Vadodara (guj. વડોદરા) is the 3rd largest city in the Indian state of Gujarat after Ahmedabad and Surat. It used to be called “Baroda” (guj. બરોડા). Also known as Sayaji Nagari (“City of Sayaji” after Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III) or Sanskari Nagari (“City of Culture”, a reference to the city’s status as the “Cultural Capital of Gujarat”).

Geography and climate
Vadodara is located in the west of India, in the state of Gujarat, at an altitude of 39 m above sea level. The city spreads out on a fertile plain, on both banks of the Vishwamitri River, which usually almost dries up in summer.

The climate of the city is characterized as tropical, there are 3 seasons: summer, monsoon season and winter. The hottest period is from March to July. The monsoon season lasts from the second half of June to September. The highest temperature ever recorded: 47°C, the lowest: -1°C. Average annual rainfall: 930 mm.

History
The history of the city began in 812 AD. The region was inhabited by Hindus, and Hindu Rajas ruled independently until 1297.

Transport
Vadodara Airport is located northeast of the city, with only domestic flights to Delhi, Bangalore, Bombay, Pune and Hyderabad. The city is a major railway junction and belongs to the Western Zone of the Indian Railways. National Highway No. 8 connects the city with Delhi, Ahmedabad and Bombay. Expressway 1 also connects Vadodara with Ahmedabad.