Vadodara

Vadodara—commonly called Baroda—was, until recently, a laid-back garden city and college town on the banks of the Vishwamitri River. It's now an urban hub with a population of just over 1.5 million. The city dates back to the days of legend, and before Independence it was (along with Mysore) the capital of one of the largest and best-administered princely states of the British period; its kings, called Gaekwads, were honored with the highly prestigious 21 rounds of cannon fire on arrival anywhere. The Gaekwads helped their people prosper and accumulated for themselves a great many artistic treasures from all over India and the world. The city retains a pleasant civic atmosphere, with some fine old buildings, though much of its greenery has been overwhelmed by city sprawl. Vadodara's limited sights are not particularly compelling and do not warrant a special place on your Gujarat itinerary, but if you happen to be passing through this city on your way to Champaner or Daman, you might want to pop into the Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery at the pretty Sayaji Bagh. Vadodara has loads of shops but not too many handicrafts on sale. Try Raj Handicrafts, 5 B.N. Chambers, opposite Welcomgroup Vadodara, R.C. Dutt Road, for interesting brass ornaments and Gujarati crafts. Or head to the government craft emporium, Gurjari, at 415 G-2/3 Vantage Point, opposite Masonic Hall Productivity Road, Alkapuri (265/357-575). Vadodara is just one hour from Ahmedabad and connected by an excellent highway.