Flaunting its vibrant heritage and oozing architectural brilliance at every nook and corner, Vadodara is one city in Gujarat that is bestowed with inspiring culture, and overwhelming history that will move you from within. While the city houses some interesting places to explore, make your vacation a fascinating one by including these amazing things to do in Vadodara.
8 Best Things To Do In Vadodara In 2023
Also known as the “Jewel of Western India”, Gujarat is quite famous amongst tourists for all the right reasons. The “cultural capital of Gujarat”, Vadodara is a great place to be. So, here are some amazing things to do in Vadodara which you must do on your trip:
1. Kirti Mandir – Visit This Auspicious Temple
Built-in the memory of and to honour Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi and Kasturba Gandhi, visiting Kirti Mandir is one of the best things to do in Vadodara, India. The residents of the Porbandar city decided to construct this temple when Mahatma Gandhi was released from the Aga Khan Palace in 1944. This temple was established by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad in the year 1930 which is all about architectural grandeur. It’s one of the best places to visit in Gujarat.
Location: Kothi Rd, Dak Bungalow, Sayajigunj, Vadodara, Gujarat 390001
Timings: All Days – 10 AM to 6 PM
Entry fee: Free entry
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2. Nazar Baug Palace – Discover The Charm
One of the popular things to do in Vadodara, India is to explore the beautiful Nazar Baug Palace. Built-in 1721, Vadodara’s Nazar Baug Palace was the royal household of the Gaekwad’s. This three-storeyed building is the oldest palace in the region and was constructed under the reign of Malhār Rāo Gaekwad.
This depository is said to have included the infamous 125-carat Star of the South diamond, the English Dresden, and an embroidered cloth consisting of precious stones and seed pearls. This is one of the most historical places in Gujarat.
Location: Panigate Rd, Chhipwad, Vadodara, Gujarat 390006
Timings: All Days – 9 AM to 6 PM
Entry fee: N/A
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3. The Sursagar Lake – Take A Stroll
Situated in the middle of Vadodara city, walking along the Sursagar Lake offers the perfect respite as it is one of the best things to do in Vadodara at night. Go boating on moonlit nights while the lake is an ideal site for enjoying the evenings with your loved ones. Rebuilt with stone banks and masonry in the 18th century, this lake remains full of water throughout the year and is one of the most beautiful lakes in Gujarat.
Location: Centre Of The City, Vadodara, India
Timings: Open throughout the day
Entry fee: Free entry
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4. Tambekar Wada Townhouse – A Historical Mansion
Image Courtesy: 8VIRAG9 for Wikimedia
Tambekar Wada is a beautiful Maratha mansion, which once served as the residence of Bhau Tambekar, the erstwhile Diwan of Baroda. The townhouse is an important part of the Vadodara sightseeing tour as it is famous for its colourful 19th-century murals depicting scenes from Mahabharata. Showcasing the narratives from the life of Lord Krishna, these designs also feature contemporary scenes of the 19th-century Anglo-Maratha War.
Location: Tambekar Road, Dandia Bazar, Vadodara
Timings: Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 6 PM
Entry fee: Free entry
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5. Laxmi Vilas Palace – Explore A Grand Heritage
Built in the year 1890 by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, Lakshmi Vilas Palace is an extravagant construction of the Indo-Saracenic school exploring which, is one of the best things to do in Vadodara. Witness the remarkable collection of artefacts, armory, and sculptures from the bygone era that are housed here. Spread over 700 acres, explore an array of buildings, museums, a zoo, and a golf club within the premises of the palace. It is located near some of the best hotels in Vadodra.
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
Entry Fee: INR 200 per person
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6. The Tomato’s – Treat Your Taste Buds
Image Courtesy: nevena313 for Pixabay
For the foodies who want to enjoy some lip-smacking Mexican food, dining at the Tomato’s should be on top of their list of things to do in Vadodara at night. Started in 1994, Tomato’s is one of the only posh and themed diners in Vadodara, which offers an assortment of cuisine ranging from America, Mexican, Thai, Mughlai, and North Indian. The restaurant has been awarded the Times Food Award in the ‘Best Mexican’ category, six years in a row starting from 2009.
Location: 1st Floor, Aditi Plaza, Beside IDBI Bank, Race Course Circle, Vadodara, Gujarat 390007
Timings: All Days – 12.30 PM to 3 PM, and 7 PM to 11 PM
Entry fee: Free entry
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7. Khanderao Market – A Famous Shopping Area
Shopping at Khanderao Market is definitely one of the fun things to do in Vadodara. This market is named after Khande Rao Gaekwad and the construction of this building is a fine example of Maratha and Jain architecture, coupled with European and Islamic craftsmanship. The building consists of a clock tower at its centre along with two dome structures. The building also houses the offices of the municipal corporation of Vadodara, whereas there’s also a vegetable, flowers, and fruits market behind the building.
Location: Palace Road, Kevda Baug, Vadodara, Gujarat 390001
Timings: All Days – 7 AM to 8:30 PM
Entry fee: Free entry
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8. Generation 2000 – Enjoy The Nightlife
Are you wondering that there isn’t a concept of nightlife in Vadodara? Well, it is certainly not the case anymore. Unlike the kind of discos that are found in metro cities, the ones present in Gujarat have a colourful, and unique combination of folk dances, cultural programs, and theatre performances. Generation 2000 is the only standard and decent discotheque in the region, which automatically becomes one of the fun places in Vadodara.
Location: Sayajigunj, Vadodara
Timings: All Days – 11 PM to 12 AM
Entry fee: INR 800 for two
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Excited about a trip to Gujarat? Well, include the above interesting things to do in Vadodara and plan a personalized holiday by customizing one of the best Gujarat tour packages. Embark on a memorable vacation to remember some of the best moments of your life!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Things To Do In Vadodara
How to spend a day in Vadodara?
One can plan a day tour and visit the following places: 1. Plan a visit to a village, Anand 2. Visit Pavagadh 3. Visit Champaner 4. Visit the island of Banana tree Kabirvad 5. Hathni Waterfalls 6. Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary 7. Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary
What is there to do in Vadodara at night?
1. Explore the local market at night called Ratri Bazaar 2. Treat your tastebuds at Barbeque Nations 3. Have authentic Italian food at Little Italy 4. Indulge yourself in shopping the local souvenirs 5. Take a stroll with your loved ones 6. Experience the cultural charm of Garba
Is it safe to plan a trip to Vadodara?
Yes, it is safe to plan a trip to Vadodara but one must go through the RT-PCR test and get a negative certificate to enter the state of Gujarat and the report should not be older than 72 hours.
Which are the places to visit in Vadodara?
Here are some of the most popular places to visit in Vadodara: 1. Lakshmi Vilas Palace 2. Sayaji Gardens 3. Ajwa Nimeta Garden 4. Vadodara Museum And Picture Gallery 5. Baps Shri Swaminarayan Mandir 6. Sursagar Lake 7. Nazarbaug Palace 8. Kirti Mandir 9. Khanderao Market 10. Maharaja Sayajirao University
When was Lakshmi Vilas Palace built?
Lakshmi Vilas Palace was built in 1890.
What is Vadodara famous for?
Vadodara is the third-largest state in Gujarat. This industrial city is known for its textiles, furniture, and handicrafts market. It is also famous for the popular Lakshmi Vilas Palace, one of the largest private residences.
What can I buy in Vadodara?
Here are some of the things that you can buy from Vadodara: 1. Silver Jewelry 2. Handicraft 3. Traditional dresses 4. Footwears 5. Gujarati snacks 6. Furniture 7. Wooden toys
What is the famous street food of Vadodara?
Here is a list of some of the most popular street foods of Vadodara: 1. Sev Usal 2. Farsan 3. Vada Pav 4. Dabeli 5. Fafda And Jalebi
Is Baroda and Vadodara the same?
Yes, Baroda is also known as Vadodara. It is the Gujarati pronunciation of Baroda.
Does Vadodara have an international airport?
Yes, Vadodara Airport is the international airport of Vadodara. It is the 3rd busiest airport in the state.
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