Vadodara, literally the 'city of banyan trees', was once the capital of the princely state of the Gaekwads and is now known as the cultural capital of Gujarat. A pleasant, medium-sized city formerly known as Baroda, Vadodara has palaces, temples, parks, lakes and monuments.

Of special interest is the Pratap Vilas Palace which has a miniature railway model room, complete with all railway operations including signalling. The city's Fine Arts College is exceptional and attracts students from all over India and abroad.