of Sayaji Garden, Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery is a storehouse of art and history. Founded in 1887 by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, the museum has an extensive collection of geology, anthropology, and art; a skeleton of a blue whale and an Egyptian mummy are among the exhibits. The museum’s art gallery showcases works of art from European, Asian, and Indian artists and is, therefore, a cultural hub.
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday: 10:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: INR 10 (Adults), INR 5 (Children)
Related Post: Resorts In Gujarat
How To Reach Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum
Image Credit: Apurba Biswas for Wikimedia Commons
By Road: The museum is well connected by road transport, and Vadodara is well connected to other cities in the state of Gujarat. There are various ways to get to the museum; one can hire a taxi or even use public transport.
By Air: The nearest airport is Vadodara Airport, approximately 8 km from the museum. After arriving at the airport, one can hire a taxi to the museum.
By Rail: Vadodara railway station has regular connectivity with many of the country’s major cities. The museum can be reached by taxi in a short time from the station.
You May Also Like To Read: Shopping In Ahmedabad
The Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum is a storehouse of art, history, and culture that can be interesting to visitors on many levels. The building’s magnificent structure and the number of exhibits displayed in the museum make it a must-visit place for anyone in Vadodara. Therefore, why not plan a trip to Gujarat and explore this cultural gem yourself?
For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here.
Cover Image Credit: Emmanuel DYAN for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum
How does the museum benefit from having Raja Ravi Varma’s paintings?
The paintings of Raja Ravi Varma are the pride of the museum as he painted Hindu mythology and portraits of the kings in Indian style with the influence of European style.
Is there any possibility of having a guided tour in the museum?
Yes, the museum provides guided tours that give a lot of information about the exhibits and the stories behind them.
Is it permitted to take pictures in the museum?
Taking pictures is usually not allowed within the museum premises to avoid damaging the artworks but one can inquire from the museum attendants.
What are some things to do with kids near the museum?
For families, Sayaji Garden and Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery are good to go as they provide both knowledge and fun.
Is it possible to purchase some souvenirs at the museum?
Yes, there is a gift shop in the museum where you can buy items that are related to the artifacts that are in the museum.
People Also Read:
Museums In Bulgaria Museums In Munich Museums In Estonia
With a passion for exploring and travelling to the roads long forgotten, experience the world through enthralling stories and adventures. Join me as I share my experiences at some of the world’s most popular tourist destinations and quench that pestering curiosity with something exciting!
