Vadodara, also called Baroda is positioned on the south-eastern part of Ahmedabad. Vadodara boasts of a rich cultural heritage and traditions. It is not for nothing that Vadodara is also referred to as the ‘Sanskari Nagari’. The city is considered to be a great educational center. It should be mentioned that it is a matter of great pride for Vadodara that its MS University is the only University in entire Gujarat with English as the medium of instruction. Besides these, there are a number of monuments in Vadodara that have increased the importance of the city from the tourist view point.
Among the most popular and impressive monuments, foremost mention must be made of the Laxmi Vilas Palace, Vadodara. Built by Maharaja Sayaji Rao III, the palace is built in the Indo-Sarcenic style. The major highlight of the palace is the ornately done up Durbar Hall that served as the court room of the Gaekwads. The Durbar Hall was the venue where the musical performances were staged to keep the royal family and the royal guests entertained. The chandeliers and exquisite glass work are reflective of the opulence and magnificence of the palace.
The Kirti Mandir is also counted among the Vadodara monuments. This imposing and majestic structure is often referred to as the temple of fame. The construction of this temple is also credited to Maharaja Sayaji Rao III who wished to preserve the memories of his ancestors. The Kirti Mandir houses the statues and photographs of the royal family members. The central shikhara of this structure shoots up to a height of 33 meters.
The Maqbara also features proudly in the list of the memorials of Vadodara. Designed on the lines of Safavi-Persian style, the Maqbara is dedicated to the memory of Kutubuddin. Touted as one of the oldest monuments in the city, the Maqbara draws attention due to its exquisitely carved marble windows.
