Ever seen a palace said to be four times bigger than Buckingham Palace? That’s Laxmi Vilas Palace in Vadodara. This palace in Vadodara is one of the largest private residences in the world. Built by the royal Gaekwad family, this palace is known for its stunning architecture, lush gardens and rich history.
What makes it special is its mix of Indo-Saracenic design with European influences. From grand halls to detailed interiors, every corner reflects luxury and craftsmanship. Even today, parts of the palace are still home to the royal family. For anyone visiting Vadodara, Laxmi Vilas is a must-see to experience royal heritage up close.
History of Laxmi Vilas Palace
Laxmi Vilas Palace was built in 1890 by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, one of the most progressive rulers of the Gaekwad dynasty. The palace was designed by British architect Major Charles Mant, who planned it in the Indo-Saracenic style, blending Indian, Islamic and European architectural elements. After Mant’s death, the project was completed by Robert Fellowes Chisholm.
The palace, one of the best places to visit in Gujarat, was built as a royal residence and remains the home of the Gaekwad family today. Spread across a vast estate of around 500 acres, it was designed to reflect the power and vision of the Baroda state during that time. The interiors include grand halls, Belgian stained glass and intricate mosaic floors. Over the years, the palace has remained a symbol of royal heritage and architectural brilliance in Vadodara.
Best Time to Visit Laxmi Vilas Palace
The best time to visit the palace is during the winter months from October to March, when the weather in Vadodara is pleasant and comfortable for sightseeing. The temperature stays moderate, which makes it easy to explore the large palace grounds and gardens without feeling tired.
Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal times during the day as the sunlight is softer and the palace looks even more beautiful for photography. Summers in Vadodara can get very hot, with temperatures rising above 40°C so visiting during peak afternoon hours is not recommended. Monsoon season (July to September) brings greenery but occasional rain can affect travel plans.
How to Reach Laxmi Vilas Palace
The palace is located in the centre of Vadodara and is easy to reach from all parts of the city. The nearest railway station is Vadodara Junction, just a short drive away. Taxis, autos and local buses are easily available from the station and airport. The palace is well connected by road so reaching by cab or personal vehicle is also convenient.
By Train: The nearest station is Vadodara Junction, located around 3-4 km from the palace
By Air: The nearest airport is Vadodara Airport, about 6-7 km away
By Bus: Regular GSRTC and private buses connect Vadodara to cities like Ahmedabad, Surat and Mumbai
By Cab/Auto: Autos and taxis are easily available from the station and airport
By Car: Well-connected roads make it easy to reach by personal vehicle
Laxmi Vilas Palace Timings and Entry Fee
The palace is open to visitors on most days but it remains closed on Mondays and public holidays. Laxmi Vilas Palace Vadodara timing is from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, giving enough time to explore the museum areas and the Laxmi Vilas gardens. Visitors are usually allowed entry till around 4:30 PM so it is best to arrive early.
Laxmi Vilas Palace entry fee for Indian visitors is around ₹150 per person, which includes access to the palace museum and an audio guide. For foreign tourists, the ticket price is higher. There may be additional charges for camera or video recording. The Laxmi Vilas Palace ticket price is reasonable considering the rich history, architecture and overall experience offered inside.
Opening Time: 9:30 AM
Closing Time: 5:00 PM
Last Entry: Around 4:30 PM
Closed On: Mondays and public holidays
Entry Fee (Indians): ₹150 per person (approx.)
Entry Fee (Foreign Tourists): Higher than Indian ticket price
Inclusions: Museum access and audio guide
Extra Charges: Additional fee for camera/video (if applicable)
Places to Visit Near Laxmi Vilas Palace
Exploring areas around Laxmi Vilas Palace in Vadodara adds more depth to your trip. The city has a mix of museums, gardens and historic sites located close to the palace.
1. Sayaji Baug
Sayaji Baug, also known as Kamati Baug, is one of the largest and most popular public gardens in Vadodara. Spread over a huge area, it offers a peaceful escape from the city’s busy streets. The garden is home to a zoo, a toy train and several museums, making it a great spot for families and casual visitors. The greenery, walking paths and open spaces make it ideal for one of the best things to do in Gujarat, that is, relaxing or spending a slow evening. It also reflects the vision of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, who focused on public welfare and urban planning.
Distance from Palace: Approx. 2 km
Timings: 5:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free (charges for zoo/toy train)
2. Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery
Located inside Sayaji Baug, the Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery is a must-visit for history and art lovers. The museum houses a wide range of exhibits, including Egyptian artefacts, European paintings and Indian sculptures. Its diverse collection reflects global cultures as well as regional history. The building itself has a colonial architectural style, adding to its charm. Visitors can spend hours exploring different sections, each offering something unique and educational. It is one of the best places to understand the cultural richness of Vadodara.
Distance from Palace: Approx. 2 km
Timings: 10:30 AM - 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Entry Fee: ₹10-₹20 (approx.)
3. Kirti Mandir
Kirti Mandir is a peaceful and lesser-known attraction built in memory of the Gaekwad royal family. The structure stands out for its elegant architecture and calm surroundings. Inside, visitors can see cenotaphs and murals that reflect the history and legacy of the royal family. The design combines traditional and modern elements, giving it a unique look. It is not very crowded, which makes it a good place for those who prefer quiet and reflective spaces. The site also highlights the cultural and historical importance of the Gaekwads in Vadodara.
Distance from Palace: Approx. 1 km
Timings: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
4. EME Temple
The EME Temple, also known as Dakshinamurthy Temple, is one of the most unique temples in Vadodara. Built and maintained by the Indian Army, it is made mainly of aluminium, which gives it a modern and striking appearance. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for promoting unity among different religions. The peaceful atmosphere and clean surroundings make it a pleasant place to visit. Its design and concept make it stand out from traditional temples, attracting both devotees and tourists.
Distance from Palace: Approx. 5 km
Timings: 6:30 AM - 8:30 PM
Entry Fee: Free
5. Nyay Mandir
Nyay Mandir is a historic building in Vadodara that showcases beautiful Indo-Saracenic architecture. Built during the rule of the Gaekwad dynasty, it once served as a courthouse. The structure features detailed carvings, arches and a grand façade that reflects colonial-era design. Though it is not a typical tourist attraction, it is worth visiting for architecture lovers and history enthusiasts. The building stands as a reminder of Vadodara’s administrative and cultural past.
Distance from Palace: Approx. 2 km
Timings: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (outer view mostly)
Entry Fee: Free
Travel Tips for Laxmi Vilas Palace
Visit early in the day: Reach soon after opening to avoid crowds and explore comfortably
Carry water and sunscreen: The palace grounds are large and Vadodara can get quite warm
Follow photography rules: Photography is restricted inside so check guidelines before clicking pictures
Use the audio guide: It helps you understand the history and details of the palace better
Wear comfortable footwear: You will be walking a lot while exploring the estate
Keep ID handy: It may be required for ticket purchase or entry
Plan nearby visits: Combine your trip with places like Sayaji Baug to save time
Avoid peak afternoon hours: Especially during summer as the heat can be intense
Conclusion
Laxmi Vilas Palace is one of the finest examples of royal heritage in Vadodara. From its grand architecture to its rich history, every part of the palace reflects the legacy of the Gaekwad dynasty. The experience goes beyond just sightseeing, offering a glimpse into royal life and cultural richness. Whether it is the stunning interiors, vast gardens or nearby attractions, this palace makes for a memorable visit. For anyone planning a trip to Vadodara, Laxmi Vilas Palace is a must-visit destination that perfectly blends history, beauty and grandeur.
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