Vadodara Travel Guide – Best Places, Food, Culture & Trips

Vadodara, also known as Baroda, is one of Gujarat’s most vibrant cities, celebrated for its rich history, royal palaces, cultural festivals, and academic excellence. Known as the Cultural Capital of Gujarat, Vadodara beautifully blends heritage, art, food, and modern lifestyle. This travel guide will help you explore the best places to visit, delicious food to try, unique culture, and exciting trips from Vadodara.

Why Visit Vadodara?

Vadodara is a city of royalty and traditions, home to the Gaekwad dynasty and iconic landmarks like the Laxmi Vilas Palace. It is famous for Navratri Garba celebrations, museums, art galleries, temples, and gardens, making it a must-visit destination in Gujarat.

Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

1. Laxmi Vilas Palace

One of the largest private residences in the world, this magnificent palace is four times the size of Buckingham Palace. With its grand Durbar Hall, stained glass windows, and royal collection, it is Vadodara’s crown jewel.

2. Sayaji Baug (Kamati Baug)

A massive garden complex featuring a zoo, planetarium, museums, and toy train, perfect for families and kids.

3. Baroda Museum & Picture Gallery

Established in 1894, this museum houses an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, artifacts, and European artworks.

4. Kirti Mandir

Built to honor the memory of the Gaekwad rulers, this temple-like structure has murals, paintings, and sculptures depicting Indian mythology and history.

5. Sursagar Lake

Located in the heart of the city, this beautiful lake has boating facilities and a stunning statue of Lord Shiva in the middle.

6. Nyay Mandir

An architectural landmark, Nyay Mandir is an iconic structure representing Vadodara’s rich heritage.

Food in Vadodara – What to Eat

Vadodara is known for its unique mix of Gujarati flavors and cosmopolitan food culture. Must-try dishes include:

• Gujarati Thali – Served at local restaurants with dal, kadhi, rotis, farsan, rice, and sweets.
• Sev Usal – A spicy street food delicacy made with peas curry, topped with sev.
• Vadodara’s Pav Bhaji & Dabeli – Popular evening snacks.
• Fafda-Jalebi – A traditional breakfast favorite.
• Street Food at Mandvi & Alkapuri – Chaats, dosas, sandwiches, and kulfis.

Culture of Vadodara

• Festivals: Known worldwide for Navratri Garba, Vadodara hosts some of the most energetic and colorful celebrations.
• Art & Heritage: Home to Maharaja Sayajirao University (MSU), Vadodara is a hub for fine arts, music, and cultural activities.
• Shopping: Buy traditional bandhani sarees, handicrafts, silver jewelry, and authentic Gujarati dress materials at local markets like Mandvi and Raopura.
• Language: Gujarati is the main language, while Hindi and English are widely spoken.

Best Trips & Excursions from Vadodara

Planning a longer stay? Here are some amazing trips near Vadodara:

• Statue of Unity (Kevadia) – The world’s tallest statue, just 2 hours away.
• Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park – A UNESCO World Heritage Site with forts, temples, and mosques.
• Dakshinamurthy Temple (Dakor) – A famous Krishna temple, perfect for spiritual seekers.
• Surat – A foodie’s paradise and a shopping hub, about 3 hours away.
• Ahmedabad – Another cultural city just 2 hours by road.

Travel Tips for Vadodara

• Best time to visit: October to March (cooler and pleasant).
• If visiting during Navratri, book hotels and cabs in advance.
• Local transport is available, but for comfort, book a taxi, tempo traveller, or luxury car with Kwick Travels.
• Carry light cotton clothes, and don’t miss trying Vadodara’s street food.