Laxmi Vilas Palace

The former residence of the erstwhile royal family, this grand palace was commissioned by Sayajirao Gaekwad III in 1890, and designed by British architects Major Charles Mant and RF Chisolm. Tickets include a free audio guide—essential to get a historical background of the palace’s rich architectural and artistic heritage. Designed in the Indo-Saracenic style, Laxmi Vilas blends Hindu, Islamic and European elements. The highlights include the grand Durbar Hall, which has a Venetian mosaic floor, Belgian stained glass windows and Italian sculptures, and an art museum. Dotted with sculptures, the palace’s sprawling grounds are home to the Gaekwad Baroda Golf Club and a miniature railway line. There’s also a pretty baoli or step-well, located at a distance of 50 metres from the palace.