Gujarat state is the land of colors, festivals, food, and stories, and Vadodara (Baroda) – the cultural capital of Gujarat state is honored with some of the best tourist attractions in and around the city itself. It never fails to impress anyone, whether you are an artist, tourist, or photographer. There are several monuments and tourist sites such as Laxmi Vilas Palace, EME Temple, Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery, and Sayaji Baug Zoo in the city itself.
In this article, we have tried to cover the best outing places which are located near Vadodara (Baroda) by considering various factors mentioned below:
- It should be easily accessible from Vadodara via road or railway
- Suitable for a weekend getaway near Vadodara for group or families
- Maximum 1 to 4 hours of traveling and you can reach at the place
- The places are most suitable for day trip or an overnight stay around and you can return back to Vadodara within 2 days without spending more time in traveling.
19 Best Picnic Spots Near Vadodara (Baroda):
In this part of the article, you will learn about the best public places to visit near Vadodara for a one or two-day trip. It features the best heritage places, picnic spots, parks or some of the famous monuments near Vadodara for a weekend trip.
1. Champaner:
Champaner, a walled town located in the foothills of Pavagadh hill is among the most popular places to visit near Vadodara for 1 day and also one of the best historical places in India. UNESCO World Heritage Site Champaner-Pavagadh is an archaeological park found in the 8th century. In Champaner you can witness a mixture of the architecture of Hindu & Muslim monuments attributing to variable kingdoms with time. The impressive ruins such as forts, temples, and mosques are scattered all around the majestic town of Champaner.
| Hours | 8:30 am to 5:00 pm |
| Activities to Do | Sightseeing forts and other archeological structures, enjoying photography, learning history. |
| Distance from Vadodara | 49 km |
2. Pavagadh:
Pavagadh hillock is famous for the century-old Kalika Mata temple (older than the civilization of the Champaner town) located at an elevation of 762 m. One trek up to the temple through a paved way or can reach conveniently to the Kali Maa temple through a ropeway cable car and enjoy the beautiful journey to the temple. It is on the top of the hill, best tourist places near Vadodara within 100 kms. Where you can have the most amazing panoramic view of the Champaner town.
| Hours | 6:00 am to 7:30 pm |
| Activities to Do | Trek to the temple, enjoy the view on the top, rope-way journey, photography. |
| Distance | 55 km |
3. Zarwani Waterfalls:
Zarwani waterfall is located in the heart of the Shoolpaneshwar wildlife sanctuary and is the perfect place for a picnic away from the city’s chaos. Once you are near the sanctuary, you can hear enchanting water splashing through the rocks. These blissful waterfalls offer a lot more than just bathing, you can even enjoy trekking or even go on a safari to discover the flora and fauna. The best time to visit waterfalls is during monsoons.
| Hours | Open 24 Hours |
| Best Time to Visit | November to February |
| Activities to Do | Bath in waterfall and stream, trekking in the forests nearby, and photography |
| Distance | 99 km |
4. Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary:
Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary is a massive sanctuary spread in an area of 607 square kilometers. Sanctuary is surrounded by a hilly tract covered with thick deciduous forests. It is home to a large range of fauna and flora. If you are fond of wildlife and nature then, the Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary will definitely leave you awestruck. You can spot a leopard, leopard cat, rhesus macaque, chousingha, barking deer, pangolin, chital, and many other animals in the Sanctuary. Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary is the best picnic places near Vadodara and one of the most fascinating tourist places near Vadodara within 200 kms. It is very near to the world-famous Statue of Unity.
| Hours | Open 24 hours but visit according to your safety |
| Activities to Do | Trekking and hiking in forests, wildlife photography |
| Distance | 119 km |
5. Kabirvad (Bharuch):
Kabirvad is a place located on a beautiful island in the center of the magnificent Narmada river, near Vadodara, Gujarat. One can reach Kabirvad by a joyful boat ride that operates to and from the Shuklatirth Shiva temple. It is an amazing place with a decade-old banyan tree covering up to three kilometer area. You will be surprised to know that the grand Banyan tree is nearly 800 years old, one of the oldest tree alive. As you are guessing, the place is named after Saint Kabir. The peaceful and serene environment of Kabirvad makes it the perfect place to spend time with your family.
| Hours | Open 24 hours |
| Activities to Do | Picnic spot, visit Kabir temple, relaxing place, boating. |
| Distance | 61 km |
6. Hathni Mata Waterfalls:
One of the most picturesque waterfalls around the area falling from an elevation of 100 meters offers a fabulous sight to the visitors. These mesmerizing waterfalls are covered with lush green carpet all over. You will be awestruck with the beauty of waterfalls imparting the melodious sound of water on rocks. Amidst the scenic beauty, you can find a spot of your choice for the picnic. Name Hathni waterfall attributes to the resemblance of rock at the base of the waterfall to a baby elephant. End your tour by visiting the Hanuman temple located inside the cave. The best time to visit Hathni waterfalls will be Monsoon.
| Hours | Open 24 hours |
| Activities to Do | Nature gazing, bathing, visit Hanuman temple |
| Distance | 75 km |
7. Kadia Dungar Caves:
The Kadia Dungar Caves are located near Zazpor village in Jhagadia taluka of Gujarat. They can be easily reached from Vadodara city. These historic caves date back to the 1st or 2nd centuries AD and are a lesser-known tourist destination. The caves were carved out of a single mountain and consist of seven rock-cut structures. The main attraction of the caves is the monolithic lion pillars. Additionally, there is a Durga mata temple on top of the hill, providing a spiritual element to the site. Overall, it is a perfect place for a one-day picnic.
| Hours | Open 24 hours |
| Activities to Do | Photography, Bird Watching, Explore historical place |
| Distance | 108 km |
8. Ajwa Nimeta Garden:
Ajwa Nimeta Garden is a mesmerizing place; all decked up with beautiful lush green lawns and tall slender palm trees. It is a perfect place to spend a leisurely weekend not just because of its green beauty but also due to the amazing fountain show. The 100-meter row of perfectly aligned musical fountains shooting water out in different patterns and colors is the most eye-pleasing thing to witness at night at Ajwa Nimeta garden.
| Hours | 8:00 am to 8:00 pm |
| Activities to Do | Relax in the garden, admire beautiful lawns, and watch the fountain show |
| Distance | 18 km |
9. Statue Of Unity:
The Statue of unity is the statue of the Iron man of India – Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel, recognized as the tallest statue in the world. The monument constructed near the Narmada dam, in the middle of the Narmada River is one of the marvels of engineering. It was one of the dream projects of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi constructed with a vision to increase tourism in Gujarat and to pay tribute to the Iron man of India.
Other than that, it has a viewing gallery located at 135-meter height inside the statue offering a fabulous panoramic view of the reservoir and tall mountain ranges. A valley of flowers is situated in front of the monument which has more than 100 varieties of plants, the wall of unity, a Selfie point, Laser light, and sound show, and Museum, all this make Statue of Unity one of the must-visit places of Gujarat. If you are planning a vacation trip to visit the Statue of Unity also visit places near Statue of Unity.
| Hours | 8:00 pm to 6:00 pm |
| Activities to Do | Enjoy the view from the viewing gallery, roam in the valley of flowers, laser light, and sound show. |
| Distance | 91 km |
Read More: 10 Best Places to Visit Near Statue of Unity
10. Nilkanth Dham Poicha:
Nilkhant Dham is one of the amazing Swamy Narayan temples, located in Poicha village, on the banks of the River Narmada. The place is really beautiful surrounded by lush green gardens. It attracts several tourists due to its various sectors like the exhibition zone, the parking zone, Kids Play Zone, food court, and many others. One can have divine experience in Navaka Vihar and Shajananda universe. You can witness the most spectacular sight of the temple in the evening when all the light glows and the light show begins.
| Hours | 5:00 am to 10:00 pm |
| Activities to Do | Visit the temple, exhibition zone, park zone, Navaka vihar, Shajananda universe and admire the beautiful gardens of Nilkanth Dham. |
| Distance | 63 km |
11. Kuber Bhandari Temple:
Kuber Bhandari temple is situated in the village of Karnali in Vadodara. This famous temple is located on the bank of the river Narmada just opposite Nilkanth Dham. There is one more Shaktipeeth temple of Ma Gayatri near the Kuber Bhandari. The place is an ideal outing for one day short trip from Vadodara giving the pleasure of a peaceful and divine experience. Temple management also offers tasty Gujarati meals free of cost to all the pilgrims. One can enjoy boating during night hours. You can also take a dip in the holy Narmada River.
| Hours | 5:30 am to 08:30 pm |
| Activities to Do | Participate in grand aarti, boating, take a dip in holy water. |
| Distance | 60 km |
12. Stambheshwar Mahadev:
The Stambheshwar Mahadev temple located in the Arabian sea in KavuKumboi is known as one of the unusual Shiva shrines in India. Stambheshwar Mahadev is not just famous for its religious belief among the masses but also because the temple submerges entirely in the sea and reappears. This interesting spectacle occurs on a daily basis. Hence, it is popularly known as the disappearing Shiva Temple in India. Here natural Jal Abhishek of Shivlinga is done by Moter Earth. One should plan a trip in such a way that they can witness the whole phenomenon of submerging and again reappearing of the temple. Plan a trip for at least one whole day and night. Temple is a must-visit place once in a lifetime.
| Hours | Darshan time varies according to tithi. (Before visiting check the official website of the temple) |
| Activities to Do | Visit the temple, witness submerging of the temple, enjoy beach activities. |
| Distance | 72 km |
13. Dakor:
Dakor is a well-known city located inside the province of Gujarat, India. The town of Dakor is elevated 161 feet above the sea level. The most portion of land could also be a jagged plain. The climate of Dakor is said to be moderate in nature. Dakor possesses many beautiful tourist places where travelers come from different places for sightseeing with family or friends such as Ranchhodraiji Dakor Temple. Here you can enjoy a variety of breathtaking outdoor activities. Dakor has many famous and popular restaurants, food joints & eatery points which offer delicious foods. Dakor is often easily reached from Vadodara (72 km), Ahmedabad (90 km) as the state travels and runs multiple buses to this holy place.
| Hours | 6:45 am to 12:00 pm & 4:00 pm to 7:30 pm |
| Activities to Do | Explore the memorable city, sightseeing |
| Distance | 72 km |
14. Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary:
Jambughoda is a wonderful wildlife sanctuary based in the Panchmahal district of Central Gujarat. Kada has the facility of a forest rest house where tourists and travelers can relax and enjoy the wildlife. There isn’t any Jeep Safari within the sanctuary however if you want to enjoy the nature of wildlife then you have to take a walk thru the dense woodland of teak, bamboo, and mahuda. Also, there are a few terrific camping sites within the sanctuary. Kada is an excellent area to live and camp in which a big range of cottages had been built close to the reservoir via way of means of the Forest Department. The woodland close to the sanctuary additionally makes for a marvelous tenting site.
| Hours | 6:00 am – 7:00 pm |
| Best Time to Visit | July to February |
| Activities to Do | Explore the Wildlife, watching birds, hiking and camping |
| Distance | 76 km |
15. Toranmal Hill Station:
Toranmal hill station located in Maharashtra, is an ideal place for foreigners as well as tourists from other states. The area is blessed with mesmerizing scenic attractions which are said to be the photographer’s pride that gives big nature’s treasure to seize in the lenses. Toranmal mountain cliffs are decorated with difficult and rocky terrains which attract many tourists to its beautiful valley with greenery around. The main attraction at this place is the waterfall which improves the natural beauty and charm of the area. Additionally, the echo point here makes it popular among the people who come here too, making it one of the places to visit near Vadodara within 300 kms.
| Hours | Open 24 hours but visit according to your safety |
| Activities to Do | Caving, explore the sightseeing, shopping, and trekking area |
| Distance | 269 km |
16. Kotna Beach:
Kotna Beach is located at just 17 km from Vadodara which is famous for various water sports activities like Kayaking and boating. You will see tourist visiting Kotna Beach for photography, do sightings and many more activities. Sunrise and sunset both look amazing at Kotna and gives you mesmerizing view of river flowing around.
| Hours | Monday to Friday – 9:00 am to 9:00 pm Saturday and Sunday: 6:30 am to 9:00 pm |
| Activities to Do | Boating, Kayaking, photography, sighting and the best picnic spot for families. |
| Distance | 18 Km |
17. Sindhrot Check Dam:
Sindhrot Check Dam is another beautiful place you can plan with Kotna beach. Located at just 3 km from Kotna beach and around 14 km from Vadodara, this is a beautiful family picnic place. Here you can enjoy swimming in special area which is 3-4 fit deep and safe for non swimmers as well. Make sure you take extra care while traveling with kids as the other side of check dam is slippery and deep and should be avoided.
| Hours | 8:00 am to 6:00 pm |
| Activities to Do | Bath |
| Distance | 14 Km |
18. Laxmi Villas Palace:
Laxmi Villas Palace was built by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III in 1890. The palace was spread over 500 acres. The Darbar Hall is the most attractive part of this palace, where Maharaja used to hold meetings and events. The palace includes a beautiful Navlakhi stepwell, Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum, and a small zoo.
| Location | Moti Baug, Vadodara, Gujarat |
| Timings | Tuesday – Sunday between 9:30 am to 5:00 pm |
| Ticket Prices | 200rs per person |
19. Anand – The Rural Picnic
Anand, known as the ‘Milk Capital of India,’ is a quiet and peaceful place near Vadodara, perfect for a family picnic. Famous for its dairy history, it also gives you a chance to enjoy the simple beauty of village life. With green surroundings and historic spots like Bharuch Fort and Jama Masjid, Anand is a great place to relax and feel close to nature. Just 46 km away from Vadodara, it’s a wonderful option for a calm and refreshing getaway.
| Best Time to Visit | October to March |
| Popular Attractions | Amul Dairy |
| Distance | 46 km |
All the destinations mentioned in the blog are really beautiful spots and one of my personal favorite. One can spend quality time with friends and family in these places. Whether you like history, nature, or spiritual places, these nearby spots offer great chances to relax and get away from the busy city life.
Common FAQs Related to One / Two Days Picnic Places Near Vadodara:
The answer to this question is very tricky as the choice will be different from person to person depending upon his / her interest. We will list down all the different types of picnic spots you can choose from in this article.
Sure, We can help you to plan your trip as per your convenience.
Yes, you can enjoy adventure activities like trekking at Pavagadh, wildlife photography at Shoolpaneshwar Sanctuary, and water sports like boating and kayaking at Kotna Beach and Zarwani Waterfalls.
Yes, some picnic spots near Vadodara, such as Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary and Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary, offer camping facilities.