For some, it is Vadodara, but for most travellers, the word Baroda slides off your tongue more easily. However, few know that the city derives its name from its banyan trees. Originally called Vatpatraka, meaning “in the belly of the banyan tree,” it later became known as Baroda.
The city, which owes its cultural roots to the Gaekwad dynasty, has much thanks to give to Sayajirao Gaekwad III, the erstwhile Maharaj of the state, who gave its residents a taste of modern cosmopolitanism and local culture. Today, it is a thriving city which offers much to travellers, both within the state and from beyond. If you’re headed to Gujarat this year, make a pit stop in Vadodara and explore these incredible destinations.
Laxmi Vilas PalaceThe Laxmi Vilas Palace, an architectural marvel covering 3 million square feet—three times Buckingham Palace’s size—was commissioned by Sayajirao Gaekwad III for his wedding to Chimnabai I of Tanjore. Built over 12 years for £180,000 (nearly Rs200 crores), this 170-room palace blends Indo-Saracenic, Rajasthani, Gujarati, Islamic, and European styles, adorned with domed chhatris, arches, jharokhas, and carved motifs. Around 25% of the palace is open to the public today, including the Navlakhi stepwell, named after the nine lakh gold coins used to build it.
Vidyadhar ni Vav Vidyadhar ni Vav is one of Gujarat's many ancient stepwells, used historically for water harvesting and as cool retreats. This 500-year-old, hidden gem on Sevasi-Sindhrot R.
