Painted wall
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Tambekar Wada

4.4
·253 reviews·Vadodara, India

Step into a painted past at Tambekar Wada, a 19th-century Maratha mansion adorned with vibrant murals.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daylight hours

To see the murals clearly

CrowdMedium
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Painted wall

Tambekar Wada

Best Time

Daylight hours

To see the murals clearly

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step into a painted past at Tambekar Wada, a 19th-century Maratha mansion adorned with vibrant murals.

4.4
(253 reviews)

"A historical mansion with beautiful paintings, offering a glimpse into the wealth of the past."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎨 Admire the Art

Focus on the incredible 19th-century murals; they are the main attraction and tell fascinating stories.

🚶‍♂️ Explore with Respect

Wada is a historical site. Be gentle with the structures and avoid touching the delicate murals.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vivid 19th-Century Murals

Vivid 19th-Century Murals

Step back in time with stunning frescoes depicting mythological tales and Gaekwad life. These vibrant paintings are the heart of Tambekar Wada.

Maratha Architecture

Maratha Architecture

Admire the traditional wooden mansion, a beautiful example of Maratha architectural style with intricate carvings and woodwork.

Courtyard Charm

Courtyard Charm

Experience the traditional courtyard layout, offering a glimpse into the domestic life of wealthy Maharashtrian and Gujarati families of the past.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Murals

Visit during daylight hours to best appreciate the intricate 19th-century murals. Some sections may be closed for renovation, so check ahead if you're keen on seeing specific areas. Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light for viewing.

Respect the Heritage

Tambekar Wada is a historical gem, so treat it with care. While there's no entry fee, remember it's a place of art and history. Avoid touching the murals and be mindful of your surroundings to preserve its beauty for future visitors.

Best Times

When
Daylight hours
Why
To see the murals clearly
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better viewing
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#chod Kar javoge bada pachtaoge#vadodara
@raaj_solanki_
8K likes • 63.8K views

🎨 Admire the Art

Focus on the incredible 19th-century murals; they are the main attraction and tell fascinating stories. Instagram+1

🚶‍♂️ Explore with Respect

Wada is a historical site. Be gentle with the structures and avoid touching the delicate murals. Instagram

Tambekar wada, a place filled with magical stories, history and love ✨🫶🏼 #love #history #trending #reelsinstagram #explorepage #fyp #atrangire #miniaturepainting #art
prishhaa_aa
289 likes • 5.4K views
Heritage Walk Vadodara 2025 #veggierishi #rotractclub #aapnidharohar #vadodara . . . . . . . . . #heritage #heritagewalk #vadodaraphotography #vadodaradiaries #tambekarwada #gujjurocks #sundaymornings #vadodaracity #gujarat #vadodara_baroda #baroda #ourvadodara #reel #viral #trendingreels #gujarattourism #vadodaratourism (Vadodara Heritage Walk, Heritage Walk, Vadodara Blogger, Vadodara Tour, ...
veggierishi
514 likes • 8.1K views

☀️ Visit During the Day

Natural light is best for appreciating the detail and colors of the paintings. Instagram

💰 No Entry Fee

Enjoy this historical gem without any cost! A great budget-friendly heritage experience. Reddit

Tambekar Wada: A Painted Past 🎨 Stepping inside the incredible Tambekar Wada for the Vadodara History Festival! This Maratha-era wooden mansion is a stunning walk through time. The real showstopper? The vibrant, 19th-century murals covering the walls. They bring the Mahabharata and the life of the Gaekwads to life in spectacular color. It's not just a building; it's a massive, beautiful history ...
shaishavschool_vadodara
28 likes • 976 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎨 Admire the Art

Focus on the incredible 19th-century murals; they are the main attraction and tell fascinating stories. Instagram+1

🚶‍♂️ Explore with Respect

Wada is a historical site. Be gentle with the structures and avoid touching the delicate murals. Instagram

☀️ Visit During the Day

Natural light is best for appreciating the detail and colors of the paintings. Instagram

💰 No Entry Fee

Enjoy this historical gem without any cost! A great budget-friendly heritage experience. Reddit

📸 Capture the History

Bring your camera to document the intricate artwork and architecture, but be mindful of any restrictions. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.4
(253 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Tambekar Wada for its stunning 19th-century murals and impressive Maratha architecture, offering a free glimpse into history. While some murals have faded and not all areas are accessible, the artistic and historical value makes it a highly recommended stop for art and history enthusiasts.

"This is the beautiful place adorned with colourful murals. But I wish I could visit it earlier, as many of them are faded or vanished due to moisture. One floor is open to visitors amongst two. There is no entry fee. Must visit for art and history buffs."

Shubhangi Patel

"A historical mansion of a Maratha Sardar, Tambekar Wada has many medieval murals on display. Very intricate paintings, carvings and woodwork make you wonder about the actual wealth of the past."

Harshal Shailendra Gurav

"Mansion with beautiful paintings. Only the first floor is open for visitors. There is no entry ticket. I was told that the 2nd floor is getting renovated. Must visit for the beautiful paintings on the walls."

Greeshma Gowda

What People Like

Beautiful murals
Maratha architecture
Free entry

What People Dislike

Faded murals
Limited access

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Tambekar Wada is conveniently located in the Raopura area of Vadodara, just about 2.7 km from the railway station. You can easily reach it by auto-rickshaw or taxi. Many visitors arrive as part of heritage walks, which is a great way to explore the area. Instagram+1

While there isn't a direct bus stop right at the Wada, Vadodara has a good local bus network. You can take a bus to a nearby stop and then a short walk or a quick auto-rickshaw ride to reach Tambekar Wada. Instagram

The Wada itself is best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking around the different levels and admiring the artwork. Reddit

Parking can be challenging in the older parts of Vadodara. It's advisable to use ride-sharing services or public transport if possible. If driving, look for designated parking areas nearby, though they might be limited. Instagram

The Wada has multiple stories, and access to all areas might be limited, especially if renovations are ongoing. The main accessible areas are usually on the ground and first floors. It's best to inquire about accessibility upon arrival. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no entry fee to visit Tambekar Wada. It's a free heritage site, making it an accessible attraction for all art and history enthusiasts. Reddit

Tambekar Wada is typically open during daylight hours, allowing visitors to appreciate the murals in natural light. It's advisable to visit during the day to get the best experience. Instagram

Since there is no entry fee, advance booking is not required. You can visit Tambekar Wada at your convenience during its operating hours. Reddit

Visitors are requested to be respectful of the historical site. Avoid touching the murals and refrain from littering to help preserve the Wada for future generations. Instagram

Typically, only one floor, often the first floor, is open to visitors. Some parts might be closed for renovation or preservation. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed inside Tambekar Wada, allowing you to capture the stunning murals and architecture. However, it's always a good idea to check for any specific signage or ask a caretaker on-site, especially regarding flash photography. Instagram

The walls adorned with the 19th-century murals offer the most photogenic opportunities. Focus on capturing the intricate details and the storytelling within the paintings. The wooden architecture also provides great framing. Instagram+1

Utilize natural light as much as possible by visiting during the day. Try to capture the scale of the murals by including architectural elements in your shots. Look for interesting perspectives that highlight the artistry. Instagram

Tripod usage might be restricted to avoid obstructing other visitors or damaging the delicate structure. It's best to confirm this on-site. Instagram

Visitors often photograph the vibrant mythological scenes, portraits within the murals, the detailed woodwork, and the overall ambiance of the historic mansion. Instagram+1

🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture

Tambekar Wada was the residence of Diwan Bhau Tambekar, a prominent figure in the Baroda State during the Maratha era. It's a testament to the wealth and architectural prowess of the time. Instagram+1

It's a classic example of Maratha architecture, characterized by its wooden structure, intricate carvings, and a traditional courtyard layout. Instagram+1

The Wada is renowned for its 19th-century frescoes painted in natural dyes, depicting scenes from the Mahabharata and the life of the Gaekwads. Instagram+1

The Wada was built between 1849 and 1854, making it a significant historical structure from the mid-19th century. Reddit

After the Tambekar family had to abandon the premises, the Wada was used as a school, which unfortunately led to significant damage to the murals. The ASI later took charge for conservation. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Tambekar Wada can be an engaging visit for families, offering a visual storytelling experience that can capture children's imaginations. The vibrant murals depicting mythological stories like the Mahabharata can be a fun way to introduce kids to Indian epics and history. It's a great opportunity for them to see art come alive on walls. Instagram+1

Keep in mind that only certain floors are usually open, and the focus is on appreciating the art. Encourage children to look closely at the details in the paintings and discuss what they see. Comfortable shoes are a must, and it's advisable to keep the visit relatively short to maintain their engagement. Remember to emphasize the importance of respecting the historical site. Reddit

🎨 Art and History Buffs

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Tambekar Wada offers a unique canvas for photographers, with its richly detailed murals and traditional architecture. The play of light and shadow on the painted walls, especially during daylight hours, can create dramatic and evocative images. Capture the intricate figures, the storytelling within the artwork, and the textures of the aged wood. Instagram+1

Experiment with different angles and compositions to highlight the scale and detail of the murals. The wooden corridors and balconies can serve as natural frames for your shots. Remember to be respectful of other visitors and the site itself, and always check for any photography restrictions. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Artistry of Tambekar Wada's Murals

The most captivating feature of Tambekar Wada is undoubtedly its collection of 19th-century murals. These vibrant paintings, rendered in natural dyes, cover the walls of the mansion, bringing to life epic tales from the Mahabharata and scenes from the daily life of the Gaekwad rulers and their court. The artistry is remarkable, showcasing a sophisticated understanding of composition, color, and narrative. Visitors often express awe at the detail and the stories these walls tell, transporting them back in time. Instagram+2

These frescoes are a significant example of traditional Indian mural painting. The use of natural pigments, derived from minerals and plants, gives the artwork a unique depth and longevity, though some have inevitably faded over time due to moisture and age. The condition of the murals varies, with some sections being more well-preserved than others, a point often noted by visitors. Reddit

Despite the challenges of preservation, the murals remain a powerful testament to the artistic heritage of the region. They offer a visual narrative of the cultural and historical context of the Maratha era in Gujarat, making Tambekar Wada a crucial site for art historians and cultural enthusiasts. The experience of walking through these painted corridors is often described as magical and enchanting. Instagram+1

Maratha Architecture and Design

Tambekar Wada stands as a fine example of Maratha architecture, reflecting the grandeur and traditional living styles of the period. Built as a residence for Diwan Bhau Tambekar, the mansion showcases a typical courtyard-style layout, common in traditional Indian homes, which facilitated natural light and ventilation. The structure is predominantly made of wood, featuring intricate carvings and detailed woodwork that speak volumes about the craftsmanship of the era. Instagram+1

The three-storeyed building is not just about its external appearance but also its internal design. The wooden corridors, staircases, and balconies are all integral parts of the architectural aesthetic. The design prioritizes both functionality and beauty, creating a living space that was both comfortable and representative of the owner's status. Visitors often marvel at the durability and intricate detail of the wooden elements, even after more than a century. Reddit

This architectural style, with its blend of practicality and ornate decoration, offers a glimpse into the lifestyle of the elite during the 19th century. The integration of the murals within the architectural framework further enhances the aesthetic appeal, making Tambekar Wada a holistic representation of art, history, and architecture. Instagram

Conservation and Visitor Experience

The journey of Tambekar Wada from a private residence to a protected heritage site involves a history of both neglect and conservation efforts. After the Tambekar family left, the Wada was unfortunately used as a school, leading to significant damage to its precious murals due to a lack of proper care. Reddit

Recognizing its historical and artistic importance, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) took charge of the building in 1951, initiating conservation efforts to preserve what remained. Despite these efforts, the challenges of moisture and time mean that not all parts of the Wada are accessible, and some murals have inevitably faded or vanished. Visitors often note that only one floor is typically open for viewing. Reddit

The visitor experience at Tambekar Wada is often described as a poignant journey through time. While the limited accessibility and the visible signs of aging on the murals might be a point of disappointment for some, the overall sentiment is one of appreciation for the opportunity to witness such a significant piece of history. The lack of an entry fee also contributes to a positive visitor experience, making it an accessible cultural outing. InstagramReddit

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