Baroda Museum & Picture Gallery,Gujarat
Established by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III in the late 19th century, the Baroda Museum & Picture Gallery is an important cultural institution in Vadodara (Baroda), Gujarat. It reflects the Gaekwad dynasty's interest in education, arts and sciences and houses diverse collections spanning archaeology, ethnography, natural history, and fine art. The museum's Indo-Saracenic building is itself of architectural significance and is part of the larger Sayaji Baug (Kamati Baug) complex.
Places to visit
- Picture Gallery (European and Indian paintings)
- Natural History Gallery
- Sculpture and Archaeology Galleries
- Ethnographic and Decorative Arts collections
- Coin and Manuscript collection
- Famous Egyptian mummy exhibit
- The historic Indo-Saracenic museum building located in Sayaji Baug
Unique Aspects
- Distinctive Indo-Saracenic architecture with domes and ornamentation
- A well-preserved Egyptian mummy (one of the museum's most talked-about items)
- Mixed collections spanning art, archaeology, natural history and ethnography under one roof
- Stained glass and period display cases that reflect late 19th–early 20th century museum design
Things to do
- Self-guided exploration of galleries
- Guided tours (when available) and school group educational visits
- Photography of architecture and permitted exhibits (check on camera policy)
- Short walks around Sayaji Baug (Kamati Baug) and nearby attractions like the Zoo and Rotary Doll Museum
Best Time to Visit
October to March — pleasant weather and ideal for museum visits and walking in Sayaji Baug.
Weather Conditions
Hot summers (April–June), monsoon rains (July–September), and mild winters (October–March). Carry water and sun protection in summer; expect occasional rain during monsoon.
Entry Fees & Permits
Typical timings: 10:30 AM to 5:00 PM (approx). Common closure: Mondays and public holidays. Entry fee: Nominal; often a small fee for Indian visitors and a modest fee for foreigners. Photography may incur an additional charge. (Confirm current fees and timings before visiting.)
Accessibility
Located inside Sayaji Baug (Kamati Baug), central Vadodara. Nearest airport: Vadodara Airport (BDQ), about 10–12 km. Nearest major rail hub: Vadodara Junction (city center). Local transport: taxis, auto-rickshaws, city buses, app cabs. The site is walkable from many central hotels; onsite pathways in the garden are suitable for casual strolls but check with the museum for wheelchair access details.
Recommended Duration
Plan for 1.5–3 hours to see the main galleries comfortably.
Clothing & Gear Tips
Comfortable shoes for walking around Sayaji Baug, lightweight clothing in summer, a hat and sunscreen, and a light jacket in winter. Carry an umbrella in monsoon months.
Local Food & Souvenirs
Nearby vendors and cafes around Sayaji Baug offer Gujarati snacks such as dhokla, fafda, and other farsan. Souvenirs: museum postcards, local handicrafts, miniature paintings and textiles from Vadodara markets. Consider visiting nearby food streets for authentic Gujarati thali.
