What Are The Most Unique Places To Visit Near Vadodara For Weekend?
Baroda, also known as Vadodara, is one of the important cities in Gujarat that also symbolizes culture and history within modern life.
Vadodara lies on the western side of India with several beautiful places around it, worth a short trip or visit over a weekend. Whether you are interested in historical matters, are a nature fan, are adventurous, or just want to get along easily, something is within easy reach nearby.
Here is a rundown of the most unique places to visit near Vadodara during weekends.
What Are The Most Unique Places To Visit Near Vadodara?
Vadodara is fairly well-connected with numerous other famous tourist destinations in Gujarat.
So, the places to visit near Vadodara are diverse. From Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park to Dholka, the nearby attractions of Vadodara offer the most diverse experience for every kind of traveler.
‣ Laxmi Vilas Palace, Vadodara
Indeed, a place not to be missed, the Laxmi Vilas Palace, at the heart of Vadodara, is a majestic Indo-Saracenic architectural style edifice and was the seat for the Gaekwad rulers of Baroda.
One of the largest private residences in India, it has a glimpse of the royal lifestyle. Many arts and artifacts are kept in the museum of Maharaja Fateh Singh.
‣ Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park (40 km from Vadodara)
Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park is a wonderful ensemble of medieval Hindu and Islamic monuments.
Amongst the most beautiful and historic places here is Pavagagh Hill Fort, which provides a breathtaking view, and there’s the historic Kalika Mata Temple in front of the hill on which it sits, making it a treasure for history buffs.
‣ Ajwa Water Park (20 km from Vadodara)
Go to Ajwa Water Park and have fun with your family and friends. It is out of the city, and there is nothing much to do other than indulging in water sports, slides, pools, and the lush greenery while enjoying an easy day.
‣ Sayaji Garden Vadodara
Sayaji Garden, more locally known as Kamati Baug, is one of Gujarat’s oldest and most beautiful gardens.
The garden covers an area of about 45 acres that includes a Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery, a zoo, an aquarium, and very beautiful artificial lakes. The garden has a serene ambiance and historical buildings, making it a great place to relax and walk around.
‣ Dholka (100 km from Vadodara)
Dholka, an ancient town, is blessed with the Sabarmati River and the surrounding hills. Further, it is an archaeological place of importance as the remnants of the Lothal City of the Indus Valley Civilization were found here.
Furthermore, it has excellent architectural hotspots such as the Alif Khan Mosque and the Malav Talav. The Alif Khan Mosque was built in the 15th century, and the Malav Talav, a lake, was built by Maharani Minal Devi in the 11th century.
Moreover, Dholka is home to one of the first Swamirayan temples in the world.
‣ Sur Sagar Lake, Vadodara
Sur Sagar Lake is one of the oldest lakes in the center of Vadodara. In the Maratha period, this lake was constructed to store the water in the city. This water body provides a serene strolling atmosphere dotted by prominent historical places and a temple.
Nature Escapes in Vadodara
When living in nature, you will feel an extra hint of love! f you are a nature lover or want to get away from the city for fresh air, there are many natural escapes near Vadodara.
‣ Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary (65 km from Vadodara)
Nal Sarovar is one of the vital bird sanctuaries in India and, of course, very significant for birding. In the winter seasons, it provides habitat to hundreds of migrating birds.
It is ideally suited to riding on a boat, where one can see marshes, lakes, and birds on one side.It is an escapade in nature, silent and so soothing.
‣ Narmada River (50 km from Vadodara)
The Narmada River is one of the most sacred rivers of India, with beautiful views, and there is ample opportunity to take boat rides and have picnics. The riverbanks are the perfect setting for a serene day in nature, far away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
‣ Hathni Mata Waterfall (80 km from Vadodara)
There are very beautiful waterfalls called Hathni Mata Waterfalls. Situated close to Jambughoda, this one-day excursion involves trekking to get breathtaking views of the waterfalls and lies among green surroundings.
Religious and Spiritual Places near Vadodara
Here at Vadodara, there are many temples, shrines, and places that represent religious pursuits and help the devotee or give a perspective to see the diverse religiosity in Gujarat.
‣ Pavagadh Hill Temple (40 km from Vadodara)
Mahakali Temple is an important center of pilgrimage situated on Pavagadh Hill. The temple was constructed in the 10th century and is dedicated to Goddess Mahakali.
The pilgrims can reach the temple either through cable car or by climbing on the hill and enjoying wonderful views of the region.
You have to reach the temple after climbing 2500 steps. However, you can also take a ropeway service, which takes around 6 minutes and can carry around 400 people in an hour.
After you reach the upper section of the ropeway, from there, you will have to climb another 250 steps to reach the Kalimata Temple, located at the top of a hill with a height of 800 meters.
You can book the ropeway tickets online from the Udan Khatola website. You will have to select the date and slot for the ropeway ride. The ticket price for an adult is INR 150, and for children, it is INR 80.
‣ Kheda (60 kilometers from Vadodara)
Kheda is a small town, and possesses religious significance; for example, it is a location that houses temples, including the Gurudwara of Kheda, attracting Sikh pilgrims to visit there. It further retains the historical and cultural value of the area.
Weekend Getaways near Vadodara
There is innumerable exciting weekend getaways close to Vadodara that make it a fabulous hub for short trips. Some great options are.
‣ Saputara (150 km from Vadodara)
As the only hill station in Gujarat, it is one of the most flocked places on weekends for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Take a boat at Saputara Lake.
Trek to Sunset Point for grand views and visit Table Point for even more scintillating views of the hills and valleys.
‣ Gir National Park (300 km from Vadodara)
The destination for wildlife enthusiasts nowhere is better than the Gir National Park. Gir is the last home of endangered Asiatic lions.
Hence, the safari in Gir cannot be less than a heavenly experience, as one can see those species in their natural surroundings.
‣ Pune (230 km from Vadodara)
Pune is a cultural city with several historical attractions in its sleeves. A weekend here visiting Aga Khan Palace, Shaniwar Wada, and Osho Ashram would ensure a historically and spiritually vibrant weekend.
Scenic Picnic Places Near Vadodara
Perfect for a casual family or friends’ picnic, the scenic picnic places near Vadodara are great for a stress-free day in nature. The spot is perfect for having a beautiful day enjoying the nature!
‣ Kanjeta Lake (50 km from Vadodara)
Kanjeta Lake is a peaceful and beautiful area for a quiet picnic. Its proximity to hills makes it the right spot for bird watching and natural beauty.
Cultural Landmarks Near Vadodara
Explore more cultural landmarks to explore during your travel plan:
‣ Rani Ki Vav in Patan
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Rani Ki Vav showcases the rich cultural and architectural heritage of India. It also featured on the 100-rupee note minted in 2018.
Also known as the Queen’s Stepwell, Rani ki Vav was built by Queen Udayamati in reverence to her husband, King Bhimdev I.
Located on the Saraswati River bank, this stepwell stands out for its technological excellence in sourcing water, its unique sculpture, and its historical significance.
‣ Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery (Vadodara)
A huge quantity of art, sculptures, and artifacts is depicted at Sayaji Garden, a museum house.
Adventure and Wildlife Experiences Around Vadodara
The following destinations are ideal for an adventure-filled or wildlife-filled vacation for adventure enthusiasts and wildlife lovers:
‣ Tithal Beach (170 km from Vadodara)
Tithal Beach is a destination for water sports such as parasailing, jet-skiing, and volleyball. The beach has spectacular views of the Arabian Sea.
What Is The Best Time To Visit The Places Near Vadodara?
Visitations to places near Vadodara would be better planned in October and March since the climatic conditions of these periods would be soothing and apt for outdoor events, tourist trips, or adventure travel.
Summer might turn out to be worse, which would fall between April and June, when temperatures would range above 40 degrees, making travel undesirable.
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