Things To Do
in Baroda
Baroda, also known as Vadodara, is a city located in the western Indian state of Gujarat. It is famous for its rich cultural heritage, historical monuments, and vibrant festivals. The city is known for its majestic Laxmi Vilas Palace, which is one of the largest private residences in the world.
Baroda is also a hub for education and has several prestigious institutions such as the Maharaja Sayajirao University.
- "kiddan" - How are you?
- "shukriya" - Thank you
- "tuhada naa ki hai" - What is your name?
- "ki haal chaal" - How are things?
- "chalo" - Let's go
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $10 - $30
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Visit the Laxmi Vilas Palace and appreciate its stunning architecture. Take your time to explore the gardens and museum inside.
Head to the Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery to view a collection of art and history. Don't forget to enjoy a relaxing lunch at a nearby café.
Stroll through Sayaji Garden to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty. Look for local food stalls to taste some delicious snacks.
Begin your day with a visit to Narmada Canal, enjoying the scenic views along the way. Perfect for a morning walk or jog.
Visit the Sardar Patel Planetarium and immerse yourself in the wonders of the universe. Grab a quick bite at a nearby eatery afterward.
Enjoy a sunset at Sardar Patel Lake, where you can relax and take beautiful photos. Explore local markets to shop for handicrafts.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history with numerous historical sites.
- Affordability in terms of cost of living compared to other major Indian cities.
- Well-developed educational institutions and universities.
- Good connectivity through rail and road networks.
- Pleasant climate for most of the year.
- Vibrant local cuisine and food scene.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
- Traffic congestion during peak hours can be a problem.
- Public transportation options may not be as extensive or reliable.
- Potential water scarcity issues during the dry season.
- Air quality concerns due to industrial activity.
- Social and cultural conservatism can be limiting for some residents.
Best Activities in Baroda
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the lush green gardens, walk around the beautiful lakes, and visit the mini zoo at Sayaji Baug.
Enjoy a peaceful walk, see the colorful flowers and trees, and visit the planetarium at Kamati Baug.
Experience educational and entertaining astronomical shows at the Sardar Patel Planetarium.
Tours
Uncover the best of Baroda with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Baroda
Visit one of these nice places.
A majestic palace with beautiful architecture and grounds, offering great photo opportunities
A sprawling garden with a variety of flora, fauna, and attractions, providing scenic views and photo opportunities
A UNESCO World Heritage Site with ancient ruins and picturesque landscapes, perfect for photography enthusiasts
Food in Baroda
Baroda Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory snack made from gram flour and yogurt, seasoned with mustard and sesame seeds, and often garnished with coriander leaves. It is best enjoyed at local snack stalls and eateries like Joshi's Snacks and Das Khaman House.
Must-Try!
A beloved breakfast or tea-time combination consisting of crispy, fried chickpea flour strips (fafda) served with syrupy, coil-shaped jalebis. Visit the famous Alka Puri in Fatehgunj for an authentic taste.
A winter specialty, undhiyu is a mixed vegetable dish cooked with a medley of spices and enjoyed with puris. Experience the authentic flavors at places like Jay Jalaram Khaman House and Mahakali Sev Usal in the old city area.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Baroda better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling food street is a haven for street food enthusiasts, offering a variety of snacks like pav bhaji, sev usal, and kulfi. Make sure to sample the lip-smacking chaats and panipuri at popular stalls like Tribhovandas Zaveri Chat House.
A picturesque spot where you can relish delectable street food while enjoying the serene lake view. Indulge in local favorites such as bhel puri, dabeli, and gola (flavored ice gola) from the vibrant food vendors around the lake.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Baroda, India, it is important to greet people with respect. A common greeting is 'Namaste' which involves pressing your palms together and giving a slight bow. It is also important to use titles such as 'Sir' or 'Madam' when addressing someone, especially if they are older or in a position of authority.
When visiting religious sites or attending formal events in Baroda, it is important to dress modestly. This means covering your shoulders, wearing long pants or skirts, and avoiding clothing that is too revealing. Additionally, it is respectful to remove your shoes before entering someone's home or a place of worship.
In Baroda, it is customary to eat with your right hand, as the left hand is considered unclean. When dining with others, it is polite to wait for the host or the eldest person to start eating before you begin. Also, it is important to avoid eating beef, as cows are considered sacred in Hindu culture.
Safety
Tipping in Baroda
Ensure a smooth experience
In Baroda, India, tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated in restaurants, hotels, and for certain services. A tip of 5-10% of the total bill is considered appropriate.
In Baroda, India, cash is widely used for day-to-day transactions, although credit and debit cards are also accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and larger stores. It is advisable to carry sufficient cash for smaller establishments and local markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Baroda is during the cooler months of November to February. However, if you plan to visit in summer, expect high temperatures reaching up to 40°C (104°F). It is advisable to carry light and breathable clothing and stay hydrated.
During the monsoon season, expect heavy rainfall in Baroda which can lead to humid conditions. It is recommended to pack waterproof clothing and umbrellas if visiting during this time.
The winter season is the most pleasant time to visit Baroda with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F). Visitors can expect clear skies and cool weather, making it ideal for exploring the city's attractions.
Baroda at Night
Hiking in Baroda
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A picturesque waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, offering a moderate hiking trail and a perfect spot for a day trip.
While mainly an astronomical facility, the surrounding area offers walking trails and scenic views and is a great place for short hikes.
This trail runs alongside the Narmada Canal and provides a serene environment for hiking and enjoying nature.
A UNESCO World Heritage site with ancient ruins and multiple trails that offer cultural exploration along with hiking opportunities.
Located a bit further from Baroda, these hills provide adventurous hiking trails and stunning panoramic views.
Aiports
How to reach Baroda by plane.
Located in Ahmedabad, approximately 100 km from Baroda, it's the closest major international airport serving the region.
Situated in Mumbai, about 440 km from Baroda, it is one of India's busiest international airports.
Located in Hyderabad, approximately 660 km from Baroda, this airport serves as a major gateway to southern India.
Situated in Goa, around 700 km from Baroda, this airport provides international connectivity and is popular with tourists.
Located in Chennai, approximately 1,050 km from Baroda, it is one of the major international airports in India.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group in Baroda, comprising about 85% of the population.
The second largest religious group, accounting for approximately 10% of the population.
A significant minority group, contributing around 3% to the total population.
A smaller demographic group, making up about 1% of the population.
Also a minor group in Baroda, representing a small fraction of the population.
Includes various ethnic and religious minorities, making up the remaining percentage.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is immensely popular in Baroda, with many local clubs and associations promoting the sport. The city has produced several notable cricketers who have represented India at various levels.
Field hockey has a rich history in Baroda, with the city being a hub for young talent. It has produced a number of players who have played for the national team.
Football is gaining popularity in Baroda, with various leagues and tournaments organized at different levels, encouraging youth participation.
Badminton is played widely in Baroda, with several clubs and training centers available that promote this indoor sport among players of all ages.
Kabaddi has a significant following in Baroda, with local teams participating in state and national level competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Baroda.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Given the predominantly vegetarian nature of Gujarati cuisine, Baroda offers an abundance of vegetarian options across eateries and food joints. You can relish traditional vegetarian thalis, snacks, and sweets at numerous local restaurants.
While dairy is prevalent in Gujarati cuisine, several establishments in Baroda offer vegan-friendly dishes, including specialties like thepla, dhokla, and various types of dal. It's advisable to communicate dietary preferences clearly when ordering.
Though wheat-based items are widespread, many places in Baroda provide gluten-free alternatives such as dishes made from rice flour, gram flour, and millets. Requesting customizations to suit specific dietary requirements is generally accommodated by local eateries.