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1. Laxmi Vilas Palace

2 km from city center 1 out of 28 Places To Visit in Vadodara

Laxmi Vilas Palace is one of the most majestic structures in India and was the private residence of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III. Known to be the largest private dwelling of the size equivalent to four times of the Buckingham Palace, this magnificent palace is a must-visit when in Vadodara.

2. Sayaji Baug (Kamati Baug)

1 km from city center 2 out of 28 Places To Visit in Vadodara

Sayaji Gardens, as the name suggests is dedicated to Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III himself. It is the largest garden in the western region of India with a sprawling 45 hectares of land.

3. Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park

41 km from city center 3 out of 28 Places To Visit in Vadodara

Being included in the elite list of the World Heritage Sites across the globe, this marvelous archaeological park set in the heart of the city of Champaner and amidst the Pavagadh hills is one of the most sought after places in Gujarat.

4. Ajwa Nimeta Garden

22 km from city center 4 out of 28 Places To Visit in Vadodara

Decked with green manicured lawns and adorned by towering palm trees, the Ajwa Nimeta Garden is the perfect destination to plan your leisurely weekend at. The crowd-puller here is the 100-meter row of perfectly aligned musical fountains that mesmerise us with coordinated water shoots in the background of lively colours. 

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Ahmedabad vadodara twin city tour package, gujarat darshan package: dwarka, somnath, vadodara & more, best of gujarat : temples, statues and wildlife, 5. baps sri swaminarayan mandir.

4 km from city center 5 out of 28 Places To Visit in Vadodara

Adorned with immaculate architecture, flawless design and awe-striking grandeur, the BAPS Sri Swaminarayan Mandir is like the palace of the lord. The tranquil vibe of the temple instils a revitalising and deeply energising calm within you. Right outside the temple is a small and clean eatery that sells mouth-watering Indian delicacies prepared without the use of any onion or garlic.

6. Vadodara Museum and Picture Gallery

1 km from city center 6 out of 28 Places To Visit in Vadodara

Constructed by the Gaekwads in 1894, the Vadodara Museum and Picture Gallery is host to umpteen numbers of relics relating to a wide spectrum of fields right from archeology to geology.

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7. Sursagar Lake

2 km from city center 7 out of 28 Places To Visit in Vadodara

Decked with lush greenery on all sides, the Sursagar lake is an example of exemplary architecture and mesmerising beauty. Enjoy paddle-boating in these jade waters and go around the majestic 120-foot statue of Lord Shiva that looks upon the lake.

8. Kirti Mandir, Vadodara

1 km from city center 8 out of 28 Places To Visit in Vadodara

Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III was so powerful and affluent that he had an entire monument built to commemorate the cremation of his family members. This monument was called the Kirti Mandir.

9. Maharaja Sayajirao University

1 km from city center 9 out of 28 Places To Visit in Vadodara

The heart-wrenching separation from the Baroda College of Science in the year 1949, gave birth to one of the most elite institutions in India, the Maharaja Sayajirao University.

10. EME Temple

3 km from city center 10 out of 28 Places To Visit in Vadodara

Short for Electrical and Mechanical Corps, in honour of the people who built the temple, the EME Temples is a symbol of the secularity practised in the Indian Army, the EME Temple in Vadodara is an aluminium-clad abode, constructed at the intersection of ancient and modern.

11. ISKCON Baroda

3 km from city center 11 out of 28 Places To Visit in Vadodara

Spanning over a whopping 2500 ft in the city centre of Baroda, the ISKCON temple has been preserving Vaishnavism for decades now. Seek Lord Krishna's blessings at the Darshan Mandap which is adorned by tasteful traditional art on all sides. Right outside is a pure vegetarian restaurant - Govindas, that serves scrumptious Indian food without using any onion and garlic.

12. Sardar Patel Planetarium

1 km from city center 12 out of 28 Places To Visit in Vadodara

With awe-striking video clips of space, state-of-the-art sound systems and a curved projection screen that imitates reality, this planetarium plays an hour-long session about the solar system, satellites and astronomical history thrice a day in English and Gujarati. All your curiosities about outer space are waiting to be answered right in Sayaji Baug at the Sardar Patel Planetarium.

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13. Kabirvad

61 km from city center 13 out of 28 Places To Visit in Vadodara

An awe-striking grove of banyan trees, Kabirvad, awaits you on the banks of River Narmada. This banyan grove is believed to have sprouted from a measly Datoon, and now spreads over more than 3 kms. Believed to have sheltered the famous poet Kabirdas for many years, this banyan grove holds tremendous religious significance and is ardently worshipped by the locals.

14. Zarwani Waterfalls

77 km from city center 14 out of 28 Places To Visit in Vadodara

At a distance of about 90 km from Vadodara in Gujarat, Zarwani Waterfalls are amongst the most sought natural destinations in India. Huddled deep inside the heart of Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary near the district of Narmada, the perennial and gorgeous Zarwani Waterfalls provide you with an opportunity to trek, picnic, and indulge in wildlife photography.

15. Surya Mandir, Vadodara

2 km from city center 15 out of 28 Places To Visit in Vadodara

Surya Mandir, Borsad is situated in the town of Borsad in Anand, Gujarat, dedicated primarily to the Sun God. People from all over the world visit the Sun Temple enthusiastically. The history behind this temple is quite of a vague kind, which dictated that the temple is built at the instance of God himself.

16. Khanderao Market

2 km from city center 16 out of 28 Places To Visit in Vadodara

It pretty much seemed like Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, just needed a random reason to build an edifice. The Khanderao Market is an extravagant building built under his supervision in 1906 that was a gift to the municipality on the completion of 25 years of his authoritative administration.

17. Makarpura Palace

5 km from city center 17 out of 28 Places To Visit in Vadodara

Makarpura Palace was initially constructed with the motive that it will serve as a summer palace for the royal family of the Gaekwads.

18. Aurobindo Ashram

2 km from city center 18 out of 28 Places To Visit in Vadodara

Basically built as a residence to Aurobindo Ghose who was the private secretary to the then Maharaja of Baroda, HH Sayajirao Gaekwad III. Aurobindo Ghose was a multitalented man and during his tenure as a private secretary, he decided to follow his passion of teaching and was the Professor of English and vice-principal of Baroda College.

19. Nyaya Mandir

3 km from city center 19 out of 28 Places To Visit in Vadodara

Nyaya Mandir, translates to 'Temple of Justice' is the District Court of Vadodara city in the state of Gujarat. Situated in the heart of the city, this marvelous piece of architecture was the brainchild of Madras architect Robert Fellowes Chisholm.

20. Maharaja Fatehsingh Museum

2 km from city center 20 out of 28 Places To Visit in Vadodara

Originally built as a school for the Maharaja's children, the Maharaja Fatehsingh Museum now houses a wide range of antiques and art pieces that once belonged to the Maratha royal family. The exhibits range from portraits of the royal family and depictions of Hindu mythologies to flawless marble and bronze sculptures.

21. Statue of Unity

76 km from city center 21 out of 28 Places To Visit in Vadodara

Statue of Unity is a memorial to The Iron Man of India, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The statue has been erected to propagate Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's vision of India and to inspire the Citizens of India through his patriotism and freedom struggle. The Bronze statue of the founding father of the Republic of India stands 182 metres tall grabbing the attention of the whole world as the 'Tallest statue in the World'. The statue of Unity is Located in Gujrat, by the banks of River Narmada on the River Island of Sadhu Bet overlooking the Narmada Dam (Sardar Sarovar Dam) from 3.2 km away.

22. Mandvi Gate

3 km from city center 22 out of 28 Places To Visit in Vadodara

Believed to be used to collect tolls from merchants and traders, the Mandvi Gate in Baroda is an important testimonial of the celebrated Mughal era. Resting at the centre of the city, this square-shaped pavilion screams regality with it bold arches on all four sides. The entire structure is illuminated during festivals and is truly a sight to behold.

23. Nadalay Temple

3 km from city center 23 out of 28 Places To Visit in Vadodara

A Vaishnav Hindu Temple dedicated to Shrinathji, the Nandalay Temple is the perfect destressing destination in Baroda. Chanting slow and peaceful hymns in unison with the crowd as the tranquil aura of the temple calms you will revitalise you from within. Be sure to visit during morning or evening aarti and notice the temple's admirable architecture and Shrinathji's beautiful paintings.

24. Hazira Maqbara

4 km from city center 24 out of 28 Places To Visit in Vadodara

Housing the tombs of Qutubbuddin Muhammad Khan- the tutor of Emperor Akbar's son; and his own son Naurang Khan- an influential administrator of Emperor Akbar's dynasty, is the Hazira Maqbara in Baroda. Displaying typical Mughal architecture styles with ostentatious arches and octagonal platforms, the real graves are inside an underground chamber while the replicas are in the tomb.

25. Hathni Waterfalls

59 km from city center 25 out of 28 Places To Visit in Vadodara

Jambughoda is home to one of the most breathtaking and magnificent waterfalls you can visit in the Indian subcontinent. About a 100 metres in length and flowing with rich greenery, Hathni Waterfalls are surrounded by a variety of beautiful flora and fauna. If you find the peaceful sound of flowing water from streams and falls incredibly relaxing, then this is the spot for you.

26. Navratri Festival

0 km from city center 26 out of 28 Places To Visit in Vadodara

You just cannot come to Baroda and miss out on its most extravagant festival - Navratri. Vadodara is considered the cultural capital of Gujarat, and the most sought after location for celebrating Navratri.

27. Thol Bird Sanctuary

122 km from city center 27 out of 28 Places To Visit in Vadodara

Thol Bird Sanctuary is an ecologically rich bird reserve located on Thol lake in the Mehsana district of Gujarat. It is nestled amidst dense deciduous vegetation and is one of the most popular places for bird-viewing in the state. The sanctuary welcomes vast varieties of endemic as well as migratory birds such as pelicans, flamingoes and mallards, which inhabit the area every year. The Thol lake augments the serenity of the sanctuary, making it a hotspot for nature lovers.

28. Sardar Patel Zoological Park

72 km from city center 28 out of 28 Places To Visit in Vadodara

Sardar Patel Zoological Park is a newly inaugurated zoo situated in Kevadia, a town in the Narmada district of Gujarat. Located in the vicinity of the majestic Statue of Unity, this tremendous establishment hosts about 170 different species of wildlife from all across the globe, is home to a wide range of plant life and has a breathtaking aviary inhabited by endemic as well as foreign varieties of birds. The Royal Bengal Tigers, Zebras, Leopards etc. are only a few examples of wild animals one can explore here.

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• 28 Best Places To Visit In Vadodara In 2024

23 Mar 2023

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 that you do not miss out on these best places to visit in Vadodara to relish the Gujarati essence.

28 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 that we’ve picked out for you. So, read on and explore the best places to visit in Vadodara for an intriguing historical tour of Gujarat.

1. Makarpura Palace

Image Courtesy: Vadodara-Baroda.City

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 will serve as a summer palace for the Gaekwads. With an Italian touch of architecture, it was renovated after years it was built. However, it now serves as a training school and is run by the Indian Air Force.

Famous for: Italian style architecture Location: Panigate Road, Chhipwad, Vadodara, Gujarat 390006 Timings: All Days – 9 AM to 6 PM Entry fee: INR 125 per person

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2. Champaner Pavagadh Archaeological Park

Image Source

Set in the heart of Champaner city and amidst the Pavagadh hills, this wonderful archaeological park is considered to be one of the best places to visit in Vadodara . Being a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this park comprises of splendid architectural wonders of both Hindu & Islamic designs. The hill of Pavagadh is believed to be a chunk of the Himalayas that was originally carried by Hanuman to Lanka.

Famous for: Awe-inspiring surroundings and architectural designs Location: Champaner, Gujarat 389360 Timings: All Days – 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM Entry fee: INR 30 per person

3. Sayaji Gardens

Spread across a land of 45 hectares, this garden is named after the great Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III. Considered to be 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.

Famous for: A plethora of exciting places, including a zoo, museums, planetarium and so much more. 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)
• Museum and Picture Gallery: INR 10 for Indians, and INR 200 for Foreigners
• Planetarium: INR 7 per adult, and INR 5 per child

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4. EME Temple

Image Courtesy: Vadodara-Baroda.City Featuring remarkably contemporary architecture, EME Temple is a pride of Vadodara tourist places . Dedicated to Lord Dakshinamurthy, a form of Shiva as a supreme teacher, this temple depicts army architecture. The aluminum 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 16th century.

Famous for: Ancient architecture Location: Mandir Marg, Fatehgunj, Vadodara, Gujarat 390002 Timings: Monday to Saturday – 6.30 AM to 8.30 PM

5. Vadodara Museum And Picture Gallery

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 artifacts related to archaeology, geology, natural history, and a variety of personal collections by Maharaja Sayajirao III. For all the architecture admirers, this is the place to be.

Famous for: Wide collections of artifacts Location: Dak Bunglow, Sayajigunj, Vadodara, Gujarat 390018 Timings: All Days – 10.30 AM to 5.30 PM Entry fee: INR 10 per person

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6. Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary

Jambughoda Wildlife sanctuary is a famous place for those who’re 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.

Famous for: Activities such as trekking, camping, and safari tours. Location: Mota Raska, Zand Hanuman Road, Jambughoda, Panchmahal, Gujarat 391761 Timings: All Days – 6 AM to 7 PM Best For: Picnic, Trekking, Camping, Wildlife Entry fee: INR 50 per person

7. Surya Narayan Temple

Image Courtesy: Temple Travel

Dedicated to the Sun God, the famous Surya Narayan Temple is famous not only for have bestowed its divine grace upon the devotees but also to relieve them from 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.

Famous for: Tranquil environment Location: Opp G P O, Kharivav Road, Raopura, Jambubet, Vadodara, Gujarat 390001 Timings: All Days – 7 AM to 7 PM

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8. Sursagar Lake

Set at the heart of Vadodara city, the Sursagar Lake is one of the popular places to visit near Vadodara in summer as it offers the perfect respite in the hot weather. One can enjoy boating during the moonlit nights, and enjoy during the relaxed evenings with their loved ones. Built on the stone banks, and established in the 18th century, this lake remains full of water throughout the year.

Famous for: Boating in moonlight Location: Centre Of The City, Vadodara, India Timings: 8:00 am to 9:00 pm Entry fee: INR 20 per person

9. Sri Aurobindo Ashram

Located at Dandia Bazar, Aurobindo Ashram is one of the best places to visit in Vadodara . Being an ideal spot 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 that have been 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

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10. Laxmi Vilas Palace

Spread across an area of about 700 acres, Laxmi Vilas Palace is home to the royal family of Vadodara, the Gaekwads. One of the majestic structures in India, this palace is one of the favorite tourist attractions in Vadodara . The museum houses an amazing collection of paintings by Raja Ravi Verma, and various other artefacts gathered from across the globe.

Famous for: Magnificent architecture and a wide collection of artifacts 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

11. Nyaya Mandir

Image Courtesy: Jan Ki Baat

Constructed in 1896, the Nyaya Mandir or the Temple of Justice houses the District Court of Vadodara 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 witnessed in the building which is definitely one of the must-visit tourist attractions in Vadodara .

Famous for: Indo-Saracenic architecture Location: Center Of The City, Near Sursagar Lake, Vadodara, India Timings: All Days – 9 AM to 6 PM

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12. Kirti Mandir

Image Source Located close to the Vishwamitri bridge in Vadodara, the Kirti mandir was made in remembrance of 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 travelers who wish to witness the spectacular work of architecture that is displayed here. This is a famous place to visit in Vadodara .

Famous for: Historical significance, built in the remembrance of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III’s family members Location: Kirti Mandir, Kothi Rd, Dak Bungalow, Sayajiganj, Vadodara, Gujarat 390001 Timings: 10 am to 6 pm

13. Narmada Canal

Image Source To watch a splendid sunrise in Gujarat, this is one of the perfect places to visit in Vadodara for couples ! Boasting the state’s technological advancements, this canal has many facilities like food stalls, washrooms, storage, and lockers, etc. You can surely visit this place for a memorable selfie with your loved ones or just enjoy a soothing walk at the site! There aren’t many places to visit in Vadodara at night  if you’re looking for any.

Famous for: Majestic sunrise view Location: Vadodara

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14. S Cube Water Park

Image Source 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 the best things to do in Vadodara . 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 Cost of ticket: INR 500 per person

15. Baps Shri Swaminarayan Mandir

Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Sanstha is an organization that was established in 1907 by Shastri Maharaj. The temple is quite popular amongst Hindu devotees and exhibits a spiritual and religious environment. With followers from all across the country, the mandir is known for its festivals and evening prayers and is among the best tourist places in Vadodara. 

Famous for: Spiritual ambiance Location: Shastri Yagnapurushdas Marg, Narayanwadi, Atladara, Vadodara, Gujarat 390012

Timings: 8:00 AM-1:00 PM & 4:00 PM-8:00 PM

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16. Kabirvad

Kabirvad is a popular place which is 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 that welcomes worshippers during prayer hours. This destination will not only provide you a chance to plunge into history but also purveys a serene and soulful ambiance for nature lovers. Kabirvad is one of the best places to visit in Vadodara for 2 days excursion.

Famous for: Serene environs Location: Baroda Timings: Throughout the day

17. Ajwa Nimeta Garden

Image Source Due to its manicured lawns and green palm trees, Ajwa Nimeta Garden is listed as one of the most beautiful places to visit in Vadodara . If you want to plan a leisure getaway to Vadodara then 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 colors. You will find family, friends, couples, and kids all enjoying the fountain show.

Famous for: Majestic fountain show Location: SH 63, Gujarat 391510 Timings: 8 am – 8 pm Entry fee: INR 20 per person

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18. ISKCON Baroda

You must have heard about ISKCON Temples that are scattered all over India. Well, you will find one in Vadodara also which covers a whopping area due to its grand structure. While exploring the temple, you will see that the inside of the temple is 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. 

Famous for: Majestic infrastructure and spellbinding interiors Location: Hare Krishna land, Char Rasta, near Harinagar, Opposite Water Tank, Hari Nagar, Vadodara, Gujarat 390021 Timings: Open 24 hours

19. Sardar Patel Planetarium

Image Source If you have any curious questions about outer space then you can get all the answers here at Sardar Patel Planetarium. It gives a glimpse of the outer world with the amazing video clips and sound systems which make it look all real. You must attend the hour-long session which tells about satellites and the solar system in two languages – English and Gujarati. It is one of the best tourist places in Vadodara. 

Famous for: Shows on astronomical history Location: Gate No. 1, Kala Ghoda Cir, Dak Bungalow, Sayaji Baug, Vadodara, Gujarat 390005 Timings: 3:45 pm – 6 pm (Closed on Thursday) Entry fee: INR 20 per person

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20. Zarwani Waterfalls

Image Source If you like to explore nature spots where ever you go then 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. Make sure that you carry a couple of extra clothes if you planning to dip yourself in the cool water. Carry a camera with you to capture some amazing views!

Famous for: Paradisiacal surroundings Location: Dhirkhadi, Gujarat 393155 Timings: 9 am – 5 pm

21. Mandvi Gate

Image Source Mandvi Gate possesses great historical importance since the Mughal era for Vadodara as it is believed that tolls were collected from traders and merchants at this gate. The gate is located at the heart of the city and it illuminates on festivals which adds to the beauty of the architecture. If you are planning a vacation to this place then make sure that you include Mandvi Gate in your itinerary as it is one of the best tourist places in Vadodara .

Famous for: Historical significance since the Mughal era Location: Mandvi Cir, Sulemani Pol, Mandvi, Vadodara, Gujarat 390001 Timings: 10 am – 10 pm

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22. Nadalay Temple

Image Source If you are looking for religious places to see in Vadodara then there is no dearth of them. 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 as well as the aura created after meaningful chanting will relax both your mind and soul. To get the best experience, you must visit this temple either in the morning or the evening for the aarti.

Famous for: Soulful ambiance Location: Rajesh Tower Rd, Divya Darshan Society, Gotri, Vadodara, Gujarat 390021

23. Hazira Maqbara

Image Source Constructed in the year 1586, Hazira Maqbara is one of the top tourist places in Vadodara . The place houses the tombs of Qutubbuddin Muhammad Khan and Naurang Khan, his son. The architecture is made in the Mughal style with grand arches and platforms. You will find the replicas of the graves inside the tomb whereas the real ones lie in the underground chamber.

Famous for: Mughal style architecture Location: ONGC, Danteshwar, Vadodara, Gujarat 390004 Timings: 8 am – 6:30 pm Entry fee: Free entry

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24. Hathni Waterfall

Image Credit – Pexels

Surrounded by green hills, Hathni Waterfall is one of the best places to visit in Vadodara . It is located at a distance of 75 km from the city and provides ample opportunities for the nature photographer. If you are looking to spend your vacation amidst nature then this is the place to be. Undoubtedly, it is considered one of the most popular waterfalls near Vadodara. Make sure you carry eatables with you as you won’t be able to find a single restaurant nearby. 

Famous for: Lush greenery and tranquil surroundings Location: Near Shivrajpur in Gujarat Timings: 6 am to 6 pm Entry fee: Free entry

25. Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum

Image Credit – Wikimedia

Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum is one of the best places to visit in Vadodara . It was originally built as a school for the children and now houses a wide range of art pieces that once belonged to the family of Maratha. 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 .

Famous for: Exhibition of prominent paintings from European Renaissance and Rococo art styles Location: Jawaharlal Nehru Marg, Navapura, Vadodara, Gujarat 390001 Timings: 10 am to 5.30 pm  Entry fee: INR 60 per person

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26. Thol Bird Sanctuary

Image Credit: Vaibhav Sheth for Wikimedia Commons

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 various 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 .

Famous for: Birdwatching as it houses a variety of endemic and migratory birds Location: Thol village near Kalol, Gujarat Timings: 6:00 am to 5:30 pm Entry fee: INR 50 per person

27. Sardar Patel Zoological Park

Image Credit: Katie Chan for Wikimedia Commons

Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.

Recently inaugurated by the honorable Prime Minister of India, Mr. Narendra Modi, Sardar Patel Zoological Park is situated in the Narmada district of Gujarat. Housing a wide range of wildlife species, this establishment is home to around 170 wildlife species. With a varied species of exotic birds, rich flora and different wild animals, including leopards, zebras, and the Royal Bengal Tigers, this zoological park has certainly become one of the most popular amidst all the Vadodara tourist places.

Famous for: 170 wildlife species and a wide range of exotic birds Location: Narmada district, Gujarat 393155 Timings: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm Entry fee: INR 200 for adults and INR 125 for children

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28. Navratri Festival

Image Credit: Hardik Jadeja for Wikimedia Commons

The vibrant festival of Navratri is one of the major festivals in the entire state of Gujarat and North India. Featuring the traditional dance form of Garba, Navratri is a week-long festival celebrated with immense exuberance and zeal. To experience the true culture of Gujarat, it is unquestionably vital to experience the festivities of Navratri in Vadodara.

Famous for: Vibrant and zestful festivities Location: Vadodara Timings: NA Entry fee: NA

Holding a great significance in history, Vadodara sightseeing plays a crucial role in making every traveler’s journey memorable. So on your next trip to Vadodara with TravelTriangle, make sure you explore all these places to relish the real taste of Vadodara city.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Best Places To Visit In Vadodara

What is the best time to visit Vadodara?

As the climate that prevails in Vadodara is tropical savanna, there are three major seasons that prevails in Vadodara namely summer, winter and monsoon. The best time that is considered to visit the beautiful place of Vadodara is from the months of October to March or from January to March.

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 surely purchase from Vadodara for family and friends?

Some of the things which you must purchase 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.

Is Vadodara worth visiting?

Vadodara, which is popular for its magnificent ancient history, grand kingdoms, royal traditions is indeed a perfect destination for spending quality time with your family and friends over a weekend. For people who are architecture lover must surely visit the place as it is famed for its architectural brilliance.

Is it safe to travel to Vadodara during COVID times?

You need to follow all the mandatory guidelines mentioned by the government such as maintaining social distance, wearing a mask at public places, washing or sanitizing hands after entry & exit, etc.

What is Vadodara famous for?

Vadodara is a popular industrial city and is known for its variety of furniture, textiles, and handicraft items. This city of painters and artists has been enticing travellers with its stunning popular attractions.

Why Vadodara is called Baroda?

The city was originally named Vadodara but as the British found difficulty in pronouncing the right name, the city 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 either 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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30 Places to Visit in Vadodara: Things for Memorable Adventures

Discover the cultural vibrance and historic grandeur of Gujarat as you explore the remarkable places to visit in Vadodara, affectionately known as Baroda. This cosmopolitan city, situated along the serene banks of the Vishwamitri River, beckons travelers with its blend of architectural marvels and artistic heritage. From the majestic Lakshmi Vilas Palace to the tranquil gardens and educational temples, Vadodara is a treasure trove of attractions catering to every kind of explorer. Join us on a journey through the city’s most enchanting sites that capture the essence of its storied past and dynamic present.

Welcome to Vadodara: A Cultural Confluence

Unveiling the charm of vadodara.

When you think of Vadodara, picture a city where the whispers of a regal past meet the strides of modernity. As a key spot for tourists in Vadodara, the structure exhibits a fusion of Gothic, Renaissance, and Mughal architectural styles. A metropolis renowned for embracing varied cultural, historical, and architectural wonders. In this place, celebrations bring vibrancy to the roads, art exhibits narrate tales, and peaceful garden sanctuaries beckon both locals and visitors to partake in scenic excursions that capture the essence of this lively metropolis.

Seize the chance to participate in an esteemed sightseeing excursion amidst the lively celebrations of Navratri, and make sure to visit these premier spots in Vadodara to immerse yourself completely in the essence of Gujarati traditions.

The Intersection of History and Modernity in Vadodara, India

Vadodara is a tapestry woven with threads of ancient history and the vibrancy of modern life, displaying a variety of architecture styles in its historic structures. As they walk through the city, visitors engaged in tourist sightseeing can see centuries-old palaces showcasing elements of Gothic, standing alongside bustling markets and educational institutions. This blend offers a unique glimpse into how the city respects its past while enthusiastically embracing progress and has become a pivotal part of the tourist sightseeing circuit. Whether they are history buffs, nature lovers, or cultural enthusiasts seeking out sightseeing places, everyone finds their niche in Vadodara’s multifaceted persona.

30 Places to Visit in Vadodara for an Extraordinary Experience

1. laxmi vilas palace.

Brace yourself for the royal grandeur of the Laxmi Vilas Palace , a jewel in Vadodara’s crown. Built in the late 19th century, this palace showcases architectural styles that blend to create a visually stunning testament to Vadodara’s heritage. The complexity extends to the Maharaja Fatehsingh Museum, situated within its grounds, which is a treasure trove of art and artefacts displaying the brilliance of the bygone era. Renowned paintings by Raja Ravi Varma are a highlight, as well as a diverse collection from across the globe.

The sprawling complex also includes a golf course and offers a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III. With a size that eclipses the well-known Buckingham Palace, Laxmi Vilas is not just a palace; it’s a symbol of regality and historical significance. It stands as a top-tier attraction, alluring tourists with its ornate interiors and expansive gardens.

• Famous for: Its majestic architecture and rich collection of art and artefacts .
• Location: Laxmi Vilas Palace is situated in Vadodara, Gujarat, India.
• Timings: Open Wednesday to Monday, from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM; closed on Tuesdays.
• Entry Fee: 200 Rupees per person.

2. Sayaji Baug (Kamati Baug)

Embark on a serene journey through the leafy avenues of Sayaji Baug, an awe-inspiring spread of green in the heart of Vadodara. Enveloped by the rich, diverse vegetation that includes the widespread deciduous flora, this grand garden, a gift from Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, is home not only to the world’s largest floral clock but also to the verdant vadodara sayaji garden. The garden’s dense foliage provides a habitat for numerous bird species, making it an esteemed spot for birdwatching enthusiasts.

With attractions like the Sayaji Baug Zoo, the Vadodara Museum and Picture Gallery, and the Sardar Patel Planetarium nestled within its expanse, this location is a true oasis for visitors of all ages. Whether they’re here for a relaxing stroll amidst the lush greenery, a dash of learning, or fun with the family, visitors find a piece of paradise in Sayaji Baug.

• Perfect for: Nature lovers, families, and casual explorers.
• Location: Vinoba Bhave Road, Sayajiganj, just 1 km from the city center and rated #2 out of 28 Places To Visit in Vadodara.
• Timings: Open every day from 9:30 am to 6:00 pm, allowing ample time to take in the serenity and picturesque scenes.
• Entry Fee: Free entry, ensuring everyone can enjoy the beauty of nature, with separate charges for certain attractions within the park offering unique experiences.

3. Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park

Step into a historical wonderland at Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that brings to life an era where cultures and traditions merged seamlessly. Surrounded by the rustic charm of Pavagadh hill’s rugged landscape, this site is a testament to the rich tapestry of archaeology . The park encompasses an impressive array of fortifications, palaces, residential complexes, and religious structures like the Kalika Mata Temple and the Jama Masjid, each narrating the legacy of Hindu and Islamic architectural excellence and serving as a repository for various artefacts that echo the grandeur of bygone times.

With monuments that date back to the 8th century, such as the iconic Kalika Mata Temple and the Jama Masjid, celebrated for their intricate designs and attention to detail, Champaner-Pavagadh is indeed a treasure trove for history aficionados and spiritual seekers alike. Moreover, the immense historical value of these sites provides a vivid window into the rituals and lifestyle of the inhabitants of this ancient dwelling . The park is a poignant reminder of the cultural dynamism that this region has witnessed, encapsulating the essence of both eras and the transcendent nature of art and spirituality.

• Recommended for: History enthusiasts and photographers.
• Location: Panchmahal district of Gujarat, India.
• Timings: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM.
• Entry Fee: Rs 30 per person for Indian nationals; Rs 500 per person for foreigners.

4. Ajwa Nimeta Garden

Discover the rhythms of water and light at the enchanting Ajwa Nimeta Garden , a spot that beckons with its beautifully manicured lawns and a 100-meter row of synchronized musical fountains. As twilight falls, the fountains burst into a dance, illuminated by vibrant lights, making it an unforgettable experience for all senses. Not far from this natural symphony, you can find the amusement park heart of vadodara ajwa water park, where thrills and laughter echo amidst exhilarating rides and slides. The spectacle of Ajwa Nimeta, coupled with the tranquil ambiance of lush greenery, makes it a perfect retreat from the city’s hustle.

Whether you’re looking to indulge in a peaceful stroll, seeking a captivating show of lights and sounds, or eager to dive into aquatic adventures at one of the best water parks in Vadodara, this garden is a gem worth visiting.

• Ideal for: Families, couples, and relaxation seekers.
• Location: Ajwa Nimeta Garden is situated near Ajwa Lake, about 22 kilometers from Vadodara, Gujarat, India.
• Timings: 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
• Entry Fee: Nominal charge, Further information can be found at the entry point.

5. Baps Shri Swaminarayan Mandir

Move beyond the fleeting and into the realm of the sacred at the Baps Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Vadodara. This serene sanctuary is not just a place of worship but a cultural hub where art, devotion, and community spirit intertwine. The temple’s stunning architecture and pristine environment elevate your senses, easing you into tranquility as soon as you enter its gates.

Here, you can admire the exquisite idols of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, Aksharbrahman Gunatitanand Swami, and other deities that grace the temple’s hallowed halls. The intricate carvings and serene atmosphere make this place a haven for spiritual seekers and lovers of art and architecture alike. The Baps Shri Swaminarayan Mandir also plays host to a medley of religious and cultural festivities, offering a taste of India’s enduring traditions.

• Suitable for: Spiritual seekers, art enthusiasts, and architecture lovers.
• Location: Atladara neighborhood of the city, in the state of Gujarat, India.
• Timings: 6:00 AM to 8:30 PM.
• Entry Fee: Free, open to all visitors.

Spiritual Temples: Explore Vadodara’s serene temples and delve into the city’s cultural charm. Uncover the unique stories of history and spirituality in our guide to temples in Vadodara .

6. Vadodara Museum and Picture Gallery

Submerge yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Vadodara at the Maharaja Fatehsingh Museum, a treasure trove of artefacts and artworks. Located in the eminent Sayajiganj area, the museum has been structured in the likeness of London’s illustrious Science Museum. This esteemed repository of art and history is a testament to the legacy of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, who not only contributed many items to the collection but also left an indelible mark on the city’s cultural landscape.

The museum is renowned for its exceptional collection, including paintings by Raja Ravi Verma and a myriad of other artefacts from across the globe, which makes it stand out. Not only can visitors marvel at the Egyptian mummy or the famed skeleton of a blue whale, but they can also explore extensive exhibits that showcase European artworks alongside the personal treasures of the Maharajas.

For those keen to immerse themselves in a cultural journey, the Maharaja Fatehsingh Museum offers an unparalleled experience, perfect for those with a penchant for cultural connoisseurship and a desire to expand their understanding of the world’s rich artistic legacy. Adding to the allure, sightseeing tours can deepen this immersive cultural experience by providing additional historical context and anecdotes.

• Essential for: Culture vultures, history buffs, and art aficionados.
• Location: Sayajiganj
• Timings: 9:00 am to 12:00 pm and 2:30 to 5:30 pm; closed on government holidays.
• Entry Fee: INR 10 for Indian visitors; INR 200 for international tourists.

7. Sursagar Lake

Embark on a serene rendezvous with the calm waters of Sursagar Lake , also known as Chand Talao, nestled in the epicenter of Vadodara’s bustling life. Renowned for hosting the elegant Shiva statue and sitting just a short distance from other attractions like the bird reserve and sayaji gardens, Sursagar Lake is iconic. Famous for creating romantic evenings under the moonlight, this historic lake, constructed with stone banks in the 18th century, paints the perfect picture of serenity, providing a refreshing break from the summer heat and earning its reputation as one of the best places to visit between October to March.

Marvel at the imposing 120-feet tall Shiva statue, which stands majestically in the centre of the lake, a sight that becomes even more breathtaking during the festive season of Shivratri. Indulge in the simple joy of boating, which is available within convenient timings from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm, or relax by the water’s edge, soaking in the peaceful vibe of the surroundings. At only 1 km from the city center, Sur sagar Lake is a testament to the art of creating serene beauty amidst urban chaos and the #6 of 27 must-visit spots, according to enthusiastic tourists and locals alike.

• Perfect for: Couples seeking romance, families, and local explorers.
• Location: Sursagar Lake is located in the heart of Vadodara (Baroda) city in Gujarat
• Timings: 24 hours, with boating available from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm.
• Entry Fee: Free; boating charges may apply.

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8. Kirti Mandir, Vadodara

Venture into the heart of royal legacy at Kirti Mandir, the “Temple of Fame,” a cenotaph harmoniously combining various architectural styles. Erected to commemorate the Gaekwad dynasty, this dome-shaped structure is adorned with murals that depict the epic tale of the Mahabharata and the undivided map of India, filling visitors with nostalgic patriotism.

Admire the sun, moon, and earth sculptures that embellish Kirti Mandir, symbolizing a cosmic constant that outlives the sands of time. This structure is not just a piece of art; it’s a repository of the Gaekwad family’s history, where one can peruse photographs and statues that offer a peek into their illustrious lineage. Kirti Mandir stands as a solemn tribute and a significant cultural heritage site reflecting Vadodara’s rich past.

• A must-visit for: Those interested in history and architecture.
• Location: Kirti Mandir, Vadodara, is located in the Raopura area of the city.
• Timings: 9:00 am to 12:00 pm and 2:30 to 5:30 pm.
• Admission Charge: 20 Rupees for each individual.

9. Maharaja Sayajirao University

Immerse yourself in academic excellence and architectural splendor at Maharaja Sayajirao University, often hailed as a beacon of knowledge in Vadodara. Popularly known as M.S. University or MSU, this prestigious institution is not just for students but also a must-visit for tourists due to its unique blend of Indian and Byzantine architectural styles.

Roam around the sprawling green campus and admire the imposing main building, which houses the Faculty of Arts. This institution not only champions education across faculties of Arts, Science, Management Studies, Medicine, and Pharmacy, but also stands as an emblem of grandeur, with structures like the Faculty of Arts built in the awe-inspiring Indo-Saracenic style. A melting pot of culture and learning, MSU enriches the minds and sights of all who step onto its grounds.

• Recommended for: Lovers of architecture, history enthusiasts, and educational explorers.
• Location: Maharaja Sayajirao University is situated in Sayajigunj, Vadodara, Gujarat, India.
• Hours of Operation: 9:30 in the morning until 6:00 in the evening.
• Campus Admission: No charge for entry.

10. EME Temple

Explore the distinctive EME Temple, also known as Dakshinamurty Temple, a remarkable architectural marvel that is managed by the Indian Army. Nestled on Vinoba Bhave Raod in Sayajiganj, Vadodara, this temple is a showcase of various architecture styles coming together to form an intricate mosaic of cultural unity. With its geodesic structure sheathed in aluminum sheets, it stands out as a captivating sight within the Vadodara skyline, reflecting the assimilation of different architectural practices.

The vadodara EME Temple, also revered as a temple of justice due to its inclusive nature, is surrounded by a garden showcasing sculpture art dating back to the 7th to 15th centuries, inviting visitors into a world where faith and artistry coalesce. The temple’s secular ethos is symbolized by the kalasha atop the dome signifying Hinduism, the Islamic-style domes, the entrance resembling Jain architecture, the Christian bell tower, and the golden top representing Buddhism. Notably, the EME Temple exemplifies the unity of different beliefs, making it a unique spiritual haven and a shining example of India’s pluralistic tapestry.

• Best for: Those interested in architecture, spirituality, and cultural diversity.
• Location: Vinoba Bhave Road, Sayajiganj, Vadodara.
• Timings: 9:30 am to 6:00 pm; open all days.
• Entry Fee: Free entry, enhancing the accessibility for visitors to admire the temple’s serene beauty and the garden’s historical sculptures.

11. ISKCON Baroda

ISKCON Baroda, also known as Sri Sri Radha Shyamasundar Mandir, stands as a spiritual oasis amidst Vadodara’s urban landscape, inviting the devout and the curious alike. The temple is an architectural gem with three grand altars dedicated to Gauranitai, Radha-Krishna, and the sibling deities Jagannath, Baladeva, and Subhadra. Thousands of visitors come here seeking peace and spiritual enlightenment under the benevolent gaze of these deities.

The sprawling temple complex includes an ashram for monks, a serene farm, and meticulously maintained gardens, making it a place of vibrant cultural and spiritual activities. They also have Govindas, a well-known vegetarian restaurant, serving delicious sattvic food that completes the divine experience. ISKCON Baroda is not simply a temple but a sanctuary that nourishes the soul and body.

• Ideal for: Devotees, spiritual seekers, and cultural explorers.
• Location: Near Gotri
• Timings: Open 24 hours with special aarti and darshan timings.
• Entry Fee: No entry fee.

12. Sardar Patel Planetarium

Launch your curiosity into the cosmos and outer space at the Sardar Patel Planetarium, a stellar attraction that educates and enthralls with its captivating presentations on the mysteries of the universe. Housed within the lush green expanse of Sayaji Baug, the planetarium invites both young and old to embark on an astronomical adventure through the stars and planets on their hour-long shows.

With a high-resolution projection screen in its projection system, the planetarium provides immersive experiences in three different languages, ensuring that you can enjoy the wonders of space in the language they are most comfortable with. Be it the exploration of the solar system or unraveling the secrets of satellites, this educational hub is bound to leave you starstruck.

• Perfect for: Space enthusiasts, students, and families.
• Location: Sayaji Baug
• Screening Schedule: 4:00 PM – 4:30 PM (Gujarati); 5:00 PM – 5:30 PM (English); 6:00 PM – 6:30 PM (Hindi).
• Admission Cost: 20 Rupees for each individual.

13. Zarwani Waterfalls

Flee to the captivating Zarwani Waterfalls, a blissful haven situated in the core of Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary. As they approach, the soothing sound of water cascading over rocks sets the stage for a memorable adventure. These falls offer more than just a scenic backdrop; they invite you to partake in bathing, trekking, and an opportunity to immerse in the local flora and fauna through a safari experience.

The waterfall’s beauty peaks during monsoons, where the water volume amplifies, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. They can trek through lush trails or enjoy a quiet picnic by the stream, making Zarwani Waterfalls an ideal destination for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. Remember to carry a change of clothes if they plan to enjoy the cool waters and bring a camera to capture the picturesque surroundings.

• Highly recommended for: Adventurers and nature enthusiasts.
• Location: Located near Dhirkhadi.
• Best Time to Visit: Monsoon season.
• Timings : Operating from 9 in the morning until 5 in the evening.
• Activities: Bathing in the waterfall, trekking, nature walks, and wildlife photography.

Here’s a simple table outlining practical advice for visiting Zarwani Waterfalls:

14. Surya Mandir, Vadodara

Experience a serene rendezvous with divine light at Surya Mandir, Vadodara, one of the city’s most enduring and beloved temples. Dedicated to the Sun God, Surya Bhagwan, this ancient shrine was erected over 200 years ago, featuring a distinctive architectural style with yellow stones and a stunning black elephant statue within its compound. Nestled amidst the verdant Surya Narayan Baug, the temple captivates with its unique design aligning with the natural play of sunlight, ensuring that the morning rays of the sun directly bless the temple. Just a short journey from the grove of the banyan tree at Kabirvad, it’s not just a place for worship but also a tranquil getaway where spirituality and nature coalesce.

The temple’s courtyard is a perfect place for peaceful reflection, sometimes accompanied by the gentle chanting of hymns during auspicious days. Making it an essential stop in any pilgrimage or exploration of Vadodara’s sacred sites, the aura inside Surya Mandir, like the aura created after meaningful chanting, will relax both mind and soul.

• Suited for: Devotees, history lovers, and spiritual seekers.
• Location: Opposite Kharivav General Post Office.
• Timings: 7 AM – 7 PM.
• Highlights: Morning sun rays aligning with the temple, picturesque surroundings.

15. Khanderao Market

Immerse yourself in the vibrant hustle and bustle of Khanderao Market, where tradition and daily life collide in a colorful array of flowers and fresh vegetables. Built by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III in 1906, this architectural wonder doesn’t just serve as a marketplace but stands as a historical edifice housing several government offices. Its back garden, a lively spot for trading, mirrors the dynamism of Vadodara itself.

Those who visit the market will find an opportunity to delve into the local culture, sample sumptuous street food, and capture the spirited exchange between vendors and patrons. Perfect for photography enthusiasts, Khanderao Market is bustling from dawn till dusk, offering an authentic slice of the city’s day-to-day and a unique shopping experience rolled into one.

• Best for: Shoppers, foodies, and photographers.
• Location: Khanderao Market is located in Vadodara, Gujarat, India.
• Timings: Markets open from 7:00 AM to 8:30 PM.
• Point of Interest: Flower and vegetable markets, historical architecture.

16. Makarpura Palace

Step back to the grand epoch of the Gaekwads with a visit to the splendid Vadodara Makarpura Palace, a former royal summer retreat that exudes opulence. With its construction dating back to 1870, this Italianate structure anchors Vadodara’s royal heritage and now stands as an emblematic landmark entrenched within the Indian Air Force’s grounds as the No. 17 Tetra School. 

While access to the palace’s interiors may be restricted due to its current military use, one can still marvel at the palace’s immaculate three-story countenance and lush premises, showcasing resplendent murals, a Japanese-style garden, and ornate fountains. Makarpura Palace still retains its charm and continues to be an arresting sight for history buffs and aesthetes alike.

• Essential for: History enthusiasts and admirers of architecture.
• Location: Himmat Nagar, Makarpura.
• Viewable Hours: Best viewed during daylight hours.
• Current Use: Training school for the Indian Air Force.

17. Aurobindo Ashram

Venture into a realm of serenity and contemplation at Aurobindo Ashram, one of Vadodara’s spiritual landmarks. Venture into a realm of serenity and contemplation at Aurobindo Ashram, one of Vadodara’s spiritual landmarks. This peaceful retreat was once home to the renowned philosopher, yogi, and poet Sri Aurobindo, who stayed here from 1894 to 1906. The tranquil surroundings of the ashram, enhanced by the gentle chanting of hymns, make it a haven for meditation, introspection, and spiritual healing, potentially providing relief from ailments and causes of unhappiness.

The ashram with 23 rooms houses a study room, a library, and a sales emporium—each resonating with the calmness and philosophical insights of Sri Aurobindo. It stands as a colossal abode of wisdom, much like the large private palaces of eras past, with visitors finding solace within its walls. Here, they’re enveloped in the legacy of his wisdom through the many writings and relics that grace the complex, as if the very walls are imbued with the tranquility of his teachings. A visit to Aurobindo Ashram is an introduction to the nexus between spiritual well-being and intellectual growth—all harmonized within its serene ambiance where the subtle power of chanting is often a bridge to deeper understanding.

• Ideal for: Seekers of peace, spiritual devotees, and admirers of Sri Aurobindo’s work.
• Location: Situated in Dandia Bazar.
• Timings: Operating hours are from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Entry Fee: No admission charge; accessible to everyone.

18. Nyaya Mandir

Embrace the majestic ambiance of Nyaya Mandir, a phenomenal structure that stands as a testament to the fusion of various architectural styles. Constructed back in 1896 in the Indo-Saracenic style, it beautifully incorporates elements of Gothic, Renaissance, and Mughal designs. Currently housing the District Court of Vadodara, this edifice isn’t just about law and order; it’s a historical monument with significant tourist allure.

The central hall showcases an exquisite statue of Maharani Chimnabai, adding a regal air to the already striking interior. The temple-like appearance of Nyaya Mandir, both inside and out, makes it an exceptional sightseeing option for visitors intrigued by the architectural heritage that Vadodara has to offer.

• Perfect for: Those interested in architecture, history, and judicial heritage.
• Location: Rajmahal Road, near Mandvi.
• Timings: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM on weekdays.
• Entry Fee: No fee for visiting the exterior and designated public areas.

19. Maharaja Fatehsingh Museum

Dive into the splendor of the royals at the Maharaja Fatehsingh Museum, located in Sayajiganj and nestled within the grand premises of the Laxmi Vilas Palace. This museum, once a school for the Maharaja’s children, is now an illustrious repository of a marvelous art collection, including works from the European Renaissance, objet d’art, and notably, original paintings by Raja Ravi Varma commissioned by the Maharaja himself, peering into the rich tapestry of history and culture that the museum preserves, one can almost sense the brilliance that the artefacts emanate, reflecting the museum’s reputation as a custodian of heritage.

Peruse the museum and discover the intriguing European marble statues, Chinese and Japanese artifacts, and rich tapestries that adorn its walls. Witness the architectural brilliance of this striking three-storied palace along with its lavish garden adorned with ivory fountains; the extensive collection not only offers an insight into the royal family’s artistic endeavors but also a connection to the cultural dialogue between India and the West.

• A must-visit for: Art and history aficionados, as well as anyone interested in royal collections.
• Location: J.N. Marg (Sayajiganj).
• Timings: 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, Tuesdays to Sundays (avoid missing the brilliance of the artefacts by visiting during the appropriate hours).
• Entry Fee: Rs 60 for Indian visitors, and Rs. 150 for foreigners. Visit the Vadodara Maharaja Fatehsingh Museum, ranked #14 of 27 must-visit places in Vadodara, to be mesmerized by its grandeur and historic charm.

20. Statue of Unity

Behold the Statue of Unity, an iconic symbol of national pride, manifesting as the colossal sculpture of the Iron Man of India – Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Standing at 182 meters, it is recognized as the tallest statue in the world, drawing spectators from across the globe. Elegant in its stature and significant in its purpose, the statue is not just a testament to Sardar Patel’s legacy but also a marvel of modern engineering.

Nestled on the idyllic river island of Sadhu Bet by the banks of River Narmada, this phenomenal edifice enjoys the backdrop of the rolling Satpura and Vindhya ranges. As the colossal statue towers near Kevadia, a town noteworthy for its proximity to the strategic Narmada dam, it encapsulates multiple experiences that celebrate both natural splendor and human ingenuity. Visitors can ascend to the viewing gallery at 135 meters to relish a panoramic view of the vast Narmada river, its majestic canals, and the cultural tapestry of the region or wander through the vibrant Valley of Flowers that blooms in its full glory.

Engage with history at the on-site museum, or be mesmerized by the laser light and sound show, illuminating the statue and narrating the tales of unity it stands for, making the Statue of Unity a multifaceted destination featuring key landmarks such as the Sardar Sarovar Dam built on the river Narmada — an archetypal example of human tenacity harnessing the power of nature. It’s a place that not only pays homage to a national hero but also offers homage to the natural beauty and feats of engineering along the Narmada Canal, enriching the narrative of Kevadia as a prominent tourist hub.

• Best suited for: Everyone, from history buffs to nature enthusiasts and patriotic hearts.
• Location: Facing the Narmada Dam
• Hours: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
• Activities: Viewing gallery experience, museum visit, laser light and sound show, Valley of Flowers.

21. Mandvi Gate

Embrace a piece of Vadodara’s vibrant history at Mandvi Gate, a historically significant structure that once functioned as a toll gate for traders. Now an emblem of bygone eras, the gate stands proudly within the city’s bustling streets—just 3 km from the city centre—offering a striking contrast to the surrounding modernity. Built during the Mughal period, it’s a must-see for those looking to connect with the city’s storied past and should be a highlighted destination in any cultural itinerary.

Equally impressive during the day as it is when bathed in light at night, especially during festivals, Mandvi Gate is not only a point of interest but also a beloved local landmark. Resting at the centre of the city, this square-shaped pavilion, adorned with bold arches on all four sides, beckons history enthusiasts and photographers in search of the soul of Vadodara. Incorporating this historical marvel into your itinerary is sure to enrich your experience of the city.

• Great for: History lovers, culture enthusiasts, and photographers.
• Location: Easily accessible, located just 3 km from the Vadodara city centre and a short drive from the railway station, making it an ideal starting point for visitors.
• Timings: Open 24 hours, allowing travelers to fit this magnificent site comfortably into their itinerary, whether they prefer a morning stroll or a moonlit walk.
• Entry Fee: Free, offering an enriching experience without the cost, which can be rare close to city centers.

22. Nadalay Temple

Vadodara’s Nadalay Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna as Shrinathji, is a beacon of spiritual tranquility and architectural elegance. Often referred to as Nandalay Haveli, this sanctified haven is just 3 km from the city center and ranks 23 out of 28 Places To Visit in Vadodara. It invites visitors to bask in a soulful ambiance, encouraging one’s mind and heart to synchronize with the enchanting chanting of hymns reverberating through the marbled halls.

The temple stands out not just for its religious significance but for the artistic devotion poured into every detail—from the ornate balconies and arches to the tastefully adorned interiors. Plan your visit around the morning or evening aarti to immerse yourself completely in the divine experience, where the spiritual grove of this place and the chanting achieve a harmonious crescendo, making the aura most palpable.

• A haven for: Devotees, seekers of peace, and admirers of religious architecture.
• Location: Rajesh Tower Road, Gotri, near the serene Banyan grove known for its significance and splendid expanse.
• Timings: The Nandalay Temple is open 24 hours, offering a serene escape for those seeking solace at any hour.
• Unique Experience: Participate in the Rajbhog Prasadi ceremony, where the sacred chanting and offering to Lord Krishna enrich the spiritual experience.

23. Hazira Maqbara

Immerse yourself in Mughal magnificence at Hazira Maqbara, the historical mausoleum of Qutb-ud-din Muhammad Khan, tutor to Prince Salim, son of Emperor Akbar. As if echoing the opulence of a traditional darbar hall, this intriguing site showcases Vadodara’s rich heritage through its spellbinding Mughal-style octagonal design, crafted with intricacy and adorned with elegant arches. The allure of its grandeur is complemented by the ancient step-well situated in the expansive compound.

Revered not only for its architectural beauty but also for the tranquil gardens encircling the tomb, Hazira Maqbara is a cultural touchstone as well as a popular local picnic spot. It promises a journey back in time as well as an opportunity to savor moments of leisure, perhaps with some local delicacies to further enrich the experience. Right outside the temple, visitors can find an eatery serving mouth-watering Indian delicacies prepared without onion or garlic, perfect for a picnic.

• Recommended for: History buffs, Individuals who have a passion for architectural designs, along with those who enjoy outdoor meals.
• Location: Situated in Danteshwar, Vadodara.
• Timings: Hours of operation are from 8 in the morning until 6:30 in the evening.
• Entry Fee: Admission is free of charge, allowing universal access.

24. Hathni Waterfalls

Awaken their senses to the enchanting beauty of Hathni Waterfalls, an idyllic natural sanctuary where water cascades from an elevation of 100 meters against a lush green backdrop. As they listen to the symphony of nature, the melodious sound of water striking rocks and the scenic beauty create a near-mystical experience, perfect for rejuvenation and a picture-perfect picnic.

Named for the rock at the waterfall’s base that resembles a baby elephant, Hathni Waterfalls offers more than splendid views; it’s an adventure for those who seek to connect with nature. Wrap up the trip by paying a visit to the nearby Hanuman temple concealed within a cave, adding a touch of the divine to this picturesque outing.

• Ideal for: Nature lovers, adventure-seekers, and picnic constituencies.
• Location: Near Jambughoda.
• Hours: 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
• Best Time to Visit: Monsoon season, when the waterfall is at its most vibrant.
• Activities: Nature gazing, bathing in the waterfall’s pool, and temple visit.

25. Navratri Festival

Prepare for the dazzle of Navratri, Vadodara’s most exuberant and eagerly-awaited festival, painting the city in hues of tradition and celebration. This nine-night dance extravaganza honors the Goddess Durga and sees the city transform into a vibrant stage for both the young and old. Garba enthusiasts swirl rhythmically to folk tunes, wearing colorful, mirror-work costumes in an infectious display of Gujarat’s rich culture.

Navratri in Vadodara is not just about dance; it’s a spiritual journey that unifies people from all walks of life, engaging in devotion, dance, and vibrant energy. Visitors are welcome to participate in Garba, enjoy the festive foods, or simply soak up the atmosphere at one of the many venues hosting the festival.

• Highlight for: Dance lovers, culture zealots, and those keen on immersive cultural experiences.
• Location: Venues across Vadodara.
• Timings: Evenings and nights during the festival of Navratri.
• Entry Fee: Varies by venue; some events are free.

26. Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary

Transport yourself into the heart of nature at the Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary, an unspoiled haven of biodiversity that promises an adventure unlike any other in Vadodara. Home to a wide variety of mammalian species, reptiles, and birds, the sanctuary is a wildlife enthusiast’s dream come true. Two water reservoirs within its premises add to its aesthetic beauty, creating perfect settings for trekkers and family picnics.

The sanctuary, once a princely state, was established in 1990 and spans over 130 square kilometers of undulating hills and lush forests. Whether opting for a safari tour or setting out on a trek, the Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary offers an escapade into the wild, where sloth bears, antelopes, and boars are the revered hosts.

• A paradise for: Wildlife aficionados, trekkers, and adventure seekers.
• Timings: 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
• Distance from Vadodara City: Approximately 80 km.

For wildlife enthusiasts, Gujarat’s sanctuaries provide a haven for unique and diverse fauna. Explore these natural wonders with Visit Wander’s guide to wildlife sanctuaries in Gujarat, where you can delve into the beauty of the state’s wildlife and conservation efforts.

27. Thol Bird Sanctuary

Take flight to the serene confines of the Thol Bird Sanctuary, where birding aficionados and nature lovers find their slice of paradise. Established in 1988, this avian wonderland is situated near Thol Lake and provides refuge to both endemic and migratory birds such as pelicans, flamingoes, and mallards.

The sanctuary spans an area of 7 square kilometers and is cradled amidst a picturesque agricultural landscape, offering a tranquil retreat from city noise. It’s a fantastic spot for bird photography and education, especially during the winter when the migratory birds visit, adding a splash of exotic colors and sounds to the serene environment.

• A joy for bird enthusiasts: Perfect for expert birders, those new to birdwatching, and photography aficionados.
• Location: Situated in Thol village, close to Kalol in the state of Gujarat.
• Hours of Operation: From 6 in the morning until 5:30 in the evening.
• Admission charge: 50 Indian Rupees for each individual.

28. Sardar Patel Zoological Park

For a wildlife encounter in the midst of Gujarat’s cultural hub, head to Sardar Patel Zoological Park, recently inaugurated and already famed for hosting around 170 species of fauna. This sprawling zoological wonder in the Narmada district offers an up-close look at exotic birds, leopard prides, zebras, and the magnificent Royal Bengal Tigers, among others.

Sardar Patel Zoological Park, located near the monumental Statue of Unity, is not just about animal displays; it provides immersive experiences such as safari tours, a jungle safari, and a nocturnal zoo. It is a conservation hub that presents an engaging and instructive experience suitable for both grown-ups and youngsters. Family-friendly destinations are enhanced by the presence of picnic spots and untouched natural scenery.

• Ideal destination for: Wildlife enthusiasts, families, and nature lovers.
• Location; Sardar Patel Zoological Park can be located in Sayajibaug within the city of Vadodara in the state of Gujarat, India.
• Timings: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
• Admission Fees: Adults pay INR 200, while children are charged INR 125.

29. Ajwa Dam

Ajwa Dam, a testament to engineering prowess, beckons those who seek solace by the water. Constructed in the early 20th century over the Vishwamitri River, this dam not only sustains the city’s water needs but provides a picturesque venue. The dam, about 5 km long, creates Ajwa lake, around which numerous leisure and sightseeing activities have blossomed.

The area takes on a carnival-like atmosphere, especially in the evenings, when local families and tourists flock to the Ajwa Nimeta Garden. The vibrant array of colorful dancing fountains synced with music leaves onlookers mesmerized, while the nearby fun park is a hit among those seeking lighthearted entertainment. The tranquility of the water combined with the leisure facilities makes Ajwa Dam an all-encompassing leisure spot.

• Must-visit for: Families, nature admirers, and photography enthusiasts.
• Location: Ajwa Dam is located near Ajwa village, about 16 kilometers southwest of Vadodara, Gujarat, India.
• Timings: Accessible throughout the day; garden and fountain show hours vary.
• Nearby Attractions: Ajwa Fun World, Ajwa Water Park, and the musical fountains.

30. Baroda Railway Museum

All aboard for a trip back in time at the Baroda Railway Museum, where the romance of the rails is captured in every exhibit and picture. This lesser-known gem celebrates the rich legacy of the Indian railways, featuring vintage locomotives, antique signaling equipment, and a fascinating collection of photographs documenting the evolution of the railways in India. The Baroda museum and picture archives together provide an immersive experience for those interested in the historical journey of train travel in the country.

The star attractions include the model train sets and the joy train ride within the museum grounds, which both delight the young and the young-at-heart. The rail enthusiasts among you can dive into the archives, a treasure trove of information. Whether you’re a history buff or simply nostalgic for bygone travel tales, the Baroda Railway Museum promises an informative and enjoyable journey.

• Best for: Train enthusiasts, history buffs, and kids.
• Location: Pratapnagar, Vadodara.
• Timings: 10:30 AM to 5:00 PM; closed on Mondays.
• Entry Fee: A small entrance fee applies, with additional charges for the toy train.

Embark on an adventure with a plethora of activities and experiences in Gujarat by checking out Visit Wander’s comprehensive guide to things to do in Gujarat . Discover the vibrant culture, historical landmarks, and much more that this diverse state has to offer.

FAQ: All You Need to Know About Visiting Vadodara

What is the famous thing of vadodara.

due to the prestigious Maharaja Sayajirao University. The city’s traditional art includes the famous intricate Maru-Gurjari Painting style and crafts like lacquer work and jewelry. Additionally, it is known for delectable Gujarati cuisine and shopping for patola silk sarees, ghagras, and bandhinis.

What is the best time to visit Vadodara?

The best time to visit Vadodara is from October to March when the weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing and participating in outdoor activities. This period avoids the scorching heat of the summer months and the heavy rainfall of the monsoon season. The moderate temperature during these months enhances the travel experience in Vadodara.

What are the best places to visit from Vadodara for one day short trips?

Vadodara offers a plethora of enchanting destinations for memorable one-day short trips. Nature enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the serene beauty of Zarwani Waterfalls, featuring picturesque waterfalls and rejuvenating pools. History comes alive at the Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site adorned with historical and architectural marvels. Anand, known as the ‘Milk Capital of India,’ beckons visitors to explore the Amul Dairy Factory, providing insights into the dairy industry. For a spiritual retreat, Dakor stands out as a popular pilgrimage site, housing the revered Ranchhodraiji Temple.

What are the top-rated hotels to consider for a comfortable stay in Vadodara?

For a comfortable stay in Vadodara, you have a selection of top-rated hotels to choose from. The Taj Gateway Hotel promises a luxurious experience with world-class amenities and impeccable service. Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels is renowned for its elegant rooms and traditional Indian hospitality, ensuring a pleasant and culturally rich stay. Vivanta Vadodara offers the perfect blend of modern facilities and a warm ambiance, creating a delightful atmosphere for guests. Grand Mercure Vadodara Surya Palace stands out as a premier hotel, featuring contemporary design suitable for both business and leisure travelers.

Are there any unique cultural experiences to explore in Vadodara?

Yes, Vadodara brims with unique cultural experiences. You can participate in the energetic Garba dance during the Navratri festival or attend vibrant fairs and exhibitions that showcase local arts and crafts. Explore traditional art forms at the Tambekar Wada, marvel at the Maharaja Fatehsingh Museum’s collection, or indulge in Gujarati culinary delights at a local cooking workshop. The city’s rich history and appreciation for the arts also offer numerous music and dance performances throughout the year.

Vadodara boasts an impressive array of destinations offering a blend of historical significance, cultural depth, and natural beauty. From the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park to the vibrant festivities of Navratri, each attraction invites tourists to delve into the heart of Gujarat’s rich heritage. Whether it’s a one-day stopover or an extended weekend exploration, the places around Vadodara cater to all kinds of travelers, promising memorable adventures. Don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the architectural marvels, serene picnic spots, and poignant monuments that tell tales of a glorious past. As you plan your journey, ensure that these top picks are on your itinerary to fully experience the essence of Vadodara.

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27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara 2024, ✔Tourist Places List

Budget Hotels > Travel Blog > Destinations > Vadodara > 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara 2024, ✔Tourist Places List

Located on the banks of the Vishwamitri River, Vadodara (previously known as Baroda) is home to some of the most captivating architectural excellence. Whether you are an artist, a history buff or a curious traveler, the city will impress you with its vast array of attractions including grand monuments, museums, palaces, gardens, temples, markets, and lots more. There are also several budget-friendly hotels in Vadodara that offer you the best of hospitality and facilities. Looking for famous Tourist Places in Vadodara? Find the list of best places to visit in Vadodara in 2024 with location, images, entry fee & best time to go info.

Places to Visit in Vadodara:

Planning a trip to the cultural capital of Gujarat? Here is a comprehensive list of the best places to visit in Vadodara:

1. Makarpura Palace, Vadodara

Makarpura Palace | #2 of 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

Makarpura Palace was built in 1870 to serve as the summer palace for the royal family of the Gaekwads. Designed with an Italian touch of architecture, the ornate palace remained unused as the royal family favored the cooler climes of the Nilgiris in Tamil Nadu over Vadodara to spend most of their summers. Today, the palace serves as a training school for the Indian Air Force, called No. 17 Tetra School. Visit this striking three-storied palace to witness its architectural brilliance and the lavish garden decorated with ivory fountains.

• Location: Himmat Nagar, Makarpura
• Timings: 9:30 am to 6:00 pm
• Entry Fee: ₹ 125 per person

2. Sayaji Garden, Vadodara

Sayaji Garden | #2 of 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

Built by Maharaja Sayaji Rao Gaekwad in 1879, Sayaji Garden spans an area of over 100 acres and is regarded as one of the largest public gardens in the western part of the country. The presence of the Sardar Patel Planetarium, the Baroda Museum & Picture Gallery, a toy train, a zoo, an aquarium, and over 98 different species of trees make this garden one of the most enticing tourist places in Vadodara. The garden also has a one-of-its-kind gigantic floral clock with a 20-feet diameter dial.

• Location: Vinoba Bhave Raod, Sayajiganj
• Entry Fee: Free entry, but the attractions within the garden are chargeable

3. EME Temple, Vadodara

EME Temple | #3 of 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

Also known as the Dakshinamurty Temple, the EME Temple is a Shiva shrine managed by the Indian Army. The temple boasts of remarkable contemporary architecture featuring aspects of the major religions of India. Covered with aluminium sheets, the geodesic structure of the temple presents a striking sight. Sculpture art dating back to the 7 th to 15 th centuries define the beauty of the garden surrounding this temple. A visit to the temple will allow you to appreciate its unique concept.

• Location: Fatehgunj
• Timings: 6:30 am to 8:30 pm; closed on Sundays

Explore recommended places to stay in Vadodara at best price

4. Vadodara Museum & Picture Gallery, Vadodara

Vadodara Museum & Picture Gallery | #4 of 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

The Vadodara Museum & Picture Gallery has been designed on the lines of London’s Science Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum. It showcases a rich collection of artifacts related to geology, archaeology, and natural history. You can also find here various items belonging to the personal collection of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, who was instrumental in setting up this museum. The picture gallery houses several masterpieces by European artists and an excellent collection of original paintings by British landscape painters, Turner and Constable. The major attractions of Vadodara Museum include the skeleton of a blue whale and an Egyptian mummy.

• Location: Sayaji Garden
• Timings: 10:30 am to 5:00 pm; closed on government holidays
• Entry Fee: ₹ 10 for Indians; ₹ 200 for foreign nationals 

5. Surya Narayan Temple, Vadodara

Surya Narayan Temple | #5 of 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

As the name indicates, the Surya Narayan Temple is dedicated to the Sun God or Surya Devta. Designed in a grand manner, the temple highlights majestic architectural features. It is believed that if you offer your obeisance to the Sun God here, you will get relief from your ailments and causes of unhappiness. No wonder, the temple remains crowded with devotees all year long.

• Location: Jambubet
• Timings : 7:00 am to 7:00 pm

6. Sur Sagar Lake, Vadodara

Sur Sagar Lake | #6 of 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

Located in the heart of the city, Sur Sagar aka Chand Talao is a mesmerizing lake that remains filled with water all year long. The cool ambiance of the lake provides the perfect excuse to spend some time near this water body. There’s even a concrete wall that runs along the perimeter of this lake, where you can sit during the evening hours and appreciate its serene beauty. But it is the 120-feet tall statue of Lord Shiva situated in the middle of the lake that makes it one of the most beautiful places to visit in Vadodara.

• Location: Mandvi
• Timings: 24 hours

7. Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Vadodara

Sri Aurobindo Ashram | #7 of 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

The historic Aurobindo Ashram is the bungalow where the famous Indian philosopher, yogi, and nationalist, Sri Aurobindo Ghosh had stayed from 1894 to 1906. It is a spacious bungalow with 23 rooms and houses a study room, a library, and a sales emporium. What draws most people to this place is its calm environment, which is ideal for meditation, introspection, and spiritual healing. You can also find here various relics of Sri Aurobindo and all the books that have been written by and about him.

• Location: Dandia Bazar
• Timings: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm

8. Laxmi Vilas Palace, Vadodara

Laxmi Vilas Palace | #8 of 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

One of the most magnificent palaces in India, the iconic Laxmi Vilas Palace is the residence of the royal family of Baroda. Constructed in 1890 by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, the colossal palace is the largest private abode constructed till date and is four times larger than the Buckingham Palace in London. It is a fine example of Indo-Saracenic architectural style and counts amongst the top tourist places to see in Vadodara. Among the major attractions of the palace are the Darbar Hall that features the Raja’s throne and ornate artwork, the Moti Baug Palace and the Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum.

• Location: J. N. Marg
• Timings: 9:30 am to 5:00 pm; closed on Mondays and public holidays
• Entry Fee: ₹ 150 per person  

9. Nyaya Mandir, Vadodara

Nyaya Mandir | #9 of 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

Nyaya Mandir, which literally translates to the Temple of Justice, houses the District Court of Vadodara. Constructed in 1896 in the Byzantine style of architecture, the grand edifice has a central hall featuring a statue of the wife of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III. The centrally located structure is easily accessible from all parts of the city and is considered to be one of the top 10 places in Vadodara for tourist sightseeing.

• Location: Chokshi Bazar
• Timings: 9:00 am to 6:00 pm

10. Baps Shri Swaminarayan Temple, Vadodara

Baps Shri Swaminarayan Temple | #10 of 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

Baps Shri Swaminarayan Temple is a grand place of worship in the city of Vadodara dedicated to Shri Swaminarayan. The temple houses beautiful idols of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, Aksharbrahman Gunatitanand Swami, Shri Gopalanand Swami, and Shri Nilkanth Varni among others. Plan a visit to this temple to watch its gorgeous architecture and tranquil vibe.

• Location: Atladara
• Timings: 6:00 am to 8:30 pm

11. Khanderao Market, Vadodara

Khanderao Market is a grand edifice that adorns the cityscape of Vadodara. Constructed by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III in 1906, the building boasts of impressive architecture. At present, the building houses several important government administrative offices. Markets of flowers and fresh vegetables are held in the back garden of the building. A trip to this site will allow you to enjoy the beauty of this edifice while witnessing a slice of regular life in Vadodara.

• Timings: 7:00 am to 8:30 pm

12. Maharaja Sayajirao University, Vadodara

Maharaja Sayajirao University | #12 of 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

The city of Vadodara houses one of the premier universities of the country, the Maharaja Sayajirao University. Popularly referred to as M. S. University or MSU, the institution was established in 1949. The main building of this educational institution displays a fine confluence of Indian and Byzantine architectural styles and houses the Faculty of Arts. The sprawling green campus and the impressive structure of the university make it a must-visit attraction for the tourists.

• Location: Pratapgunj

13. Kirti Mandir, Vadodara

Kirti Mandir | #13 of 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

Kirti Mandir or the Temple of Fame is the cenotaph built for the members of the Baroda royal family. Situated near the Vishwamitri Bridge, it is an impressive structure complete with ornate carvings, balconies, terraces, and domes. You can find various murals adorning the walls of this structure that represent the battle of Mahabharata. The central arch of the structure displays a map of undivided India along with bronze structures of the sun, the moon, and the earth. The rooms of the Kirti Mandir display photographs and statues of the Gaekwad family.

• Location: Sayajiganj
• Timings: 9:00 am to 12:00 pm and 2:30 to 5:30 pm

14. Maharaja Fatehsingh Museum, Vadodara

Maharaja Fatehsingh Museum | #14 of 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

If you are an art aficionado, you must include the Maharaja Fatehsingh Museum in your Vadodara itinerary. Located within the premises of the Lakshmi Vilas Palace, the museum is housed in a building that once served as the home-school for the Maharaja’s children. Today, you can find a treasure trove of art collections within the walls of this building. Major works of art by famous painters from Europe and India are displayed here, including a special collection of paintings of Raja Ravi Varma. The museum also has an impressive collection of flawless sculptures of Hindu gods and goddesses in bronze and marble. 

• Location: Laxmi Vilas Palace Estate
• Timings: 10:00 am to 5:30 pm
• Entry Fee: ₹ 60 per person

15. Mandvi Gate, Vadodara

Mandvi Gate | #15 of 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

A major landmark in Vadodara, the Mandvi Gate remains in the city as a powerful testimony to the celebrated Mughal era. It is a square-shaped pavilion that features three arched openings on every side. In the ancient days, the place was used as a toll gate for traders and merchants. It was also the spot from where important announcements were made. Today, the gate stands as a historic structure and presents a beautiful sight when illuminated on festive nights.

16. Nandalay Temple, Vadodara

Also known as Nandalay Haveli, the Nandalay Temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna who is worshipped here as Shrinathji. The temple structure is decorated with ornate balconies and arches. The tastefully decorated interior complements the architectural beauty of the exterior. It is a place that exudes tranquil vibes that are enhanced through the slow chanting of hymns. Plan a visit to the temple during the morning or evening aarti to experience its spiritual aura.

• Location: Rajesh Tower Road
• Timings: 7:00 am to 6:00 pm

17. Ajwa Nimeta Dam Garden, Vadodara

Ajwa Nimeta Dam Garden | #17 of 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

Perfectly manicured green lawns and towering palm trees welcome you to the serenity of the Ajwa Nimeta Dam Garden. The design of this 130-acre garden is inspired by the Vrindavan Gardens of Mysore. The main attraction of this garden is the row of perfectly aligned musical fountains that offer a mesmerizing show every evening. Thanks to the coordination water sprouts that shoot up against the background of lovely colors, the place never fails to delight adults and children alike.

• Location: Ajwa
• Timings: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
• Entry Fee: Free entry below 5 years; ₹ 15 per person (From 5 to 12 years); ₹ 20 per person (Above 12 years)
• Distance from Vadodara city: 23 km (approx.)

18. Sardar Patel Planetarium, Vadodara

Sardar Patel Planetarium | #18 of 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

If the wonders of the sky and the universe fascinate you, the Sardar Patel Planetarium is the ideal place for you to visit in Vadodara. Situated within the boundary of the Sayaji Garden, the 200-seat planetarium boasts of a curved projection screen that emulates reality and has state-of-the-art sound systems. You can catch up on hour-long sessions about the astronomical history, solar system, and satellites at this place.

• Timings: 9:00 am to 6:00 pm; closed on Thursdays and public holidays
• Show Timings: 4:00 to 4:30 (Gujarati); 5:00 to 5:30 (English); 6:00 to 6:30 (Hindi)
• Entry Fee: ₹ 10 per person

19. Hazira Maqbara, Vadodara

Hazira Maqbara | #19 of 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

Hazira Maqbara is the mausoleum of Qutb-ud-din Muhammad Khan, who was the tutor of Prince Salim, Emperor Akbar’s son. Commonly referred to as Hazira, the mausoleum is built in typical Mughal architectural style. Designed with octagonal platforms and elaborate arches, the tomb is among the most enticing Mughal monuments present in Vadodara. There’s also an ancient step-well in the large compound of the mausoleum that is worth a visit.

• Location: Danteshwar
• Timings: 8:00 am to 6:30 pm

20. Gaekwad Baroda Golf Club, Vadodara

Gaekwad Baroda Golf Club | #20 of 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

Gujarat’s oldest private golf club, the Gaekwad Baroda Golf Club boasts of a one-of-its-kind golf course wrapped around the monumental Lakshmi Vilas Palace. The 10-hole golf course offers exquisite views of the palace from every hole. This unique layout throws a challenge to even the most proficient golfers. A visit to the golf club is a must for all sports aficionados as the place has a badminton court, tennis courts, state-of-the-art gymnasium, and a swimming pool too.

• Location: Laxmi Villas Palace Estate
• Timings : 6:00 am to 9:00 pm

21. Narmada Canal, Vadodara

Narmada Canal | #21 of 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

If you are looking for a serene place to enjoy a day-long outing or picnic in Vadodara, make your way to the Narmada Canal, which is located a short drive away from the city. The blue water of the canal and the scenic surroundings make for an ideal spot to spend some lovely moments in the company of your friends and family.

• Distance from Vadodara city: 30 km (approx.)

22. Ajwa Water Park, Vadodara

Ajwa Water Park | #22 of 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

Ajwa Water Park is one of the best water parks in Vadodara where you can indulge in day-long aquatic fun. The water park is located inside Ajwa Fun World and provides an enticing respite from the scorching heat of the Vadodara city. The place offers no less than 22 thrilling water slides to keep you engaged for the day. A sliding tower of 60 feet height is the highlight of this park. With amazing attractions like the Rain Dance, the Dark Hole Slide, Pendulum Slide, Space Bowl Slide, Body Slide, Super Car, Tube Slide, and lots more, you can look forward to a great time at this water park.

• Location: Ajwa Nimeta Road
• Timings: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm; every day
• Entry Fee: ₹ 850 per person (Includes Water rides+ Breakfast + Lunch + Hi-Tea)

23. S-Cube Water Park, Vadodara

S-Cube Water Park | #23 of 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

Spread over an area of 10 acres, the S-Cube Water Park is the perfect place to spend some fun moments with your family and friends. While here, you can indulge in 17 different rides, such as Reverse Splash, Double Screamer, Cyclone Bowl, Boomerango, and Blue Ripple among others. Touted as the largest entertainment complex of Gujarat, the water park complex also has an amusement park and a food island where you can pump up your energy. The park also has special attractions like a toy train, mini roller coaster, pirate ship swing, and boating area for the kids.

• Entry Fee: ₹ 500 per person (Free entry for children below 2.5 feet in height)

24. Champaner – Pavagadh Archaeological Park, Vadodara

Champaner – Pavagadh Archaeological Park | #24 of 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

Fancy a short one-day picnic from Vadodara? Head off to Champaner – Pavagadh Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a number of monuments. Speckled with palaces, mosques, temples, tombs, arched gateways, step-wells, residential complexes, granaries, tanks, and lots more, this archaeological park is one of the top Vadodara tourist places to visit. Some of the top attractions of this historic place include the Kalika Mata temple, the fort of Pavagadh, the palace of Mahmud Begada, Jama Masjid, Kevda Masjid and cenotaph, Navalakka temples, Sahar Ki Masjid, Makai Kothar, City Gate, Kabutarkhana pavilion, and the helical stepped well.

• Location: Champaner
• Timings: 8:30 am to 5:00 pm
• Distance from Vadodara city: 50 km (approx.)

25. Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary, Vadodara

Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary | #25 of 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

Home to a wide variety of mammalian species, Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary makes for a great spot for a one-day picnic with your family and kids. If you are a wildlife enthusiast, you will be delighted to spot not just wild animals but a variety of reptiles and birds as well in this forest reserve. The sanctuary has two water reservoirs within its premises, which add to its aesthetic beauty. You can enjoy trekking and safari tours in this adventurous wildlife zone.

• Location: Jambughoda
• Timings: 6:00 am to 7:00 pm
• Distance from Vadodara city: 80 km (approx.)

26. Kabirvad, Vadodara

Kabirvad | #26 of 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

Kairvad, which is a grove of banyan tree located on an island on River Narmada. Spreading over 3 km, this grove holds much religious significance as it was the meditation spot of the famous saint Kabir. The place also has a temple nearby built in honor of the saint. Visit this place to enjoy a few moments of solitude and sanctity, away from the hustle-bustle of city life.

• Location: Kabirvad
• Distance from Vadodara city: 75 km (approx.)

27. Hathni Mata, Vadodara

Hathni Mata | #27 of 27 Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

Situated at a distance of about 80 km from the city center, Hathni Mata Waterfalls flows down from a green carpeted hillside. The road to the waterfall offers a scenic drive. During the monsoon season, the waterfall presents a breath-taking sight. Hathni Mata means the elephant mother. As per the local legend, there’s a rock that resembles a baby elephant and you can see it only if you venture out to the base of this waterfall. The place offers great opportunities for the shutterbugs to capture some incredible shots.

• Location: Poyali

Whether you are planning a solo trip to the city or going there with your family and friends, Vadodara will surely keep you enthralled with its numerous attractions. So, pack your bags and get ready to enjoy a lovely holiday here.

Frequently Asked Questions About Vadodara:

Q: What are the different ways to reach Vadodara?

A: Vadodara is served by Civil Airport Harni that currently operates domestic flights only to and from Delhi and Mumbai. Vadodara Junction is the busiest railhead in the entire state and is well-connected to almost the entire country. At a stone's throw away from here is STC Bus Station, which is the main road gateway to the city.

Q: How to get around Vadodara?

A: Public transport in Vadodara mainly comprises VITCOS city buses and auto rickshaws.

Q: What to shop for from Vadodara and from where?

A: You can head to local markets like Nava Bajar to buy gold and stone-embedded artworks on camel leather or hide vessels, traditional clothes and handicrafts, among other items.

Q: Suggest some good places to eat in Vadodara.

A: If you're a vegetarian, you can dine at Mandap, Sasuma, Saffron, Little Italy, La Quello, 22nd Parallel, San's Sizzlers or Azure. Gazebo Garden Restaurant, Barbeque Nation, That Place, Peshawari and Kai Asia are some of the best restaurants in Vadodara for non-vegetarian food lovers.

Q: How is the nightlife in Vadodara?

A: There is a blanket ban on alcohol in entire Gujarat. Due to the absence of pubs and bars in Vadodara, the city definitely lacks a nightlife.

Q: Where can I go for a weekend trip from Vadodara?

A: Udaipur, Ahmedabad, Nashik, Mt. Abu, Daman and Diu, Saputara, Patan, Silvassa and Ujjain are the most popular weekend getaways from Vadodara within 300 km.

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Wonderful post. This blog has an amazing information about the destination places beautiful visiting spot and captures very impressive photos. For Taxi Service in Vadodara visit our Bharat Taxi website.

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A Local’s Guide to Places to visit in Vadodara

Last Updated on July 22, 2022 by admin

Oh the endless and amazing places to visit in Vadodara! Vadodara is the cultural capital of Gujarat, because of its rich architecture, cultural roots and delicious food. This big little city is my hometown and I am super excited to take you on Vadodara places to visit. 

Although there are amazing things to do in Ahmedabad where I currently live, my hometown Vadodara is no less of a treasure trove. 

Vadodara is called the ‘ Sanskarinagari’ or the cultural capital of Gujarat thanks to its cosmopolitan nature, equal fervour to celebrate all festivals and flavourful street food.

It is very close to the Statue of Unity and has architectural marvels such as stepwells, palaces and places close to nature.

So let’s dive into the list of  visiting places in Vadodara , with this perfect  Vadodara travel guide .

Table of Contents

History of Vadodara

The city got its name due to the copious amounts of Banyan trees called ‘ Vad ’ in the local language which was present in the yesteryears. The city settled itself on the banks of the river Vishwamitri which is houses the most crocodiles in Vadodara .

The city was ruled by Gupta, Rashtrakuta, and Solanki dynasties and was held by the Sultans of Delhi and Gujarat, and then the Mughals, before finally being claimed by the Marathas of the Gaekwad dynasty in the 1720s.

The Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III (1875-1939), firmly established his dynasty and transformed Vadodara into an educational, industrial, and commercial hub with thriving art and architecture.

T hanks to this, Vadodara is a cosmopolitan city and houses people of different faiths and religions from different states of India.

Places to visit in Vadodara (Baroda)

Here is what makes Vadodara stand out amongst the other cities of Gujarat.

Lakshmi Vilas Palace Vadodara

The residence of the erstwhile ruler of Baroda – Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, Lakshmi Vilas Palace speaks grandeur, affluence and is the perfect showcase of luxury. This is one of the famous places in Vadodara that is must visit.

Built-in Indo-Gothic style of architecture , the palace is spread over 700 acres and is known to be four times larger than London’s Buckingham Palace. The palace has over 170 rooms and still serves as the residence of the Gaekwad family.

The palace is a sight to behold with its multicoloured marble, mosaic tiles, water fountains, chandeliers and paintings. There are artworks that are embedded with semi-precious stones and gold and walls with stained glass which is a classic example of opulence from that era. All of this overlooking a huge golf course. The Durbar Hall is the most exquisite place in the entire palace which often hosts music concerts and cultural events. Unfortunately, photography is prohibited inside the palace.

Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum in the same premises is the museum showcasing Gaekwad family’s art and artefacts collection. 

Entry fees: INR 200 which includes an audio guide in many Indian and International languages

Lakshmi Vilas Palace Vadodara  timings: 9:30 am – 5:00 pm (closed every Monday)

Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery

The biggest attraction for me while visiting the Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery was the skeleton of a Blue Whale across a huge hall. As a kid, I used to get amused, excited and just in awe of the size of the museum. I would simply zoom past the collection of art, sculpture, ethnography and ethnology in the museum just to see this skeleton. And it was totally worth it!

Apart from the blue whale skeleton, the museum is also popular for an Egyptian mummy .

The building itself is a heritage building which is inspired by the Victoria & Albert Museum in London and is built in the Indo-Saracenic style. There are also exhibits on natural history and earth sciences.

The picture gallery contains a wide range of collections of textiles, paintings and miniatures. The museum library houses about 23,000 books on various subjects, most of which are rare. No wonder it is one of the best places to visit in Baroda .

Entry fees: INR 10 

Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery timings: 10:30 am – 5:30 pm

Kirti Mandir

Every local knows Kirti Mandir as the place where the annual Rangoli exhibition takes place around Diwali. Kirti Mandir is an extremely popular landmark as well as an exhibition space with lovely gardens. 

Kirti Mandir as the name suggests is actually a temple. The area houses a cluster of temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and also houses the cenotaphs of the royal family.

The temple’s interiors are made of marble and decorated with intricately carved murals. One of the important murals within the premises are the five wall paintings showing various phases of the battle of Mahabharata, and some episodes from Indian mythology. 

Entry fees: Free

Kirti Mandir timings: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm

Khanderao Market

I remember early morning trips to the old city for buying vegetables in bulk.

Khanderao Market is the most vibrant vegetable market which comes to life at the crack of dawn. Vegetables, fruits, fresh flowers, puja materials and just about everything is available here in small shops. 

The entrance building itself is architecturally striking as it was gifted by the king to the people of the city on the silver jubilee of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III.

It consists of two domed shaped structures that resemble a Hindu temple with a clock tower in its centre. Part of the building also houses the office of the Vadodara Municipal Corporation. 

Khanderao market timings: 05:00 am – 08:00 pm

Aurobindo Ashram Vadodara

While writing about Vadodara places to visit, I had to mention Aurobindo Ashram.

Vadodara houses the Aurobindo Ashram which is a community centre founded by the Indian freedom fighter, philosopher and yoga guru Aurobindo Ghose. The centre is perfect for meditation and yoga just like its counterpart in Pondicherry . This ashram served as the residence of Aurobindo Ghose during his stay in Baroda (1894 – 1906). Aurobindo Ashram Vadodara has a library, study room and sales emporium. 

Opening hours: 6am – 8pm

Sursagar Lake

Spending some time at Sursagar Lake is one of the best visiting places in Vadodara .

Sursagar has been one of the important landmarks of Vadodara since the beginning of time. It has been the centre of Ganesh Visarjan every year and it was at that time of the year when devotees came out in large numbers to pay their respects and bid adieu to the Elephant headed god in different sizes, shapes and colours and asking him to come early next year.

Sursagar has probably witnessed how the labyrinthine pols ( lanes) gave way to roads, ancient bazaars paved the way to shopping malls and old-styled bungalows made space for apartments, over the years in Vadodara.

Formerly known as Chandan Talav, Sursagar was a small pond in the princely state of Baroda. The lake was rebuilt in the 18th century with stone banks and masonry which is when it was renamed Sursagar.

Sursagar is still one of the iconic structures which define Vadodara especially because of the installation of the 120-foot tall statue of Lord Shiva in the middle of this lake. Ganesh Visarjan is no longer permitted but there is a walkway around the lake and boating facility where one can spend time. The lake is lit on weekend evenings and the idol is lit on special festivals. 

If boating and walking make you hungry there are ample street food stalls around the lake periphery to indulge in some guilt-free snacking!

Timings: Always Open

Sayaji Baug / Kamati Baug Vadodara

Being a Banyan city, not only are there a lot of trees but maintained gardens across the city. Sayaji Baug, locally known as Kamati Baug, is one of the top sights in Vadodara and one of the most popular places to visit in Vadodara. 

Spread over 100 acres, Kamati Baug is one of the biggest gardens in Western India. The garden houses, Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery, Amphitheatre, an aquarium, zoo, health museum, planetarium, a toy train and a flowerbed clock.

There are supposedly 96 species of trees in the perfectly manicured garden. The garden also has a kid’s area with swings and other toys. 

Entry fees: Free (for the garden), 

INR 40 for adults and INR 20 for kids (for toy train)

INR 10 for adults and INR 5 for kids (for zoo)

Vadodara Planetarium

The Sardar Patel Planetarium is one of the unmissable places in Vadodara to visit . 

Nestled in Vadodara’s Sayaji Baug, the planetarium has a 200-seat capacity, which displays awe-striking videos of space. It has state-of-the-art sound systems and a curved projection screen that hosts shows in English, Gujarati & Hindi focusing on astronomical history. 

Entry fees: INR 10

Timings: 4.00 pm in Gujarati, 5.00 pm in English and 6.00 pm in Hindi

While there are many beautiful temples in Vadodara city, this particular temple has been a favourite among the locals.

Also known as Dakshinamurti temple, EME stands for Electrical and Mechanical Corps and is situated in the Army Cantonment campus. It is not a typical temple structure which is why it is so popular. 

The temple is unique because of its geodesic design and is made from aluminium sheets.

The temple incorporates holy symbols from five major religions practised in India in its structure thus signifying secularism in the army. The Kalash on the top symbolises Hinduism, the Dome signifies Islam, the Tower represents Christianity, the Golden-structure above the tower expresses Buddhism and the Entrance stands for Jainism. 

The area around the temple has lovely manicured gardens and pathways with ancient statues. 

Timings: 06:30 am – 8:30 pm

Located on the outskirts of the city, towards Sindhrot lies an offbeat gem – Sevasi Vav . Other than the Navlakhi Vav in Lakshmi Vilas Palace, I did not know that step wells existed in Vadodara!

It was a rare and amazing find on one of my recent trip to Vadodara and I instantly knew this had to be added to the list of places to visit in Vadodara.

Not in the best of condition, Sevasi vav is a seven-storey stepwell with a residing deity which is why it is clean. Constructed in a combination of brick masonry it has been standing strong for 500 years. Visitors can get a glimpse of carvings on the walls and pillars such as motifs, floral prints, bells, and animals.

Read in detail here: Sevasi Vav, Vadodara

Timings: Always open

Places to visit in Vadodara old city

While walls of the city have disappeared, the gates which defined its boundary still remain intact and house bustling bazaars.

Mandvi gate, Gendi gate, Laheripura gate, and Pani gate reflect a blend of Islamic and Maratha architecture.

Raopura clock tower

Also known as the Maharani Chimnabai tower, the Indo-Saracenic structure was built in 1896 in memory of Maharani Chimnabai, the first wife of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III. The clock was brought by the Maharaja from London and installed in a five-storey building with a clock facing all four directions on the 4th floor. The clock still works and chimes every hour. Raopura tower is lit up in the evenings.

Note: Entry inside the tower is not allowed.

Kirti Stambh

Kirti Stambh, translated as the Pillar of Triumph is a well-known landmark of Vadodara. It was built in the year 1935 to mark the 60 years of rule of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III. It is now situated on a traffic island located on an arterial road linking Lakshmi Vilas Palace gate to the city. The tower has a monolithic stone column having a seated lion facing towards the palace gate.

Tambekar Wada

Tambekar Wada is a typical Maratha style 3-storeyed building which was the former residence of Diwan of Baroda State – Vithal Khanderao Tambekar. The interior of the house is full of vibrant paintings, frescos and murals which decorate the walls, doors, and ceiling.

Read in detail about Frescos of Tambekar Wada

Timings: 10:00 am to 05:00 pm

Festivals in Vadodara

Talking about things to do in Vadodara and not mentioning festivals is impossible!

Due to the cosmopolitan nature of the city, there are people residing from all states of India and all festivals are celebrated in equal fervour. Be it Ganesh Chaturthi, Holi, Chhath Puja, Durga Puja, Onam or Uttarayan . However, Vadodara is extremely popular for Navratri. Navratri in Vadodara is different from all the other cities where it is celebrated in its traditional form. United Way of Baroda and Maa Arkee organizes Navratri wherein over 100,000 participants dance to the same steps on the traditional song beats in traditional attires.

Shopping in Vadodara

Like every city in Gujarat, Vadodara is no less when it comes to shopping varieties. Shopping in Vadodara is amazing as it comfortably settled between the polyester manufacturing town of Surat and Cotton manufacturing town of Ahmedabad. Locals enjoy shopping in the following two bazaars which sell everything from a safety pin to furniture. 

Nava Bazaar

Nava Bazar is the one-stop-shop for all your Navratri needs! The shops come to life as soon as Ganesh Visarjan is over with a variety of festival merchandise. Chaniya Choli, Oxidized jewellery with fancy footwear is something not to be missed for shopping. While this bazaar is popular during Navratri, it is open all around the year and sells other Indian outfits.

Mangal Bazaar

The different alleys of Mangal Bazaar lead you to different kinds of markets. There are bylanes selling utensils, bags, outfits, toys, decorative lights and just about everything one can imagine. This is a one-stop for your household and utility needs. 

Baroda Prints

Baroda prints is a famous store in Vadodara which started almost 60 years ago and is now a brand in itself. The store sells fabrics and readymade garments with traditional block prints and it is one of the most preferred shopping destinations in Baroda.

Places to visit near Vadodara

While there are many places to visit in Vadodara city, there are many places around the city which are perfect 1-day picnic spots near Vadodara. Some of them are

Sindhrot was a weekend getaway for most citizens. It offered a great drive amidst the forest to reach a bridge – Sindhrot bridge, build over the Mahi River. Having corn overlooking the sunset was a favourite time pass.

Sindhrot since then has a plethora of activities such – Kayaking, go-karting, nature trail, birdwatching, etc. There are a few hotels and cafes on the banks of Mahi that offer gorgeous views with food.

Come rains and Vadodara residents run to Pavagadh to catch a glimpse of greenery and waterfalls. In other seasons too, Pavagadh offers a quick getaway for trekkers, nature enthusiasts and religious devotees. Pavagadh, a small hillock in the Panchmahal district is also the first place in Gujarat to install a ropeway. The second ropeway came up in Girnar – Asia’s longest ropeway .

A stone’s throw away from Pavagadh is the UNESCO Heritage site of Champaner. This Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park is a 16th-century Hindu city with fortresses, temples, mosques & palaces. the sculptures engraved on the stones of the walls tell a tale of the bygone era.

Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary

Located 70 km away from Vadodara lies the famed Jambughoda wildlife sanctuary. It is an oasis of forest with wildlife and birds. A perfect weekend treat with nature.

Statue of Unity

The Statue of Unity is the world’s tallest statue and it is the statue of Shri Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Built as a memorial to the contributions of Sardar Vallabhbhai in the country’s freedom struggle and the stellar role he played in unifying the country into a nation. Read More here:  One day trip from Ahmedabad to Statue of Unity

Kabirvad is located on the banks of river Narmada which meets the Arabian Sea, near Bharuch. It is one of the favourite picnic spots for the families of Vadodara.

Must try food in Vadodara

Vadodara is a treat for foodies, with a range of restaurants and eateries that are as vast and varied as to serve the varied likes of people in the city. Vadodara has something for everyone, be it a vegetarian Gujarati thali , North Indian Chaat , South Indian Idly Sambar , or even oriental dishes. Food is also a big part of things to do in Vadodara at night. One can visit the Ratri Bazaar .

Read a detailed guide about Street food of Vadodara .

How to reach Vadodara

Vadodara has a domestic airport with connectivity to Delhi, Bangalore and Mumbai.

Vadodara is a major station on the Western Railway network and is well-connected to Mumbai, Delhi, Indore and states of UP, Bihar, Odisha.

Regular bus services connect Vadodara to all cities within Gujarat as well as to Mumbai, MP and Rajasthan. 

Stay in Vadodara

From humble homestays to luxurious resorts, from hotels to heritage properties, Vadodara has great options for a comfortable and cosy stay. Here are some of the options

Homestay: G Homestay , Hirva Homes

Mid-range hotel: Fern Residency , Hotel Express Towers

Luxury stay: Vivanta Vadodara , WelcomHotel Vadodara

Heritage stay: Madhav Bagh Royal Heritage Stay

Best time to visit Vadodara

Best time to visit Vadodara is between November and February when the weather is pleasant.

FAQs for Places to visit in Vadodara

What is vadodara known for.

Vadodara is Gujarat’s third largest city and known as the cultural capital of the state. It is situated on the banks of the river Vishwamistri and is known to be an educational hub.

What is the old name for Vadodara?

Vadodara was once called Chandravati, after its ruler Raja Chandan, then Viravati, the abode of the brave, and then Vadpatra because of the abundance of banyan trees on the banks of the Vishwamitri. From Vadpatra it derived its present name Baroda or Vadodara.

Is Vadodara worth visiting?

Yes! Vadodara has many tourist attractions and is close to many important tourist destinations in Gujarat. From palaces and temples to historical destinations and cultural potpourri, Vadodara has it all!

Are Baroda and Vadodara same?

Yes, Vadodara, is also called Baroda.

Sustainable travel tips for places to visit in Vadodara

• Most places have drinking water facilities so carry a reusable water bottle.
• India is a conservative country with hot weather so wear the right clothes. Skirt and pants till knee level are good. Avoid spaghetti and tank tops. Cover your shoulders with a scarf if necessary.
• Choose local food wherever possible.
• Do not litter tourist places. Always use a dustbin.
• Do not harm the palace, forts and temple structures by carving or writing on it
• Do not enter places which are closed. 

Read About More cities from Gujarat

• Camping in Beyt Dwarka

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Ketki Gadre

Ketki is an environmental consultant and a sustainable travel blogger, who loves nature, wildlife and heritage. She enjoys bringing places to life through her informative blogs to inspire readers to travel sustainably and become responsible travellers.

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Supper .. you made me recall old golden days.. we did visited few places together..

We absolutely had a blast! Those were amazing days indeed 🙂

Very good post. Highly informative for travellers who want to visit Vadodara in Gujarat. Keep up the good work.

Glad you liked it Cedric. Thank you for your kind words.

Very nicely written, Ketki ..! Right from my childhood, Baroda has fascinated me. My first visit was in 1968 when my eldest sister got married to one of the members connected to Gaekwads ..! My bro-in-law was a Comm. Artist himself by profession ..!! (unfortunately, lost him very recently) An Artist intrducing myself to an Artistic city was one of the landmarks/turning points in my personal life. That “The love @ first sight” later drived me to complete my PG from the World Known Universities -MSU ..! I consider myself fortunate to have spent two important years of my life in The Dream City ..I, Given a slightest oppotunity, I pay visit to this city …I don’t care of my critics who associate my Brd visits as my life partner also happens to be from Baroda ..!!

So lovely to know about your connection with Baroda. It is certainly a fascinating city for locals and tourists. Thank you for your appreciation 🙂

You made me miss Vadodara so much! Full on nostalgia happening right now.. 😃 Beautifully written and very informative.. loved it! 🙂

Aww I know the feeling. Thank you so much 🙂

This looks like such a beautiful and historic city to visit! I hadn’t heard of it before reading your post so thank you for bringing it to my attention.

Ohh I have never heard of Vadodara before, it looks like a great place to visit. Thank you for sharing.

It is certainly has a mix of things to do. Thanks for your time in reading about it 🙂

What a beautiful place you call home. Thanks for offering the wonderful local suggestions for things to do in Vadodara! The food looks amazing, my husband and I have been learning some family Indian recipes during the lockdown and will need to try some regional Gujarati recipes until we are able to visit. We can hopefully come during Navratri for the traditional song and dance. The Baroda Museum looks lovely with the paintings and the blue whale skeleton.

Oh, you must visit Vadodara during Navratri – it just comes alive then. Please let me know if you are planning to come and I would love to take you around the city 🙂

Vadodara has been on my list to visit for so long. Hopefully I get the opportunity soon!

So glad to know you want to visit my hometown Vadodara!

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Explore Vadodara

Plan your trip to vadodara: best of vadodara tourism.

Essential Vadodara

Vadodara Is Great For

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• Aatapi Wonderland
• Vadodara to the Statue of Unity: Monumental Legacy Journey
• Day Trip to Statue of Unity (Guided Full Day Sightseeing Tour from Vadodara)
• Day Trip to Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park (Guided Full Day Tour by Car)
• Best of Vadodara (Guided Full Day City Sightseeing Tour by Car)
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• Places To Visit In Vadodara

Places to Visit in Vadodara

Formerly known as Baroda, Vadodara was one of India’s richest princely states and accumulated its wealth from trading in diamonds, cotton etc. Today, it is known for its architecture, classical music and financial superiority.

Things To See & Do

Take a stroll in Sayaji Baug

Large park along a river bank.

Suggested Time

Spiritual Visit to EME Temple

Dedicated to lord shiva.

Enjoy a trip to Ajwa World

Family-friendly weekend destination.

Visit the Laxmi Vilas Palace

Famous heritage building.

Kirti Mandir

Royal monument dedicated to gaekwad rulers.

Relax by the Sursagar Lake

Serene boating spot.

Shop at Baroda Prints

One-stop-destination for local textiles, best time to visit vadodara, all year round destination, peak season, moderate season.

• What To Expect : Cold weather with sunny skies.
• Things You'll Love : Participating in colourful Navratri celebrations, exploring historical edifices and visiting vibrant market places.

FESTIVALS AND EVENTS

Navratri October

Diwali October – November

Uttarayan January

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Best places to visit in vadodara.

The city of Vadodara holds a rich culture and heritage deeply linked with the history of Gujrat, something that can be seen across most places to visit in Vadodara.

Tourist Places to Visit in Vadodara

The EME Temple is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and is maintained by the Indian Army. The artistic use of aluminium sheets and geometric domes makes the temple one of the finest places to visit in Vadodara .

Laxmi Vilas Palace

Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, the visionary ruler of Baroda commissioned the construction of this Palace. The Palace features Indo-Saracenic architecture and is said to be four times the size of Buckingham Palace.

Built by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad to honour his ancestors, the temple is one of the most famous places to visit in Vadodara. The entire temple is built in the shape of the letter “E” and decorated with intricate murals.

When it comes to places to visit around Vadodara in Gujarat one can hardly leave out the Sun Temple. Built around the year 1026AD this ancient temple is one of the most prominent attractions around Vadodara.

Champaner Monuments

The Champaner Monuments are a UNESCO world heritage site and one of the most frequented nearby places to visit in Vadodara.

Best Time to Visit in Vadodara

Summer in Vadodara lasts from the month of March to July, during this time the average temperature varies between 30 °C to 24 °C. Tourist places to visit in Vadodara often capitalize on the nighttime to escape the heat.

Monsoon in Vadodara spans the months of July, August, and September. The climate is hot and humid with frequent showers, despite the rainfall places near Vadodara to visit in Monsoon attract a moderate crowd.

The months of October to February are associated with winter in Vadodara. The season is marked by cool weather and clear sunny skies. Winter is by far the best season to visit Vadodara.

Places to Visit in Vadodara with Family & Friends

Archaeological site museum, dholavira.

This museum in Vadodara displays the many artefacts uncovered during the Archaeological Excavation at Dholavira. The museum has many artefacts associated with the Mesopotamian civilization and is among the finest places to visit in Vadodara for 1 day .

A trip to the Ajwa World

A fun place on the outskirts of Vadodara, Ajwa world greets you with an entire day of fun and Amusement. Complete with a resort and Water Park, Ajwa World is one of the most exciting places to visit in Vadodara in Summer.

Rudabai Step Well, Adalaj

Built during the late 1400s by Queen Rudabai of Adalaj, this magnificent step well has served as a place of relaxation for over 600 years. Featuring a stunning blend of Indo-Islamic architecture this step well is one of the best places to visit in Vadodara.

Best Places in Vadodara for Couples

Sayaji baug.

Also known as Kamati Baug, this park ranks high among the places to visit in Vadodara . The 113-acre land houses a Zoo, a Museum, an Art Gallery, and over 100 species of trees.

Sursagar Lake

Fondly called Chand Talao by the locals, this centrally located lake in Vadodara is one of the most romantic places to visit in Vadodara for couples. The 120 feet Shiva Statue in the middle of the lake acts as the primary attraction of this Lake.

Ajwa Gardens

Ajwa Gardens is another one of the great places to visit in Vadodara for couples. Located on the outskirts of the city the Garden features fountains and water shows.

Good Places to Visit at Night in Vadodara

Cloud 3 disco lounge.

One of the most hip and happening places to visit in Vadodara , the Cloud 3 Disco Lounge is a great place to party with your friends.

Magnum Beer The Store only

Located in Bhilapur, this establishment is a great place for a few lazy drinks with your friends. The dine-in is one of the go-to places to visit in Vadodara for refreshments and drinks.

Sunny Fizz display and Mocktail

With fancy mocktails and refreshments, the establishment specializes in providing some of the best drinks in Vadodara.

Best Places to Visit Near Vadodara

From being abandoned and overtaken by nature to being Re-discovered and re-settled, Champaner has seen it all. The UNESCO world heritage site stands as a testament to Gujrat’s rich history and is about a few hours from Vadodara.

A dive of around 5 hours from Vadodara will take you to Palitana, a magnificent temple city in the Bhavnagar district of Gujrat.

Statue of Unity

A towering testament to the country’s kinship, the Statue of Unity stands tall at the Sandhu Bet Island overlooking the Sardar Sarovar Dam. The statue is about two hours from Vadodara.

Places to visit in Vadodara offer a glimpse into the past through the lenses of the present and welcome you with open arms.

FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions about Vadodara

What are the activities you can explore during the peak season and moderate season in vadodara.

In the peak season months October, November, December, January and February you will experience cold weather with sunny skies wherein around moderate season i.e. March, April, May, June, July, August and September you will enjoy hot and humid weather with heavy rainfall during the monsoon months. Whatever that suits your calendar, Vadodara awaits you for a good time.

What are the best places to visit in Vadodara?

The most loved attractions in Vadodara are Take a stroll in Sayaji Baug, Spiritual Visit to EME Temple and Enjoy a trip to Ajwa World.

Vadodara has loads of places that you can visit on your vacation. Our recommendation of the best places to visit in Vadodara include - Take a stroll in Sayaji Baug, Spiritual Visit to EME Temple, and Enjoy a trip to Ajwa World. Apart from these, there are multiple other places to visit that you can explore if you are on a longer trip!

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Vadodara Tourism Guide: Popular Tourist Attractions & Places to See

Vadodara (formerly Baroda) is the third largest city in Gujarat, located on the bank of Vishwamitri River, towards the south-east of Ahmedabad. Gigantic monuments, museums and gardens documenting the Indian history dominate the old quarter of Vadodara. The tinsel town is the brainchild of Sayajirao III, a farsighted ruler who introduced free primary education and laid foundation for premier institutions like Bank of Baroda, a railway system and Maharaja Sayajirao University.

Many tales and fables are associated with the name of the city. As per the history accounts, the city was christened as 'Chandravati' after its ruler Raja Chandan, later it was changed to 'Viravati 'meaning the abode of the brave, and then 'Vadpatra' due to the abundance of banyan trees here. From the term 'Vadpatra', the city got its final name - Baroda or Vadodara.

According to historians, Vadodara's history is over 2,000 years old. The first native people of Vadodara were some Hindu king, who ruled the town till 1297. People of Gupta Empire than start exploring the region and became the first ruler of Vadodara in the early year of the Christian era. After fierce battles, Vadodara was seized by Solanki dynasty. Years later, the city was vanquished by Mughals, which were later overthrown by Gaekwad ruler. Vadodara was the stage where events big and activities have unfolded.

Vadodara owes much of its splendours to the Sayajirao Gaekwad III, a formal ruler of the city. He was a great modernizer who laid the foundations of Vadodara’s modern reputation as Gujarat’s cultural capital. Today, Vadodara is known to the world as a heady mix of breathtaking art, interesting sights and vibrant street life. The Laxmi Vilas Palace, partially converted into a museum, is the finest example of the Indo-Saracenic style of architecture. Designed by Major Charles Mant in the year 1880, the palace is the major tourist attraction of Vadodara region. Few kilometres away from the Laxmi Vilas Palace is the Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum, which is famed for its unique collection of painting by the famous artist Raja Ravi Verma.

Take a special time out to visit the well-manicured garden, Sayaji Baugh. Located in the heart of the city, the park houses a zoo, planetarium, and Vadodara Museu, which has an electric mix of Mughal miniatures, royal artefacts and European oil paintings. Other notable sights are Nazarbaug Palace, Makarpura Palace, Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Kirti Mandir, Kirti Stambh, Nyay Mandir, Khanderao Market, Aurobindo Ashram, EME Temple (Dakshinamurty Temple) and Hazira Maqbara.

Even the outskirts of Vadodara are the subject matter of great interest for tourists. Few kilometres away from Vadodara is the ancient city of Champaner, which is also a UNESCO world heritage site. Situated at the foothills of Pavgadh, Champaner features a citadel, mosque, palaces and tombs, guarded by large gateways. The Pavgadh fort, at the crest of the 820m high Pavgadh hill, is a cluster of an ancient fortification, that reflects the chequered past of the nation. Sat Mahal is yet another famous attraction that one will notice while climbing the Pavgadh fort. This seven storey grand palace is an interesting example of Chauhan architecture. Towards the western side of Vadodara is yet another gateway called Anand, which is an ideal destination for people who want to keep aside all clamour of city life.

Reckoned as the cultural hub of Gujarat, Vadodara has all the reason on this earth to be on the travel bucket list of every tourist.

Major Tourist Attractions in Vadodara:

Things to Do in Vadodara

• Do visit Fatehsingh Museum and Laxmi Vilas Palace to review the royal exhibits and notable artwork of the famous artists.
• Plan a tour to Pavagadh-Champaner, a UNESCO world heritage site and a major religious landmark too.
• Explore the Tribal Academy at Tejgarha, a unique academy for the study of different tribal communities.
• Visit the majestic EME Temple or "Dakshinamurty Temple" and witness its unique architecture which is made by Indian Army Authorities.

Interesting Facts

• Sayaji Baug is the largest garden in Western India covering an area of over 113 acres and contains more than 98 species of trees.
• The Maharaja Sayajirao University (MSU) in the city of Vadodara is the largest university in Gujarat and India Today (weekly magazine) has ranked it at tenth place in their list of India's best universities, while Hindustan Times (daily newspaper) has ranked it at sixth place.
• In the year 1907, a small village and township in Michigan (United States of America) was named after Baroda.
• Moti Baug in Vadodara is claimed to be one of the oldest cricket grounds in Asia.
• Every year, Vadodara organises an International Marathon. Vadodara is the first non-metro city to organise Marathon on such a large scale.

Where to Stay Hotels in Vadodara range from standard to luxury to quirky, many of them reflect the colonial charm of the city. The city is also peppered with numerous boutique hotels for those who like to live in style without burning a hole in their pocket. Many of the five stars hotels in Vadodara were earlier places that were aesthetically beautiful and meet the highest standards of luxury. While plush hotels like ITC Welcomgroup Hotel and The Gateway caters to the affluent people, the city is also home to pocket-friendly hotels like Surya Palace and PM Regency.

• Surya Palace
• Royal Orchid Akota
• Hotel Harmony
• Hotel Apex International
• Comfort Residency
• Hotel Revival
• Lemon Tree Hotel, Vadodara
• Ginger Hotel
• ITC Welcomgroup Hotel
• The Taj Gateway Hotel
• Four Points by Sheraton Vadodara

Hotels in Vadodara

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Top 10 Places to Visit in Vadodara (Baroda)

Vadodara , also known as Baroda , is the third largest city of Gujarat. Quieter than the capital Ahmedabad, Baroda resides on the banks of River Vishwamitri. After taking over The British in Gujarat the Marathas took the city under them. The Gaekwad clan of the Marathas made Vadodara as their capital and Maharaj Sayajirao III laid the foundations of the modern Vadodara. It is also known to be one of the fastest growing cities of Gujarat and is also an institutional hub. Vadodara is said to be the cultural capital of Gujarat. Enlisted here are the top 10 places to visit while in Vadodara .

1. Ajwa Nimeta Dam and Gardens

The Ajwa Nimeta Dam gets its name from Ajwa- the Lake and Nimeta- the Power Plant operating on the dam. The dam is built on the Vishwamitri River and fulfils the water requirements of the city people. The dam was constructed in the 20th century is about 5 km long. The Gardens of Ajwa Nimeta are a local attraction because of the colourful dancing fountains that are all along on the central line of the garden. The place also has a fun park and is hit amongst the locals.

2. Laxmi Vilas Palace

Photo by Emmanuel DYAN , CC BY 2.0

The royal home of the Gaekwads, Laxmi Vilas Palace is the largest private abode built till now. The size of the palace is about four times of the Buckingham Palace and has all the modern amenities. This architectural marvel dwells on both the Eastern and Western type of architecture. With the exteriors show casing the Indian touch the plush interiors match the European luxuries. One can admire the art and the architecture of the palace. With a lush golf course and with the ornate durbar halls, the palace speaks the splendid history.

3. EME Temple

The EME Temple or also known as the Dakshinamurthi Temple is built by the Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Corps. The temple is one of its kinds as it depicts five main religions of India. The temple has army style architecture and is a pleasant sight. Lord Dakhshinamurthi is worshipped in the temple. The Kalash signifies the Hindu religion, the dome stands for Islam, The tower represents Christianity, the golden structure over the tower stands for Buddhism and the entrance of the temple stands for the Jainism. Since the idol is facing the south hence the name Dakhshinamurthi.

4. Nazarbaug Palace

One of the oldest monuments of Vadodara, Nazarbaug Palace was the royal abode of the Gaekwad’s clan. The palace was built in the early 18th Century and was a three storey monument. The overall value of the property was in billions and after an alleged robbery the palace now remains in the ruins. The glory of the original abode is lost but even the ruins transport you to a time back in history.

5. Kirti Stambh

  Photo by Bracknell , CC BY-SA 3.0

Built in 1935, Kirti Stambh or the tower of fame was constructed by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III. The Kirti Stambh is one of the highest towers of the city and stands tall as a sign of victory. The Tower has a lion on the top that is faming eastwards and its back is towards the famous Laxmi Vilas Palace. As per Hindu Mythology it is said that the movement eastwards is for salvation, hence the lion faces east.

6. Sayaji Baug

From Public Domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Sayaji baug built on the River Vishwamitri has 45 hectare garden and has an aquarium along with two museums. The garden is the largest in west India and houses close to 100 species of flowering plants. The beautiful garden has three entrance gates. The Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery are built in the garden along with the Sayaji Zoo and Sardar Patel Planetarium. The major attraction of the garden is the floral clock.

7. Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery

Photo by Nathan Hughes Hamilton , CC BY 2.0

Resembling London’s famous Victoria & Albert and Science Museums the Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery were built. The place houses some beautiful paintings of European painters and also has miniatures from the Mughal reign. Some paintings are a replica of the originals but are a masterpiece. The major attraction of the museum is an Egyptian mummy and a skeleton of a blue whale. Both the architecture and the possessions of the place are marvellous.

8. Champaner – Pavgadh

The world heritage sites of Champaner and Pavgadh are a major reason of tourists flocking to Vadodara. The place was civilized centuries back, a little miniature town of the bygone era, was then lost in the jungles and were only discovered few centuries back in a demolished and ruined condition. A palace, some mosques, the narrow streets which were once live now is an archaeological marvel. There are also Jain and Hindu temples that are well preserved and are amazingly constructed.

9. Kadia Dunger Caves

Reflecting an imprint of Buddhist culture the Kadia Dunger Caves were built in the 1st and the 2nd century AD on a mountain top. These caves are a collection of seven caves that show Vihara style of architecture. The brick stupa on the stone at the foothills is another attraction of the place apart from the monolithic lion pillars. The caves have a religious vibe that enchants its visitors.

10. Chhota Udaipur

Sitting on the edges of a huge lake, b shares the boundaries with Rajasthan. It has a series of temples that could be seen distinctly from the skyline of the place. The Jain temple is famous for its Victorian Style architecture. The area also has a royal palace and is an amalgam of culture, heritage and religion.

Sitting proudly depicting Indian history, Vadodara is a town that didn’t surrender to the British Raj. The place is a beautiful amalgam of the Indian history and European architecture .

Other Interesting Places In Gujarat:

• Top Tourist Places In Rajkot
• Top Tourist Places In Porbandar
• Top Tourist Places In Kutchh

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VADODARA TOURISM | TOURIST PLACES TO VISIT & TRAVEL GUIDE TO VADODARA

• Vadodara Overview
• Top 22 Places to Visit in Vadodara
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About Vadodara

Country: india | state: gujarat, #6 of 17 places to visit in gujarat | places to visit in india, ideal trip duration: 1-2 days, base station: vadodara, nearest city to vadodara: vadodara, best time to visit vadodara: october to march, peak season: november to february, vadodara weather: summer: maximum - 43° and minimum - 21° c winter: maximum - 32° c and minimum - 9° c.

At a distance of 109 km from Ahmedabad, 132 km from Gandhinagar, 146 km from Surat, 192 km from Bhavnagar, 296 km from Rajkot, 339 km from Indore, 345 km from Udaipur, 386 km from Jamnagar, 396 km from Junagadh, 395 km from Gandhidham, 433 km from Mumbai, 447 km from Somnath, 476 km from Porbandar, 439 km from Bhuj, and 518 km from Dwarka, Vadodara is a beautiful city in the western Indian state of Gujarat. Located on the banks of Vishwamitri River, Vadodara is one of the popular attractions you must include in Gujarat packages , and among the best places to visit near Ahmedabad . Formerly called Baroda, Vadodara is the third-largest city in Gujarat, after Ahmedabad and Surat. Home to some of the most exemplary displays of architecture, the tinsel town of Vadodara is the brainchild of Sayaji Rao Gaekwad III, a Maratha ruler who laid the foundation for premier institutions to make this city an educational, industrial, and commercial center. There are many tales associated with the name of the city. As per history, the city was previously called Chandanavati after its ruler Raja Chandan, later it was changed to 'Viravati 'meaning the abode of the brave, and then 'Vadpatra' due to the densely populated banyan trees on the banks of river Vishwamitri. The present name Baroda or Vadodara got derived from 'Vadpatra'. The history of Vadodara can be traced back to the 9th century when it was a small town called Ankottaka (present Akota), famous for Jainism. The imperial Baroda province was mainly ruled by Hindu Kings till the year 1297. Vadodara was ruled by Guptas in the early years and was later seized by Chalukyas. Then, it was taken over by Solanki Rajputs, and years later the city came under the rule of Delhi Sultans until they were overthrown by the Mughals in 1573 AD. The Marathas came to the throne of Vadodara in 1734 and ruled the city till 1947. After independence, the state of Baroda was merged into the Bombay State and became a part of Gujarat state officially in 1960. The period between 1875 & 1939 is considered the golden period in the history of Baroda as the city was developed drastically in all sectors under the reign of Maharaja Sayaji Rao III. The architectural brilliance of the city is the major highlight of Vadodara tour packages . The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Lakshmi Vilas Palace, Baroda Museum, Kirti Mandir, and Sayajirao Gaekwad hospital are some of the notable architectural monuments in Vadodara. Besides, Sayaji Baug, Sursagar Lake, Nyay Mandir, EME Temple, Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum, etc. are some of the prominent places to visit in Vadodara . Vadodara International Airport is the nearest airport which is about 7 km from Vadodara Railway Station. It has well-connected flights from Mumbai, New Delhi, Bangalore, and Hyderabad. Vadodara Railway Station is well connected by trains with Bhuj, Surat, Trivandrum, Delhi, Rameswaram, Bangalore, Mumbai, Okha, Veraval, Pune, Indore, Bhavnagar, Kota, Darbhanga, Puri, Varanasi, Vishakapatnam, Lucknow, Jaipur, Chennai, Ahmedabad, Dehradun, Sawai Madhopur, Goa, Amritsar, Cochin, Kolkata, Udaipur, Jabalpur, Porbandar, and Jamnagar. Vadodara is well connected by road with all the major cities of Gujarat along with Mumbai, Pune, Nashik, Surat, Udaipur, Jaipur, Delhi, Indore, Bangalore, and Hyderabad. Often called the Cultural Capital of Gujarat, the city of Baroda comes alive during the Navratri celebrations. No city in India celebrates the festival of Navratri with as much zeal and energy as Vadodara does. It is a 9 days long festival where huge idols of Goddess Durga are set in large pandals the inhabitants of Vadodara play Garba dance and Dandiya in the evenings. Diwali, Uttarayan, Holi, Gudi Padwa, and Ganesh Chaturthi are the other prominent festivals that can be celebrated with much pomp and fervor in Vadodara. The best time to visit Vadodara is during the winter months i.e. from October to March. The temperatures are mild and the weather is pleasant during these months. Better to avoid visiting Vadodara during the monsoon and summer months as the city experiences heavy rains between June to September and an extremely hot and humid climate during the summer months.

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Nearest Airport: Vadodara - Vadodara International Airport (7 Kms)

Direct flights to vadodara, nearest train station: vadodara junction (0 kms), direct trains to vadodara, nearest bus station: vadodara central bus station (1 kms), direct buses to vadodara, distance chart, distance chart & driving directions to vadodara, top 10 places to visit in vadodara, lakshmi vilas palace.

#1 of 22 Places to Visit in Vadodara

At a distance of 4 km from Vadodara Railway Station, Lakshmi Vilas Palace is an opulent royal palace located in Vadodara, Gujarat. Situated in Jawaharlal Nehru Marg, it is one of the most majestic palaces in India , and among the prime tourist places in Vadodara . Built by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, Lakshmi Vilas Palace was constructed in 1890 at a cost of GBP 180,000 (Rs.27, 00,000). Designed by Major Charles Mant, it is reputed to have been the largest private dwelling built to date and four times the size of Buckingham Palace. At the time of the construction, it boasted the most modern amenities such as elevators and the interior is reminiscent of a large European country house. It remains the residence of the Royal Family of Vadodara, the Gaekwads. Spread over 700 acres, the Lakshmi Vilas Palace was built in the Indo-Saracenic style of architecture. .....

Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum

#2 of 22 Places to Visit in Vadodara

At a distance of 4 km from Vadodara Railway Station, Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum is a museum situated inside the opulent Lakshmi Vilas Palace complex in Vadodara, Gujarat. Located next to Lakshmi Vilas Palace, it is one of the most popular museums in Gujarat and among the must include places in Vadodara Tour Packages. The Fateh Singh Museum building was constructed in 1875 AD as Motibaug School for Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III. Maharaja Pratapsinhrao Gaekwad and later Maharaja Fatehsinhrao Gaekwad as well as other members of the royal family including Maharaja Ranjitsinh Gaekwad completed their schooling here. This beautiful building of the museum is a reflection of the Indo-Saracenic architecture style that still houses personal belongings of the Gaekwad family. The building was converted into a museum in 1961. Today a large number of works of art belonging to the Royal family have been displayed in the museum. The museum contains art works collected by Maharaja Sayajirao .....

BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir

#3 of 22 Places to Visit in Vadodara

At a distance of 6 km from Vadodara Railway Junction, BAPS Mandir is a famous temple located in the Atladara locality of Vadodara city. It is one of the popular BAPS Mandirs in Gujarat and among the top Vadodara places to visit . Known as a center of cultural and spiritual activities, the BAPS Mandir is dedicated to Shri Swaminarayan. The temple is adorned with immaculate architecture, flawless design, and awe-striking grandeur. Managed by the BAPS Swaminarayan Sansthan, BAPS Mandir is a sight that will leave you mesmerized and enchanted during your Vadodara trip . The idols of Gunatitanand Swami, Swaminarayan, BAPS gurus are worshipped here. Along with exotic design and architecture, one can also see the amazing carved paintings of Lord Krishna and Lord Shiva. This temple has a very good collection of paintings and sculptures that are a source of .....

Sayaji Baug

#4 of 22 Places to Visit in Vadodara

At a distance of 2 km from Vadodara Railway Station, Sayaji Baug is a public park located in Vadodara, Gujarat. Also known as Kamati Baug, it is one of the largest public gardens in Western India and among the top places of sightseeing in Vadodara. Situated on the banks of Vishwamitri River, Sayaji Baug was built by Maharaja Sayajirao III in 1879. Sprawling over an area of 113 acres, the garden houses a Zoo, Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery, the Museum of Health and Hygiene, the Sardar Patel Planetarium and an operational toy train. Maintained by Vadodara Municipal Corporation, the park has three entrance gates where the main gate is at Sayaji Square locally known as 'Kala Ghoda Chowk' because of an equestrian statue standing there. This gate is only 800 meters from the main railway station. The third gate is at Rana Pratap square in Fatehgunj area, while the second gate stands somewhere in between first and third gates. Sayaji Baug, decorated with sculptures placed on pedestals, .....

Baroda Museum & Picture Gallery

#5 of 22 Places to Visit in Vadodara

At a distance of 2 km from Vadodara Railway Station, Baroda Museum is a museum situated inside Sayaji Baug in the city of Vadodara, Gujarat. It is one of the popular museums in Gujarat and among the top Vadodara tourist places . The Baroda Museum was founded by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III in 1887 and was opened to the public in 1894. Built-in Indo-Saracenic style of architecture, the museum building was designed by Major Mant & R.F. Chisholm on the lines of the Victoria & Albert Museum of London. The famed art gallery is known to have been completed in 1914 but was opened in 1921 as the transfer of special pieces from Europe that were intended to adorn the walls of the gallery were delayed due to the First World War. Regarded as one of the prominent places to visit as part of Vadodara sightseeing packages , the museum and the picture gallery are .....

ISKCON Temple

#6 of 22 Places to Visit in Vadodara

At a distance of 5 km from Vadodara Railway Station, ISKCON Temple is a Hindu Temple situated in Gotri locality of Vadodara, Gujarat. Also known as Sri Radha Shyamasundar Temple, it is one of the wonderful ISKCON temples in Gujarat and among the must see places in Vadodara. The ISKCON temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna. The temple also has the idols of Sri Jagannath, Baladev, Subhadradevi, and Sri Gaur Nitai. Spread over an area of 6 acres, the temple complex includes the main temple hall, goshala, Govinda's Restaurant, gift shop, guesthouse and two community halls for religious functions. The darshan mandap is aesthetically decorated with relief artwork, depicting Lord Krishna's rasalilas. The Lordships are seated on an exquisitely carved wooden sinhasan. There is also a large sinhasan upon which the statue of ISKCON founder Acharya Srila Prabhupada sits. The exterior and interior of the Mandir are also decorated by hand carved pillars. With its serene ambience, fine architecture, .....

Sri Aurobindo Ashram

#7 of 22 Places to Visit in Vadodara

At a distance of 2.5 km from Vadodara Railway Station, Aurobindo Ashram is a famous spiritual community or ashram located in Vadodara, Gujarat. Situated at Dandia Bazar, it is one of the best places to visit in Vadodara. Also known as Arvind Ashram or Auro Nivas, Aurobindo Ashram was served as the residence of Aurobindo Ghose during his stay in Baroda in the years 1894 to 1906. He was the private secretary to Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, and also the vice-principal of Baroda College (now MSU) during that time. Later, he gained glory as a social and political thinker, a freedom fighter, a philosopher and a yogi, named Sri Aurobindo. The bungalow was then visited by famous people like Lokmanya Tilak, Bipin Chandra Pal, Sister Nivedita and Sakharam Ganesh Dueskar. Frequent visitors included his wife Mrinalini Devi, his sister Sarojini Devi and younger brother Barindar Kumar Ghose. This was the first ever ashram to gain immense popularity and respect in the southern areas of .....

Champaner - Pavagadh Archaeological Park

#8 of 22 Places to Visit in Vadodara

At a distance of 49 km from Vadodara, Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located in the ancient city of Champaner. It is one of the popular places of heritage in Gujarat , and among the prime places to visit as part of Vadodara tour packages . Covering over an area of 1,329 hectares, Champaner - Pavagadh Archeological Park is located around the historical city of Champaner, founded by the Rajput King Vanraj Chavda in the 8th century. Due to its strategic point on the trade routes, it lured many invaders including Khalji Dynasty, Chauhan Gurjars, Solanki kings, Khichi Chauhans. Later Mahmud Begada captured the city in 1484 and rebuilt Champaner into a splendid new capital. The region faced major devastation in 1535 CE when looted by Mughal Emperor, Humayun who made Ahmedabad the capital city again to control Gujarat. This marked the start of the decline .....

#9 of 22 Places to Visit in Vadodara

At a distance of 5 km from Vadodara Railway Station, EME Temple is prominent temple located in Fatehgunj locality of Vadodara, Gujarat. Maintained by the Indian Army, it is one of its kind in India and among the must visit places in Vadodara. Also known as Dakshinamurthy Temple, EME Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It was built by the Electrical and Mechanical Engineering (EME) corps of the Indian Army in 1966. The temple was planned, sketched and constructed under the then Christian commandant, Brig A.F. Eugene of the EME School. This uniquely designed temple is covered with aluminum sheets and is the first army temple in the world. This marvelous modern looking temple is a symbol of secularism, as the kalasha on the top of the dome represents Hinduism, the domes of the temple are built according to Islamic architecture, the entrance signifies Jainism, the tower symbolizes Christianity and the golden top of the tower represents Buddhism. The temple primarily houses a massive .....

Tapovan Mandir

#10 of 22 Places to Visit in Vadodara

At a distance of 7 km from Vadodara Railway Station, Tapovan Mandir is a Hindu temple situated inside the Petrochemical Township in Vadodara. It is one of the beautiful temples in Baroda and among the must include places in Vadodara Tour Packages. Tapovan is a beautiful temple complex built by Indian Oil Corporation and now maintained by Reliance Petrochemical Industries. The architecture of the temple is unique and its ceilings are designed with perfect color combinations which are a delight to see. Surrounded by lush green garden, the temple complex consists of many shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, Goddess Durga, Mansadevi, Lakshmi-Narayana, Tirupati Balaji, Navgraha, and Satyanarayan along with Buddhist style dhyan khand. Also, there is a meditation hall and Gaushala in the temple premises. Timings: 6 AM - 11 AM & 5 PM - 9 PM

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Places To Visit In Vadodara

Let’s talk about the best places to visit in Vadodara. The city might be infamous for its dry weather, but its tourist attractions are anything but dry. In fact, there are so many places to visit in Vadodara with friends and lovers that it’ll make you break some serious sweat (pun intended).

Yep, exploring cities can be exhausting. But it’s the kind of exhaustion you’d like to feel. And we want you to feel it too. We want you to go out, try new things, visit monuments, go for walks in parks. That’s why at Stanza Living residences , we take care of all the day-to-day chores for you. Chores like laundry, room cleaning, cooking and more. Chores that make you lazy just by thinking about them. And on top of that, we’ve also put together this list of the best places to visit in Vadodara. So be at your laziest and then go out to break that sweat.

Best Places to Visit in Vadodara

25 best places to visit in Vadodara are:

Laxmi Vilas Palace, Moti Baug

Sayaji garden, sayajiganj, baroda museum, sayajiganj, makarpura palace, chhipwad, champaner-pavagadh archaeological park, pavagadh hills, eme temple, fatehgunj, jambughoda wildlife sanctuary, panchmahal, surya narayan temple, jambubet, sursagar lake, central vadodara, sri aurobindo ashram, jambubet.

• Nyaya Mandir, Near Sursagar Lake

Kirti Mandir, Sayajiganj

Narmada canal, s-cube waterpark, vrindavan garden, baps sri swaminarayan mandir, atladara, kabirvad, baruch, ajwa nimeta garden, sh63, iskcon baroda, hari nagar, sardar patel planetarium, sayaji baug, zarwani waterfalls, dhirkadi, mandvi gate, mandvi, nandalaya temple, gotri, hazira maqbara, danteshwar, hathni waterfalls, shivrajpur, thol bird sanctuary, thol village.

This was once the biggest private residence in the world. How big, you ask? Four times the size of Buckingham Palace. Also, the lavish darbar hall features Belgian glass and Venetian floors. ‘Live life, king size’, done right.

The garden houses 98 species of trees and more of each of them. So you can find good picnic spots in the garden. And without worrying about other tourists taking your place. Because Sayaji Garden is big. Maybe, even bigger than your ‘emotional baggage’. Oops!

Baroda museum houses rare artifacts and paintings. And after King Kong vs Godzilla, its architecture is the greatest crossover in ‘history’ – a mix of maratha and european styles. You don’t believe us? Visit to find out for yourself.

Built in 1870, the Makarpura place is run by the Indian Air Force as a training school. But earlier, the palace was used as a lavish summer house by the Gaekwad rulers. And then there’s us common folks, for whom summer house meant grandma’s home. Lol.

It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Pavagadh hills. These hills are believed to be the part of the Himalayas that Lord Hanuman carried to Lanka. He literally ‘moved mountains’, so to speak.

The EME temple is unique. Because it’s made with aluminium and war scraps. It kinda looks like a museum from a distance. But unlike a museum, you don’t have to pay an entry fee. You just need to want to pray.

The wildlife sanctuary is one of the best places to visit in Vadodara with friends. Why? Because you can go camping or trek through the forest. But watch out for the wild bears. They might not be as friendly as Baloo in Jungle book.

The temple is dedicated to the sun god and attracts devotees all year around. After you’ve prayed to the sun god, make sure you visit the vegetarian restaurant within the complex. They serve scrumptious food. You’ll want to eat so much, you’ll be praying to the food-god for some extra space. 

The Sursagar Lake offers boat rides. If your relationship is going downhill, this will be a good place to visit You and your partner might not be on the same page. But at least, you’ll be on the same boat. Geddit?

The ashram is an abode for spiritual healing and meditation. Also, it features a library that archives some of the rarest books with untouched subjects. But no, your college books that never saw the light of the day, don’t count as ‘untouched’, okay?

Nyaya Mandir Near, Sursagar Lake

The Nyaya Mandir or “temple of justice” serves as the District Court of Vadodara. The building features Mughal, gothic, and renaissance styles of architecture. So you can visit this place just for the architecture. But we wish you never have to ‘appear’ in the actual court.

The Gaekwads were rulers who liked pretty things. This is evident when you see this place built in honour of Maharaja Gaekwad III. The pretty domes, grand terraces and balconies make Kirti Mandir a name that appears often in the list of best places to visit in Vadodara.

The Narmada canal is one of the best places to visit in Vadodara at night. You can take a walk from the main tourist market along the canal. And without worrying about noisy tourists. Probably because they’ll be too busy eating at the bazillion food stalls and won’t give a ‘dam’!

Every city must have one famous amusement park, and this one’s for Vadodara. The famous waterpark has plenty of fun rides and thrilling water slides. But we suggest you take a proper bath when you come out of the pool. Coz public pools contain plenty of you-know-what!

The temple has large open gardens to sit back and relax with your friends. Or by yourself. But the best time to visit is during festivals – the complex is lit up with really bright earthen lamps. Even brighter than the future of that topper cousin, whom your parents constantly compare you with.

Kabirvad is one of the best places to visit near Vadodara within 50kms. You get a road trip and a boat trip all within a short distance. How? Because it’s a river island right in the middle of Narmada. So it’s kinda like Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara meets Dil Dhadakne Do.

If you’ve been looking for a good picnic spot in the city, this is the place for you. Also, the musical fountains here are repetitive but still listenable. And definitely better than your roommate’s bathroom singing.

The ISKCON Baroda is a temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. You can grab some peace and quiet in this place. Maybe, after a hectic week of assignments. Also, there’s a delicious eatery called Govindas right outside the complex. Grab a quick bite when your empty tummy is not so peaceful and quiet!

If you look at this place from far, it looks like a giant relic dropped by an alien spaceship. The planetarium features an audio-visual system that will immerse you in outer space. It’s the closest thing you’ll ever get to being an astronaut. Unless you have a billion dollars in your account (We’re looking at you, Mr. Bezos!)

This is one of the top places to visit in Vadodara for couples. You can dip your feet in the chilly stream as you watch the snow-like water fall against the rocks. When it comes to asking out your crush, this is the kind of cold feet you want to get.

Imagine a highway toll gate but in the Mughal era. However, the Mandvi Gate is much more gorgeous than a simple toll gate. Especially during festivals, when city authorities light it up. The only lights you see at a normal toll gate are the rear lights of cars during peak traffic hours.

If you have a thing for meditative chants, you can come by and find a corner to sit in the temple. The hymns sung here are soothing and blissful. If you have a habit of getting into heated arguments with people on social media, you should head there in the morning or in the evening during aarti.

The Hazira Maqbara houses the tombs of Qutubbuddin Mohammed Khan and his son. The gardens here are a good place to read a book in. So ‘bookmark’ this place, will you?

We get you, if you’re stuck in a city for long, you start missing the hills and beaches. The Hathni Waterfalls is neither a hill nor a beach, but you will get where you need. A place of zen!

The sanctuary attracts thousands of migratory birds every year. And hordes of bird watchers every day. Go there if you’ve got a pair of binoculars. Or if your phone camera has 25x zoom.

Checkout Best Places to Visit in other Cities:

Faqs on places to visit in vadodara, which are the best places to visit in vadodara.

It’s hard to say ‘best’ when describing places to visit in Vadodara because honestly, there are so many.

But here’s a few of them:

• Laxmi Vilas Palace
• Sayaji Gardens
• Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary

What is Vadodara Famous for?

The city of Vadodara is famous for its historical landmarks such as the Laxmi Vilas Palace and its magnificent temples such as the Surya Narayan temple.

How Safe is Vadodara?

Vadodara was listed as the second safest city in India after Chandigarh. So yeah, pretty safe, we’d say.

Which Food is Famous in Vadodara?

You’ll find loads of options in food when it comes to Vadodara. Here’s a few of the most popular:

• Fafda and Jalebi

Which is the Best Residential Area in Vadodara?

Gotri is said to be the best residential area in Vadodara. But whichever the area might be, nothing compares to the comforts of a Stanza Living residence.

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• Top 10 Tourist Places To Visit In Vadodara

Top 10 Tourist Places to Visit in Vadodara

The second-largest city in Gujarat, Vadodara, is an industrial, educational and cultural hub. Nestled on the banks of the Vishwamitri River, this beautiful city is just 141 kilometres from Gandhinagar, the capital city of Gujarat. Also known as the “The City of Art” and the “Cultural City”, Vadodara is home to one of the most lavish structures in India- the Lakshmi Vilas Palace and the Maharaja Sayajirao University, one of the prominent universities in India. The city has been ruled by the royal Gaekwad dynasty, Mughal empire, Pathans, and Marathas in the past. The monuments and heritage buildings here reflect a glimpse of the royal past. Whether you are a traveller interested in history or an artist looking for art and architecture, the city has many attractions to impress you, including palaces, temples, monuments, gardens, and museums. If you are planning a trip to this historical city and not sure what to visit, here we help you with the list of the best places to visit in Vadodara.

1. Laxmi Vilas Palace

One of the most magnificent structures in India, Laxmi Vilas Palace, displays a unique combination of luxury and affluence. Built in 1890, the palace was the private residence of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III. Designed in Indo-Saracenic style, the palace reflects a mix of Hindu, Neo-Mughal, Mughal-Gothic, and Indo-Gothic architectural forms, having use of archesand domes. One of the famous places in Vadodara, Laxmi Vilas Palace, houses various buildings, including Makarpura Palace, Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum building, Moti Baug Palace, and Pratap Vilas Palace. Visiting this royal structure is a must to experience the regal vibe this city is famous for.

2. Sur Sagar Lake

Situated in the middle of the city, Sur Sagar Lake was originally a small pond built by Shri Sureshwar Desai, so it was named after him as Sur Sagar. Also called Chandan Talav, this 18th-century lake has many underground gates to manage water in case it overflows. One of the best places to visit in Baroda, Sur Sagar Lake, is noted for the 120-feet tall statue of Lord Shiva positioned in the middle of the lake. The cool ambience and serene beauty of this lake make it a perfect place for locals to sit and relax. Visit the lake during weekends when light shows illuminate the water, making the lake surrounding look more mesmerising.

3. Champaner Pavagadh Archaeological Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Champaner Pavagadh Archaeological Park is one of the best places to visit in Gujarat . Situated 47 kilometres from the city of Vadodara, this historical site comprises many splendid architectural wonders. Including both Hindu and Islamic styles. The Champaner Pavagadh Archaeological Park was founded by Vanraj Chavda during the Chavda Reign in the 8th century, who named the park after his friend and general Champa. It is believed that the hill of Pavagadh is a part of the Himalayas that was carried by Lord Hanuman as medicine for Lakshman in the Ramayana epic.

4. Sayaji Garden

One of the best tourist places in Baroda, Sayaji Garden, is also known as Kamati Baug or Sayaji Baug. Located on the banks of the Vishwamitri River, this beautiful garden was built by Maharaja Sayajirao III in 1879. Sprawling over an area of 113 acres, Sayaji Garden makes one of the largest public gardens in Western India. At present, the park is home to a number of tourist attractions, including a zoo, aquarium, Museum and Picture Gallery, planetarium, and more. Also, the park is famous for its flowerbed clock and the Sayaji Toy Train - designed to provide children with a tour of the entire park. With so many attractions, Sayaji Garden makes one of the unique places to visit in Baroda.

5. Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery

Located at Sayaji Baug, Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery was built by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad in 1887 for the education of diverse subjects and consisted of artefacts selected by the King himself. One of the major Vadodara attractions, Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery, is a blend of Maratha and European architectural designs. The collection of this museum includes disciplines of Geology, Geography, Palaeontology, Osteology, Anthropology, and more. In addition, the art gallery of this museum contains artworks from Portuguese, British, Dutch, Spanish, and Italian schools, among others. One of the attractions of Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery is a huge skeleton of a blue whale and an Egyptian mummy.

6. Kirti Mandir

One of the magnificent monuments in Vadodara, Kirti Mandir, is actually a group of temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Built in 1936 by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, Kirti Mandir features stunning terraces, domes, tombs, balconies, and a magnificently designed 35 meters high central sikhara. The shikhara represents the earth, moon, and sun, along with a map of undivided India. While the interiors are radiantly adorned with intricately carved murals, the walls of the temple have many striking murals, such as Life of Meera, Natir Poojan, and the battle of Mahabharata. If you are planning a Gujarat tour , make sure you visit this impressive monument for sure.

7. Nyay Mandir

  Another place of attraction on the list, the Nyay Mandir or the Temple of Justice is a perfect example of Byzantine architecture. It was built by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, in the memory of his wife and queen Chimnabai. This spectacular monument comprises a central hall with a statue of Chimnabai, which is a major attraction of the building. Sprawling across an area of 6000 square metres, Nyay Mandir attracts history buffs and photography enthusiasts with its architectural splendour.

8. Ajwa Nimeta Garden

One of the best places to visit in Vadodara, Ajwa Nimeta Garden, is an ideal destination to spend your leisurely weekends. Spread across 130 acres of land, this beautiful garden is decked with green manicured lawns, palm trees, and a variety of flowers. The major attraction of Ajwa Nimeta Garden is the 100-meter row of a perfectly aligned musical fountain, mesmerising visitors with synchronized water show in the background of lively colours. When in Vadodara, do not forget to visit this beautiful garden.

9. Baps Sri Swaminarayan Mandir

Situated in the Atladara region of Vadodara, Baps Sri Swaminarayan Mandir is one of the most famous places in Vadodara. With awe-inspiring architecture, an elegant interior, and a tranquil vibe, this temple is a perfect place to find inner peace. The intricate carvings on the walls of the temple showcase many religious figures, including Lord Krishna, and Lord Shiva. However, the main idols worshipped in the temple are the Swaminarayan and Gunaititanad Swami. It is the centre of many spiritual and cultural activities, attracting visitors across India.

10. Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary

Situated around 70 km from Vadodara, the Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the major attractions near the city. The sanctuary was established in 1989, but it received the status of a wildlife sanctuary in 1990. At present, this wildlife sanctuary is home to more than 17 species of animals, including the giant squirrel, the Indian flying fox, the rusty-spotted cat, and sloth bears, among others. One of the best national parks of Gujarat , the Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary is a heaven for nature and wildlife lovers.

With such historical monuments and other sightseeing places, there is no dearth of options in Vadodara. To make planning easier, you can opt for the best tour package that has major attractions of Vadodara.

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Top Places to Visit in Vadodara, India – Tips for Tourist’s!

Welcome to Vadodara, also known as Baroda, a city located on the banks of the Vishwamitri River in Gujarat, India. With its rich cultural heritage and diverse attractions, Vadodara is a gem waiting to be discovered by tourists. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or a nature admirer, Vadodara has something special to offer.

Explore the myriad of Vadodara attractions , from majestic palaces to tranquil gardens, and immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant charm. Discover the legacy of the Gaekwad royal family at the enchanting Makarpura Palace , adorned with ornate design and pristine gardens. Witness the timeless beauty of Sayaji Garden , a sprawling oasis of lush greenery, housing a planetarium, museum, toy train, zoo, and aquarium.

Experience the divine aura of the EME Temple , an architectural marvel managed by the Indian Army. Marvel at its contemporary design and explore the surrounding garden adorned with ancient sculptures. Delve into the rich history and art at the Vadodara Museum & Picture Gallery, housing a collection of artifacts and paintings, including a skeleton of a blue whale and an Egyptian mummy.

Seek spiritual solace at the Surya Narayan Temple , dedicated to the Sun God, or take a serene stroll by the picturesque Sur Sagar Lake , where a towering statue of Lord Shiva majestically commands attention. Pay homage to the revered Sri Aurobindo Ashram , a historic abode that offers tranquility and introspection.

Vadodara, with its blend of heritage and beauty, beckons you to explore its vibrant tapestry. Discover the top places to visit in Vadodara and create unforgettable memories in this captivating city.

Makarpura Palace, Vadodara

Lose yourself in the grandeur of Makarpura Palace , a magnificent architectural masterpiece that was built in 1870 for the Gaekwad royal family. This exquisite palace showcases Italian-inspired architecture, with its ornate design and opulent gardens leaving visitors in awe.

Once a residence of royalty, Makarpura Palace now serves as a training school for the Indian Air Force. However, it still retains its regal charm and offers a unique glimpse into the grand lifestyle of the Gaekwads.

Visitors can bask in the architectural brilliance of the palace, marveling at its intricate detailing and elegant interiors. The sprawling gardens surrounding the palace are adorned with ivory fountains, creating a serene and picturesque setting. Take a leisurely stroll through the well-manicured lawns, breathing in the fragrant blooms and enjoying the tranquility that pervades the air.

Experience the Majesty of Makarpura Palace

• Admire the exquisite Italian-inspired architecture
• Explore the elaborate interiors and royal artifacts
• Stroll through the lush gardens adorned with ivory fountains
• Learn about the history and significance of the palace
• Immerse yourself in the regal ambiance of a bygone era

Visiting Makarpura Palace is a must for anyone exploring Vadodara. It offers an enchanting blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty that will leave a lasting impression on every traveler.

Sayaji Garden, Vadodara

Located in Vadodara, Sayaji Garden , also known as Kamati Baug, is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and tourists alike. Spanning over 100 acres, this sprawling public garden offers a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, making it one of the best places to visit in Vadodara .

At Sayaji Garden , visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of lush greenery and different species of trees. The garden provides a perfect setting for a leisurely stroll, picnic, or relaxation amidst nature’s bounty. The serene ambiance and vibrant flora make it an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts.

But that’s not all! Sayaji Garden boasts a range of attractions to entertain and engage visitors. Here are some highlights:

Sardar Patel Planetarium

Step into the fascinating world of astronomy at the Sardar Patel Planetarium. Visitors can enjoy informative and captivating shows about the universe, stars, and celestial bodies. The planetarium offers a unique opportunity to learn about space exploration and expand your knowledge of the cosmos. It’s a must-visit for science enthusiasts and those with a curious mind.

Baroda Museum & Picture Gallery

Discover the rich cultural heritage of Vadodara at the Baroda Museum & Picture Gallery, located within Sayaji Garden. The museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts, showcasing the history, archaeology, and natural history of the region. Explore the galleries filled with paintings, sculptures, textiles, and archaeological finds to get a glimpse of the city’s past. It’s a cultural treasure trove that offers a fascinating journey through time.

Toy Train, Zoo, and Aquarium

For families and children, Sayaji Garden offers exciting attractions like a toy train, a zoo, and an aquarium. Hop aboard the toy train and take a delightful ride through the garden, enjoying the scenic beauty along the way. The zoo is home to a variety of animals and birds, providing an opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts to observe and learn about different species. The aquarium showcases a diverse range of aquatic life, captivating visitors of all ages.

In addition to these attractions, Sayaji Garden boasts a gigantic floral clock, which is a visual delight for visitors. Marvel at its grandeur and intricate design as it adds charm to the garden’s landscape.

Overall, Sayaji Garden in Vadodara is a delightful blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and recreational activities. It offers a memorable experience for tourists and locals alike, making it an unmissable highlight of Vadodara tourism .

EME Temple, Vadodara

The EME Temple , also known as the Dakshinamurty Temple, is a unique temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Managed by the Indian Army, this temple stands out for its remarkable contemporary architecture. The geodesic structure of the temple, covered with aluminum sheets, creates a visually striking appeal that captures the attention of visitors.

Surrounded by a serene garden, the EME Temple offers a tranquil atmosphere for spiritual seekers. The garden is adorned with sculptures dating back to the 7th to 15th centuries, adding to the temple’s historical and cultural significance. This blend of modern architecture and ancient artistry creates a truly mesmerizing experience for all who visit.

Whether you are a religious devotee or simply appreciate architectural marvels, the EME Temple is a must-visit attraction in Vadodara. The temple’s unique design and serene surroundings provide a peaceful sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance and beautiful craftsmanship of this religious landmark.

Highlights of EME Temple

• Unique contemporary architecture dedicated to Lord Shiva
• Managed by the Indian Army
• Geodesic structure covered with aluminum sheets
• Garden adorned with historical sculptures
• Provides a peaceful and serene environment

Plan your visit to the EME Temple in Vadodara and experience the tranquility and spiritual essence it offers.

Vadodara Museum & Picture Gallery, Vadodara

The Vadodara Museum & Picture Gallery is a must-visit destination for art and history enthusiasts. This iconic museum showcases a diverse collection of artifacts and artworks, offering a glimpse into Vadodara’s rich cultural heritage.

Designed in the style of renowned museums like London’s Science Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum, the Vadodara Museum & Picture Gallery is a treasure trove of knowledge and aesthetic pleasure. It houses various sections dedicated to different disciplines, including geology, archaeology, and natural history.

The museum also has a special collection of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, an avid art collector. Visitors can admire the European paintings by esteemed artists and original works by British landscape painters that are on display. The gallery holds captivating exhibitions that highlight different artistic movements and periods.

Notable attractions within the Vadodara Museum & Picture Gallery include a fascinating skeleton of a blue whale, a testament to the vastness of the marine world, and an ancient Egyptian mummy, offering insights into the mysteries of ancient Egypt.

Immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of Vadodara by exploring the captivating Vadodara Museum & Picture Gallery. Witness the wonders of history and art come alive within the museum’s walls.

Experience the awe-inspiring artifacts and impressive artworks at the Vadodara Museum & Picture Gallery. Discover the rich history and cultural heritage of Vadodara through this enlightening journey.

Surya Narayan Temple, Vadodara

The Surya Narayan Temple is a grand Hindu temple located in Vadodara, Gujarat. It is dedicated to the Sun God and is known for its majestic architectural elements and spiritual significance. The temple attracts devotees from all over the country who believe that offering prayers here can bring relief from ailments and unhappiness.

Constructed with intricate designs and intricate carvings, the temple is a visual marvel. The main deity, Lord Surya (Sun God), is worshipped with great devotion. The serene atmosphere inside the temple provides a peaceful ambiance for meditation and introspection.

The Surya Narayan Temple is one of the popular tourist destinations in Vadodara , attracting both religious devotees and curious travelers. The temple remains crowded throughout the year, especially during festivals and special occasions.

Key Features of Surya Narayan Temple

• The temple displays intricate architecture and carvings.
• It is dedicated to Lord Surya, the Sun God.
• Visitors can experience peace and tranquility inside the temple.
• The temple is a popular destination for religious pilgrims.

Sur Sagar Lake, Vadodara

Sur Sagar Lake , also known as Chand Talao, is a picturesque lake located in the heart of Vadodara. It offers a serene and peaceful ambiance, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The lake is surrounded by a concrete wall where visitors can sit and enjoy the tranquility. The highlight of the lake is the 120-feet tall statue of Lord Shiva situated in the middle, which adds to its beauty and makes it a must-visit attraction in Vadodara.

Points of Interest at Sur Sagar Lake

Sur Sagar Lake is not just a scenic water body, but it also offers various points of interest for visitors to explore. Here are a few notable landmarks and attractions near Sur Sagar Lake:

• Jamnagar Palace: Located near the lake, this historical palace is renowned for its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens.
• Laxmi Vilas Palace: As one of the largest private residences in the world, this magnificent palace is a must-visit when in Vadodara.
• Mandvi Gate: An iconic symbol of Vadodara, this intricately designed gate showcases the city’s rich heritage.
• Nazarbaug Palace: Once the residence of the royal family, this grand palace now houses a museum displaying artifacts and royal belongings.

These attractions add to the charm and cultural significance of Sur Sagar Lake, making it a delightful destination for tourists looking to explore the famous landmarks in Vadodara .

With a range of activities available and its central location, Sur Sagar Lake is a perfect spot to unwind and immerse yourself in the beauty of Vadodara.

Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Vadodara

Located in Vadodara, the Sri Aurobindo Ashram holds a significant place in the history and culture of the city. It was once the bungalow where the renowned Indian philosopher and nationalist, Sri Aurobindo Ghosh, resided from 1894 to 1906. Today, the ashram welcomes visitors seeking a serene and tranquil environment for meditation and introspection.

When you visit the Sri Aurobindo Ashram , you can explore the various rooms, library, and sales emporium, where you’ll find relics associated with Sri Aurobindo and a vast collection of books. This historic place offers an ideal setting to reflect, connect with your inner self, and learn more about the teachings of Sri Aurobindo.

As one of the popular tourist destinations in Vadodara , this ashram attracts people from all walks of life, including spiritual seekers and those in search of solace. Whether you are interested in the life and work of Sri Aurobindo or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, the Sri Aurobindo Ashram provides a serene oasis in the heart of Vadodara.

What are some of the top places to visit in Vadodara, India?

What is the significance of makarpura palace in vadodara, what can i expect to see at sayaji garden in vadodara, tell me more about the eme temple in vadodara., what can i see at the vadodara museum & picture gallery, what is the significance of the surya narayan temple in vadodara, what is special about sur sagar lake in vadodara, what can i explore at sri aurobindo ashram in vadodara, more related articles.

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Best of Ahmedabad

Silvassa was formerly a Portuguese colony but now it has become a popular tourist site flushed with wildlife sanctuaries, scenic destinations and beaches. It lies between Maharashtra and Gujarat and it comprises of 72 villages and many Roman-Catholic churches that stand as a testimony to the Portuguese rule during the historic times. Due to its rich Portuguese heritage it is also a famous spot for history enthusiasts who wish to explore the hidden treasures of this city. Silvassa is extremely renowned for its exotic resorts, lush greenery, manufacturing industries and tax-free alcohol. It is also a haven for those looking for handmade and originally crafted products like Warli painting and paper bag.  There are several natural attractions around the area that have made Silvassa a popular tourist getaway site. The Lion Safari Wildlife Park, spread over 25 hectares of land, is home to the majestic Asiatic Lion. The Vanganga Lake is a dainty reserve with flowers and gardens blooming around it. Often, visitors take boat rides to the lake and take in the surroundings in all their aesthetic appeal. Island Garden is another popular tourist destination in Silvassa with thatched and wooden huts decorating its premises. The island is visited via boat rides from ashore.  Apart from a repertoire of attractions, Silvassa also constitutes of many popular activities, including trekking, nature walks and cultural explorations. There are museums built in the city for history enthusiasts who want to have an immersive understanding about the archaeology and past of the place.  The summers here are hot and dry with the scorching heat making it impossible to sightsee during afternoons. The nights are cool and pleasant. Therefore, the best time to visit Silvassa is during winters, from September to February. The post-monsoon season also offers an ethereal view of the town as the showers wash everything clean. The monsoon here is highly unpredictable, as there are times with heavy showers, while the others are only light drizzles that recede with time.

Top Experiences To Do in Silvassa

Best of Nashik

Taking pride of being the only hill station of the state, Mount Abu is a very beautiful place located in Rajasthan, India. Located on a high rocky plateau, this city experiences colder climates and offers pretty amazing sceneries. Well connected to other parts of the country, this city has been a popular tourist destination for various adventures and sightseeing. Experience serene escapades at Mount Abu with our Rajasthan travel packages , blending nature's beauty seamlessly into your Rajasthan exploration. Located on the beautiful Aravali Plateau, the city of Mount Abu is adorned by lush green forests and loaded with pristine beauty of lakes, architecture of temples and heritage of ancient forts and havelis. Exhibiting the best royalty of bygone times, this city is home to numerous marvels loaded with artistic features and picture worthy craftsmanship. Amidst this enchanting surroundings, the life here is very calm and the locals are friendly as well. Home to various entrincing landmarks, the Mount Abu city has been exciting its visitors and tourists since ages. Be it the reflection of the starry sky on the Nakki Lake or the flawless ornamental carvings of Dilwara Jain Temple, here you will find some of the best sceneries which will soothe our eyes as well as souls. Here, you will find various serene spots like the Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary, Peace Park, Guru Shikhar Peak, Sunset Point, Abu Road, Trevour’s Tank Toad Rock and many more. Haven for the adrenaline junkies, the city of Mount Abu has been blessed with beautiful surroundings as well as a plethora of adventures. Attracting flocks of tourists, one can try their hands on a number of adventures here. From camping below the starry nights to rowing the boat in Nakki Lake, Mount Abu is bestowed with some of the best adrenaline rushing activities. The climate of Mount Abu remains comparatively colder than the other parts of the state. Being a state of Rajasthan, Mount Abu also experiences some hot days even after being a hill station. The average annual temperature here stays around 20 degree celsius and can fluctuate with change in the seasons.

Top Experiences To Do in Mount Abu

Best of Mount Abu

In the southernmost part of  Rajasthan, Udaipur is surrounded by the Aravalli Range and is brimming with natural beauty. It was set up in 1559 by Maharana Udai Singh II as the nascent capital of the Mewar Kingdom. Udaipur is well- connected with other parts of India through airway, railway and roadway. Unlike other parts of Rajasthan, Udaipur is filled with serenity. Away from the urban chaos, it is a blend of regal beauty, elevated slopes  and picturesque panorama. Udaipur is also known as the “City of Lakes” because of the presence of numerous interconnected natural lakes in and around the city. The “City of Lakes” is also profoundly called the “White City” because the Rajput style Palaces and Forts in Udaipur are made up of white marbles. Additionally, houses and other structures of the city are also dressed in white. Udaipur is famous for its historic Rajput-era forts, grand palaces, striking lakes, architectural temples, museums, galleries, traditional festivals and rich culture. The best places to visit in Udaipur which are must-have in your itinerary are Lake Pichola, City Palace, Eklingji Temple, Ambrai Ghat, Vintage Car Museum, Bada Mahal and Shilgram. Experience regal elegance with Udaipur tour packages , exploring the City of Lakes' enchanting palaces, serene lakes, and cultural richness. People looking forward to doing thrilling things in Udaipur can happily indulge in Trekking, Paragliding, Cycling Tours and Helicopter Ride. Among passive activities, Sunset boat rides at Lake Pichola or Fateh Sagar Lake are excellent options to seek some solace. Others can go on a shopping spree at Shilpgram or Bada Bazaar or  Mochiwada Bazaar to hoard exquisite items like Bandhani sarees, handmade juttis, silver jewellery, bags and authentic Rajasthani handicrafts. The best time to visit Udaipur is between the months of November-February i.e. the winter months. During this time, the average temperature varies between 12°Celsius to 28 °Celsius. Since the climate of Udaipur remains pleasant during winters, travellers can explore the outdoors and participate in numerous activities without any inconvenience.

Top Experiences To Do in Udaipur

Known as the Mini Mahabaleshwar of Thane, Jawhar is a quaint hill station surrounded by lush and majestic Sahyadri ranges. Earlier it was under Thane but now comes in the newly-made Palghar district. The hill station not only boasts of its surreal beauty but amuses visitors with its strong cultural ethics and ancient architectural marvels. Founded under the Munke dynasty, it also served as the camping point for Maratha king Shivaji and his army. A tranquil getaway from the city's hustle-bustle, Jawhar is a comparatively less explored and untouched hill station in Maharashtra. With an abundance of the scenic beauty of verdant valleys, stunning mountains, deep woods, cascading waterfalls, accompanied by a pleasant climate all year round make this small town a true nature retreat. From grand ancient temples (Hanuman Point), serene dams (Jaisagar Dam, Khad Khad Dam), magnificent palaces (Jai Vilas Palace, Old Fort) to majestic waterfalls like Dabhosa, etc., Jawhar houses a myriad of attractions that enthrall visitors of all ages. It is a perfect spot to have a rejuvenating experience, capture beautiful panoramic views, and learn about rich heritage and culture. Along with these, it is also famous for its tribal communities like Warli, Kolcha, and Kukana, which are trying to preserve their art and culture by offering their adobes as homestays and selling their handicrafts like Warli paintings, wooden items, etc., as souvenirs. Jawhar is gaining popularity as a gorgeous weekend destination for romantic couples, peace seekers, nature lovers, and even adventure lovers. With a range of thrilling activities like mountaineering, trekking, hiking, witnessing sunset views, eating, to shopping, Jawhar offers a range of fun-filled to adrenaline-raising activities to satisfy the fantasies of every sort of traveler. Being covered with thick forests and valleys, it offers a fresh and pollution-free environment throughout the year. Though monsoons transform it into a green paradise having a number of splashing waterfalls, it offers pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities in winters. Jawahar offers a tranquil and refreshing break in all seasons and leaves you with cherishable memories.

Best of Daman and Diu

Top Experiences To Do in Nashik

Nestled in the bosom of the Western Ghats, Igatpuri is a little hill station in the state of Maharashtra. Igatpuri is surrounded by some of the highest ranges of the Sahyadri Ranges, making it a haven for trekkers and nature lovers alike. The little town acts as a popular weekend destination around major cities like Pune and Maharashtra, and is often sought after for its serene ambience. Offering an ideal getaway in the very heart of nature, the little city is a perfect escapade from the hustle and bustle of the busy city life. With its numerous little hills, clear streams and thundering waterfalls, the beauty of Igatpuri city is quite unparalleled. Ancient fort ruins and historic temples add to the charm of the little town. Although little in size, the places to visit in Igatpuri are many. While lovers of history will have the time of their lives exploring the ancient forts of Tringalwadi and Avandha, nature lovers can spend a quieting time in the Kalsubai Harishchandragad Wildlife Sanctuary or the Vihigaon waterfalls. The little town is also extremely well known as the home to the world’s largest meditation centre, the Vipassana Academy, which acts as a wellness retreat. Whether you’re a nature lover or an adventure enthusiast, you will never run out of things to do while in Igatpuri. The adventure sport options in the city are many: from river rafting in the rapids of the Vaitarna, to camping under the open stars, Igatpuri has it all. The area is of a special interest to trekking and hiking enthusiasts, with its slopes and waterfalls offering an ideal location for the sport. Being located at a high elevation, Igatpuri enjoys pleasant weather throughout the year. The temperature generally remains on the cooler side. The hill station enjoys significant rainfall throughout the year, with the dry season spanning between November to March.

Top Experiences To Do in Igatpuri

• Bhandardara

Perched beautifully amidst the Sahyadri ranges in the state of Maharashtra, Bhandardara is a wonderful hill station for nature lovers. It is often called the Queen of Sahyadri ranges for its lush green natural landscapes. The name Bhandardara literally translates to valley of treasures and it is not a doubt to say that the natural beauty of this place certainly justifies the name. It is a picturesque retreat for the backpackers in Ahmednagar district and boasts of some scintillating natural attractions for those who are fond of raw beauty of nature.

The village has prominent places like Wilson Dam, Umbrella Falls and Arthur Lake where you can plan a picnic with your loved ones. The village is also a delight for history lovers as there are places like Ratangad and Harishchandragad Fort. Another famous tourist attraction of Bhandardara is Mount Kalsubai which is also hailed as the highest peak in Maharashtra. There are also many local villages where one can visit to relax and enjoy the pleasant weather of this scenic hill station in Maharashtra.  

For the adventure lovers, there are some enthralling activities where you can explore Ajoba and Ghanchakkar peaks to soak in the serenity of nature with the views offered by Sahyadri ranges. 

There are numerous trekking and hiking places in the Sahyadri ranges where you can savour an adrenaline rush. Bhandardara also has various resorts where one can enjoy the panoramic views and just relax with their loved ones. The gorgeous hill station offers a soothing environment with a cool climate throughout the year where you can refresh yourself and see some of the most eye-catching vistas of the Sahyadri ranges. 

Bhandardara is a small village where the tourists are in for a treat as they are surrounded by mountains and enchanted by gurgling waterfalls away from the hustle and bustle of the cities. The place is a wonderful respite when you are looking for a rejuvenating weekend getaway near the city of Mumbai.

Top Experiences To Do in Bhandardara

People Also Ask About Vadodara

What are the best places to visit near vadodara for a one-day picnic.

1. Sayaji Baug Zoo: Also known as Kamati Baug, this is one of the best places to spend a whole day exploring its gardens, museums, planetarium, toy train, and the flower clock. Built in 1879, this zoo is a great place to see the Bengal Tiger, bears, reptiles, and exotic birds like the Indian Pied HornBill and Blue Crown Pigeon, etc. 2. Tapovan Mandir: Built by Indian Oil Corporation, this is a beautiful temple perfect for a day out. It is a great experience to spend serene time amidst its intricately carved building and lush gardens seeing the many idols, visiting the Gaushala, or simply meditating in the huge prayer hall here. 3. Zarwani Waterfalls: Enjoy a day picnic as your escape into the beauty of this waterfall located amidst the Shoolpaneshwar Sanctuary. There are several trails great for a trek and a plunge pool where you can take a leisurely dip.

What are the best day trips from Vadodara?

What are the best places to visit near vadodara with kids.

1. EME Temple: This is the perfect place to take your kids to let them appreciate the value of all religions and spirituality. This unique steel-domed temple, managed by the Indian Army, has influences from all the world religions and is surrounded by lush gardens for a fun picnic. 2. Hathni Mata Waterfall: This waterfall that looks like a seated elephant is one of the best places for letting kids enjoy nature. They would love to explore the treks and appreciate the beauty of nature here. 3. Sindhrot Dam: Enjoy a long cool dip on a hot summer day at this beautiful dam. It is easy to spend a whole day with kids at a place as lovely as this as you enjoy watching the sunset and tucking in delicious local snacks.

What Vadodara is famous for?

Vadodara Top Attractions

The private residence of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III,  Laxmi Vilas Palace is one of the grandest places to visit in Vadodara. Known to be the largest private residence in the world, the Palace is four times the size of the Buckingham Palace and spreads across an area of nearly 500 acres. The Palace premises houses the Moti Bagh Palace, a Banquet Hall, and the Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum, which contains an extraordinary collection of paintings done by Raja Ravi Verma along with many other artefacts. In the 1930's, Maharaja Pratapsinha established a golf course within the premises for the entertainment of his European guests, and the same was made open to the public in the year 1960. The architecture of the Palace was designed in the Indo-Saracenic Revival style. The Darbar Hall in the Palace has a Venetian mosaic floor and Belgian-style stained glass window. Outside the hall is an Italian style fountain courtyard. The Palace also houses several different sculptures of bronze and terracotta, making Laxmi Vilas a wonder to marvel at. Location: J N Marg, Moti Baug, Vadodara, Gujarat 390001Timings: 09.30AM-05.00PM on all days of the week.Entry fee: For palace: Rs. 200 per person.Best time to visit: October to December is the ideal time to visit the Laxmi Vilas Palace. The pleasant weather during this time makes it the best time to enjoy the palace outdoors.

Also known as Kamati Baug, Sayaji Baug or the Sayaji Garden is one of the biggest public gardens in all of India. Sprawling across a massive area of 100 acres, the garden houses nearly 98 different species of trees along with a number of flora. The Park also houses the largest floral clock in India, making it one of the most unique places to visit in Vadodara.The mammoth garden premises also houses a number of other attractions within itself, such as the Sardar Patel Planetarium, the Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery, and the Zoo. It  is also home to the Sayaji Toy Train, an attraction designed specifically for children and offering a tour of the entire park.Location: Vinoba Bhave Rd, Near Kala Ghoda, Dak Bunglaw, Sayajiganj, Vadodara, Gujarat 390005Timing: 05.00AM-11.00PM on all days of the week. The Toy Train services and zoo remains closed on Thursdays.Price: There is no entry fee required for the park itself. However, the entry fee for its individual attractions are as follows: Planetarium Prices: Adults- INR 7Children- INR 5Toy Train: Adults- INR 40Children- INR 20Zoo Admission Prices: Adults- INR 10Children- INR 5Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Sayaji Gardens would be during the cooler months between October and March, when the weather remains cool and pleasant, allowing one to enjoy the open outdoors.

Located in the heart of Vadodara's Sayaji Baug, the Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery is a two-storeyed house of wonders. The Museum and Gallery was constructed by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad for the education of his subjects and contained artefacts handpicked by the Emperor himself. The architecture of the twin structure is a beautiful blend of Maratha and European designs. The Museum and Gallery includes works detailing the history of the country from the prehistoric ages to modern times. Several European and Islamic works are also housed here. The vast collection of the Museum represents the disciplines of Osteology, Geology, Anthropology, Palaeontology, Geography, Geology and many others. At the same time, the gallery contains artworks from the Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch and British schools among others. The fantastic collection housed within the Museum makes it one of the most fascinating places to visit in Vadodara.Location: University Rd, Dak Bunglaw, Sayajiganj, Vadodara, Gujarat 390018Timings: 10.30AM-05.30PM on all days of the weekEntry fee: Entry is free for children below the age of 12 years. Entry tickets are priced at Rs. 5 per person for everybody else.Best time to visit: The best time to visit the Museum and Gallery is between the months of October to March.

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11 Top One Day Road Trips Destinations from Vadodara

Vadodara has a lot to offer to tourists who visit the city. And if you live in this city, you are lucky to be able to take tour of the attractions famous in Vadodara anytime you want. The city is known for its rich history, and you can have a glimpse of its heritage and beauty by visiting the palace, museums, Mandvi gate, etc here. However, if you are in a mood to explore the various gorgeous tourist sites near this city, you have an abundance of options. Listed below are the few that are a must see while in Vadodara:

 11 Top Tourist Attractions Near Vadodara

• Zarwani Waterfall
• Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary
• Hathni Waterfalls

Places to visit near Vadodara with in 100 Kms.

The place is famous for the milk production centers for the well-known dairy brand Amul, but the place is also apt for a day out with family. You can also choose places to visit near Anand once you are here. But as you reach the town, do not forget to visit Jama Masjid and Bharuch Fort.

Distance from Vadodara: 43 km

2. Zarwani Waterfall

To see the splendid Zarwani waterfall, you would need to visit Shoolpaneshwar Zoo. Once there, you can spot a lot of flora and fauna, and also have view of one of the best waterfalls near Vadodara. To reach the waterfall, you can either choose to trek, or take safari. The third option is of nature trail walk. No matter how you reach there, you will undoubtedly have some awesome time amidst nature.

Distance from Vadodara:   97 km

3. Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary

Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most spectacular places near Vadodara where you can reach in just three hours. You can opt for safari to spot big animals like bear, boar and some members from the cat family. You can have a real adventure filled trip at this place. The other activities that you can do here are camping and trekking.

Distance from Vadodara: 81.7 km

If it has been some time that you have not taken the elderly members of your family somewhere, then you can plan Dakor as your next travel destination with the entire family. The temple of Krishna that was built in the 18 th century is not just a place to worship the Hindu deity, but the architecture and design are worth appreciating. However, you need to be mindful of the timings of the temple, which are 6 am to 12 pm and 4 pm to 7 pm. It is one of the ideal places to visit near Vadodara for one day with family.

Distance from Vadodara: 70 km

5. Hathni Waterfalls

To reach Hathni waterfalls, you can enjoy one of the best road trips from Vadodara within 100 km. You will have to travel through the dense forest to make it to this waterfall. The place is quiet and the environment is calm here. You can relax the way you want here and nobody will disturb you. One of the activities that are often chosen by tourists here is camping, where they can cook as well.

Distance from Vadodara:   76 km

6. Kabirwad

Kabirwad is an island in the River Narmada. The island was named after the 18 th century poet Kabir. You will need to take a boat ride to reach the island. The island has lush greenery and a banyan tree which is believed to be more than 100 years old.

Distance from Vadodara: 80 km

7. Champaner

The hills of Champaner and Pavagadh are often frequented by tourists. The destination is mostly popular for ruins of old monuments and forts. The Champaner fortress is one of the major attractions here which showcases a combination of both Hindu-Muslim architectures. The entry fee to the Champaner fortress is INR 40 and remains open from 8.30 am to 5 pm. This is a perfect place for old-world photography.

Distance from Vadodara: 49 km

Places to Visit near Vadodara with in 500 Km

8. bhavnagar.

The city of Bhavnagar is usually linked with the small and large scale industries it has. The city once had one of the most significant international trading ports. If you happen to visit the city, you must try their special Ghatiya, which is a popular snack there.

Distance from Vadodara: 203 km

9. Toranmal

Toranmal is different from all the places to visit near Vadodara. Situated in the Satpura range, it is a hill station which is blanketed by verdant greenery. The two major attractions in this hill station are Lotus Lake and Yeshwantpur Lake. The lake derived its name Lotus because of the Lotus flowers that come in full bloom during its peak season. The lake looks spectacular during the flowering season, which starts around June and remains till mid August. If you make any plan to visit this place during the peak flowering season, make sure your camera is working fine.

Distance from Vadodara: 304 km

Mandu, which is also known by its other name Mandavgarh, is a fort city. You will see ancient stone walls and gateways in the entire city. Two top tourist attractions in this beautiful city are Jama Masjid and Hoshang Shah’s Tomb, where you can find Afghan and Turkish architectures. Don’t skip on visiting Jahaz Mahal. Located between Kapur Talao and Munj Talao, the Jahaz Mahal resembles a ship.

Distance from Vadodara: 315 km

11. Mount Abu

Mount Abu is a hill station that is frequented by tourists from both Gujarat and Rajasthan. There are number of temples in this hill station, but if you have adventure on your mind, you can try trekking and hiking there. You can also take jeep safari to take a tour of the Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary.

Distance from Vadodara: 336 km

While there are so many options, it is very possible for you to get confused. But no matter which place you choose to visit, you will have a great experience. Rent a car in Vododara from the self drive car rental services of Revv to get the best vehicle. And while you are fetching information about the places, don’t forget to check the best time to travel from Vadodara for each of the destination. This will help you make for an awesome trip without any problem.

FAQs on One Day Road Trips From Vadodara

Qus:- Where can I go for one day Road Trip from Vadodara? Ans:-You can go to Zarwani Waterfall, Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary, akor, Hathni Waterfalls, Kabirwad, Champaner, Bhavnagar. etc for one day road trips.

Qus:- What are the best places to visit from Vadodara for one day short trips? Ans:- Here are many places to visit near Vadodara for one day short trips including, Lukshmi Vilas Palace, Sayaji Baug, Vadodara Central Bus Station, EME Temple, Ajwa Garden, Baroda Museum And Picture, and many more.

Qus:- Can I book Revv car rental for One day trips Ans:- Yes, you can book revv car rentals for short trips or one day trips.

Qus:- How can I book Revv Car rental Ans:- You can book Revv car rental from Revv app on android or iOS, website or by giving us a call at +91-9250035555. Just select your city, date and time of your trip, key in your location and choose the type of car you want. Then enter your payment details, confirm payment and you are ready to go!

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Florida is home to theme parks, sharks, alligators, beaches, but it made ‘most boring’ list

Florida is boring?!

The Sunshine State is home to Disney World and Universal Studios and has hundreds of miles of beaches. We have the oldest city in the U.S. in our backyard and some of the richest people in the world .

To keep life interesting, we even have sharks and alligators .

Apparently, that's not enough.

According to a study by Solitaired , Florida is the fifth most boring state in the United States , based on an analysis of 66.7 million Google reviews of 3,290 popular tourist attractions around the world. The analysis was made to determine what locations were the least interesting.

Here's what the study discovered.

Takeaways from study on Top 100 most boring tourist sites around the world

According to Solitaired , key takeaways include:

• Branson Scenic Railway in Branson, Missouri, is the most boring attraction in the world.
• Museums comprise 33% of the Top 100 most boring attractions.
• Four LEGOLAND Discovery Centers are in the Top 25 most boring attractions worldwide.
• Georgia is the most boring state, with many attractions and extensive reviews indicating boredom.
• The U.S., Canada and Australia hold the top three spots for countries with the most boring tourist attractions. And yes, U.S. was No. 1.

Top 'most boring' tourist attractions in Florida

Here are the Florida locations ranked among the most boring tourist attractions around the world. The "boredom score" is on a scale from zero to five.

• No. 7: Museum of Science & Technology, Tampa. Score: 3.10
• No. 19: Phillip & Patricia Frost Museum of Science, Miami. Score: 2.40
• No. 21: Jungle Island, Miami. Score: 2.40
• No. 22: Skull Island: Reign of Kong, Universal Orlando theme park. Score: 2.40
• No. 23: Miami Seaquarium, Miami. Score: 2.30
• No. 35: Ripley's Believe It or Not! Orlando. Score: 2.20
• No. 46: Ripley's Believe It or Not! St. Augustine. Score: 2.10
• No. 56: WonderWorks, Orlando. Score: 2.0
• No. 100: Glazer Children's Museum, Tampa. Score: 1.80

Top 10 states with highest boredom score

"We ranked states based on how often attractions were called boring in reviews compared to the total number of attractions with any reviews labeling them boring in that state," Solitaired said. "By this metric, Georgia, Massachusetts, and Tennessee are the nation's top three boring states."

The "boredom score" is on a scale from zero to five.

• Georgia: 21 boring attractions. Boredom score: 5.0
• Massachusetts: 4 boring attractions. Boredom score: 4.1
• Tennessee: 49 boring attractions. Boredom score: 4.1
• Missouri: 33 boring attractions. Boredom score: 3.9
• Florida : 104 boring attractions. Boredom score: 3.5
• Texas: 72 boring attractions. Boredom score: 2.8
• California: 99 boring attractions. Boredom score: 2.7
• Nevada: 33 boring attractions. Boredom score: 2.5
• Minnesota: 7 boring attractions. Boredom score: 2.4
• Illinois: 23 boring attractions. Boredom score: 2.3

How did Florida rank as 5th most boring state in US?

"With its 104 boring attractions, Florida might seem like the boredom capital at first glance ," Solitaired said.

"Yet, it only ranks as the fifth most boring state because each attraction garners very few yawns from visitors. Despite many attractions being labeled boring by reviewers, this sentiment is such a minority that Florida only pans out as the fifth most boring state."

Top 10 most boring tourist attractions in the US

• Branson Scenic Railway: Branson Missouri. Boredom score: 5.0
• lluminarium Atlanta: Atlanta, Georgia. Boredom score: 4.5
• Jurassic Jungle Boat Ride: Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Boredom score: 3.70
• Salem Witch Museum: Salem, Massachusetts. Boredom score: 3.40
• LEGO Discovery Center Atlanta: Atlanta, Georgia. Boredom score: 3.40
• Adler Planetarium: Chicago, Illinois. Boredom score: 3.30
• Museum of Science & Industry: Tampa. Boredom score: 3.10
• LEGOLAND Discovery Center Dallas/Fort Worth: Dallas, Texas. Boredom score: 2.90
• Museum of Ice Cream: New York City. Boredom score: 2.50
• The Shepherd of the Hills: Branson, Missouri. Boredom score: 2.50

➤ Want more? Here's the most boring tourist attraction in every state

Around the world: 8 of Top 10 boring tourist attractions in US

Eight of the Top 10 most boring tourist attractions are in the U.S., according to the Solitaired analysis:

• Museum of Science & Industry: Tampa . Boredom score: 3.10
• Shrek's Adventure London. London, England. Boredom score: 2.90
• LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Toronto. Vaughan, Canada. Boredom score: 2.80

➤ More boring content: The most boring tourist attraction in every country

Methodology used by Solitaired in ranking attractions

Solitaired, an online gaming platform that creates classic games — like Solitaire — with a focus on improving mental acuity, memory and processing speed.  

In March 2024, Solitaired "analyzed 66.7 million Google reviews of 3,290 popular tourist attractions worldwide , spanning 384 cities across 71 countries.

"We focused our analysis on keyword mentions indicative of a bored tourist. Those keywords were "boring," "bored," "bore," "boredom," "tiresome," "dull," "drab," "lackluster," "lifeless," "mediocre," and "tedious.

"We ranked the attractions by the frequency with which tourists mentioned boredom-related keywords, comparing the mentions to the total reviews for each spot."

Attractions with fewer than 2,000 total reviews were removed.

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The Observer view on overtourism: sometimes, the planet’s hotspots are best left unvisited

From Everest to Machu Picchu, we can’t get enough of those ‘must-see’ places. It’s time to show some restraint

Climbing Everest used to be an even more dangerous pursuit than it is today, requiring huge bravery, endurance and skill. Even then the mountain could kill. A century ago, it claimed the lives of two of Britain’s finest climbers, George Mallory and Sandy Irvine.

The world’s highest mountain eventually succumbed to human challenge when, almost three decades later, Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay carried the flags of Britain, the UN, and Nepal to its summit on 29 May 1953. Sporadic trips involving handfuls of explorers continued over succeeding years.

But the slopes of Everest have been transformed in recent years. Its peaks and ridges are now regularly flooded with tourists vying to reach its 29,032ft (8,849 metre) summit. In 2023, more than 1,200 people – paying fees of around £40,000 a head – attempted the feat. Of these, more than 600 succeeded. A place once synonymous with remote, unsullied grandeur has become a high-end tourist trap, leaving its once pristine slopes littered with tattered tents, abandoned gear and human waste. Everest tourism may generate hundreds of millions of pounds for Nepal, but this comes at a heavy cost.

Overtourism is not confined to the Himalayas. Last week, Venice became the world’s first city to introduce an entry fee , a €5 day-trip ticket that each of the 30 million sightseers who visit every year will have to buy to gain access to St Mark’s Square, the Rialto Bridge and its other wonders. Tourists may be happy to contribute to the city’s upkeep but many locals see the move as a step towards the transformation of Venice into a Veniceland, a Disneylike simulacrum.

Hosts of other sites face similar problems – from Dubrovnik to Yellowstone and from Machu Picchu to Cornwall. Maya Bay in Thailand was closed for four years after waves of tourists – who arrived after seeing it in the Leonardo DiCaprio film, The Beach – began wrecking its coral reefs . Iceland imposed temporary closures of Fjaðrárgljúfur, a canyon popularised in Justin Bieber’s 2015 music video, “I’ll Show You”, after it triggered an abrupt and damaging influx of visitors .

The causes of overtourism – the arrival of too many sightseers in one place at the same time – are complex. Elements include: the huge growth of the middle classes in India and China; cheap airfares; and the rise of social media, which has created a generation obsessed with taking selfies in front of great works of art or architecture. This last factor has forced the Louvre to consider moving the Mona Lisa to its own room where visitors can pose more freely in front of the world’s most famous painting.

In many ways, such interest should be welcomed. Visiting other countries brings benefits. Travellers learn about other cultures and create powerful, lasting memories of their times there. Unfortunately, the price is becoming hard to pay. Overtourism now threatens to destroy pristine wildlife areas and precious historical sites, the very features that attract tourists in the first place. Studies indicate that 80% of travellers now visit only 10% of the world’s tourist destinations. This concentration reveals a dangerous skew in priorities.

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The warning signs are clear and alarming. The solutions, sadly, are less obvious. Stricter controls of cruise ships that can suddenly drop vast numbers of passengers in fragile locations is an option. Imposing city taxes like Venice’s is another. Properly assessing the economic value of our environment would also help assess the damages. At the same time, tourists themselves need to show restraint and occasionally consider local as opposed to distant attractions. Our planet houses many marvels. Care needs to be taken in opening up their wonder.

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The 18 best places to see the northern lights.

Check the aurora borealis off your bucket list.

The Best Places for the Northern Lights

Getty Images

The northern lights, known as the aurora borealis, are a spectacular natural light show visible at certain times of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. They occur when electrically charged particles from the sun collide with gases in the Earth's atmosphere, creating vibrant streaks of blue, green, pink and violet dancing across the night sky. 2024 and 2025 are an excellent time to catch the northern lights: Solar activity will be at a peak, making for a more impressive experience, if you're in the right place.

The best places to see the aurora borealis have little light pollution, clear skies and no precipitation. The lights are only visible at northern latitudes when it's dark outside, so the months from September to April are best for seeing the aurora. There's also a Southern Hemisphere counterpart, the aurora australis; there are fewer easy spots from which to view this phenomenon, but if you're lucky, it can be equally brilliant.

For more information on the northern lights, scroll down to the FAQ section at the bottom of this page. Read on to discover the top destinations where you can see the kaleidoscopic northern and southern lights.

Fairbanks, Alaska

Fairbanks is by far one of the best places in the world to view the northern lights, as it's located directly under the auroral oval. This ring-shaped zone sits around the Earth's geomagnetic North Pole and is generally associated with the most vibrant aurora sightings. Visitors can expect to see the lights on an average of four out of five clear nights during aurora season, which lasts from late August to late April.

You can book a northern lights tour to see the aurora from the springs and tubs at Chena Hot Springs Resort. This excursion includes round-trip transportation to the resort from town, a soak in the hot springs, a visit to the Fairbanks Aurora Ice Museum and an aurora viewing tour; dinner and drinks centered around Alaska produce are an option extra with hot drinks supplied.

There's more to Fairbanks than just the northern lights: If you visit in late summer, consider family-friendly activities like a ride on the Riverboat Discovery or gold panning. For a festive holiday experience in the winter, head around 15 miles out of Fairbanks to visit the Santa Claus House in the city of North Pole. Travelers can also see ice sculptures in February and March at the impressive World Ice Art Championships or take a dog-sledding or snowmobiling tour .

Where to stay: For excellent chances of aurora viewing, book a private igloo at Borealis Basecamp, a top glamping resort located on 100 remote acres of boreal forest about 25 miles from Fairbanks. With activities like dog-sledding on top of aurora viewing, past visitors regularly describe it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Tromsø, Norway

Located about 220 miles above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is one of several top spots to view the northern lights in Norway. At the darkest point of the aurora season – which runs from September to early April – the sun doesn't rise in this northern part of the country, although there is twilight during the day. With this level of darkness, there are more opportunities to see the aurora.

Tromsø itself is a small but lively city, so there's plenty to see and do when you're not looking up at the sky, including a visit to the beautiful Arctic Cathedral. In late January to early February, the city hosts the Northern Lights Festival, a 10-day music and performing arts event featuring a variety of musical genres.

Aurora chasers can view the lights on their own while in town, but to get a better view, it's recommended to head away from the city lights. Arctic Circle Tours is one company offering guided trips, with small groups for a more personal vibe. Alternatively, adventure-seekers can embark on an exhilarating husky trekking expedition in the Arctic wilderness.

Where to stay: For accommodations with harbor views, look no further than the Scandic Ishavshotel – guests love it for its convenient central location in the city, as well as its plus-sized breakfast buffet with plenty of choices.

Luosto and Rovaniemi (Lapland), Finland

Lapland is located within the Arctic Circle in the northernmost part of Finland. The northern lights are most visible here between the end of August and April – and approximately 200 times a year – so there are many opportunities for aurora spotting. Finnish Lapland is also known as home to the Sámi people (the only recognized Indigenous group in the European Union region), some 200,000 reindeer and Santa Claus – who can be visited in the town of Rovaniemi, the region's largest city and a great base for your aurora expedition.

Consider venturing roughly 70 miles north of Rovaniemi to the resort town of Luosto, set among the picturesque and hilly landscape of Pyhä-Luosto National Park. Here, you can also spend a magical evening outdoors under star-filled skies during a reindeer-drawn sleigh ride through the snow-covered forests. Jaakkola Reindeer Farm offers a reindeer sleigh tour to spot the aurora once weekly; it includes a stop to warm up at a bonfire camp with snacks, hot beverages and local fireside stories.

Where to stay: For a bucket list experience, watch the impressive light show from a glass igloo at Santa's Hotel Aurora & Igloos in Luosto. Past visitors love the cozy atmosphere here, boosted by amenities like saunas and log fireplaces. If you're sticking to Rovaniemi, the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel is a stunning choice, with designer cabins perched among the snow-covered taiga forest.

Orkney, Scotland

This group of captivating (and mostly uninhabited) islands, located about 10 miles off Scotland's remote northern coast, is one of the best places to see the northern nights in the U.K. Fall and winter are the best seasons to witness the aurora, also known in local Shetland dialect as the "Mirrie Dancers," with fall bringing the highest proportion of clear nights. A few places to see the spectacular light show include along the coast at Birsay or the Broch of Gurness, an archaeological ruin on a sweeping and dramatic coastline.

In addition to the aurora, Orkney is home to breathtaking coastal landscapes and more sheep than you can count (try some local lamb, if you can). Travelers can also visit the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with several monuments dating back 5,000 years.

Where to stay: During your visit, plan to stay in the historic town of Kirkwall, the capital of the Orkney Islands: The no-fuss Ayre Hotel offers harbor views, and past visitors compliment the hearty meals in the hotel restaurant. Spot the aurora close to town at Inganess Bay and Wideford Hill.

Yellowknife, Canada

Yellowknife, the capital of Canada 's Northwest Territories, dubs itself the "Aurora Capital of the World." Thanks to its position in the middle of the auroral oval, the city puts on one of the world's most awe-inspiring light shows. The period from mid-November to the beginning of April is the recommended time to spot the aurora, but it's also possible to see the aurora during more hospitable weather from late summer to early fall as the lights are visible up to 240 days a year.

Located on the northern shore of Great Slave Lake, Yellowknife boasts winter sports such as ice fishing and cross-country skiing. If you visit in March, plan to attend the monthlong Snowkings' Winter Festival, which features events and activities like a snow-carving competition, a snow castle, live music and more.

For a unique experience, book a tour through Aurora Village to view the lights. The property will pick you up from your hotel and take you to its site, where you can stay warm in a tent while sipping hot beverages. The Aboriginal-owned Aurora Village also offers activities such as dog-sledding or snowshoeing excursions.

Where to stay: Warm up in the fireside lounge at The Explorer Hotel in Yellowknife. Previous visitors note the warm and helpful staff as a strength here.

Jukkasjärvi, Sweden

The optimal time for seeing the illuminated skies in the northern part of Sweden, known as Swedish Lapland, is between early September and late March. The small Swedish village of Jukkasjärvi sits around 125 miles above the Arctic Circle on the Torne River and is an ideal locale for aurora viewing. You'll fly to the nearby Kiruna Airport to get here. With the village's origins dating back to the 17th century, you can still find some of the original homesteads, including an old timber cottage. Today the village boasts 800 residents – and more than 1,000 dogs.

Where to stay: If you're up for a chilly overnight adventure, reserve accommodations at the world's first permanent ice hotel, the aptly named Icehotel 365. Each of its artist-designed suites is sculpted from ice with a unique theme and maintains temperatures around minus 5 degrees Celsius (about 23 degrees Fahrenheit). The rooms also feature beds with reindeer hides and thermal sleeping bags so you can bundle up during the night. While you're at the property, take advantage of the guided "Northern Lights Safari on Snowmobile" or embark on the "Moose Safari on Horseback" atop an Icelandic horse.

Reykjavik, Iceland

October through March is the best time to chase the aurora borealis in Iceland . There are numerous natural parks and attractions throughout the country where you can view the show during the long and dark winter, but the capital city of Reykjavik also offers many options for accommodations, restaurants, tours and other activities for your visit. For optimum aurora viewing in the city away from the light pollution, head to Öskjuhlið. This wooded and hilly area in Reykjavik sits at 200 feet above sea level and has walkways and paths where you can see the nighttime show.

Atop this hill sits Perlan, which houses the only planetarium in the country and a museum featuring exhibits about Iceland. Perlan is also home to the world's first indoor ice cave and glacier exploratorium. During your visit, don't miss the panoramic views of the city from the building's fourth-floor observation deck. From this vantage point, you'll be able to see the Snæfellsjökull glacier; Keilir, a volcanic mountain; and Esja, the mountain of Reykjavik.

Where to stay: While in Reykjavik, splurge on an overnight tour with Buubble Tours. This experience includes breathtaking sightseeing spots and a night spent under the magical northern skies in a transparent bubble at the 5 Million Star Hotel. For longer stays, consider the eco-friendly Eyja Guldsmeden Hotel, with sweeping views of the city – guests love it for its cozy yet chic Scandinavian design.

Southern Iceland

While Reykjavik is a great aurora-viewing spot if you like having amenities close by, consider getting out into Iceland's stunning, otherworldly countryside for a unique backdrop for the northern lights. One unique place to see them is the black sand beach at Reynisfjara (but watch out for the dangerous waves here). Alternatively, head to Jökulsárlón, a glacial lagoon and seal habitat, where the aurora's reflections in the icy water are truly beautiful.

There's no shortage of tours that will stop by these locations and more for possible aurora sightings. Consider a 10- or 13-day tour around the country with Fun Travel, or a four-day option from Arctic Adventures. If you want to do things at your own place, it's also possible to self-drive – just know that road conditions can be icy, particularly in the depths of winter (although Icelandic roads are generally well-maintained).

Where to stay: Hotel Rangá is a formidable option for aurora-spotting. It offers a variety of special amenities, such as aurora wake-up calls, a lookout deck and snowsuits to keep you warm if you're outside viewing the lights. Past visitors praise Rangá for being a comfortable yet luxurious place to relax, be it in the outdoor hot tubs or the cozy and sociable bar.

Kangerlussuaq, Greenland

Greenland may not be the most accessible place to travel for viewing the northern lights, with limited flight options (mostly via Iceland), but those who make it here will be thrilled they did. The tundra of Kalaallit Nunaat – the Greenlandic name for the country – is one of the best places on the globe to see the aurora from September to early April.

For the more adventurous aurora seekers, head to the top of the Greenland Ice Cap for spectacular views of the lights. This impressive glacier covers 80% of the country and is accessible via the tiny town of Kangerlussuaq. Located on a fjord right along the Arctic Circle, the town, often described as a gateway to Greenland, was a former U.S. Air Force base and is now home to Greenland's main airport. The town is known for having clear skies on some 300 nights per year, so chances of a sighting are particularly good here.

Tour company Guide to Greenland offers various tours, from two-hour aurora-viewing trips to a tough but rewarding multi-night dog-sledding expedition across the ice. For a less strenuous experience, companies like Nordic Saga Tours offer cruises through the Arctic landscapes around Kangerlussuaq.

Viking cruise along Norway's coast

Courtesy of Viking

Embrace the winter and set sail for the Arctic Circle to experience the aurora in northern Norway. The 13-day "In Search of the Northern Lights" cruise itinerary with Viking departs from London for the North Sea with stops in ports of call that are top aurora-viewing locales, including Tromsø, Alta and Narvik, plus a stop in Amsterdam en route. The cruise ends in Bergen, Norway.

While on land, take in the natural beauty of the snow-blanketed landscapes and book bucket list excursions like a night spent in an igloo or a reindeer sledding adventure. You can also chase the lights into the wilderness by snowmobile, take a dog sled ride under the stars or view them from a Sámi tent atop the mountain Pæska in Alta. This Viking Ocean Cruises itinerary is offered with departure dates from mid-January to mid-March.

Headlands International Dark Sky Park, Michigan

Regarded as one of the top spots in the U.S. to see the aurora outside Alaska, Headlands International Dark Sky Park sits at the top of Michigan 's lower peninsula, less than 5 miles from Mackinaw City. While the northern lights are less common here due to the relatively southern location, the best time to catch a glimpse of this phenomenon is typically during the spring and fall – and appearances can usually be predicted a couple of days in advance. The park even maintains an online Clear Sky Chart so you can check the weather forecast before you go.

There are also other stargazing opportunities throughout the year at Headlands. During the summer months the Milky Way is visible across the sky, and late summer evenings entertain visitors with meteor showers.

Where to stay: If you're visiting between late April and the end of October, splurge on a stay at Mission Point Resort on Mackinac Island, where the aurora should also be visible. Guests describe this iconic property situated along the shoreline of Lake Huron as positively charming, thanks to its historic nature and manicured grounds. The resort also offers a host of outdoor activities from bike rentals to swimming.

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Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota

Martha Shuff | Courtesy of Voyageurs National Park

Located on the international border between Minnesota and Ontario, Voyageurs National Park is an approximately 218,000-acre labyrinth of boreal forests, lakes and streams. Voyageurs is Minnesota's only national park; it's also unique in that the park's interior is accessible only by boat, unless you visit by snowmobile in winter. As a certified International Dark Sky Park , Voyageurs provides opportunities to view the Milky Way on clear evenings, especially in the summer. Year-round aurora viewing is also possible on evenings with clear dark skies, but chances are better during the winter, when it's dark for longer.

For a guided stargazing tour – including the Milky Way, the constellations and (if you're lucky) the northern lights – book with Voyageurs Outfitters. If you're on your own, park officials note that almost any campsite is a good spot for northern lights viewing and stargazing. You can also check out the boat launch areas around Ash River, Kabetogama Lake and the Rainy Lake Visitor Center for top-notch views.

Where to stay: Those who prefer to sleep in a warm, cozy bed instead of camping under the stars can make reservations at the Cantilever Distillery + Hotel, a boutique Trademark Collection by Wyndham property in the nearby town of Ranier, Minnesota. Visitors report that there's a lot to like here, from the industrial-chic rooms to friendly staff to top-notch cocktails in the active distillery on the premises.

Abisko National Park, Sweden

Given its Arctic location, Sweden is one of the prime spots for aurora viewing in the Northern Hemisphere, with Swedish Lapland at the top of the list. The fall and winter months (from September to March) offer the best opportunities to witness the spectacle, as there is more darkness than light during the days.

If you're up for the Arctic adventure, December is an ideal month to visit Abisko National Park, which some regard as one of the best places on Earth to see the lights dance across the sky. The park's mountainous terrain and clear dark skies offer dramatic front-row seats for viewing the northern lights. The Aurora Sky Station is one of the best vantage points to see the aurora in the park. Join one of the expert presentations to learn about the science behind this fascinating phenomenon.

If you'd prefer to chase the lights with a curated tour, professional photographers and aurora-chasing guides at Visit Abisko lead three- to four-hour tours throughout the fall and winter. If you can, try to join the tours in fall, as this time of year offers a unique opportunity to view the lights both in the sky and reflected in the lakes and rivers, which you won't see in the winter months.

Where to stay: For cozy Nordic vibes, stay at Abisko Mountain Lodge, which also offers activities like ice climbing and snowmobile tours in winter. Guests love the excellent restaurant here, which offers Swedish specialties ranging from salmon to moose.

Nellim, Finland

Courtesy of Wilderness Hotels

Located a stone's throw from the Russian border in Finnish Lapland, this remote Arctic destination is a top-rated locale to view the northern lights due to the lack of light pollution. You'll be seriously out of the way of any built-up areas, as there's not even a paved road into Nellim. The best time to visit is between December and early April. This village is a great place to hunker down in a lodge and relax while enjoying a slice of life in the Finnish wilderness.

Where to stay: The Nellim Wilderness Hotel offers a perfect base with year-round activities, including aurora-chasing tours by car, snowmobile or on snowshoes. You can even take a sleigh ride through the snow to a campsite on Lake Inari to spot the aurora in pristine nature.

Beyond standard rooms, the Wilderness Hotel also offers glass-roofed cabins, as well as classic log cabins and bubble-shaped accommodations for two where guests can watch the dancing lights through the glass roof above your warm, cozy bed. When you're not chasing the lights, enjoy other Arctic activities like a husky safari, ice fishing, snowmobiling or a day in the snow meeting the local reindeer.

Saariselkä and Kakslauttanen, Finland

These two towns are around 150 miles above the Arctic Circle, with a prime location under the auroral oval, allowing as many as 200 opportunities per year to see the northern lights (weather permitting, of course). This area in Finnish Lapland is known for its stunning scenery, Sámi culture, cross-country and downhill skiing, and Urho Kekkonen National Park – one of Finland's largest.

Ski enthusiasts can roll two trips into one by hitting the slopes by day in Saariselkä and aurora spotting by night at Finland's northernmost ski resort. March into early April is the best time to view the aurora, as the Finnish Meteorological Institute notes that the weather is usually clearer at this time of year. But it's possible to see the northern lights at any time during the season from late August to early or mid-April.

Where to stay: Seven miles south of Saariselkä sits the village of Kakslauttanen, where you can book two- or four-person Glass Igloos at the Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort. The new Kelo-Glass Igloos, which sleep up to six, mix the comforts of a log chalet with the visibility of the glass roof; enjoy a private sauna, a fireplace and more. There's also an impressive selection of year-round tours and activities at this resort, including northern lights excursions on snowmobiles or by horse-drawn carriage.

Stewart Island, New Zealand

Courtesy of RealNZ

Although they may be isolated, some far-south destinations offer the chance to see the aurora australis – or southern lights. While you might be able to see them year-round in some locations (just as with the northern lights), certain months are better for aurora viewing in the Southern Hemisphere. Stewart Island is regarded as one of the top spots to see the brilliant display in New Zealand , with 85% of the island encompassed by Rakiura National Park, so there are few people and virtually no light pollution. You can reach Stewart Island by flying in from Invercargill or taking a ferry from Bluff.

New Zealand's winter months – June to August – are the best time to see the southern lights; spring and fall are also not bad times to spot them. The brighter summer months, between December and February, make it more difficult to spot the aurora, but there's still a chance you'll catch a glimpse between midnight and 4 a.m.

Where to stay: Consider reserving a room with at Stewart Island Lodge, an intimate bed-and-breakfast. This beautiful property is just minutes by foot from the village of Oban, and the property will pick you up at the ferry terminal for your stay. Past visitors rave about the spectacular views of Halfmoon Bay and the Foveaux Strait from both the rooms and lodge terrace.

Tasmania sits approximately 150 miles south of mainland Australia. This mountainous island is one of relatively few places on the planet where it's theoretically possible to see the aurora 365 days a year due to its latitude, which allows for full darkness even on summer nights. The capital city of Hobart is the easiest point of entry: It's home to Tasmania's largest airport and serves as a convenient base. The city's burgeoning food and cultural scenes will also give you plenty to see and do.

From here you'll be able to reach several great viewing locations with unobstructed and open views of the sea along the southern and southeast coastlines, like Goat Bluff and Tinderbox Bay. When you're not staring at the night sky, splurge on a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter flight with Tasmanian Air Tours. Depending on your whims, your private pilot can whisk you away to soar over the sea cliffs; stop at a local winery to sample local vintages; or head south to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Port Arthur , Tasmania 's historic and most notorious prison.

Where to stay: Reserve accommodations at The Tasman, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Hobart. The historic luxury property is situated along the lively waterfront area with harbor views. Past guests admired the historic building housing the hotel and loved the heritage rooms featuring gas fireplaces for those cold Tasmanian nights.

Expedition cruise to Antarctica

If you're one of the lucky few people on the planet to travel to the southernmost continent on Earth, it may be pricey, but you'll have an adventure of a lifetime in Antarctica, especially if the aurora illuminates the sky. The southern lights are most visible in the winter months (between March and October), but due to weather conditions, only researchers brave the Antarctic winter – and they mostly stay indoors.

However, all hope is not lost if you seek to view the aurora australis in Antarctica. Late-season expedition cruises to this continent offered in March also bring the opportunity to view the southern lights and enjoy the end of Antarctica's fleeting summer. As the days shorten in length, you may encounter light snow across the extreme landscape and ice starting to form on the water's surface.

When it comes to wildlife viewing, humpback whale sightings are abundant, and you'll still see penguin colonies – including king and gentoo penguins. You can also keep your eyes peeled for elephant seals, leopard seals, wandering albatross and other species of birds. When night falls on clear evenings, look for the light show in the southern sky. Companies that offer March voyages include Swoop Antarctica, Atlas Ocean Voyages, Silversea Cruises , Aurora Expeditions and Hurtigruten Expeditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

There's no one location that's widely accepted as the best place to see the northern lights. However, the strongest light displays are within what's called the "auroral oval": a rough circle around the Earth's magnetic northern pole that tends to occur around 60 to 70 degrees of latitude. The oval's exact size expands and contracts (some more southerly destinations can fall under it when the aurora is particularly strong), but there are certain locations that generally fall within the oval most of the time.

These places include:

• Central and northern Alaska
• Large areas of Yukon, the Northwest Territories and northern Quebec in Canada
• Southern Greenland
• Far northern Norway, Sweden and Finland

Within these areas, it could be argued that Iceland is the best place to see the aurora as it experiences much milder temperatures than some other areas within the oval. But this is subjective, and some travelers may prefer a location like Yellowknife in Canada for a full-on, very cold Arctic experience.

The northern lights are only visible when it's dark out. Since many of the best places to see them are so far north that they experience near-constant daylight in the summer, you'll generally want to schedule a trip between late August and early April. However, within this time period, there's some debate about the best time to catch the lights. For example, the aurora tends to be more active around the September and March equinoxes due to stronger solar winds – but on the other hand, your chances of seeing them may be higher in the depths of winter, since there's longer nights and therefore a longer window in which they might appear.

In more southern locations like Minnesota, it may be possible to see the light show in the summer months, but it's still advisable to go at a time when the nights are longer. It can also be worth trying to schedule your northern lights trip when there's a new moon: While the aurora can shine through moonlight, it may be harder to see if there's a full moon.

Of course, cloudy weather can block the aurora even if you go at the right time of year. So, it may be wise to research the local weather patterns at your chosen destination to find out if there's a month where you can expect clearer skies. In many cases, though, there's a little luck involved.

These two countries can offer excellent views of the northern lights, since both are directly under the typical auroral oval. Yet there are some differences to be aware of.

In Norway, you'll need to head to the north of the country to catch the aurora: While they have been sighted in Oslo , the capital and largest city, it's too far south to be a reliable vantage point. Cities like Tromsø are popular spots, but direct flights there are only possible from some European cities, so North Americans will have to take connecting flights. On the other hand, Iceland is generally easier to reach, with direct flights to its capital, Reykjavik, from a large number of U.S. destinations (particularly from the East Coast) with no further connection required.

Since clear skies are key for seeing the northern lights, weather is another factor to consider. In November, December and March, Reykjavik has statistically slightly more frequent clear skies, while in January and February, Tromsø is a little better, but the difference isn't big: Both places have clear skies only around 25 to 30% of the time in these months. Reykjavik has slightly warmer weather, though, so between that and the ease of access, it has a slight edge over Norway for seeing the northern lights.

Alaska and Iceland are known for stellar aurora light shows, so deciding between them may depend on which destination you find more convenient and more to your tastes. In Alaska , the city of Fairbanks is considered a great spot to catch the northern lights. (They can still be seen elsewhere in the state – for example, in Anchorage, although they're not so common in more southern locations like Juneau). The advantage of Fairbanks is that you won't need a passport , yet there aren't many direct flights from the lower 48 states. Despite being an international destination, Iceland may be more accessible (particularly from the eastern U.S.), thanks to fairly regular flights to Reykjavik from numerous American cities.

Fairbanks does offer statistically better weather for aurora viewing: It has clear skies more often than Reykjavik, particularly in March when the Alaska city experiences them around 45% of the time (compared to about 25% for Reykjavik). But you'll have to be able to tolerate the cold. While temperatures in Reykjavik hover around freezing in midwinter, Fairbanks is a veritable deep freeze, with average highs around 5 degrees Fahrenheit down to lows colder than minus 5 in December.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Timothy Forster , as a Canadian who has traveled from coast to coast in that sprawling country, knows all about travel in the cold northern reaches of the world. Forster used his extensive traveling background along with research expertise to curate this article.

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