<p>Gadolinium oxide (Gd₂O₃) nanostructures with varied morphologies were synthesized using hydrothermal method, along with Eu-doped nanorods and Ag-decorated nanorods. The photocatalytic performance of the samples was investigated. Among the undoped Gd₂O₃ samples, fine-elongated nanorods exhibited superior photocatalytic activity due to their large surface-to-volume ratio and enhanced quantum yield. Upon Eu doping, we did not observe any improvement in photocatalytic performance. However, silver nanoparticle decoration on Gd₂O₃ nanorods resulted in a remarkable enhancement in photocatalytic efficiency. This enhancement is attributed to surface plasmon resonance, which promotes efficient charge separation, Schottky junction formation, photothermal effects. Further, Ag nanoparticles extends the light absorption upto visible region. These findings demonstrate that morphology engineering and plasmonic nanoparticle decoration can effectively extend the photocatalytic applications of this material in the visible region.</p> Graphical Abstract <p></p>