Gujarat

Baroda was foundered by a family originally employed by the Maratha kingdom under the Peshwa rulers. Pilaji Gaekwar gained control of Baroda in 1730. The founders of Baroda were given the title Gaekwad which literally translates into protector of cows. The Gaekwad took part in many battles with the Maratha army.

Baroda owned some of the best jewels in the world. Maharaja Sayaji Rao III Bahadur bought the 262 caret Star of the South diamond.

Modern Baroda owes its beauty, educational institutions and its magnificent architecture to the insight and vision it's original great ruler. There is a saying that "nothing grows under the banyan tree" but this is not true of Baroda. Baroda, now occupies a unique position on the educational, cultural and industrial map of India. It has been fortunate enough to retain the beauty of its rich and varied past. It is also one of the few cities in India which is still influenced by the lost might of its ruling dynasties.

Dont's:
When visiting mosques or temples shorts or sleeveless tops are not to be worn. Smoking and the holding of hands, the touching of carvings or statues and the touching of someone's head is not permitted. Removal of shoes prior to entry. These apply to both men and women. In some mosques you will be required to cover your head.

Never point the soles of your feet to another person or statue.

The right hand should be used for all occassions. The left is considered dirty.

When swimming nudity is not allowed, even in remote areas. Women should wear a sarong if they are in public view.

Some animals are considered sacred, please check with local authorities.

Extreme climate, warm inland from April to mid-June falling to almost freezing at night in winter, between November and February. Summers are hot with monsoons between June and September. The climate is pleasant between October and March, blast-furnace hot between April and June, and dripping with humidity between July and September.

Required clothing: Lightweight cottons and linens in summer with warmer clothes in winter and on cooler evenings. Waterproofing is essential during monsoons. Monsoon rains occur in most regions in summer between June and September.