Kirti Mandir, Vadodara - Timings, History, Best Time to Visit

At a distance of 1.5 km from Vadodara Railway Station, Kirti Mandir is the cenotaph of the Gaekwads situated near Vishwamitri Bridge in Baroda. Also known as the Temple of Fame, it is one of the popular and important places to visit in Vadodara.

The Kirti Mandir is actually a cluster of temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. It was built in 1936 by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III of the Gaekwad dynasty to perpetuate the glorious memory of his beloved ancestors. Built as part of the Diamond Jubilee celebrations of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, the outstanding E- shaped building was designed by Sir Edward Lutyens & V R Talwarkar.

The Kirti Mandir is adorned with terraces, balconies, domes and a central sikhara that rises to approximately 35 m height. The sikhara of this temple represents the sun, the moon and the earth in bronze with the undivided map of India. The interiors of the Kirti Mandir are marble treated and brilliantly decorated with intricately carved murals. The walls of the central hall are adorned with many impressive murals such as the Gangavataran, Life of Meera, the battle of Mahabharata and Natir Poojan which are all very well preserved works from the renowned Bengali artist Nandalal Bose. Besides, there is also some rare paintings of the famous artist Raja Ravi Varma.

The Kirti Mandir also houses priceless photographs and statues of the Gaekwads and coins, weapons and other personal items. One can also visit Lord Dattatreya temple situated nearby, where the royal family members used to offer their prayers.

Timings: 9.30 AM - 5 PM