Laxmi Vilas Palace, Bharatpur, Rajasthan, India (Photo by: Insights/UIG via Getty Images)

UIG via Getty Images

Laxmi Vilas Palace

Top choice in Gujarat & Diu


Still the residence of Vadodara’s royal family, Laxmi Vilas was built in full-throttle 19th-century Indo-Saracenic flourish at a cost of ₹6 million – an enormous sum back then. The most impressive Raj-era palace in Gujarat, its elaborate interiors feature well-maintained mosaics, chandeliers and artworks, as well as a highly impressive collection of weaponry. It’s set in expansive park-like grounds that include a golf course. An audio guide is included with admission. Allow at least two hours for a visit.

Photography is prohibited within the palace.