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travel india: Vadodara, the cultural capital of Gujarat, is one of the most popular weekend destinations among Indian and international tourists. Vadodara is a perfect blend of historical places, hill stations and wildlife sanctuaries. Apart from this, tourist places near Vadodara are considered to be the best places for holidaymakers and adventure lovers. If you are planning a weekend trip, we suggest you should visit Vadodara this weekend, let's find out what are the best places to visit in and around Vadodara.
Champaner Pavagadh
Champaner is a historical city located in Panchmahal district of Gujarat. The historical town of Champaner became popular thanks to the Oscar nominated hit film 'Lagaan'. But even before becoming famous, this place used to attract a lot of tourists. Champaner was founded by Vanraj Chavda of the Chavda dynasty. Today it is home to the Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park, a UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site. The park contains many magnificent architectural wonders of Hindu and Islamic style of design. The temple of Kalika Mata situated on the top of Pavagadh hill is an important Hindu temple, visited by thousands of devotees every day.
Vadodara Museum and Picture Gallery
The Vadodara Museum and Picture Gallery has been designed on the lines of the Science Museum and Victoria and Albert Museum of London. Built by Gaekwad in 1894, it displays a rich collection of artefacts related to geology, archeology and natural history. It also houses some rare personal collections of Maharaja Sayajirao III. The museum houses a vast collection of sculptures, textiles and objects ranging from Mughal miniatures to Japan, Tibet, Nepal and Egypt. The museum opens from 10:30 am to 5 pm and the entry fee is Rs 10 for Indians and Rs 200 for foreigners.
Lakshmi Vilas Palace
One of the grandest palaces in India, the iconic Lakshmi Vilas Palace is the residence of the royal family of Vadodara. Built by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III in 1890, the massive palace is the largest private residence ever built and four times larger than London's Buckingham Palace. This magnificent palace is a must visit on weekends. The grand Lakshmi Vilas Palace was built in 1890 and let us tell you that it took about 12 years to complete. Spread over an area of approximately 700 acres, this palace is still the home of the Gaekwads, the royal family of Vadodara. The palace opens from 9:30 am to 5 pm and is closed on Mondays and public holidays. The entry fee here is Rs 150 per person.
eme temple
EME Temple also known as Dakshinamurthy Temple is managed by the Indian Army. This temple is a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple covered with aluminum sheet is very beautiful due to its design, concept and geodesic design. The special thing about the temple is that it contains the sacred symbols of every religion, due to which this temple is considered a symbol of secularism. Let us tell you that the Kalash placed at the top is a symbol of Hindu religion. The dome is a symbol of Islam. The tower represents Christianity. The golden design at the top of the tower represents Buddhism. The design of the entrance reflects Jainism. The temple is closed on Sundays and opens from 6:30 to 8:30 am on other days.
Makarpura Palace
Makarpura Palace was built in 1870 as a summer palace for the royal family of the Gaekwads. The structure was given an Italian touch. Years after its construction, it was renovated again as the royal family started liking the Nilgiris, a cool place in Tamil Nadu during the summer season. Today the palace serves as a training school for the Indian Air Force, called No. 17 Tetra School. The palace opens from 9:30 am to 6 pm.
Sayaji Garden
Built by Maharaja Sayaji Rao Gaekwad in 1879, Sayaji Garden is spread over an area of more than 100 acres and is considered one of the largest public gardens in the western part of the country. The availability of Sardar Patel Planetarium, Vadodara Museum and Picture Gallery, a toy train, a zoo, an aquarium and more than 98 different species of trees makes this garden one of the most attractive tourist places in Vadodara. So many things at one place makes it one of the most visited places in Gujarat. The park is open from 9:30 am to 6 pm, with entry free but activities charging.
Ajwa Nimetta Dam Garden
Ajwa Nimeta Dam Garden looks very beautiful with tall palm trees and a mesmerizing light show in the evening. The design of this 130-acre garden is inspired by the Vrindavan Gardens of Mysore. The main attraction of this garden is the musical fountains arranged in a row, where in the evening you can see several electric and sound shows. This garden is very much liked by both adults and children.
