Local transportation in Rishikesh

Being a small town, most places in Rishikesh are accessible on foot.

However, it is important to know the topography of Rishikesh and where you stay. The east side of the Ganga is walk-friendly as no mode of transportation is allowed.

The west side of the town, also known as the ‘Yoga side’, is accessible via auto and bike. Renting a bicycle/scooter/motorbike is also possible in Rishikesh. 

Motorbikes can be easily hired around the Laxman Jhula area, or it is best to ask your hostel/hotel to arrange one.

The average cost per day for renting a motorbike is Rs. 350-400, and the motorbike costs Rs. 500-1200. Auto-rickshaw or tuk-tuk is also available across the town, but they will charge you heavily.

Best Things to Do in Rishikesh

There is no dearth of amazing places to visit in Rishikesh, and visitors can plan these activities to do in Rishikesh depending on their time availability!

Walk on the Ram Jhula and Lakshman Jhula

Jhula can be translated as Bridge and Laksham Jhula is one of the most popular attractions in Rishikesh.

Ram Jhula and Lakshman Jhula are huge iron suspension bridges over the river Ganga. The names of bridges are based on Indian mythology and are named after Lord Ram and his brother Lakshman, who had crossed the river through this bridge. 

Both bridges are pedestrian bridges, but two-wheelers are allowed to pass through. It makes it a bit congested to walk, but nevertheless, do it. The view of flowing water from the bridge is mesmerising

Chill at the banks of the Ganga River in Rishikesh

This was my favourite activity to do as I stole moments from my work schedule during the morning and evening to simply walk over the rocks on the banks and sit by the calming waters of the Ganga.

There is something unique and soothing about the waters that truly calms the body and mind – maybe it is the cold water touching your feet, or maybe the rippling sound of water over the rocks or the sound of bells from a nearby temple aarti.

The whole thing just works, and you will find a lot of people meditating on the banks.

Learn Yoga in Rishikesh

Whenever someone says Yoga in India, the first place that comes to mind is Rishikesh.

Yoga and Rishikesh go hand in hand, quite literally. So, there is a high possibility of getting overwhelmed by seeing posters and banners on literally every street and corner advertising the best yoga course.

There is also a chance that the hotel you are staying at will have an early yoga/meditation class. But let’s face it, Rishikesh is not called a yoga capital for no reason!

There are 1-day classes, and then there are courses spanning weeks and months. Hatha Yoga is the most popular yoga type in Rishikesh. Other than that, Kundalini and Vinyasa yoga are also the preferred choices by visitors. Visitors can also enrol for Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh.

If you are in Rishikesh for a weekend or a short while and want to learn yoga, the best option is to take up the class which is generally offered by your hotel/hostel. If you wish to go to a professional class or to an ashram, the cost is Rs. 200-300 for 90 90-minute duration.

Enrol in various courses in Rishikesh

Other than yoga, there are many kinds of courses up for grabs, such as meditation, body massage, aromatherapy, breathing course, nutrition, Ayurveda, singing, music, Indian cooking, and many more! If you have the time and enthusiasm, I say go for it.

Bungee Jumping in Rishikesh

Rishikesh has India’s highest Bungee Jumping platform at a height of 83 metres, which is located just outside Rishikesh. This one is for all the adrenaline junkies who have waited for a long to have this thrill in India. The jump needs to be pre-booked, and visitors should keep aside a day for this, as the to-and-fro transfer would easily take up 5-6 hours.

Camping in Rishikesh

Camping in Rishikesh along the Ganga River is an extremely popular activity. Camping can be combined with white water rafting, and many camps are offering 1N2D packages with strict environmental measures.

Experience nature and wildlife in Rajaji National Park

If you are a wildlife enthusiast like me who tries to find every possible opportunity to spot wildlife parks on every work trip, then Rishikesh will not disappoint. If you fancy trying to spot some wildlife, including Tigers, whilst in Rishikesh, then get booked onto a Jungle Safari! 

Unlike other national parks, Rajaji National Park does not require booking, and the tickets can be purchased from the gate. Like all national parks, it is closed from 15th June to 15th October, and the safari is done in an open jeep vehicle. The duration of the safari is the standard of 3 hours.

Though claimed to spot tigers, there have been few instances of actually spotting one! However, Elephants, Spotted Deer, Sambhar, Wild Boar, Barking deer, Goral, Himalayan Black Bear and Sloth Bear are some of the wildlife that can be seen here!

White Water River Rafting in Rishikesh

Probably one of the top things to do in Rishikesh, white water rafting in Rishikesh is not to be missed! I did white water rafting in Goa, and it was an amazing experience. I wanted to try it in Rishikesh, probably combining it with camping.

There are many adventure enthusiasts who go to Rishikesh just for White water rafting specifically. Rafting rapids in Rishikesh are distributed under various grades (I, II, III, IV and IV+), which are the highest in India and the most adventurous.

Ganga Aarti in Rishikesh

Ganga aarti in Rishikesh happens at the Parmarth Niketan Ashram after the Ram Jhula Bridge.

It is unlike what happens in Haridwar with big diyas, which are nothing less than mesmerising. So I was a bit disappointed with the Rishikesh aarti, where there was some chanting and people left their diyas in the river.

There is a Lord Shankar statue which has a bridge, and visitors can go on top of this and watch the aarti from here.

Kunjapuri Temple Sunrise

I love trekking and I love sunrises! Combine the two at Kunjapuri temple to witness a stunning sunrise overlooking the Himalayan mountains and an even more incredible view of the glistening Ganga river.

Kunjapuri temple sunrise is one of the offbeat things to do in Rishikesh. It is approximately 25km away and an easy walk, so one has to wake up super early and start by 4:30 am to reach the sunrise point. There are group tours to the sunrise point with transportation, or you can even take a car if you are too lazy to trek. 

Drench in the Neergarh Waterfall

Neergarh waterfall in Rishikesh, also known as ‘Neer Gaddu’, is a lovely waterfall, situated about 7 km from Lakshman Jhula. The trek through the misty forests sets the scene and makes the adventure all the more worthwhile. Be careful, as there are monkeys on the trail.

The crystal blue colour of the pool is soothing, and the cold water is super refreshing after the one-hour trek! Yes, swimming or bathing is possible and allowed here, but since the pool is shallow, diving and jumping are not allowed. 

Birds and Butterflies will be seen on the trail, and wildflowers will be in bloom, adding beauty to this wonderful spot. There’s also a rich variety of flowers and trees for real nature lovers.

Water, soft drinks, noodles and tea are available at Neergarh Waterfall from a small tin shack across the bridge.

Explore the Beatles Ashram

The Beatles Ashram is located in Rishikesh, visiting places and is on the list by both foreign visitors and Indian visitors. Basically, your visit and my Rishikesh travel guide are incomplete without this featuring here. You can read more about its history here.

Shopping in Rishikesh

Whether it is a souvenir, woollen clothes and shawls or ayurvedic products, Rishikesh shopping is fun. Must buy from Rishikesh includes essential oils, natural beauty products, candles and mountain fruit squash – Ramphal juice, Rhododendron juice, Leh berry juice and others! I shopped for some Rajma (kidney beans) as they grow in these mountainous areas and are so yummy and cheaper than in the cities!

Best Places to Eat in Rishikesh | Best Cafes in Rishikesh

Rishikesh is abundant in cafes and restaurants offering good, healthy food. Be aware that since it is a holy place, you will not find non-vegetarian food or alcohol here. However, there are plenty of Vegetarian and Vegan options at a great price! The following places were highly recommended.

Little Buddha Cafe

So many people recommended I visit this when I asked on my Instagram stories, so I just had to check this out. I went for dinner and it was jam-packed. And 2 of my colleagues got a table here after 45 minutes of waiting. I bet the view from here must be great, as I could hear the Ganga waters rippling in the distance. 

I tried the watermelon juice and thukpa on a friend’s suggestion and both were good!

Ganga View Cafe 

As the name suggests, it has a fantastic view of the Ganga from its balcony. A few meters from Lakshman Jhula, it is known for its multi-cuisine food.

Other great cafes are Shambala for live music, The Beatles Cafe – I rest my case, The Bakeries and TAT cafe.

Where to Stay in Rishikesh

It is best to choose a place in the north of Rishikesh that is near the Lakshman Jhula as everything is within walking distance. There are many options to choose from – hotels, hostels and even ashrams.

Hotels in Rishikesh

Hotels are abundant in Rishikesh. Kunwar Residency is a good-budget hotel. Hotel Ishan provides spectacular river views.

Guest House in Rishikesh

I stayed with the Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN) as I was on a work trip. It is also called the Ganga Resort. The view from my balcony was breathtaking, and I simply crossed the guesthouse wall to soak my feet in the icy cold Ganga water. It is as good as a hotel and very cosy, and clean, with homely food. The price is on the higher side as it is a government guest house.

There are many guest houses which do not book online. They may reserve a room on the phone in the offseason, but it is best to just go and book in person with luggage. Generally, the rooms are basic but available. 

Hostels in Rishikesh

There are a lot of good hostels in Rishikesh. Shiv Shakti Hostel, Live Free Hostel, and hostel chains such as Hosteller and Zostel Rishikesh are also good options.

Ashrams in Rishikesh

Rishikesh has a lot of Ashrams wherein one can stay for a longer duration, especially if you have enrolled for yoga courses. Ashrams in Rishikesh offer a one-week package which includes daily yoga, activities and meals. It is best if you are looking to detoxify as the good meals, silence, meditation and yoga, will be soulful for the mind and body.

Sivananda Ashram, The Omkarananda Ashram, Parmarth Niketan Ashram are some of the recommended ones.

How to reach Rishikesh

By Train

Rishikesh does not have its train station, but Haridwar does, which is about 20km away and an easy auto-rickshaw ride away. Haridwar can be easily reached by many trains coming from Mumbai, Delhi and Ahmedabad. 

By Bus

You can reach Rishikesh from Delhi, Mumbai and even from other hill states of India such as Manali and Dharamshala. There are many options to choose from – sitting coaches, sleeper coaches, AC, Non AC, and the price is generally from Rs 500-2500, depending upon which kind of bus you choose.

By Air

The closest airport is Dehradun Airport, which is 25km from Rishikesh. You can get a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to take you to Rishikesh. 

Sustainable tips for Things to do in Rishikesh

• Rishikesh is a hill town and is already reeling under the heavy influence of polythene. It is best to avoid polythene bags, so do not use single-use or disposable plastic. Dispose of biscuit wrappers, wafer packets, and juice boxes in designated bins. Do not litter the highways, places of tourist interest or riverbanks.
• Be a responsible and respectful tourist. Do not bring alcohol or non-vegetarian items into the holy city.
• Respect nature during adventure activities and do not harm it in any form. A single cigarette butt can give rise to fires hurting the economy of the entire region.

I hope this blog on things to do in Rishikesh will help you to plan your trip. Did I miss out on any places to visit in Rishikesh? Let me know in the comments below, and I will check it out the next time I am in Devbhoomi Uttarakhand, aka Rishikesh.

Read More Uttarakhand posts here:

• Places to visit in Nainital
• Pangot, Bhimtal, Sattal Birding
• Guchhu Pani, Dehradun
• Jim Corbett National Park
• Chopta Chandrashila Trek

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. It means it adds no extra cost to you if you book through the link, but I get a referral bonus which helps me earn a little to keep this website up and running.

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Places to visit in Vadodara (Baroda)

Here is what makes Vadodara stand out amongst the other cities of Gujarat.

Lakshmi Vilas Palace Vadodara

The residence of the erstwhile ruler of Baroda – Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, Lakshmi Vilas Palace speaks grandeur, affluence and is the perfect showcase of luxury. This is one of the famous places in Vadodara that is must visit.

Built-in Indo-Gothic style of architecture, the palace is spread over 700 acres and is known to be four times larger than London’s Buckingham Palace. The palace has over 170 rooms and still serves as the residence of the Gaekwad family.

The palace is a sight to behold with its multicoloured marble, mosaic tiles, water fountains, chandeliers and paintings. There are artworks that are embedded with semi-precious stones and gold and walls with stained glass which is a classic example of opulence from that era. All of this overlooking a huge golf course. The Durbar Hall is the most exquisite place in the entire palace which often hosts music concerts and cultural events. Unfortunately, photography is prohibited inside the palace.

Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum in the same premises is the museum showcasing Gaekwad family’s art and artefacts collection. 

Entry fees: INR 200 which includes an audio guide in many Indian and International languages

Lakshmi Vilas Palace Vadodara  timings: 9:30 am – 5:00 pm (closed every Monday)

Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery

The biggest attraction for me while visiting the Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery was the skeleton of a Blue Whale across a huge hall. As a kid, I used to get amused, excited and just in awe of the size of the museum. I would simply zoom past the collection of art, sculpture, ethnography and ethnology in the museum just to see this skeleton. And it was totally worth it!

Apart from the blue whale skeleton, the museum is also popular for an Egyptian mummy.

The building itself is a heritage building which is inspired by the Victoria & Albert Museum in London and is built in the Indo-Saracenic style. There are also exhibits on natural history and earth sciences.

The picture gallery contains a wide range of collections of textiles, paintings and miniatures. The museum library houses about 23,000 books on various subjects, most of which are rare. No wonder it is one of the best places to visit in Baroda.

Entry fees: INR 10 

Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery timings: 10:30 am – 5:30 pm

Kirti Mandir

Every local knows Kirti Mandir as the place where the annual Rangoli exhibition takes place around Diwali. Kirti Mandir is an extremely popular landmark as well as an exhibition space with lovely gardens. 

Kirti Mandir as the name suggests is actually a temple. The area houses a cluster of temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and also houses the cenotaphs of the royal family.

The temple’s interiors are made of marble and decorated with intricately carved murals. One of the important murals within the premises are the five wall paintings showing various phases of the battle of Mahabharata, and some episodes from Indian mythology. 

Entry fees: Free

Kirti Mandir timings: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm

Khanderao Market

I remember early morning trips to the old city for buying vegetables in bulk.

Khanderao Market is the most vibrant vegetable market which comes to life at the crack of dawn. Vegetables, fruits, fresh flowers, puja materials and just about everything is available here in small shops. 

The entrance building itself is architecturally striking as it was gifted by the king to the people of the city on the silver jubilee of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III.

It consists of two domed shaped structures that resemble a Hindu temple with a clock tower in its centre. Part of the building also houses the office of the Vadodara Municipal Corporation. 

Entry fees: Free

Khanderao market timings: 05:00 am – 08:00 pm

Aurobindo Ashram Vadodara

While writing about Vadodara places to visit, I had to mention Aurobindo Ashram.

Vadodara houses the Aurobindo Ashram which is a community centre founded by the Indian freedom fighter, philosopher and yoga guru Aurobindo Ghose. The centre is perfect for meditation and yoga just like its counterpart in Pondicherry. This ashram served as the residence of Aurobindo Ghose during his stay in Baroda (1894 – 1906). Aurobindo Ashram Vadodara has a library, study room and sales emporium. 

Entry fees: Free

Opening hours: 6am – 8pm

Sursagar Lake

Spending some time at Sursagar Lake is one of the best visiting places in Vadodara.

Sursagar has been one of the important landmarks of Vadodara since the beginning of time. It has been the centre of Ganesh Visarjan every year and it was at that time of the year when devotees came out in large numbers to pay their respects and bid adieu to the Elephant headed god in different sizes, shapes and colours and asking him to come early next year.

Sursagar has probably witnessed how the labyrinthine pols (lanes) gave way to roads, ancient bazaars paved the way to shopping malls and old-styled bungalows made space for apartments, over the years in Vadodara.

Formerly known as Chandan Talav, Sursagar was a small pond in the princely state of Baroda. The lake was rebuilt in the 18th century with stone banks and masonry which is when it was renamed Sursagar.

Sursagar is still one of the iconic structures which define Vadodara especially because of the installation of the 120-foot tall statue of Lord Shiva in the middle of this lake. Ganesh Visarjan is no longer permitted but there is a walkway around the lake and boating facility where one can spend time. The lake is lit on weekend evenings and the idol is lit on special festivals. 

If boating and walking make you hungry there are ample street food stalls around the lake periphery to indulge in some guilt-free snacking!

Entry fees: Free

Timings: Always Open

Sayaji Baug / Kamati Baug Vadodara

Being a Banyan city, not only are there a lot of trees but maintained gardens across the city. Sayaji Baug, locally known as Kamati Baug, is one of the top sights in Vadodara and one of the most popular places to visit in Vadodara. 

Spread over 100 acres, Kamati Baug is one of the biggest gardens in Western India. The garden houses, Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery, Amphitheatre, an aquarium, zoo, health museum, planetarium, a toy train and a flowerbed clock.

There are supposedly 96 species of trees in the perfectly manicured garden. The garden also has a kid’s area with swings and other toys. 

Entry fees: Free (for the garden), 

INR 40 for adults and INR 20 for kids (for toy train)

INR 10 for adults and INR 5 for kids (for zoo)

Vadodara Planetarium

The Sardar Patel Planetarium is one of the unmissable places in Vadodara to visit. 

Nestled in Vadodara’s Sayaji Baug, the planetarium has a 200-seat capacity, which displays awe-striking videos of space. It has state-of-the-art sound systems and a curved projection screen that hosts shows in English, Gujarati & Hindi focusing on astronomical history. 

Entry fees: INR 10

Timings: 4.00 pm in Gujarati, 5.00 pm in English and 6.00 pm in Hindi

EME temple

While there are many beautiful temples in Vadodara city, this particular temple has been a favourite among the locals.

Also known as Dakshinamurti temple, EME stands for Electrical and Mechanical Corps and is situated in the Army Cantonment campus. It is not a typical temple structure which is why it is so popular. 

The temple is unique because of its geodesic design and is made from aluminium sheets.

The temple incorporates holy symbols from five major religions practised in India in its structure thus signifying secularism in the army. The Kalash on the top symbolises Hinduism, the Dome signifies Islam, the Tower represents Christianity, the Golden-structure above the tower expresses Buddhism and the Entrance stands for Jainism. 

The area around the temple has lovely manicured gardens and pathways with ancient statues. 

Entry fees: Free

Timings: 06:30 am – 8:30 pm

Sevasi Vav

Located on the outskirts of the city, towards Sindhrot lies an offbeat gem – Sevasi Vav. Other than the Navlakhi Vav in Lakshmi Vilas Palace, I did not know that step wells existed in Vadodara!

It was a rare and amazing find on one of my recent trip to Vadodara and I instantly knew this had to be added to the list of places to visit in Vadodara.

Not in the best of condition, Sevasi vav is a seven-storey stepwell with a residing deity which is why it is clean. Constructed in a combination of brick masonry it has been standing strong for 500 years. Visitors can get a glimpse of carvings on the walls and pillars such as motifs, floral prints, bells, and animals.

Read in detail here: Sevasi Vav, Vadodara

Entry fees: Free

Timings: Always open

Places to visit in Vadodara old city

While walls of the city have disappeared, the gates which defined its boundary still remain intact and house bustling bazaars.

Mandvi gate, Gendi gate, Laheripura gate, and Pani gate reflect a blend of Islamic and Maratha architecture.

Raopura clock tower

Also known as the Maharani Chimnabai tower, the Indo-Saracenic structure was built in 1896 in memory of Maharani Chimnabai, the first wife of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III. The clock was brought by the Maharaja from London and installed in a five-storey building with a clock facing all four directions on the 4th floor. The clock still works and chimes every hour. Raopura tower is lit up in the evenings.

Note: Entry inside the tower is not allowed.

Entry fees: Free

Timings: Always Open

Kirti Stambh

Kirti Stambh, translated as the Pillar of Triumph is a well-known landmark of Vadodara. It was built in the year 1935 to mark the 60 years of rule of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III. It is now situated on a traffic island located on an arterial road linking Lakshmi Vilas Palace gate to the city. The tower has a monolithic stone column having a seated lion facing towards the palace gate.

Entry fees: Free

Timings: Always Open

Tambekar Wada

Tambekar Wada is a typical Maratha style 3-storeyed building which was the former residence of Diwan of Baroda State – Vithal Khanderao Tambekar. The interior of the house is full of vibrant paintings, frescos and murals which decorate the walls, doors, and ceiling.

Read in detail about Frescos of Tambekar Wada

Entry fees: Free

Timings: 10:00 am to 05:00 pm

Festivals in Vadodara

Talking about things to do in Vadodara and not mentioning festivals is impossible!

Due to the cosmopolitan nature of the city, there are people residing from all states of India and all festivals are celebrated in equal fervour. Be it Ganesh Chaturthi, Holi, Chhath Puja, Durga Puja, Onam or Uttarayan. However, Vadodara is extremely popular for Navratri. Navratri in Vadodara is different from all the other cities where it is celebrated in its traditional form. United Way of Baroda and Maa Arkee organizes Navratri wherein over 100,000 participants dance to the same steps on the traditional song beats in traditional attires.

Shopping in Vadodara

Like every city in Gujarat, Vadodara is no less when it comes to shopping varieties. Shopping in Vadodara is amazing as it comfortably settled between the polyester manufacturing town of Surat and Cotton manufacturing town of Ahmedabad. Locals enjoy shopping in the following two bazaars which sell everything from a safety pin to furniture. 

Nava Bazaar

Nava Bazar is the one-stop-shop for all your Navratri needs! The shops come to life as soon as Ganesh Visarjan is over with a variety of festival merchandise. Chaniya Choli, Oxidized jewellery with fancy footwear is something not to be missed for shopping. While this bazaar is popular during Navratri, it is open all around the year and sells other Indian outfits.

Mangal Bazaar

The different alleys of Mangal Bazaar lead you to different kinds of markets. There are bylanes selling utensils, bags, outfits, toys, decorative lights and just about everything one can imagine. This is a one-stop for your household and utility needs. 

Baroda Prints

Baroda prints is a famous store in Vadodara which started almost 60 years ago and is now a brand in itself. The store sells fabrics and readymade garments with traditional block prints and it is one of the most preferred shopping destinations in Baroda.

Places to visit near Vadodara

While there are many places to visit in Vadodara city, there are many places around the city which are perfect 1-day picnic spots near Vadodara. Some of them are

Sindhrot

Sindhrot was a weekend getaway for most citizens. It offered a great drive amidst the forest to reach a bridge – Sindhrot bridge, build over the Mahi River. Having corn overlooking the sunset was a favourite time pass.

Sindhrot since then has a plethora of activities such – Kayaking, go-karting, nature trail, birdwatching, etc. There are a few hotels and cafes on the banks of Mahi that offer gorgeous views with food.

Pavagadh

Come rains and Vadodara residents run to Pavagadh to catch a glimpse of greenery and waterfalls. In other seasons too, Pavagadh offers a quick getaway for trekkers, nature enthusiasts and religious devotees. Pavagadh, a small hillock in the Panchmahal district is also the first place in Gujarat to install a ropeway. The second ropeway came up in Girnar –Asia’s longest ropeway.

Champaner

A stone’s throw away from Pavagadh is the UNESCO Heritage site of Champaner. This Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park is a 16th-century Hindu city with fortresses, temples, mosques & palaces. the sculptures engraved on the stones of the walls tell a tale of the bygone era.

Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary

Located 70 km away from Vadodara lies the famed Jambughoda wildlife sanctuary. It is an oasis of forest with wildlife and birds. A perfect weekend treat with nature.

Statue of Unity

The Statue of Unity is the world’s tallest statue and it is the statue of Shri Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Built as a memorial to the contributions of Sardar Vallabhbhai in the country’s freedom struggle and the stellar role he played in unifying the country into a nation. Read More here: One day trip from Ahmedabad to Statue of Unity

Kabirvad

Kabirvad is located on the banks of river Narmada which meets the Arabian Sea, near Bharuch. It is one of the favourite picnic spots for the families of Vadodara.

Must try food in Vadodara

Vadodara is a treat for foodies, with a range of restaurants and eateries that are as vast and varied as to serve the varied likes of people in the city. Vadodara has something for everyone, be it a vegetarian Gujarati thali, North Indian Chaat, South Indian Idly Sambar, or even oriental dishes. Food is also a big part of things to do in Vadodara at night. One can visit the Ratri Bazaar.

Read a detailed guide about Street food of Vadodara.

How to reach Vadodara

By flight

Vadodara has a domestic airport with connectivity to Delhi, Bangalore and Mumbai.

By train

Vadodara is a major station on the Western Railway network and is well-connected to Mumbai, Delhi, Indore and states of UP, Bihar, Odisha.

By road

Regular bus services connect Vadodara to all cities within Gujarat as well as to Mumbai, MP and Rajasthan. 

Stay in Vadodara

From humble homestays to luxurious resorts, from hotels to heritage properties, Vadodara has great options for a comfortable and cosy stay. Here are some of the options

Homestay: G Homestay, Hirva Homes

Mid-range hotel: Fern Residency, Hotel Express Towers

Luxury stay: Vivanta Vadodara, WelcomHotel Vadodara

Heritage stay: Madhav Bagh Royal Heritage Stay

Best time to visit Vadodara

Best time to visit Vadodara is between November and February when the weather is pleasant.

FAQs for Places to visit in Vadodara

What is Vadodara known for?

Vadodara is Gujarat’s third largest city and known as the cultural capital of the state. It is situated on the banks of the river Vishwamistri and is known to be an educational hub.

What is the old name for Vadodara?

Vadodara was once called Chandravati, after its ruler Raja Chandan, then Viravati, the abode of the brave, and then Vadpatra because of the abundance of banyan trees on the banks of the Vishwamitri. From Vadpatra it derived its present name Baroda or Vadodara.

Is Vadodara worth visiting?

Yes! Vadodara has many tourist attractions and is close to many important tourist destinations in Gujarat. From palaces and temples to historical destinations and cultural potpourri, Vadodara has it all!

Are Baroda and Vadodara same?

Yes, Vadodara, is also called Baroda.

Sustainable travel tips for places to visit in Vadodara

• Most places have drinking water facilities so carry a reusable water bottle.
• India is a conservative country with hot weather so wear the right clothes. Skirt and pants till knee level are good. Avoid spaghetti and tank tops. Cover your shoulders with a scarf if necessary.
• Choose local food wherever possible.
• Do not litter tourist places. Always use a dustbin.
• Do not harm the palace, forts and temple structures by carving or writing on it
• Do not enter places which are closed. 

Read About More cities from Gujarat

• Camping in Beyt Dwarka
• Bhuj
• Jamnagar
• Mandvi

Disclaimer – This post contains affiliate links. It means it adds no extra cost to you if you book through the link but I get a referral bonus which helps me earn a little to keep this website up and running.

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