How to get to Vadodara

Vadodara is the cultural capital of the state of Gujarat in western India, attracting travellers with its majestic palaces, parks, and museums. Getting to Vadodara is effortless: the city is a major transport hub with its own airport, a major railway station, and a developed network of highways. This destination is ideal for both admirers of history and architecture, as well as those on a business trip through the region.

The fastest way to reach the city is to fly into the local Vadodara Airport (BDQ), which is located just a few kilometres from the centre. The air harbour receives regular flights from major Indian metropolises, ensuring convenient connectivity with the rest of the country.

If direct tickets are unavailable, an excellent alternative is flying into the international airport in the city of Ahmedabad (about 101 km away), which serves many more destinations. Travellers can also utilise the airports in neighbouring Surat (131 km) or Bhavnagar (122 km), located within a few hours' drive.

Unlike some tourist locations, Vadodara is a key railway hub of the Western Railway. The Vadodara Junction station is one of the busiest in the state, with trunk routes connecting Mumbai and Delhi passing through it, making it easy to reach by direct trains from practically anywhere in India.

Thanks to the high frequency of services, travelling by rail from neighbouring cities is very convenient. From Ahmedabad, Surat, or Bhavnagar, both ordinary passenger trains and high-speed expresses run regularly, allowing you to reach your destination quickly and comfortably.

Bus services are a popular and budget-friendly option for moving around the state of Gujarat. The most intensive traffic connects the city with Ahmedabad: buses cover the distance of 104 km in an average of 2.8 hours, operating from early morning until late at night.

For travellers heading from the south, services from Surat are convenient, with a travel time of about 5.8 hours. Regular connections are also established with the city of Bhavnagar (135 km), from where the trip will take approximately 5 hours.

Travelling by car or taxi offers flexibility and comfort, especially thanks to the quality roads in the region. The fastest route runs from Ahmedabad: via a modern expressway, the 111 km journey takes just 2.1 hours.

A trip from Surat (160 km) will require about 3 hours behind the wheel. If you are driving from the direction of Bhavnagar, expect to spend approximately 3.9 hours on the road, covering a distance of almost 200 km through picturesque landscapes.

To ensure your stay in the cultural capital of Gujarat is as comfortable and safe as possible, we have prepared several important recommendations considering local specifics.

1. Clothing and Climate. In Vadodara, it is hot for most of the year, so choose loose-fitting clothing made from natural fabrics (cotton, linen). Avoid outfits that are too revealing, especially when visiting temples, to show respect for local traditions and modesty.
2. Transport. For trips around the city, it is most convenient to use auto-rickshaws or taxis booked via mobile apps (Ola, Uber). If you hail a rickshaw on the street, always agree on the price in advance or insist on using the meter.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Indian Rupee. Although cards are accepted in hotels and large shops, always carry small denomination cash for paying for transport, street food, and souvenirs.
4. Health and Safety. Drink exclusively bottled water and check the seal integrity upon purchase. It is recommended to carry a basic first aid kit with absorbents and hand sanitiser.
5. Communication. The main language is Gujarati, but Hindi is also widely spoken. In tourist zones and hotels, staff usually speak English at a level sufficient for communication.
6. Local Etiquette. When entering homes and religious institutions, be sure to remove your shoes. It is customary to greet locals with folded palms ("Namaste"), and money or items should be handed over using only the right hand.
7. What to Avoid. Gujarat is a "dry state", so the purchase and consumption of alcohol are strictly regulated by law and require a special tourist permit. Also, avoid consuming cut fruits and ice at street cafes.
8. Additional Tip. If possible, plan your trip during the Navratri festival (usually October), when the city transforms thanks to the colourful "Garba" night dances, considered some of the grandest in the world.

By following these simple rules, you can avoid minor inconveniences and fully focus on exploring the rich heritage and hospitality of this amazing Indian city.