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India.com
a day ago
- India.com
Netflix-Level Scenic Vibes: 5 Birdwatching Spots In Vadodara You Can't Miss
Vadodara, popularly known as the 'Cultural Capital of Gujarat', is a city rich in history, art, and culture. Apart from boasting sumptuous royal palaces and celebrating colorful festivals, Vadodara hides another jewel in its crown for nature lovers- variety in birds. While most people would bind this active metropolitan with its cultural attractions, there are indeed some of the most surprising bird watching places in India. There are beautiful lakes and nice green parks which add to the charm of the city, making it a paradise for both resident and migratory birds. Hence ornithologists and casual bird watchers are bound to be spellbound by the beauty of this city. In this article, we will outline the remarkable and undiscovered bird watching sites in Vadodara together with their unique attributes, bird species, and ecological importance. These hidden spots will ensure that seasoned bird watchers and nature lovers alike have breath taking experiences. 1. Sayaji Baug: The Parks Multitude of Bird Life Located in Vadodara, Sayaji Baug is a landmark that has stood the test of time. This landmark doubles as a home for both resident and migratory birds, which makes it Even more beautiful. This park spans 113 acres and was built in 1879 by the Maharajah Sayajirao Gaekwad III. It has a garden, museum, and fountain and serves as an excellent recreational getaway spot for tourists and locals alike. But even with its lavish architecture, there is more here, an ecosystem bursting with life unlike any other in the world. Kingfishers, egrets, herons, and cormorants are just a few of the birds that can be heard in the park. During winter, migratory birds such as common teals, northern pintails, and garganeys can also be spotted. Furthermore, the trees shelter smaller birds like bulbuls, sunbirds, and warblers. The park also attracts shikras and black kites. Parasailing enthusiasts and fans of natural beauty begin flocking to the park in the early mornings as well as the late afternoons. The park is centrally located, which makes it easy for anyone from the city to bird watch without much effort. 2. Ajwa Reservoir: A Wetland Paradise Ajwa Reservoir is yet another bird lover paradise located at the outskirts of Vadodara. This reservoir was built in the medieval times during the construction period of the city, and it still serves as one of the primary sources of drinking water for its residents. Not only does it serve these functions, but it is also an important wetland ecosystem for a number of bird species. Ajwa Reservoir is home to a myriad of Aquatic birds all year round. The resident bird species are the painted storks, purple moorhens, and Indian spot-billed ducks. While during the winters, flocks of migratory species such as greater flamingos, Eurasian coots, and red crested pochards arrive. Reedy beds and shallow borders around the water body enables wading birds like sandpipers and plovers to thrive. Ajwa reservoir also offers the incredible experience of observing wide varieties of migratory birds flocking together in a single location. Watching the glorious view of hundreds of flamingos feeding during sunset is breathtaking. Furthermore, spoting wild jackals and nilgai grazing near the Ajwa reservoir makes this place a perfect destination for nature lovers. In order to get the best out of your trip, it may be useful to pack binoculars as well as a field guide for noticing different species. The watching points located on the edges of the reservoir are quieter and can serve birdwatchers uninterrupted. 3. Sursagar Lake: City Lake Amongst All The Noise As the center of vadodara city, Sursagar Lake Is famous for Srisankaracharya Dhyana Mandir Statue, but in addition to this, there is orrenundrum of birdlife. The Lake, surrounded by roads and buildings, surprisingly manages to retain a slew of bird species. Despite the noisy city, it's everyday fountain brings life to its heart. The pairs of residential and migratory birds are simply conduced of Sursagar Lake's calm waters. Lilttle grebes, whiskered terns and squab kingfishers are commonly sighted diving for fish. Besides, the trees beside the lake are nesting sites to sparrows, mynas and parakeets. Above the water brahminy kites can be seen soaring. In terms of species' diversity, Sursagar Lake surely is not comparable to other places. But it is so easy approachable which makes it perfect first spot for novices. Birds adapt well even to urban settings and this is an evidence that is possible to manage it thoughtfully. And their easy means of spotting birds and getting used to identification in a well known landscape makes Sursagar Lake ideal for the beginning birdwatcher. 4. Harni Lake: An Underrated Jewel Harni Lake, which is around 8 kilometers from Vadodara's city center, is less popular among the locals yet is a fantastic vantage point for bird watchers. Unlike other famous bird-watching locations, Harni Lake is completely unspoiled by over-civilization, making it a perfect location for birds. The lake is populated with many species of waterfowl, for example, the cotton pygmy goose, grey-headed swamphen, and the bronze-winged jacanas. The marshy region along with the floating vegetation is the perfect breeding ground for purple swamp hen and pheasant-tailed jacanas. Ospreys and step pe eagles are observed on migration and often stay in the location because of the large availability of food. Harni Lake offers a completely unique atmosphere, when compared to the other bird-watching sites in Vadodara. Tourists are able to take gentle walks along the embankment and gaze at the rare birds that are hiding in the reeds. More and more people are beginning to realize what this amazing location has to offer, which is why attempts are being made to keep the site untouched. 5. Waghodia Road Ponds: A Birder's Secret Spot For anyone willing to go just a bit out of the city, the ponds located on Waghodia Road are perfect for birdwatching. These shallow ponds, which might not appear impressive, are located on the migratory path of birds moving between Central Asia and peninsular India. During migration, roughly from October to March, the ponds are bustling with activity. Bar headed geese, ferruginous ducks, and ruddy shelducks rest here after long migrations to refuel before moving on to their next destination. Scrublands are filled with poor ground birds such as larks and quails, while bee eaters and rollers beautify the skies. The Waghodia ponds and their surroundings might seem trivial, but they still hold a lot of value in being a bird sanctuary. These regions need to be maintained as they serve as a natural habitat and contribute to the biodiversity of the region. Birdwatchers assist in these conservation efforts by sharing their findings, thus bringing attention to its ecological significance. 6. Community Efforts and Conservation Challenges The Vadodara region is home to some popular birdwatching sites. However, these ecosystems are at a great risk due to urban expansion, pollution, and deforestation. Lakes and reservoirs are often subjected to blatant waste dumping and overfishing which exacerbates further deterioration. Constructive encroachments lead to the subdivision of habitats which result in birds forever relocating to avoid conventional nesting grounds. Fortunately, there are local communities and environmental groups that have taken the initiative to deal with the problems mentioned above. A range of initiatives including clean-up programs, tree planting activities, and educational seminars have been designed to restore damaged ecosystems and improve community behavior. In other cases, birdwatching societies join with the local authorities to supervise the bird population and push for stronger conservation measures. Summary Vadodara offers countless birdwatching spots with many feathered friends which the residents failed to appreciate. Each spot, from Harni Lake to the Sayaji Baug, is filled with history and scenic beauty. These hidden treasures allow us to admire the rich biodiversity that Vadodara has to offer, as well as gain an appreciation for preserving the city. These captivating sites call for both novices and experts of nature to appreciate calmness at a single point in time. While in Vadodara, do not forget to bring your camera and binoculars to capture the city where culture proudly and gracefully shows its beauty beside conservation.
India.com
a day ago
- Entertainment
- India.com
Inside world's largest private residence, bigger than Buckingham Palace; Mukesh Ambani, Nita Ambani's Rs 15000 crore Antilia, is located at…, owner is..
Located in Vadodara, Gujarat, the Lukshmi Vilas Palace, built by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III in the late 19th century, isn't just the world's largest private residence. It is an excellent example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. On August 5, Architectural Digest Middle East wrote an Instagram post in which Maharani Radhikaraje Gaekwad of Baroda opened the doors of Lukshmi Vilas Palace, giving a sneak peek of what her grand home looks like from the inside. Lukshmi Vilas Palace is the home to the Gaekwad family, which is a Maratha dynasty. They were the ruling family of the princely state of Baroda (now Vadodara) from the early 18th century until 1947. The palace has seen the coronation of four Gaekwad kings, the most recent one being HH Maharaja Samarjitsinh Ranjitsinh Gaekwad, who was crowned in 2012. His wife, HH Radhikaraje Gaekwad, is an activist for women's empowerment and for the promotion of India's heritage crafts. The couple has played a large role in the palace becoming more accessible to the general public. They have hosted annual dance festivals, vintage car shows, music performances in the Durbar Hall, and craft fairs all throughout the palace grounds. While speaking to AD, Radhikaraje stated, 'Lukshmi Vilas Palace is ultimately for the people of India.' Spanning 30.5 million square feet, the palace is the world's largest private home. It is ten times bigger than Turkey's White Palace, and its square footage is 36 times that of Buckingham Palace. The palace include a professional golf course, and an ancient baoli (stepwell)that dates back to the Mughal period, reported AD. Built in 1890 by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, Laxmi Vilas Palace is home to over 170 rooms and features its own golf course. Originally constructed at a cost of GBP 180,000, the palace continues to stand as a symbol of the Baroda royal family's grandeur. According too the AD report, there are four main entrances to the palace. One of the entrances was even specially designed for the king to walk off of his elephant and step directly onto the porch. The Hatti (Elephant) Hall, decorated in blue and gold, leads to the Durbar Hall, which beautifully combines Indian and European architectural styles.
Hindustan Times
06-08-2025
- Entertainment
- Hindustan Times
Step inside Maharani Radhikaraje Gaekwad's Lukshmi Vilas Palace, the largest private residence in the world
Regal, culturally significant, and the world's largest private residence, these are some adjectives that define Lukshmi Vilas Palace in Vadodara, Gujarat. At 30.5 million square feet, the palace is ten times bigger than Turkey's White Palace, and its square footage is 36 times that of Buckingham Palace. Commissioned by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III in 1878, the monumental 135-year-old Lukshmi Vilas Palace took 11 years to build. (Instagram/@admiddleeast) Also Read | Step inside Huma Qureshi's fancy ₹10 lakh per month luxury bungalow in Juhu: Farah Khan calls it 'best home in Mumbai' In an Instagram post shared by Architectural Digest Middle East on August 5, Maharani Radhikaraje Gaekwad of Baroda opened the doors of Lukshmi Vilas Palace, giving a glimpse inside her palatial home. Inside the 135-year-old Lukshmi Vilas Palace Commissioned by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III in 1878, the monumental 135-year-old Lukshmi Vilas Palace took 11 years to build, with Sonagadh sandstones sourced locally and the interior built with inspirations drawn from around the country and other parts of the world. Radhikaraje told AD Middle East, 'The scale of the palace is larger than life. I've lived here for 23 years, and even now I'm discovering things for the very first time. I've come to regard it as our oldest family member.' The interiors Apart from the Islamic domes and carvings inspired by Hindu temples that make up the exterior of the palace, Radhikaraje also talked about the elements from around the world that make up the interiors of Lukshmi Vilas Palace, Radhikaraje revealed that the residence has stained glass from Renaissance Europe, chandeliers from Europe and Belgium, mosaic from Italy, sculptures from around Europe, Rococo paintings and rare porcelain from China and Japan. Additionally, art by Indian masters, including some of Raja Ravi Varma's largest works, also decorates the halls."It's an amazing mixture of countries and culture coming together in this space," she said. Talking about the grand Durbar Hall, calling it the most important public space of the palace where the Maharaj would host, greet and attend to his subjects, she said, 'The Durbar Hall, where the king would receive his audience, was designed to highlight the collaborations that came to exist over 135 years ago between India and other cultures.'
India.com
12-07-2025
- India.com
10 Unbelievable Facts About Vadodara You've Never Seen On Google!
Historically, Vadodara (commonly known as Baroda) is one of the most important cities in Gujarat. 'Cultural Capital of Gujarat' is yet another name Vadodara is known for, where ancient traditions blend perfectly with modernization. Here are ten interesting facts about Vadodara that you need to know, starting from the city's royal heritage to the modern booming art industry. 1. Historical Significance and Name Origin The Sanskrit words 'vat' meaning 'banyan tree' and 'odar' 'a place to rest' are the roots of the name Vadodara deriving as 'a banyan tree resting place'. Chalukyas, Gaekwads, and Solankis all repeatedly conquered this city. Gaekwad dynasty in British India makes the city get its recognition as the capital city of Baroda princely state. 2. The Gaekwad Legacy Baroda's identity has greatly changed because of the Gaekwad family. Starting from 1875 to 1939, the Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III made a lot of memorable changes and is quoted for his reformatory legends. The monarch gave birth to one of the world famous private houses, the Palace of Baroda & Villas. 3. Lakshmi Vilas Palace: A Symbol of Grandeur Vadodara hosts the architectural masterpiece 'Lakshmi Vilas Palace' which is built in the Indo-Saracenic style. It showcases a residential palace of the Gaekwad dynasty and in addition, it also features a golf course in its lavish garden, making it one of the most unique royal properties in the country. In addition it also boasts of a museum. 4. A Hub for Education Vadodara also happens to be patriotic when it comes to having some of the finest educational institutions in India, such as MSU. Made up in 1949, The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda (MSU) is one the oldest universities in Gujarat, India. Since its inception, it's been a center of excellence, producing a healthy number of scientists, artists, and politicians. The city is also home to a number of other prestigious colleges and schools elevating its reputation as an educational hub. 5. Cultural Melting Pot Vadodara is famous as the cultural capital of Gujrat for its unique blend of people, cuisines, art, and festivals. Peoples' jovial spirit can be observed during the Garba dance in Navratri while people from all corners of India come to celebrate it. This city is also the host of VadFest, a multi-arts festival celebrating music, dance, theater, and visual arts. 6. Industrial development and its economic significance Vadodara serves as an important industrial hub of Gujarat. It is colloquially referred to as 'Detroit of India' because of its automobile industry. General Motors, ABB, and Alstom have settled here. City's contribution also includes pharmaceuticals, petrochemicals, and IT services. 7. Parks and green areas Vadodara is an urban metropolis, but it also has many green spaces. Sayaji Baug or Kamati Baug is one of the oldest and biggest gardens in western India. The 113 acre garden also has a zoo and a museum. Sursagar Lake Garden and Ajwa Park are also popular among the residents who wish to relax in nature. 8. Tempting vegetarian dishes from gujarat Food paradise Vadodara serves delicious Gujarati dishes along with other international cuisines. Locals love dhokla, khandvi, undhiyu, and fafda-jalebi. Street food lovers visit Mandvi and Raopura for chaats and pav bhaji. The city has an increasing number of cafes and fine dining restaurants for visitors looking for international food. 9. Artistic Heritage Vadodara has a long standing history with arts and creativity. The Faculty of Fine Arts of MSU is famous for its wonderful artists, sculptors, and designers. In the city, art galleries like the Baroda Museum & Picture Gallery hold exhibitions showcasing art from Indian and foreign painters. This heritage undoubtedly makes Vadodara a paradise for art lovers. 10. Strategic Location and Connectivity Vadodara is situated by the bank of Vishwamitri River which gives it good road and rail, as well as air travel connections. Its Airport serves flights from and to various other Indian cities. The Railway Station, one of Gujarat's busiest, is located at Baroda and its proximity to Ahmedabad and Mumbai makes the city very important for business and travel. Conclusion Vadodara is a mingled city of culture and technology , beautiful nature as well as city planning. In the city, one can find majestic palaces, sculptures and gorges of different artistic styles, tasty food, and vibrant art culture which are some of the things that the city offers to its visitors. These 10 facts are far less than what the city truly offers making it a must visit place for those willing to explore the heart of gujarat.
India.com
10-07-2025
- India.com
10 Jaw-Dropping Facts About Vadodara They Don't Teach You In School
Historically, Vadodara (commonly known as Baroda) is one of the most important cities in Gujarat. 'Cultural Capital of Gujarat' is yet another name Vadodara is known for, where ancient traditions blend perfectly with modernization. Here are ten interesting facts about Vadodara that you need to know, starting from the city's royal heritage to the modern booming art industry. 1. Historical Significance and Name Origin The Sanskrit words 'vat' meaning 'banyan tree' and 'odar' 'a place to rest' are the roots of the name Vadodara deriving as 'a banyan tree resting place'. Chalukyas, Gaekwads, and Solankis all repeatedly conquered this city. Gaekwad dynasty in British India makes the city get its recognition as the capital city of Baroda princely state. 2. The Gaekwad Legacy Baroda's identity has greatly changed because of the Gaekwad family. Starting from 1875 to 1939, the Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III made a lot of memorable changes and is quoted for his reformatory legends. The monarch gave birth to one of the world famous private houses, the Palace of Baroda & Villas. 3. Lakshmi Vilas Palace: A Symbol of Grandeur Vadodara hosts the architectural masterpiece 'Lakshmi Vilas Palace' which is built in the Indo-Saracenic style. It showcases a residential palace of the Gaekwad dynasty and in addition, it also features a golf course in its lavish garden, making it one of the most unique royal properties in the country. In addition it also boasts of a museum. 4. A Hub for Education Vadodara also happens to be patriotic when it comes to having some of the finest educational institutions in India, such as MSU. Made up in 1949, The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda (MSU) is one the oldest universities in Gujarat, India. Since its inception, it's been a center of excellence, producing a healthy number of scientists, artists, and politicians. The city is also home to a number of other prestigious colleges and schools elevating its reputation as an educational hub. 5. Cultural Melting Pot Vadodara is famous as the cultural capital of Gujrat for its unique blend of people, cuisines, art, and festivals. Peoples' jovial spirit can be observed during the Garba dance in Navratri while people from all corners of India come to celebrate it. This city is also the host of VadFest, a multi-arts festival celebrating music, dance, theater, and visual arts. 6. Industrial development and its economic significance Vadodara serves as an important industrial hub of Gujarat. It is colloquially referred to as 'Detroit of India' because of its automobile industry. General Motors, ABB, and Alstom have settled here. City's contribution also includes pharmaceuticals, petrochemicals, and IT services. 7. Parks and green areas Vadodara is an urban metropolis, but it also has many green spaces. Sayaji Baug or Kamati Baug is one of the oldest and biggest gardens in western India. The 113 acre garden also has a zoo and a museum. Sursagar Lake Garden and Ajwa Park are also popular among the residents who wish to relax in nature. 8. Tempting vegetarian dishes from gujarat Food paradise Vadodara serves delicious Gujarati dishes along with other international cuisines. Locals love dhokla, khandvi, undhiyu, and fafda-jalebi. Street food lovers visit Mandvi and Raopura for chaats and pav bhaji. The city has an increasing number of cafes and fine dining restaurants for visitors looking for international food. 9. Artistic Heritage Vadodara has a long standing history with arts and creativity. The Faculty of Fine Arts of MSU is famous for its wonderful artists, sculptors, and designers. In the city, art galleries like the Baroda Museum & Picture Gallery hold exhibitions showcasing art from Indian and foreign painters. This heritage undoubtedly makes Vadodara a paradise for art lovers. 10. Strategic Location and Connectivity Vadodara is situated by the bank of Vishwamitri River which gives it good road and rail, as well as air travel connections. Its Airport serves flights from and to various other Indian cities. The Railway Station, one of Gujarat's busiest, is located at Baroda and its proximity to Ahmedabad and Mumbai makes the city very important for business and travel. Wrapping Up Vadodara is a mingled city of culture and technology , beautiful nature as well as city planning. In the city, one can find majestic palaces, sculptures and gorges of different artistic styles, tasty food, and vibrant art culture which are some of the things that the city offers to its visitors. These 10 facts are far less than what the city truly offers making it a must visit place for those willing to explore the heart of gujarat.
