Welcome to the royal world of Laxmi Vilas Palace Vadodara in 2024, where amazing architecture, luxury, and history come together to create a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Open to exploration from 09:30 a.m. to 05:00 p.m. every day, excluding Mondays, Laxmi Vilas Palace offers a captivating experience for enthusiasts of history and culture. For Indian citizens, the entry fee is Rs. 250, while foreign visitors can indulge in the regal ambiance for Rs. 525, inclusive of a mesmerizing audio tour that unravels the secrets within the palace walls.
Our article will explore the rich history of this timeless landmark, which dates back to 1890 when Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III had the vision of a palace that would stand the test of time. Discover the architectural grandeur, adorned with Indo-Saracenic influences, and explore the secrets held within its 700-acre expanse. The Laxmi Vilas Palace is waiting for you, inviting you to enter an earlier time where tales of beauty and charm seem to come from every wall.
History of Laxmi Vilas Palace:
The building of Laxmi Vilas Palace in Vadodara in 1890 was approved by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, whose separated authority is closely linked to the palace’s history. Maharaja Sayajirao was a visionary leader who wanted to construct a residence suitable of the grandeur of the Baroda state and his position as a royal.
With the help of Robert Fellows Chisholm, Major Charles Mant created the architectural wonder, which took an amazing 12 years to finish. The palace, which occupies more than 700 acres, is evidence of the Gaekwad family’s lavish lifestyle. Its Indo-Saracenic architectural style exhibits a harmonious combination of cultural influences, seamlessly fusing elements from Hindu, Mughal, and Gothic designs.
Architecture and Construction:
Constructed over a span of 12 years, Laxmi Vilas Palace is an Indo-Saracenic masterpiece designed by the main architect, Major Charles Mant, with support from Robert Fellows Chisholm. Spanning an impressive 700 acres, the palace is four times the size of Buckingham Palace. With minarets, domes, and arches, its architectural style skillfully combines Gothic, Hindu, and Mughal elements. The interiors have been decorated with lavish elements like chandeliers, mosaics, and priceless artwork.
Facts About Laxmi Vilas Palace:
- Largest private residence till date.
- Four times the size of Buckingham Palace.
- Equipped with elevators during its construction.
- Resembles a massive European country house.
- Still home to the erstwhile royal family.
Vadodara Laxmi Vilas Palace Valuation:
The Laxmi Vilas Palace is a testament to the grandeur of the Gaekwad family. The palace, valued at a staggering Rs 27,00,000 during its construction, now holds an estimated worth of over Rs 24,000 crores, considering the prevailing property rates in the area.
Timings to Visit Laxmi Vilas Palace:
- Timings: 09:30 a.m. to 05:00 p.m. (Closed on Mondays)
- Recommended Visit Time: Between 10:30 a.m. and 12:00 p.m.
- Best Time to Visit: October to December
Laxmi Vilas Palace Ticket Prices:
- The palace entrance fee is Rs. 250 for Indians and Rs. 525 for foreign visitors per person.
How to Reach Laxmi Vilas Palace:
By Air:
The Vadodara Airport is the nearest airport to Vadodara and is located about 7 km from the Laxmi Vilas Palace.
By Train:
Laxmi Vilas Palace is about 4 km away from Vadodara Railway Station.
By Road:
Vadodara is well-connected to other cities in Gujarat and neighboring states by road.
Laxmi Vilas Palace Nearby Places to Visit:
- Gaekwad Baroda Golf Club
- Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum
- Sayaji Baug
- Sursagar Lake
- Nyay Mandir
- Baroda Museum And Picture Gallery
- Kirti Mandir
- EME Temple
- Inorbit Mall Vadodara
- Statue of Unity, Kevadia
- Pavagadh Hills and Nilkanth Dham Poicha
Entertainment and Activities:
- Swimming pool with Jacuzzi and baby pool
- Ayurvedic massage center
- Puppet shows
- Children’s play area
- Sightseeing tours
Important Details:
- Address: Gate No.2, Laxmi Vilas Palace Estate, J. N. Marg, Vadodara, Gujarat
- Area: Across 700 acres
- Contact Number: +91-7227939902
- Owner: The Gaekwad family
- Notable Movies Filmed: Prem Rog (1982), Dil Hi Toh Hai (1993), Sardaar Gabbar Singh (2016), Grand Masti (2013), and more.
End Notes:
The journey to Laxmi Vilas Palace promises an immersive experience rich in luxury, beauty, and architectural history. As visitors start the royal road or trace the railway tracks leading to Vadodara Junction, the anticipation builds, setting the stage for an encounter with a timeless masterpiece. Whether arriving by car, train, or airplane, each mode of transportation contributes to the unfolding narrative of the charm of the palace.
Laxmi Vilas Palace stands not only as a testament to a glorious past but as a living testament to the enduring legacy of Vadodara and its princely heritage. This trip goes beyond the typical, providing a window into culture, history, and a royal welcome of a site that will still attract people in 2024.
Image Credit: Wikimedia
FAQs:
Built in 1890 by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, Laxmi Vilas Palace is a symbol of Vadodara’s princely heritage, designed by Major Charles Mant.
Estimates suggest a staggering value, potentially exceeding Rs 24,000 crores, considering the heritage and property prices in the area.
Constructed over 12 years starting in 1890, the main architect was Major Charles Mant, supported by Robert Fellows Chisholm.
Indo-Saracenic in style, the palace boasts Mughal, Hindu, and Gothic influences, with minarets, domes, and arches. The interiors showcase chandeliers, mosaics, and precious artworks.
Yes, the palace is open from 10:00 a.m. to 04:30 p.m., every day except Monday. The recommended time for a visit is between 10:30 a.m. and 12:00 p.m.
The palace entrance fee is Rs. 250 for Indian citizens and Rs. 525 for foreign visitors.
The palace is accessible by car through National Highway No. 8, by train through Vadodara Junction, and by airplane via Vadodara Airport (BDQ).
Explore nearby attractions such as Gaekwad Baroda Golf Club, Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum, Sayaji Baug, Sursagar Lake, and more.