Vadodara is renowned for its modern and historical landmarks, especially places like the Laxmi Vilas Palace. However, if you are in the mood for something lowkey and chilled out, be it with friends or family, there are several Vadodara picnic place to check out. The city has an infinite number of options, be it parks, lakes or even inside landmarks and monuments. Given how expansive the city is, the choices are quite extensive, something that should help you figure out the plans for your next weekend.
Top 10 Vadodara Picnic Place To Check Out
Vadodara offers a plethora of options for locals and tourists looking to enjoy a leisurely day out. There are parks, gardens and lakes where you can hang out and unwind.
1. Sayaji Baug
Photo: Snehrashmi / Wikimedia Commons
Offering a blend of a garden and zoo, Sayaji Baug is the perfect destination for hosting a family picnic in Vadodara. The garden is spread across 100 acres and was built by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad and is one of the largest public gardens in the area. The garden houses a zoo, two museums, a planetarium, and a mini train that takes visitors on a ride through the park. So, not only do you get to unwind, you get to spend some quality time with the people in your friend group or family.
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fees: ₹7 for adults and ₹5 for children
2. Sursagar Lake
Photo: StapelChips / Wikimedia Commons
With the views of the serene lake and designated picnic spots along the perimeter, Sursagar Lake is a great picnic destination to explore with your friends or family. There is a fort right beside the lake too, adding to the beauty of the whole picnic experience. The lake is surrounded by a well-paved pathway, making it ideal for a leisurely stroll before settling down for a picnic. In the midst of the lake lies the 120-foot statue of Lord Shiva called Sarveshwar Mahadev, which is a major attraction among tourists.
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fees: Free
3. Ajwa Water Park
Photo: Studio Sarah Lou / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Amusement parks are one of the best sites for hosting a picnic because you get to have fun and explore, all while chilling and relaxing to have some food. It is the best of both worlds. The next time you are in Vadodara, head to Ajwa Water Park, which is renowned for its mix of thrilling water rides and tranquil garden spaces. While children can unwind on the rides, adults can relax in the gardens, setting up a picnic. There is a cafeteria inside the water park, so you wouldn’t have to worry about getting food separately.
Timings: 10:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Entry Fees: ₹850 per person
4. Nimeta Garden
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For an affordable picnic experience surrounded by lush greenery, Nimeta Garden is a great spot in Vadodara that you can check out. It is located a short drive from the main city, so it is kind of separated from the constant car honking and the hustle of city life. It is a well-maintained and properly landscaped garden, so all you have to do is get the staple picnic supplies like blankets, food and beverages. Paired with good company, you should have a great time in the park.
Timings: 8 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fees: Free
5. Hathni Mata Waterfall
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Located on the outskirts of Vadodara, Hathni Mata Waterfall is another unusual yet beautiful picnic spot nearby. This is no doubt a hidden gem that most of the tourists aren’t aware of. However, the best part of visiting this place is that it’s less crowded, you get a good view of the gushing water and the surrounding lush greenery brings peace and tranquillity. The area around the waterfall is perfect for a picnic where you can set up all the basics of your picnic and enjoy the experience. .
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fees: Free
6. Zarwani Waterfalls
Photo: Prabas007 / Wikimedia Commons
Trekking, dense forests and a picnic set-up in the middle of it, that’s what you get to experience in Zarwani Waterfalls. The place is nothing short of a piece of heaven, especially if you are someone who enjoys natural waterfalls, streams, and adventure. It is a great spot for hosting picnics with your friends who also love to trek and swim. There are safari options available around the waterfall as well, which add to the charm of the experience.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fees: Free
7. Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary
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For a unique picnic experience, away from the hustle and bustle of the city, you can consider heading to Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary. The sanctuary is surrounded by towering hills, which add to the charm of the entire experience. Beyond the wildlife like flying fox, mongoose, porcupine, Indian giant squirrel, and avian species in the sanctuary, prepare to be mesmerised by the vegetation that has teak, bamboo and mahua thickets around. Inside the sanctuary, you can host a picnic and embark on a thrilling jeep safari too.
Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
Entry Fees: ₹50 per person
8. S Cube Water Park
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Another popular water and amusement park in Vadodara that doubles as a picnic spot is the S Cube Water Park. Located right opposite Vrindavan Garden in Ajwa, it is a popular recreational spot among families and friend groups. There are water rides and dry rides, offering a balance of thrill and fun. Some of the popular rides that you can enjoy inside the park are Columbus, Paddle Boating, Giant Wheel and their majestic water slides. Also, for a picnic experience, you’d have to get the food from the in-house cafeteria since they don’t allow entry with outside food. Overall, the laidback experience in this place makes the experience worth it.
Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
Entry Fees: ₹200 per person
9. Kabirvad
Photo: Priyanshi18shah / Wikimedia Commons
Kabirvad is a popular picnic spot in Bharuch, Gujarat, India on a small island in the Narmada River. The island is named after the 15th-century poet-saint Kabir, who is said to have meditated there. Kabirvad is known for its banyan trees, some of which are believed to be over 600 years old, and also has a temple dedicated to Kabir. You can visit with your family, explore the botanical marvels in the area and unwind under the shade of the trees while enjoying some snacks and food. The experience is quite magical, to say the least. Also, there is a temple inside, which you can visit as well.
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fees: Free
10. Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Kevin Bidwell / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Although a little farther out from Vadodara, Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary is a popular site for a day trip. You can spot animals out on your jeep safari and unwind having a picnic amidst nature. The surroundings are beautiful and have a blend of teak and riverine forest, which adds to the serenity of the place. Some of the animals that you can witness on a safari include leopards and sloth bears. There are barking deer, reptiles and a variety of bird species too. The entire sanctuary is spread across an area of around 150 sq.km, which offers you ample space to have a comfortable picnic experience.
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fees: ₹200 per person
Finding a good Vadodara picnic place isn’t as difficult, given that there are so many. With different backgrounds, and different experiences mixed with a lot of fun and adventure, you get to have a great time out with friends or family hosting a picnic amidst nature. The next time you plan your trip to Gujarat with TripXL, consider spending a day or two exploring some of the best picnic spots for a relaxing exploration of the place.
Cover Photo: Snehrashmi / Wikimedia Commons