Vadodara, formerly known as Baroda, is one of Gujarat’s most vibrant cities packed with royal heritage, art, and bustling local markets. If you’re a budget-conscious traveller or student looking to make the most of Vadodara without spending big bucks, you’re in the right place. At SavePlus, our mission is to help you uncover wallet-friendly experiences, exclusive promo codes, and smart shopping hacks. Let's dive into the best low-cost things you can do in this cultural capital!

Explore the Majestic Laxmi Vilas Palace

The Laxmi Vilas Palace is a marvel of Indo-Saracenic architecture, larger than most palaces in India. Constructed in 1890, this royal residence is still home to the Gaekwad family. You can stroll through ornate rooms, opulent chandeliers, and the beautiful Darbar Hall. The surrounding gardens add to the grandeur and provide a peaceful escape. Tourists are offered audio guides in Hindi and English to enrich the visit. It’s an unmissable experience if you love history and affordable luxury.

• Entry tickets cost only ₹200 for Indian nationals and offer great value.
  
  
• You can explore both the palace museum and exterior courtyards at your own pace.
  
  
• Children under 10 often get free entry, making it ideal for family outings.

Pro Tip: Visit on weekday mornings between 10 AM and 12 PM for the best lighting and minimal crowd disturbance.

Enjoy a Peaceful Morning at Sayaji Garden (Kamati Baug)

Sayaji Garden, locally known as Kamati Baug, is a green paradise in the middle of Vadodara. Spread across 100 acres, it's the largest garden in western India. Locals come here for morning jogs, yoga, and peaceful strolls among flowerbeds and trees. There's a miniature zoo, a museum, and even a toy train for children. Everything is extremely pocket-friendly and perfect for relaxation or family time. This public park is clean, secure, and a hit among early risers.

• Entry is completely free for all visitors, making it a daily fitness hub.
  
  
• The toy train ride costs only ₹20 and adds charm for young children.
  
  
• Food vendors sell breakfast snacks near the entrance at just ₹30–₹50.

Pro Tip: Combine your morning walk with a visit to the nearby Sardar Patel Planetarium, which has low-ticket science shows.

Shop Smart at Mandvi Bazaar

Mandvi Bazaar is the heart of Vadodara’s local shopping scene, buzzing with affordable finds. From vibrant Bandhani dupattas to oxidised jewellery, the variety here is unmatched. Prices are negotiable, and smart bargaining can save you 30–40%. This place is popular for wedding shoppers and students hunting for budget styles. Local artisans and home-based vendors bring in new collections weekly. Carry a shopping bag and UPI app, and you're all set for a cost-effective spree.

• Ethnic wear starts as low as ₹150 if you bargain well with vendors.
  
  
• Mobile accessories and handbags can be bought for ₹100–₹300.
  
  
• Many stalls offer QR code payment, which sometimes includes cashback perks.

Pro Tip: Use PhonePe or Paytm UPI during festive seasons to unlock extra cashback deals from vendors.

Visit the Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum

This museum is a hidden gem showcasing royal artifacts, rare paintings, and stunning sculptures. It’s part of the Laxmi Vilas Palace complex but accessible at a separate entry. Raja Ravi Varma’s artworks, European bronze statues, and weaponry are displayed elegantly. If you're a student or art lover, you’ll appreciate the intricate storytelling in each exhibit. Entry fees are minimal, especially for students carrying valid ID cards. The museum has a peaceful vibe and is perfect for a reflective afternoon.

• Entry is ₹60 for Indian adults and ₹30 for students with a college ID.
  
  
• The audio tour is highly recommended and enriches the historical context.
  
  
• Photography is allowed inside, but there’s a small fee for carrying cameras.

Pro Tip: Visit on weekdays and carry your college ID to get the full student discount at the ticket counter.

Try Street Food at Fatehgunj

Fatehgunj is the city’s ultimate street food stretch, offering dozens of snack stalls and eateries. From spicy vada pav to creamy kulfi, there’s something here for every palate. The area becomes lively by evening with both locals and tourists lining up. Hygiene standards have improved over the years, with vendors using gloves and clean water. Most food items are priced between ₹30–₹70, offering full satisfaction on a small budget. It’s a hotspot for students and food vloggers alike.

• Dabeli, pav bhaji, and egg roll stalls offer large portions under ₹60.
  
  
• Late-night joints stay open till 1 AM, perfect for midnight cravings.
  
  
• Most stalls accept UPI, so you don’t need to carry cash at all.

Pro Tip: Use Zomato Pro or Swiggy One offers when ordering from Fatehgunj eateries online to save on delivery and get freebies.

Attend a Free Cultural Show at Fine Arts Faculty (MSU)

Maharaja Sayajirao University is the cultural nucleus of Vadodara, especially its Faculty of Fine Arts. Regular shows, plays, and exhibitions are hosted on-campus and are open to the public. These free events give a platform to upcoming artists and a treat for culture lovers. From open mic poetry to Bharatnatyam recitals, the variety is refreshing. Seating is usually informal and first-come-first-served, so it’s good to reach early. It’s a great way to enjoy world-class art without spending a rupee.

• Most performances happen during weekends or cultural weeks on campus.
  
  
• Student artists sell paintings and crafts for as low as ₹100.
  
  
• College canteens nearby serve full meals under ₹60 with good hygiene.

Pro Tip: Follow MS University’s social media handles for real-time updates on free public events and art exhibitions.

Hike to Ajwa Water Reservoir

Ajwa Reservoir is a peaceful nature getaway just 15 km from Vadodara’s centre. Known for its scenic greenery and long walking trails, it’s ideal for a budget day trip. You’ll find local families, photographers, and couples enjoying sunrise and sunset views. The reservoir also has an adjoining garden that lights up in the evening with water fountains. It's completely free to enter and only costs a few rupees for transport. Carry a backpack with water, snacks, and sunglasses for comfort.

• Shared autos or buses to Ajwa cost ₹20–₹40 one way from the city.
  
  
• Packaged snacks from roadside stalls are available from ₹10 onwards.
  
  
• Camera-friendly zones make it a hotspot for low-budget Instagram shots.

Pro Tip: Use Ola Money Postpaid+ or ICICI Bank offers to get travel cashback when booking a round trip on ride apps.

Browse Books at Central Library (Sardar Patel Bhavan)

Sardar Patel Bhavan’s Central Library is a serene refuge for students and readers alike. It offers a huge collection of academic, fiction, and regional books in Hindi, Gujarati, and English. The library is well-lit, air-conditioned, and spacious for long study hours. Membership is free for in-house reading and very affordable for borrow-and-return users. Located centrally, it’s easily reachable by foot, bike, or city bus. The calm environment makes it perfect for quiet afternoons.

• Entry to reading sections is free with Aadhaar-based visitor registration.
  
  
• Borrowing membership costs just ₹100 per year for locals.
  
  
• Free WiFi is available for members, which helps with online learning.

Pro Tip: Visit during weekday afternoons when the library is less crowded and easier to find reading space.

Explore the Unique Tambekar Wada

Tambekar Wada is a beautifully preserved 19th-century townhouse once used by the Gaekwad ministers. The standout feature is the delicate wall paintings that depict religious stories and Maratha battles. It’s off the typical tourist path, so you’ll enjoy exploring without the crowd. Entry is free, and local volunteers often provide historical tidbits. The wooden interiors and winding staircases take you back in time. This heritage site is just a short walk from Mandvi market.

• Entry is free for all, making it ideal for a quick, informative visit.
  
  
• Most visitors finish the tour in under 45 minutes, ideal for tight schedules.
  
  
• Photography without flash is usually permitted and perfect for culture shots.

Pro Tip: After visiting Tambekar Wada, stop by local sweet shops nearby offering festive deals on traditional snacks like fafda and jalebi.

Discover Hidden Art at Kirti Mandir

Kirti Mandir is a cenotaph built in honour of Vadodara’s royal family. The building stands out with its Indo-Saracenic design, majestic domes, and intricate wall murals. Inside, you’ll find portraits and inscriptions chronicling the city’s history. It’s calm, spiritual, and entirely free to visit. The structure is located close to the railway station, so it's very accessible. Although photography isn’t allowed inside, the exteriors are Instagram-worthy.

• Entry is free and guided visits are available via local historians.
  
  
• Murals inside reflect Hindu epics and 20th-century royal contributions.
  
  
• Located centrally, making it a quick visit option between travel breaks.

Pro Tip: Nearby restaurants often accept PhonePe cashback vouchers, letting you grab a full thali meal for under ₹120.

Use City Bus to Hop Across Tourist Spots

Vadodara’s city bus system, managed by VMSS, is efficient, safe, and highly economical. It connects major tourist areas like Alkapuri, Ajwa, Sardar Patel Planetarium, and more. Buses are semi-low-floor and have stops near most major landmarks. Fares are typically ₹10–₹20, which saves big compared to auto or taxi rides. You can even buy a daily pass if planning to visit 3–4 attractions in one day. It’s also a greener choice that supports sustainable travel.

• Daily bus passes cost just ₹50 and offer unlimited city-wide rides.
  
  
• Routes are well displayed inside buses and available on VMSS’s website.
  
  
• Most buses run every 15–20 minutes from major points like Station Circle.

Pro Tip: Use Mobikwik or Freecharge recharge offers to get 10%–20% off when loading your bus pass wallet.

Conclusion

Vadodara blends royal history, vibrant street food, and modern art with affordability, making it perfect for Indian travellers on a tight budget. With SavePlus as your savings partner, you can explore this beautiful city without overspending. From local food offers to UPI cashback, there’s always a way to save more and enjoy better.

FAQ

What is the best time to visit Vadodara on a budget?
October to February is ideal with festive offers, pleasant weather, and cheaper travel options.

Are there any student discounts in Vadodara attractions?
Yes, many museums and libraries offer discounted entry fees with valid student ID.

Which are the best cheap eats in Vadodara?
Try street food in Fatehgunj or thali joints near Mandvi; most meals cost under ₹100.

Can I use UPI or digital wallets in Vadodara markets?
Absolutely. UPI, PhonePe, and Paytm wallet offers are widely accepted.

Are local buses safe and affordable for tourists?
Yes, VMSS buses are cheap, frequent, and connect all major attractions.