Laxmi Vilas Palace

About The Laxmi Vilas Palace

The Laxmi Vilas Palace in Vadodara, also known as Baroda, is one of the grandest and most magnificent structures in India. It was built by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III in 1890, who ruled the state of Baroda from 1875 to 1939. The palace is spread over 700 acres and is four times the size of Buckingham Palace, making it the largest private dwelling in the world. The architecture of the palace is a blend of Indo-Saracenic, Hindu, and European styles, making it a unique and stunning sight to behold.

Timings Of Laxmi Vilas Palace

The Laxmi Vilas Palace is open to visitors from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm every day, except Mondays and public holidays.

Entry Fee

The entry fee for visiting the Laxmi Vilas Palace is INR 200 for Indian nationals and INR 400 for foreign tourists. There is also an additional fee for photography and videography inside the palace.

Required Time And Restricted Items

It is recommended to allocate at least 2-3 hours to explore the Laxmi Vilas Palace thoroughly. Visitors are not allowed to bring food, pets, or large bags inside the palace premises.

Architecture Of Laxmi Vilas Palace

The architecture of the Laxmi Vilas Palace is a stunning mix of various styles, including Indo-Saracenic, Hindu, and European influences. The palace features intricate carvings, ornate frescoes, beautiful stained glass windows, and a grand Durbar Hall with a Venetian mosaic floor.

Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit the Laxmi Vilas Palace is during the winter months of October to March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring the palace grounds.

How To Reach

The Laxmi Vilas Palace is located in the city of Vadodara, which is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is Vadodara Airport, around 7 km away from the palace. Vadodara Junction Railway Station is the closest railhead, just 2 km from the palace.

History Of Laxmi Vilas Palace

The Laxmi Vilas Palace was built by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III to showcase the wealth and grandeur of the Baroda State. The palace has been home to the Gaekwad royal family for generations and has witnessed many historic events over the years.

Inside Laxmi Vilas Palace

Inside the Laxmi Vilas Palace, visitors can explore the various rooms and halls that showcase the opulence and grandeur of the royal lifestyle. Highlights include the Darbar Hall, the Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum, the royal family’s private living quarters, and the palace grounds with lush gardens and fountains.

Traveling Tips

It is advisable to wear comfortable footwear as exploring the palace grounds can be tiring. It is also recommended to carry a water bottle and sunscreen, especially during the summer months.

Hotels Near Laxmi Vilas Palace

There are several hotels near the Laxmi Vilas Palace where visitors can stay, including the Welcomhotel Vadodara, Hotel Sayaji, and Grand Mercure Vadodara Surya Palace.

Nearby Tourist Spots Of Laxmi Vilas Palace

Some of the nearby tourist spots worth visiting include the Sayaji Baug, Kirti Mandir, Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum, and the Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park.