Much famed for its majestic kingdoms, rich traditions, and magnificent past, Vadodara is not just an ideal getaway for a memorable weekend but also a famous city that oozes architectural brilliance. Coming alive during the Navratri celebrations, embark on one of the famous sightseeing tours, and make sure you do not miss out on these best places to visit in Vadodara to relish the Gujarati essence.
32 Best Places To Visit In Vadodara
While you’re out and about in the scenic land of Vadodara, there are some places you surely cannot miss out on. Here’s a list of the most amazing ones we’ve picked for you. So, read on and explore the best places to visit in Vadodara for an intriguing historical tour of Gujarat.
1. Trimandir
Step into the spiritual haven of Trimandir and embrace a vibrant atmosphere. It houses three sections dedicated to Jainism, Hinduism, and Buddhism. Each centre has idols and symbols representing their faiths, harmony, and unity among different religions. This is among the best Vadodara tourist attractions as it offers a serene atmosphere and invites all to have the best time. So, on your next trip to Gujarat, remember to add this destination to your itinerary.
Location: Near Babaria College, Vadodara-Surat NH 48, Vill.Varnama, Vadodara, Gujarat 391243
Timings: 6 am- 8 pm
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2. Inorbit Mall
The mall is a premier shopping and entertainment destination renowned for its many retail stores, dining options, and recreational facilities. Whether you are with your friends or family, this shopping haven offers the best experience. The mall also features a multiplex cinema, food courts, and gaming zones, which are best for all visitors. While exploring distinct visiting places in Vadodara, remember to add Inorbit Mall to your list.
Location: Alembic Rd, opposite to Alembic School, Gorwa, Vadodara, Gujarat 390023
Timings: NA
3. Gallery Ark
You may have a great time visiting this famous art gallery, especially if you are an art enthusiast. It is renowned for its dynamic exhibitions and support for emerging creators or artists. From digital art to sculptures, the gallery showcases different art forms. Gallery Ark hosts amazing shows that explore both contemporary and ancient art styles. So, what are you waiting for? Whether you are a scholar, art lover, or collector, add this incredible attraction to your travel list for a unique experience.
Location: Plot No.1 Krishna Industrial Estate, Gorwa Rd, Opposite BIDC Gate, Gorwa, Vadodara, Gujarat 390016
Timings: Monday to Saturday: 11 am- 7 pm, Closed on Sunday
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4. Kuberbhandari Mahadev Temple
Visit the revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva for a religious experience in Gujarat. Kuberbhandari Mahadev Temple is the best tourist spot in Vadodara for its spiritual and historical ambience. As zealots and pilgrims, you can seek blessings and engage in religious ceremonies. The temple is a cherished place of worship and cultural heritage. So, visit this sacred site for a wholesome experience.
Location: G558+3JW, Ranipura, Savli, Gujarat
Timings: NA
5. Khanderao Market
It is a historic marketplace renowned for its surreal atmosphere and architecture. The Khanderaon Market is a great place to explore, as there are many shops selling textiles, handicrafts, traditional Gujarati snacks, and more. Its Indo-Saracenic architecture, with domes and arches, adds to the market’s allure. The market is a hub for local shoppers and a popular tourist destination, offering a glimpse into the cultural diversity.
Location: 76W2+MGX, Kevdabaug, Vadodara, Gujarat 390001
Timings: 9 am- 8 pm
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6. Makarpura Palace
Makarpura Palace is one of the ideal places to visit in Vadodara during summer. This palace was initially built in 1870 with the motive that it would serve as a summer palace for the Gaekwads. With an Italian touch of architecture, it was renovated after the years it was built. However, it now serves as a training school run by the Indian Air Force.
Location: Panigate Road, Chhipwad, Vadodara, Gujarat 390006
Timings: All Days – 9 AM to 6 PM
7. Champaner Pavagadh Archaeological Park
Set in the heart of Champaner City and amidst the Pavagadh hills, this wonderful archaeological park is considered one of the best places to visit in Vadodara. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it comprises splendid architectural wonders of both Hindu and Islamic designs. The hill of Pavagadh is believed to be a chunk of the Himalayas that Hanuman originally carried to Lanka.
Location: Champaner, Gujarat 389360
Timings: All Days – 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
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8. Sayaji Gardens
This 45-hectare garden is named after the great Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III. Considered one of the famous sightseeing places in Vadodara, the park features 98 types of trees, two museums, a zoo, a planetarium, a flower clock, and a toy train for children.
Location: Vinoba Bhave Road, Near Kala Ghoda, Sayajigunj, Vadodara, Gujarat 390005
Timings:
- Gardens: All Days – 9:30 AM to 6 PM
- Museum and Picture Gallery: All Days – 10:30 AM to 5 PM
- Planetarium: 4 PM to 4:30 PM (Gujarati), 5 PM to 5:30 PM (English), and 6 PM to 6:30 PM (Hindi)
9. EME Temple
EME Temple is a pride of Vadodara tourist places, featuring remarkably contemporary architecture. Dedicated to Lord Dakshinamurthy, a form of Shiva as a supreme teacher, this temple depicts army architecture. The aluminium building of this temple is ringed by a garden featuring a rich collection of 106 ancient statues that date back to the period from the 6th to the 16th century.
Location: Mandir Marg, Fatehgunj, Vadodara, Gujarat 390002
Timings: Monday to Saturday – 6.30 AM to 8.30 PM
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10. Vadodara Museum And Picture Gallery
Image Credit: Snehrashmi for Wikimedia Commons
Among the many places to see in Vadodara, the Museum and Picture Gallery is a must-visit for all. Built in 1894 AD by the Gaekwads, the museum displays an extensive collection of archaeology, geology, and natural history artefacts and a variety of personal collections by Maharaja Sayajirao III. For all architecture admirers, this is the place to be.
Location: Dak Bunglow, Sayajigunj, Vadodara, Gujarat 390018
Timings: All Days – 10.30 AM to 5.30 PM
11. Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary
Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary is a famous place for those who are looking forward to one-day picnic spots near Vadodara. The reserve is known for many wild species like wild bears, antelopes, sloth bears, and boars. The forest department usually organizes trekking, camping, and safari tours that make Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary one of the most adventurous places near Vadodara.
Location: Mota Raska, Zand Hanuman Road, Jambughoda, Panchmahal, Gujarat 391761
Timings: All Days – 6 AM to 7 PM
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12. Surya Narayan Temple
Dedicated to the Sun God, the Surya Narayan Temple is famous for bestowing its divine grace upon the devotees and relieving them of their ailments. Considered to be one of the best places to visit in Vadodara, this temple also provides dinner and residence facilities to visitors as it attracts large crowds throughout the year.
Location: Opp G P O, Kharivav Road, Raopura, Jambubet, Vadodara, Gujarat 390001
Timings: All Days – 7 AM to 7 PM
13. Sursagar Lake
Image Credit: StapelChips for Wikimedia Commons
Set in the heart of Vadodara city, Sursagar Lake is one of the popular places to visit near Vadodara in summer as it offers the perfect respite in the hot weather. Boating during moonlit nights and relaxing evenings with loved ones are also popular. Built on stone banks and established in the 18th century, this lake remains full of water throughout the year.
Location: Centre Of The City, Vadodara, India
Timings: 8:00 am to 9:00 pm
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14. Sri Aurobindo Ashram
Located at Dandia Bazar, Aurobindo Ashram is one of the best places to visit in Vadodara. Ideal for meditation and spiritual healing, the Ashram features 23 rooms, a library, a study room, and a sales emporium. Relics of Sri Aurobindo and all the rare books written by or about him can also be found here.
Location: Dandia Bazar, Jambubet, Vadodara, Gujarat 390001
Timings: All Days – 9 AM to 7 PM
15. Laxmi Vilas Palace
Image Credit: Sharadsy for Wikimedia Commons
Spread across about 700 acres, Laxmi Vilas Palace is home to the royal family of Vadodara, the Gaekwads. One of the most majestic structures in India, this palace is one of the favourite tourist attractions in Vadodara. The museum houses a fantastic collection of paintings by Raja Ravi Verma and various other artefacts from across the globe.
Location: Gate No.2, Laxmi Vilas Palace Estate, J.N.Marg, Vadodara, Gujarat 390001
Timings: Wednesday to Monday – 9.30 AM to 5 PM; Closed on Tuesdays
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16. Nyaya Mandir
Constructed in 1896, the Nyaya Mandir, or the Temple of Justice, houses the District Court of Vadodara, a city in the state of Gujarat. This building features Indo-Saracenic architecture designed by the Madras architect Robert Fellowes Chisholm. Elements of Gothic, Renaissance, and Mughal architecture styles can be seen in the building, which is one of the must-visit tourist attractions in Vadodara.
Location: Center Of The City, Near Sursagar Lake, Vadodara, India
Timings: All Days – 9 AM to 6 PM
17. Kirti Mandir
Located close to the Vishwamitri bridge in Vadodara, the Kirti mandir was built to remember Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III’s family members and to celebrate his administration’s diamond jubilee. Featuring balconies, domes, and terraces, this renowned site in Gujarat is visited by many travellers who wish to witness the spectacular work of architecture displayed here. This is a famous place to visit in Vadodara.
Location: Kirti Mandir, Kothi Rd, Dak Bungalow, Sayajiganj, Vadodara, Gujarat 390001
Timings: 10 am to 6 pm
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18. Narmada Canal
To watch a splendid sunrise in Gujarat, this is one of the perfect places for couples to visit in Vadodara! Boasting the state’s technological advancements, this canal has many facilities like food stalls, washrooms, storage, lockers, etc. You can visit this place for a memorable selfie with your loved ones or enjoy a soothing walk at the site! If you’re looking for any, there aren’t many places to visit in Vadodara at night.
Location: Vadodara
Timings: Open 24/7
19. S Cube Water Park
Offering plenty of fun rides onboard, this famous water park in Gujarat is where you can plan an adventurous outing with your family. Visiting this fun water park is among Vadodara’s best things to do. Along with 16 attractions in the park, tourists can enjoy the lip-smacking delicacies at the Food Island on the site. This place also has a conference hall, workshops, and more to blend your work with fun! This place is amongst the popular Vadodara weekend getaways loved by visitors of all ages.
Location: Ajwa, opp. Vrindavan Garden, Vadodara, Gujarat 391510
Timings: 10.30 am to 6 pm
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20. Baps Shri Swaminarayan Mandir
Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Sanstha was established in 1907 by Shastri Maharaj. The temple is quite popular amongst Hindu devotees and offers a spiritual and religious environment. With followers from all over the country, the mandir is known for its festivals and evening prayers and is among the best tourist places in Vadodara.
Location: Shastri Yagnapurushdas Marg, Narayanwadi, Atladara, Vadodara, Gujarat 390012
Timings: 8:00 AM-1:00 PM & 4:00 PM-8:00 PM
21. Kabirvad
Kabirvad is a popular place located on an island amidst the river Narmada. One can reach here by boat available from Shuklatirth Shiva temple. Kabirvad is believed to be named after the famous saint Kabir Das, and this incredible grove of a Banyan tree that has grown for ages is spread over an area of nearly 3 km. One can also visit the nearby Kabir temple, which welcomes worshippers during prayer hours. This destination will allow you to plunge into history and purveys a serene and soulful ambiance for nature lovers. Kabirvad is one of the best places to visit in Vadodara for 2 days excursion.
Location: Baroda, Gujarat
Timings: Throughout the day
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22. Ajwa Nimeta Garden
Due to its manicured lawns and green palm trees, Ajwa Nimeta Garden is listed as one of Vadodara’s most beautiful places to visit. If you want to plan a leisure getaway to Vadodara,, your itinerary must include this garden. It is one of the most fun picnic spots near Vadodara. The showstopper of this garden is the 100-meter row of musical fountains that leaves everyone jaw-dropped when the water shoots up in the sky with lovely colours. You will find family, friends, couples, and kids all enjoying the fountain show.
Location: SH 63, Gujarat 391510
Timings: 8 am – 8 pm
23. ISKCON Baroda
You must have heard about ISKCON Temples scattered all over India. You will also find one in Vadodara, which covers a whopping area due to its grand structure. While exploring the temple, you will see the inside adorned with traditional art. After visiting this temple in Vadodara, you can relish some tasty vegetarian food at the Govindas, which serves finger-licking food.
Location: Hare Krishna land, Char Rasta, near Harinagar, Opposite Water Tank, Hari Nagar, Vadodara, Gujarat 390021
Timings: Open 24 hours
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24. Sardar Patel Planetarium
If you have any questions about outer space, you can get all the answers here at Sardar Patel Planetarium. It gives a glimpse of the outer world with fantastic video clips and sound systems that make it look real. You must attend the hour-long session that tells about satellites and the solar system in two languages—English and Gujarati. It is one of the best tourist places in Vadodara.
Location: Gate No. 1, Kala Ghoda Cir, Dak Bungalow, Sayaji Baug, Vadodara, Gujarat 390005
Timings: 3:45 pm – 6 pm (Closed on Thursday)
25. Zarwani Waterfalls
If you like to explore nature spots wherever you go, you must include Zarwani Waterfalls in your itinerary, as it is one of the best places to see in Vadodara. White water gushing down amidst rocky structures and lush greenery is a sight to be seen at least once in a lifetime. If you dip yourself in the cool water, ensure you carry some extra clothes. Carry a camera with you to capture some fantastic views!
Location: Dhirkhadi, Gujarat 393155
Timings: 9 am – 5 pm
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26. Mandvi Gate
Mandvi Gate has been of great historical importance to Vadodara since the Mughal era, as it is believed that tolls were collected from traders and merchants at this gate. The gate is located in the heart of the city, and it illuminates festivals, which adds to the beauty of the architecture. If you plan a vacation to this place, include Mandvi Gate in your itinerary, as it is one of the best tourist places in Vadodara.
Location: Mandvi Cir, Sulemani Pol, Mandvi, Vadodara, Gujarat 390001
Timings: 10 am – 10 pm
27. Nadalay Temple
If you are looking for religious places to see in Vadodara, there is no shortage. One such place is Nadalay Temple, which is dedicated to Shrinathji. You can come here to relax your mind and chant the hymns in unison with like-minded people. The aura inside this temple created after meaningful chanting will relax your mind and soul. To get the best experience, you must visit this temple in the morning or the evening for the aarti.
Famous for: Soulful ambience
Location: Rajesh Tower Rd, Divya Darshan Society, Gotri, Vadodara, Gujarat 390021
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28. Hazira Maqbara
Constructed in 1586, Hazira Maqbara is one of the top tourist places in Vadodara. It houses the tombs of Qutubbuddin Muhammad Khan and Naurang Khan, his son. The architecture is in the Mughal style, with grand arches and platforms. Replicas of the graves are inside the tomb, whereas the real ones lie in the underground chamber.
Location: ONGC, Danteshwar, Vadodara, Gujarat 390004
Timings: 8 am – 6:30 pm
29. Hathni Waterfall
Surrounded by green hills, Hathni Waterfall is one of Vadodara’s best places. It is 75 km from the city and provides ample opportunities for nature photographers. If you want to spend your vacation amidst nature, this is the place to be. Undoubtedly, it is considered one of the most famous waterfalls near Vadodara. Make sure you carry eatables with you, as you won’t be able to find a single restaurant nearby.
Location: Near Shivrajpur in Gujarat
Timings: 6 am to 6 pm
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30. Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum
Image Credit: Nichalp for Wikimedia Commons
Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum is one of the best places in Vadodara. It was initially built as a school for children and now houses many art pieces that once belonged to the Maratha family. It also exhibits paintings from the European Renaissance and Rococo art styles and a collection of portraiture by Raja Ravi Verma. It is one of the famous museums in Vadodara.
Location: Jawaharlal Nehru Marg, Navapura, Vadodara, Gujarat 390001
Timings: 10 am to 5.30 pm
31. Thol Bird Sanctuary
Located on the serene Thol Lake, Thol Bird Sanctuary is a bird reserve in the Mehsana district, Gujarat. A bird reserve with various species of exotic birds, it is a popular place for birdwatching in Gujarat. Home to multiple species of birds, including migratory birds such as mallards and pelicans, the sanctuary is situated amidst dense flora and peaceful environs. This is one of the famous places in Vadodara.
Location: Thol village near Kalol, Gujarat
Timings: 6:00 am to 5:30 pm
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32. Sardar Patel Zoological Park
Recently inaugurated by the honourable Prime Minister of India, Mr Narendra Modi, Sardar Patel Zoological Park is situated in the Narmada district of Gujarat. This establishment is home to around 170 species of wildlife, including various exotic birds, rich flora, and different wild animals, including leopards, zebras, and the Royal Bengal Tigers. This zoological park has become one of the most popular Vadodara tourist places.
Location: Narmada district, Gujarat 393155
Timings: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm
Further Read: Historical Places In Surat
Vadodara sightseeing holds great historical significance and plays a crucial role in making every traveller’s journey memorable. So, on your next trip to Vadodara, make sure you explore all these places to relish the real taste of the city.
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Cover Image Credit: Tanay Bhatt for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Best Places To Visit In Vadodara
What is the famous thing of Vadodara?
Vadodara is a popular industrial city. It is known for its various furniture, textiles, and handicraft items. This city of painters and artists has enticed travellers with its stunning popular attractions.
What are some of the best places that one should not miss when in Vadodara?
If you are keen to dig in the past of Gujarat then you must surely add Makarpura Palace, Sayaji Gardens, EME Temple, Vadodara Museum, Champaner Pavagadh Archaeological Park in your bucket list. Your itinerary must also incorporate Sursagar lake, Kirti mandir, S-Cube water park, Mandvi gate, Thol bird sanctuary and much more.
What are the souvenirs which one must indeed purchase from Vadodara for family and friends?
Some of the things which you must buy from Vadodara for reminiscing this magnificent place are silver jewellery, furniture, ethnic wear, handicrafts, footwear, applique quilts, wall hangings, paintings, toys and not to forget the delicious mouth-watering snacks of Vadodara.
What is the best time to visit Vadodara?
As the climate that prevails in Vadodara is tropical savanna, there are three significant seasons that prevail in Vadodara namely summer, winter and monsoon. The best time that is considered to visit the beautiful place of Vadodara is from October to March or from January to March.
Why Vadodara is called Baroda?
The town was originally named Vadodara. Still, as the British found difficulty in pronouncing the correct name, the town was renamed Baroda during the British era in India.
What is there to do in Vadodara at night?
Vadodara offers numerous surprises for insomniacs staying in the city. You can go to Ratri Bazar and enjoy the local delicacies or treat yourself at the Barbeque Nation. Little Italy is also a delightful retreat for Epicures. You can also plan a visit to Stroll or go for a Garba night in the nearest club.
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