Vadodara, formerly known as Baroda, is a city that many people wouldn't think of exploring as a travel destination. But in India, it's hard to find a city that doesn't offer something exciting and interesting to do. When I visited Vadodara, even I didn't think there would be loads to do there. There isn't, to be honest. But the few number of things that are there to explore are pretty enticing. The city is culturally and historically rich and is an important centre of arts and education. So the next time you are there, put these things on your bucket list.
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See the Laxmi Vilas Palace
Home to the Gaekwads of Gujarat, one of the surviving royal lines, the palace will have you glued to its architecture, story, and beauty. Go with some hours at hand because the palace has much to explore. If you are into art, you will be quite excited to know that some of the most popular Raja Ravi Varma paintings are housed inside this palace.
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Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum
Explore some more of the Gaekwad's treasure trove of art, paintings, sculptures, and relics. Many more Raja Ravi Varma paintings await you here, even the lithographs that he came up with. Make sure you take the audio guide for the museum to know the relevance of and the story behind each artefact.
Sayaji Baug
A huge garden with a planetarium, a small zoo, a museum, and a toy train inside, the Baug offers you some peaceful and green tie to yourself. Take the toy train for sure, it makes for a nice ride with around the garden.
Ratri Bazaar
Hunger pangs at midnight aren’t a big deal for people of Baroda - all they need to do is head to the Ratri Bazaar (Night Market). Ratri Bazaar is a bustling food market that is open all night and offers some really delicious and economically priced food. Vadodara, anyway, has a lot of really good food options for people who like some local grub.
Get planning!
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