Banyan Paradise Resort, Vadodara

The private residence of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III,  Laxmi Vilas Palace is one of the grandest places to visit in Vadodara. Known to be the largest private residence in the world, the Palace is four times the size of the Buckingham Palace and spreads across an area of nearly 500 acres. The Palace premises houses the Moti Bagh Palace, a Banquet Hall, and the Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum, which contains an extraordinary collection of paintings done by Raja Ravi Verma along with many other artefacts.

Also known as Kamati Baug, Sayaji Baug or the Sayaji Garden is one of the biggest public gardens in all of India. Sprawling across a massive area of 100 acres, the garden houses nearly 98 different species of trees along with a number of flora. The Park also houses the largest floral clock in India, making it one of the most unique places to visit in Vadodara.

Located in the heart of Vadodara's Sayaji Baug, the Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery is a two-storeyed house of wonders. The Museum and Gallery was constructed by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad for the education of his subjects and contained artefacts handpicked by the Emperor himself. The architecture of the twin structure is a beautiful blend of Maratha and European designs. The Museum and Gallery includes works detailing the history of the country from the prehistoric ages to modern times.

The esteemed Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum occupies a prominent position within the premises of the Laxmi Vilas Palace. The Museum was initially constructed as a school for the children of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III. Now, the splendid structure houses valuable artwork done by esteemed artists such as Raja Ravi Verma, Raphael, Titian and Murillo. The Museum also contains a number of personal belongings of the Gaekwad family.

Adorned with landscaped gardens, the Ajwa Nimeta Garden is a perfect spot to spend a leisurely weekend. Sprawling across a massive span of 130 acres, the Garden is fashioned after the Vrindavan Gardens.

Formerly known as the Chandan Talav, the Sur Sagar Lake derives its name from that of its maker, Sureshwar Desai Sitting in the middle of the city of Vadodara, this 18th-century lake remains full of water throughout the year. The biggest attraction of the lake is the 120 feet tall statue of Lord Shiva that stands in the centre of the lake.

Built as a cenotaph for the Gaekwads, Kirti Mandir or the Temple of Fame was constructed by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III in the year 1936. Boasting of architectural splendour, the building features a number of beautifully structured balconies, terraces and tombs. A brilliantly carved shikhara, climbing to 35 feet in height, forms the centrepiece of the attraction.

The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir is located in the Atladara region of Vadodara. Being one of the most significant pilgrimage sites in Gujarat, the temple is one of the most sought after places to visit in Vadodara.  The BAPS Mandir is the centre of several spiritual and cultural activities, and its teachings focus on the ethics of the Hindu faith, keeping in mind the idea of Indian culture and family unity. The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir is known for its architectural splendour.