Laxmi Vilas Palace

Laxmi Vilas Palace in Vadodara, Gujarat, is the residence of the Gaekwad royal family and one of India's largest private palaces, covering about 500 acres. Built between 1878 and 1890 for Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III and designed by Major Charles Mant in Indo-Saracenic Revival style, it is noted for its grand Darbar Hall, ornate interiors, collections of art and armoury, and extensive grounds that include a museum, gardens and a golf course.

Visitors can expect a grand Indo-Saracenic palace complex with ornate exteriors, landscaped gardens and courtyards. The accessible portion includes the Darbar Hall with Venetian mosaic floor and stained glass, the armoury, sculpture gallery and Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum with paintings by Raja Ravi Varma and royal collections. Guided audio tours explain architecture and royal history. The palace remains a private residence, so only designated museum and hall areas are open to visitors.

Commissioned by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III and built between 1878 and 1890 at a cost of about GBP 180,000. Designed by British architect Major Charles Mant in Indo-Saracenic Revival style with contributions by R.F. Chisholm and later Sir T. Madhava Rao. It served as the principal residence of the Gaekwad dynasty of Baroda State and remains the home of the royal family. The palace reflects late 19th-century modernization of Baroda under Sayajirao Gaekwad III.

Represents the cultural patronage of the Gaekwads, known for promoting art, education and architecture. Houses important art collections including works by Raja Ravi Varma, European sculptures and royal memorabilia. The palace and its museum are a major heritage and cultural landmark of Vadodara and Gujarat, showcasing Indo-European architectural synthesis and royal traditions.