Vadodara, literally means, the 'City of Banyan Trees' This was once the capital of the princely state of the Gaekwads and is now known as the cultural capital of Gujarat Vadodara was once called Chandravati, after its ruler Raja Chandan, then Virakshetra or 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. Vadodara also known as Baroda is situated at the bank of Vishwamitri River. Vadodara is located in southeast of Ahmedabad.
Vadodara is famous for its palaces, parks, temples and museums. Vadodara is number one industrial city of Gujarat. With many museums and art galleries, this upcoming hub of industries and IT is a favorite spot of tourists. Vadodara is also famous for education. MS University of Baroda is the only university in Gujarat with English as the medium of instruction.
Population of Vadodara City: 18,00,000
Area : 148.95 Sqkm
STD Code: 0265
Temperature-
Summer : Max 46 °C, Min 24 °C
Winter : Max 31 °C, Min 9 °C
Best time to visit: Winters
Vadodara's Laxmi Vilas Palace was constructed during the period from 1878 to 1890. The construction of this palace was commissioned by Maharaja Sayaji Rao III. The total cost of its construction amounted to a whooping sixty lakh. Laxmi Vilas Palace in Vadodara is one of the famous monuments in Vadodara that is high on tourist value. People visiting Vadodara make it a point to visit Laxmi Vilas Palace in Vadodara. A wonderful exemplification of the Indo-Sarcenic architectural style, the palace is a majestic structure that warrants a special visit if you wish to marvel at the detailed and exquisite work from the close quarters. Indianholiday.com is your indispensable e-travelogue that provides you with all you needed to know on Vadodara's Laxmi Vilas Palace.
Baroda Museum and Art Gallery in Vadodara was established by Maharaja SayajiRao Gaekwad III in 1887. The construction of this museum building was put into completion in the year 1894. However the construction of the art gallery took place in 1908. Its construction work finished in 1914. But this gallery was not opened to public until 1921. It is said that the delay in the transfer of the pieces from Europe due to First World War caused in its late opening. Baroda Museum and Art Gallery exhibits a rich collection of artifacts.The main attraction of this museum is Egyptian mummy and skeleton of a blue whale. This apart, you will also be amazed at the sight of the noted Akota bronzes of the 5th Century AD, A collection of Mughal miniatures, a fully packed gallery of Tibetan Art and oils by several European masters.
Baroda Museum and Art Gallery in Vadodara was established by Maharaja SayajiRao Gaekwad III in 1887. The construction of this museum building was put into completion in the year 1894. However the construction of the art gallery took place in 1908. Its construction work finished in 1914. But this gallery was not opened to public until 1921. It is said that the delay in the transfer of the pieces from Europe due to First World War caused in its late opening. Baroda Museum and Art Gallery exhibits a rich collection of artifacts.The main attraction of this museum is Egyptian mummy and skeleton of a blue whale. This apart, you will also be amazed at the sight of the noted Akota bronzes of the 5th Century AD, A collection of Mughal miniatures, a fully packed gallery of Tibetan Art and oils by several European masters.
He history of this temple takes us into the mythological times. The EME Temple in Vadodara is dedicated to the Lord Dakshinamurthy who is one of the reincarnations of Lord Shiva. This temple is also known as the Dakshinamurthy Temple and it is a lovely shrine. This fascinating temple attracts a large number of tourists from the different parts of India by its splendid architecture and concept. This excellent geodesic structure is enveloped with the aluminum sheets. It is one of its kind in the whole of India and is unique in its appeal.
Maharshi Aurobindo Ghosh who one of the eminent freedom fighters and also a renouned philosopher resided in Vadodara from 1894 to 1906 as a private secretary to Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad. He also worked as vice principal and professor of English in Baroda college. His residence popularly known as Aurobindo Society is situated in Dandia Bazar area is the only national memorial. Yoga and meditation are taught here regularly. Surrounded by a nicely maincured garden this magnificent building provides an opportunity to pass a few minutes in solace. Various useful articles prepared at Pondichery are sold in an emporium on the ground floor. A nicely displayed small museum on the life of Shri Aurobindo's contribution can also be visited here.
The Sayaji Sarovar or Ajwa lake, 22 kms away from the city is the principal source of water. It is formed by damming the Surya river and Vaghali Nala. Work on the scheme was started in 1885 and was completed in 1890. The gardens at Ajwa are patterned after the famous Brindavan Gardens of Mysore. The illumination of fountains is a major attraction for tourists.
This is a palatial building erected by Sayaji Rao III in 1906-07 at a cost of about Rs. 5 lakhs. It was presented by him as a gift to the Municipality on the occasion of the Silver Jubilee Celebrations of his administration. The Municipal Offices are located in this building. The main entrance resembles in architecture with that of the gate of Dabhoi Fort. The perforated stone perapers are after style of the Agra Screens. Khanderao Market, Vadodara is known to house various offices. Among the offices located in the market are the offices of Baroda Municipal Offices. One can come across a vegetable market near Khanderao Market in Vadodara. The vegetable market is known to sell vegetables in retail, as well as wholesale.
| Mandvi | Nyay Mandir | Lahripura Gate |
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| Kirti Mandir | Champaner | Pavagadh |
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