Explore Vadodara And Champaner From Ahmedabad With Lunch

Ahmedabad , India

Explore Vadodara And Champaner From Ahmedabad With Lunch

Active

11h - 12h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

On this day-excursion from Ahmedabad, visit Vadodara, the cultural capital of the West Indian state of Gujarat. Situated on the banks of the River Vishwamitri, the city was the capital of the princely state of Baroda. Visit the palaces of Vadodara and discover the cultural heritage and royal roots of this prosperous city. Also visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Champaner-Pavagadh that houses an Archaeological Park dating back to the 15th century.

Highlights
• Laxmi Vilas Palace
• Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum
• Baroda Museum & Picture Gallery
• Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park

Available options

1-8 Travelers

Price per person for 1-8 travelers<br/>Pickup included

What's included

02 bottle of mineral water per person

Lunch (beverage excluded)

Local English speaking guide

Transport by private air-conditioned vehicle

Hotel pick-up and drop-off

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

You will be picked up from your hotel in Ahmedabad for the 2-hour drive to the city of Vadodara that is located 70 miles away.

Upon reaching Vadodara, you will first visit the grand Laxmi Vilas Palace. The palace was built by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III in 1890 at a cost of 180,000 Pounds Sterling. It is the largest private dwelling built to date and is about four times the size of Buckingham Palace. A part of the palace has been converted into a museum that has the private collection of the Maharaja on display. The collection includes paintings by British painters like Turner and Constable as well as masterpieces by Indian painters like Raja Ravi Varma. The museum also has a rich collection of marble and bronze sculptures as well as an Oriental Gallery that contains Japanese and Chinese sculptures collected by the Maharaja during his travels.

After the tour of the palace and the museum, stop for lunch (own expense) at a local restaurant.

Stop 2

After lunch visit the Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery. Founded by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, the museum was opened to the public in 1894. Built along the lines of the Victoria & Albert Museum in London, the museum has a rich collection of original paintings by European masters as well as a stunning collection of sculptures, Indian miniature paintings and a full section on Tibetan Art. An Egyptian mummy and the skeleton of a blue whale are among the major attractions of the museum.

After a tour of the museum, drive to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park. Situated at a distance of 30 miles from Vadodara, the park has several monuments that mark the transition from Hindu to Muslim culture and architecture in the 15th and 16th century. Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the various forts, palaces, mosques, tombs, temples and stepwells, which date from the 8th to the 14th century.

At the end of the tour, you will be driven back to Ahmedabad and dropped off at your hotel.

What's not included

Food and drinks, unless specified

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Not recommended for pregnant women and people with back problems.

A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops are allowed. Knees and shoulders must be covered for both men and women.

Consider wearing comfortable clothes and walking shoes.

Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum is closed on Mondays, National Holidays and Diwali. Vadodara Museum and Picture Gallery is closed on National Holidays and Diwali.

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Meeting point

We will pick up traveler from their hotels / fixed point within city center.

Important notes

Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time, exact pickup time will be advised on reconfirmation.

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.