Baroda City Guide

Gujrat Cities :- Ahmedabad || Baroda || Junagarh || Palitana || Porbandar || Rajkot || Somnath

Introduction: Formerly known as Baroda, this is one place whose rulers' pride in leaving behind a legacy is evident everywhere - from its priceless examples of culture to the beautiful palaces and the thriving art and handicrafts that the state is famous for. Once the stronghold of the Gaekwads, Vadodara remains, even today, the cultural capitlal of Gujarat.

From food to music, paintings and museums to historic monuments, Vadodara has quite a range to offer the visitor. As for its history, Vadodara seems to have two favourite sons - Anshuman Gaekwad and Maharaja Sayaji Rao Gaekwad, who had more than a hand in giving the city its epithet of a cultural capital. The latter's presence is everywhere - from the magnificent Laxmi Vilas Palace, which was his home to the number of art galleries and museums that continue to preserve his memory. It is said that Faiyaz Khan of the celebrated Agra Gharana sang for him, while Raja Ravi Verma, the renowned painter created memorable pictures and portraits of the Maharaja's family.

There is of course more than just a history lesson to enjoy in Vadodara. Gujarati cuisine with its myriad flavours enjoys favour with the local and tourist alike. And then there are the unbeatable dances of the state that Vadodara celebrates just like the rest of Gujarat - all in all, when you plan a trip to this cultural capital, you will be guaranteed a great time.

Population: About 1,306,035

Climate: Unless heat is something you absolutely need, summer may be skippable when temperatures can smoulder at 44°C.Winters are a much better bet, being pleasant at 31°C. Monsoons are moderate and last from mid-June to mid-September.

Main Language(s): Gujarati, Hindi and English

Time Zone: GMT + 05:30

Phone Area Code: 0265

Best Time To Visit: You could plan a trip here the year around but the cooler months from October to March are the best.

Airport Distance from City Center: 10 kms

Taxi Rates from Airport to City: Private taxis available for a flat rate of Rs. 250 for non-A/C and Rs. 350 for A/C within octroi limit.