10 Things to Do in Laxmi Vilas Palace, Vadodara, India
The Laxmi Vilas Palace of Vadodara in India is a stunning example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. It is one of the largest private residences in the world and is four times the size of Buckingham Palace. Built in 1890, it is the residence of the Gaekwad family, who are the former rulers of Baroda. The palace is open to the public and has many attractions to explore. Here are 10 things to do in the Laxmi Vilas Palace.
1. Visit the Darbar Hall
The Darbar Hall is the grandest room in the palace. It is a large hall with a marble floor, a high ceiling, and a grand marble staircase. It is decorated with intricate murals, paintings, and sculptures. The hall is used for royal receptions and state functions.
2. Explore the Moti Baug Palace
The Moti Baug Palace is a smaller palace within the Laxmi Vilas Palace. It was built in the late 19th century and is now used as a museum. The palace has many artifacts from the Gaekwad family, including furniture, paintings, and sculptures.
3. Tour the Picture Gallery
The Picture Gallery is a large room with walls covered in paintings of the Gaekwad family. It also contains paintings of important historical figures, such as Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru.
4. Visit the Laxmi Vilas Zoo
The Laxmi Vilas Zoo is located within the palace grounds. It is home to a variety of animals, including tigers, lions, leopards, and zebras. The zoo also has a reptile house and an aviary.
5. See the Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum
The Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum is a museum dedicated to the Gaekwad family. It contains artifacts from their reign, such as weapons, jewelry, and paintings.
6. Take a Tour of the Palace Gardens
The palace grounds are home to over 400 acres of gardens. The gardens are filled with lush greenery, colorful flowers, and beautiful fountains.
7. Go Shopping at the Palace Bazaar
The Palace Bazaar is a market located within the palace grounds. It is filled with local artisans selling their wares, such as jewelry, clothing, and handicrafts.
8. Explore the Laxmi Vilas Palace Library
The Laxmi Vilas Palace Library is a large library filled with books from the Gaekwad family. It also contains rare manuscripts and documents.
9. Visit the Palace Observatory
The Palace Observatory is a large observatory located within the palace grounds. It is home to a variety of telescopes and instruments used for stargazing.
10. Take a Tour of the Palace
The Laxmi Vilas Palace offers guided tours of the palace grounds and its many attractions. The tour takes visitors through the palace’s grand halls, its gardens, and its many other attractions.
The Laxmi Vilas Palace is a stunning example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. It is home to many attractions, from its grand Darbar Hall to its lush gardens. There is plenty to explore and experience in this grand palace. Whether you are looking to explore its history, take a tour, or go shopping, the Laxmi Vilas Palace has something for everyone.