Madhav Bagh - Royal Heritage Stay

Having been built in 1892, Mandhav Bagh has borne witness to many of Vadodara's historic upheavals. It was constructed by Shrimant Madhavrao Gaekwad, cousin to Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III.

During this era, the Maharaja set about reforming his kingdom by modernizing key industries and providing social projects to improve education and living standards. Another aspect of his rule was encouraging a cosmopolitan Vadodara, where Indian and foreign values come together instead of clashing. He commissioned his new palace, the Laxmi Vilas Palace, to combine Western and Eastern aesthetics, thus creating a symbol that represents his convictions. Shrimant Madhavrao Gaekwad likely supported his leader's vision and soon had his haveli, Mandhav Bagh built on the same principles.

Unfortunately, with India's independence and unification also came the abolishment of royal titles. The haveli fell into neglect during the latter 20th century, until Shivraj Gaekwad, grandson of Madhavrao, dedicated himself to restoring their ancestral home. Together with his wife, Indrayani, they carefully restored and updated the haveli, and opened it as a boutique stay in 2018.

Madhav Bagh is an eclectic example of Gujarati Indo-Saracenic styles, combined with Colonial-era influences. Guests will notice a red and white façade with a structure heavily based on Victorian Gothic. Its walls are covered with arched windows, while on its corners are towers with Rajput jharokha balconies, detailed similarly to a minaret. Complementing the red-white facade is the lush greenery of the estate's gardens, featuring a fountain courtyard and surrounded by trees.

The traditional interiors create a striking yet charming contrast to the exterior. The inner courtyard is lined with antique furniture, while the doorways to each room feature carved wood and stained glass transoms. All four of the haveli's accommodations follow a distinct style, shaped by the architecture and space provided. One might have a four-poster bed, while another has classic brickwork integrated into the aesthetics. The painted patterns and vintage decor set alongside modern fixtures also invoke a duality that suitably represents modern Vadodara.

Dining at Madhav Bagh means you will be treated to the Gaekwad family's royal Gujarati recipes passed down through the generations. Some of these dishes could even date all the way back to the time of the Maratha Empire, when the Gaekwads gradually rose into power. But their culinary repertoire isn't limited to native cooking, as they can also prepare a variety of Western foods such as baked fish, waffles, and soufflés. Guests may also book a special royal thali dinner, served on silver thali platters, which was once a tradition reserved only for India's nobility and royalty.

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

For the food lovers among you, the hosts can prepare a special cooking class where you can learn Gaekwad family recipes, some of which are centuries old. Aside from the cooking itself, you can also experience shopping for ingredients at historic market neighborhoods.

The arts play a core part in Gujarati culture, and in Vadodara, the people celebrate the spirit of creativity with art festivals, classical music events, and literary gatherings. The hosts will be happy to assist in arranging tours to museums and art galleries or procuring tickets to cultural events. They can also recommend guides for heritage walks to Vadodara's heritage landmarks such as Laxmi Vilas Palace.

For animal lovers, Vadodara has plenty of opportunities for wildlife encounters. Sayaji Baug Zoo is part of the historic Sayaji Baug garden park, and is home to a large variety of native and foreign species of mammals, birds, fish, and reptiles. For a much wilder experience, you can also go on a crocodile spotting safari, visiting the Vishwamitri River and other locations to admire native Indian crocodiles, turtles, as well as native and migratory birds.

Other Celebrations

While Madhav Bagh doesn't have an actual restaurant, the hosts prepare meals for guests upon reservation. If you're planning to celebrate a special occasion, such as a birthday or anniversary, they might be able to prepare a special dinner if notified beforehand. Otherwise, they may instead be able to refer or recommend a partner establishment for your celebration.