Laxmi Vilas Palace in Vadodara is one of the largest private residences ever built in India, reportedly four times the size of Buckingham Palace, constructed for the Gaekwad royal family who ruled the princely state of Baroda. Its Indo-Saracenic architecture blends Rajput, Mughal and European styles across an enormous complex of durbar halls, courtyards and gardens.
Part of the palace remains the private residence of the Gaekwad family today, but sections are open to visitors, including a grand durbar hall with mosaic floors and Venetian mosaic work, along with a small armoury and portrait gallery giving insight into the family's history as one of India's most significant princely dynasties.
Built between 1878 and 1890 for Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, one of the most progressive and reform-minded rulers among India's princely states, the palace was designed by British architect Major Charles Mant.
October to March.
In central Vadodara, easily reached by road.
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