Vadodara offers rich history, vibrant culture, and mouthwatering food all without the hefty price tag. Learn how to stretch your travel rupees further with these insider tips on transport, accommodation, and must-see spots that won’t cost a fortune.
Vadodara is famously known as the “cultural capital of Gujarat” and rightfully so, as the city boasts a nice blend of history, art, and modern elements. Whether it’s the beautiful palaces and museums, the markets, and even the calm gardens, Vadodara has something for every traveler. The hard truth, however, is that traveling is not only difficult, but expensive too. The good news, however, is that you do not have to go bankrupt to appreciate this beautiful city. A bit of planning with smart travel hacks can allow you to explore Vadodara on a budget while having maximum fun.
Here we have some tips that have been tried and tested, so rest assured that your trip to Vadodara will be affordable, memorable, and hassle-free.
1.Travel Smart: Save on Transportation
Walking in Vadodara doesn’t have to cost a pretty penny. The city has a cheap and convenient public transport system which includes buses and auto rickshaws.
- Use Public Buses: The Vadodara Municipal Transport Service (VMTS) has buses that reach almost any part in the city. A single ride costs as little as 10-20 rupees, making it affordable.
- Auto-Rickshaws: For slightly longer distances, auto rickshaws do the trick. But make sure to use the meter, or agree on a fare before you get into the rickshaw.
- Cycle Rides: For the eco-conscious traveler, Vadodara has cycle rental services. It’s a cheap and healthy way to explore the city at your own pace
Pro Tip: If you’re traveling in a group, consider pooling rides through apps like Ola or Uber. Splitting the fare makes it even more economical.
Quick Facts:
- VMTS bus fares start at 10 for short distances.
- Auto-rickshaw fares typically range from 20-50 for 2-3 km.
- Cycle rentals cost around 50-100 per hour.
2.Stay Affordable: Budget Accommodation Options
Vadodara presents various forms of economical stays at guesthouses, hostels and low-cost hotels so that the tourists do not have to spend a lot on luxury stays.
- Guesthouses and Dormitories: Look for guest houses located near the railway station or at Sayajigunj area. They typically provide neat rooms at affordable rates, starting from 500-800 per day.
- Hostels: If you are a solo traveler, or don’t mind sharing rooms with others, then hostels should work best for you. These are cheap ( 300-500 per day) and are amazing places to meet travelers.
- Budget Hotels:OYO and Treebo are perfect additionally for affordable stays with basic requirements. Rates mainly vary between 800-1,500 per day.
Pro Tip: Book your stay in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to get the best deals.
Quick Facts:
- Budget hotels in Vadodara start at 800 per night.
- Hostels are available for as low as 300 per night.
- Guesthouses near the railway station are a convenient and affordable option.
3.Eat Like a Local: Affordable Food Joints
Vadodara has a lot to offer in terms of gastronomy and the city’s street food is definitely one of the things worth experiencing, just like the range of traditional Gujarati thalis. For vegetarian food lovers, Vadodara has multiple food options available that are tasty and easy on the pocket.
- Street Food:For delicious street food like pav bhaji, dabeli, and sev usal, Khanderao market or Mandvi gate is the place to be. Bet you will walk back with your pocket money intact since most items cost less than 50.
- Local Eateries: If you want to experience real Gujarati Thalis, visit small family-owned cafes and restaurants. Bhailal Bhai Khaman House has unlimited thalis for simply around 100 to 150 rupees which is unbeatable.
- Sweet Treats:Kaka Halwai and Jay Mahakali Sweets have done a fantastic job selling Vadodara’s ghari and malai peda sweets to the world, and their price makes them an incredible treat to experience.
Pro Tip: Avoid eating at touristy spots near major attractions. Instead, explore local neighborhoods for cheaper and tastier options.
Quick Facts:
- Street food in Vadodara costs between 20-50 per item.
- A traditional Gujarati thali is priced at 100-150.
- Famous sweets like ghari cost around 20-30 per piece.
4.Explore for Free: Budget-Friendly Attractions
Vadodara is not only a beautiful city, but it also offers various well known historical sights that one can visit without spending even a single rupee.
- Laxmi Vilas Palace:The palace is enormous and makes for an amazing stroll, but the inner part is extremely expensive so I consider this palace as the first part in regards to places to see in Vadodara for Free.
- Sayaji Baug: This is a fantastic park which has a zoo, cloud park, planetarium, and even a museum and the best part of it is no registration fees so your friends and family will love this place along With You.
- Sursagar Lake:This place is renowned for the image of a Lord Shiva idol which is positioned on a pillar, and Sursagar Lake is best enjoyed at sunset in the evenings along With the statue and the city.
Pro Tip: Many museums and galleries offer free entry on certain days or during specific hours. Check their schedules in advance.
Quick Facts:
- Sayaji Baug is one of the largest public gardens in India, spanning 113 acres.
- Laxmi Vilas Palace grounds are open to the public for free.
- Sursagar Lake is a popular spot for evening walks and photography.
5.Shop Smart: Bargain at Local Markets
If you know where to shop, Vadodara has its charms. It has got traditional handicrafts, textiles, and jewelry for sale at reasonable prices. The city has its markets that offer these products at competitive rates.
- Mandvi Market:Apart from being known for Gujarati textiles, this market serves as a great place for errands or a bargain hunters paradise. Mandvi market is best known for its handloom and khadi stores.
- Khanderao Market: From spices to souvenirs, this market has it all. It’s a great place to pick up affordable gifts for friends and family.
- Sunday Markets: For those who are in town during the weekend, there are obvious options available like second hand goods, antiques and even unique collectibles one could call ‘bric-a-brac’.
Pro Tip: Always bargain politely. Most vendors expect it and will often lower their prices if you negotiate.
Quick Facts:
- Mandvi Market is famous for Bandhani sarees and fabrics.
- Khanderao Market offers spices, snacks, and souvenirs at wholesale prices.
- Sunday markets are a great place to find unique items at low costs.
6.Plan Ahead: Save on Tickets and Tours
With some work easing into tickets and tours, you will definitely be able to save some bucks.
- Book Train Tickets Early: When traveling to Vadodara by train, one has to book tickets in advance to be able to buy them cheaper.
- Use Student IDs:Don’t forget your student ID and save at various places which offer student discounts.
- Free Walking Tours:Make an effort to look for local professionals who do low cost or even free walking tours. You will learn the history and the city all at once.
Pro Tip: Check online for combo tickets or discounts for popular attractions.
Quick Facts:
- Train tickets booked in advance can save you up to 50% on fares.
- Student discounts are available at most museums and galleries.
- Free walking tours are often organized by local travel enthusiasts.
Final Thoughts
Vadodara is a city that is accessible to everyone irrespective of financial restrictions. With these travel tips, the incredible sights and experiences this city provides can be enjoyed without burning a hole in your pocket.
From spending nights at budget hotels and partaking in delectable street delicacies to sightseeing and shopping, Vadodara is proof that a great trip doesn’t require a large budget.
So, get your bags, create your schedule and enjoy sightseeing in Vadodara the affordable way while reaping great rewards.