Vadodara Palace, Champaner & Pavagad temple from Ahmedabad with guide

Ahmedabad , India

Vadodara Palace, Champaner & Pavagad temple from Ahmedabad with guide

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(2 reviews)

14h

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About this experience

In this one day trip from Ahmedabad, we will visit Vadodara Palace, world heritage site of Champaner and the famous Pavagad temple. The highlights include exploring the world’s largest residence at the 500 acre Laxmi Vilas Palace in Vadodara. At the Champaner world heritage site, we will visit fascinating mosques like the Jami Masjid, Nagara style temples, granaries and tombs. This one day trip from Ahmedabad takes you finally to Pavagad for the famous Kalika Mata temple on the hill.

Available options

Vadodara Palace, Champaner & Pavagad temple from Ahmedabad with guide

Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

All taxes, fees and handling charges

Guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

This Palace was built by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III in 1890 and continues to be the residence of Vadodara’s royal family. At 500 acres, it is the largest private home in the world. The highlights of the Palace are its magnificent interiors embellished with mosaics, chandeliers, and art. There are some paintings by Raja Ravi Verma as well. The Palace grounds include a golf course.

Champaner Pavagad archaeological park is a world heritage site. The city was founded in the 8th century by King Vanraj Chavda. There are fascinating mosques, temples, granaries, tombs, wells, and walls to explore. All the temples are of the Nagara style having garbhagriha, mandapa and an entrance porch Jami Masjid is a splendid monument here with a carved entrance porch that leads into a lovely courtyard surrounded by a pillared corridor.

Pavagad became the capital of the Chauhan Rajputs around 1300, but in 1484 was taken by the Gujarat Sultan Mahmud Begada, after a 2 year siege. The most famous destination here is the Kalika Mata temple on top of the hill. A ropeway is available to cover most of the distance to the temple. After the ropeway one needs to climb 100 steps to reach the temple. Incidentally the the Pavagadh hill is composed of reddish-yellow coloured stone and is one of the oldest rock formations in India.

What's not included

Food

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Ahmedabad

Ahmedabad, a vibrant city in Gujarat, is renowned for its rich history, cultural heritage, and architectural marvels. Known as the Manchester of India for its textile industry, it offers a blend of traditional charm and modern dynamism, making it a unique travel destination.

Top Attractions

Sabarmati Ashram

This ashram was the residence of Mahatma Gandhi from 1917 to 1930. It is a significant historical site that offers insights into Gandhi's life and philosophy.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Sabarmati Riverfront

This beautifully developed riverfront offers a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle. It's a great place for walking, cycling, and picnicking.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Adalaj Stepwell

This intricately carved stepwell is a marvel of Indian architecture. It was built in 1499 and is one of the most famous stepwells in India.

Historical 1 hour ₹100 for foreigners, ₹10 for Indians

Sarkhej Roza

This beautiful mosque and tomb complex is a blend of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles. It was built in the 16th century and is a significant historical site.

Historical 1 hour ₹5 for Indians, ₹100 for foreigners

Hutheesing Jain Temple

This stunning Jain temple is a masterpiece of marble architecture. It was built in 1848 and is dedicated to the 15th Jain Tirthankara, Dharmanatha.

Religious 30 minutes Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Dhokla

A steamed savory cake made from fermented rice and chickpea flour, often served with green chutney.

Snack Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-free

Faafda-Jalebi

A popular street food combination of crispy faafda (gram flour snack) and sweet jalebi (deep-fried sweet syrup-coated dough).

Snack Vegetarian, Contains gluten

Undhiyu

A mixed vegetable dish cooked with spices and gram flour, traditionally made during the winter season.

Main Course Vegetarian, Contains gluten

Khandvi

A soft and fluffy snack made from gram flour and yogurt, often served with green chutney or coconut chutney.

Snack Vegetarian, Contains gluten

Popular Activities

Cycling tours Hot air balloon rides Trekking in nearby forests Spa and wellness treatments Yoga and meditation classes Riverfront walks Heritage walks Cooking classes

Best Time to Visit

October to March

This period offers pleasant weather, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city hosts several festivals during this time, including the International Kite Festival in January.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Gujarati
Widely spoken: Hindi, English
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Indian Rupee (INR)

Time Zone

IST (GMT+5:30)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in crowded areas and at night

Ahmedabad is generally safe for travelers, but it's important to be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night. Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing and scams, can occur, so it's important to take precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Use licensed taxis and auto-rickshaws
• Be cautious of strangers offering help or services
• Keep your valuables secure and out of sight

Getting there

By air

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport • 15 km from city center

By train

Ahmedabad Junction, Sabarmati Junction

By bus

Geeta Mandir Bus Stand, Sabarmati Bus Stand

Getting around

Public transport

The BRTS system is efficient and covers most parts of the city. Buses are air-conditioned and frequent.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Ola

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Ahmedabad Sabarmati SG Highway

Day trips

Gandhinagar

30 km • Half day to full day

Gandhinagar, the capital of Gujarat, offers a mix of modern and historical attractions, including the Akshardham Temple and the Indroda Nature Park.

Lothal

80 km • Full day

Lothal is an ancient Indus Valley civilization site that offers a glimpse into India's rich history. The site features a museum, a dockyard, and a variety of artifacts.

Dholavira

250 km • Overnight

Dholavira is another significant Indus Valley civilization site, known for its well-preserved ruins and artifacts. The site offers a unique insight into ancient Indian history.

Festivals

International Kite Festival • January Navratri • October Diwali • November

Pro tips

Visit the Sabarmati Ashram early in the morning to avoid the crowds and heat.
Explore Old Ahmedabad on foot or by bicycle to discover its hidden gems and rich history.
Try a Gujarati thali at a local restaurant to experience the city's diverse and flavorful cuisine.
Shop for textiles and handicrafts at the Law Garden Night Market or the Pol House Shopping areas.
Attend a traditional dance performance or festival, such as the International Kite Festival, to immerse yourself in the city's vibrant culture.