Laxmi Vilas Palace - Vadodara | Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III

Explore the Magnificent Laxmi Vilas Palace – Vadodara

The Laxmi Vilas Palace – Vadodara is a beautiful palace located in the heart of Vadodara, Gujarat. Built by the Gaekwad family, it combines Indian and European styles, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in history and architecture. With its stunning design and rich history, the palace stands as a symbol of royal grandeur.

Address: Gate No.2, Laxmi Vilas Palace Estate, J.N.Marg, Vadodara, Gujarat 390001, India

Timings: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays, because even royalty needs a break)

Time Required: 2 to 3 hours (or more if you’re the photo-happy kind)

Official Website: www.gaekwadsofbaroda.com

💸 Entrance Fee:

Indians: ₹225 per person
Foreigners: ₹400 per person

Maharaja Fatesingh Museum Entry:

Foreigners: ₹150
Indians: ₹60

Heads-up: You’ll get an audio guide with your ticket, which honestly feels like a royal gossip session in your ear — highly recommend using it.

👑 A Palace That’s Still Living Its Best Life

If you’re imagining Laxmi Vilas Palace- vadodara as some dusty old monument — stop right there. This place is still the residence of the royal Gaekwad family, and honestly, it looks fresher than most of us on a Monday morning. Spread across a massive 700 acres, the palace grounds include lush golf courses (yes, plural), ornate gardens, and a cricket ground. Basically, the royal fam’s backyard is bigger than a small town.

And no, you can’t just wander anywhere you like — only certain areas are open to the public, but even those will have you feeling like you just walked into a Sanjay Leela Bhansali set.

History and Architecture of Laxmi Vilas Palace – Vadodara

The palace was the brainchild of the very perfectionist Major Charles Mant. Poor guy supervised the foundation himself, but when it reached 6 feet, he thought he’d messed up his calculations and that the building would collapse. Spoiler alert: it didn’t. But the fear got to him, and he tragically took his own life.

The story didn’t end there though — architect Robert Fellowes Chisholm stepped in and completed the project, giving us the architectural masterpiece we see today. Think Indo-Saracenic style with domes, minarets, arches, and stained glass — like a fancy marriage between East and West.

🪔 That Iconic Tower (No, It’s Not a Clock)

You’ll see this massive 300-feet tower when you’re there — looks all royal and majestic. Originally, Charles Mant wanted it to be a clock tower. But after his death, architect Robert Fellowes Chisholm took over and was like, “Umm… ticking clock 24/7? No thanks.” So, instead, he put a lamp up there. And here’s the best part — when the lamp is lit bright red, it means the Maharaja is in town. Yup, kind of like a royal ‘Do Not Disturb’ sign.

Also, during the day, if you spot a saffron flag at the main gate, that’s your cue: His Highness is home.

🏛️ Inside Scoop: What You’ll See

Durbar Hall – The main audience hall, and trust me, it’s massive. With Venetian mosaic floors, stained glass windows, and ornate furniture — it’s peak royal drama.
Belgian stained glass – It’s everywhere, and no two pieces are the same. Even your kaleidoscope won’t compete.
Arms Gallery & Royal Portraits – Perfect spot to pause and pretend you’re in a period drama.

And don’t skip the Maharaja Fatesingh Museum, housed in the school the royal children once studied in. It’s filled with:

Paintings by Raja Ravi Varma (yes, originals!)
European sculptures and furniture
A rather impressive display of royal cars

🎭 Desi Soul, Videsi Vibe

The Laxmi Vilas Palace is like that perfect mix of desi roots and modern flair. It’s Indian at heart but doesn’t shy away from flaunting its Western touches. Honestly, just like the Maharaja who built it — Sayajirao Gaekwad III. This man was way ahead of his time.

Back in 1890, when most of us were probably still figuring out how to spell “electricity,” this guy had already installed elevators, western plumbing, electric bells, and even an internal telephone system in his palace. A full-blown palace with better amenities than some of our 2025 flats — let that sink in.

He wasn’t just into tech either. Sayajirao was all about education, science, and the arts. He made primary education free and compulsory in 1906 — like a true visionary. Basically, if you’re enjoying school chutti in Gujarat, this Maharaja deserves a little credit.

🎶 Art, Culture, and Some Royal Drama

Under Sayajirao’s rule, Baroda became an artsy hotspot. Musicians, painters, theater artists — all got full-on royal backing. In 1914, he even kickstarted the All India Music Conference, which evolved into the much-loved Baroda Music Festival. Basically, if you love art or architecture (or just want to pretend you do for Instagram), this place is a total gem.

Why Laxmi Vilas Palace Vadodara Should Be on Your Travel List

Laxmi Vilas Palace isn’t just a historical site — it’s a vibe. It’s got royal grandeur, tragic tales, architectural genius, and so many little nuggets of ‘did-you-know’ moments that even non-history buffs will be impressed. Whether you’re a curious traveler, an architecture nerd, or just in it for the royal gossip — this palace won’t disappoint.

Oh, and don’t skip the Fatesingh Museum inside the complex — it’s got vintage cars, sculptures, and artwork that’ll make you feel like you’re casually strolling through history.

📸 Insta Tips, Because Let’s Be Honest…

Wear something flowy — the palace gives serious Rani-core vibes, and you don’t want to show up looking like a tech bro.

Golden hour here is magical — the light hits those stone walls just right.

The garden walks are peaceful, photogenic, and super romantic (even if it’s just you and your iced coffee).

✨ Final Thought? Nah… Just Go!

Whether you’re into royal history, stunning architecture, or just enjoy pretending you’re in a period drama for a day, Laxmi Vilas Palace hits all the right notes. It’s a place where art meets ambition, culture meets comfort, and history lives on — with a glowing red lamp to prove it.

So next time you’re in Gujarat, skip the usual city buzz and step into a palace that’s got both drama and dignity.

More Places to Visit in Gujarat:

Girnar Ropeway in Junagadh – Asia’s second-largest ropeway with stunning hill views.
Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary near Ahmedabad – A peaceful getaway for nature and bird lovers.
Dwarka – One of the Char Dhams and a sacred city for devotees of Lord Krishna.