Sayaji Baug, Vadodara

Sayaji Baug, also known as Kamati Baug, was laid out by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III on the Vishwamitri river and given to the people of Vadodara in 1879. Covering about 113 acres, it is among the largest public gardens in western India, with more than 98 tree species, and lies opposite Vadodara Railway Station, about 800 m from the main gate at Sayaji Circle, known as Kala Ghoda Chowk. Thousands come for morning walks, and the municipal corporation maintains it.

Within the grounds are the Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery of 1894, modelled on London's Victoria and Albert Museum, with works by Turner and Constable, Tibetan art, fifth-century Akota bronzes and Mughal miniatures; the pyramid-shaped Sardar Patel Planetarium; and the zoo, opened in 1879, whose Asiatic lions are the biggest draw. A joy train, closed on Thursdays, circles the garden in about 20 minutes with a commentary on Vadodara's heritage. Bronze statues honour two Koli brothers of Dhari who saved the Maharaja from a lion in 1933.