Gondal

Situated at an average elevation of 132 metres, Gondal is a city as well as a municipality in Rajkot District of Gujarat. Gondal is at a distance of around 60 km from the district headquarters of Junagadh. During the Bombay Presidency, Gondal was one of the eight first class princely states of Kathiawar Agency.

Gondal has mention in texts such as Ain-i-Akbari, which was written during the reign of Akbar and Mirat-i-Ahmadi. Gondal was founded by Thakore Shri Kumbhoji I Meramanji of Jadeja Dynasty in 1634 AD. Later as time passed, the destination was under the reign of Sir Bhagwant Singhji from 1888 to 1944. He was one of the most noted rulers, as during his rule several economical, political and educational developments took place in the region.

Dating back to the 17th century, the Naulakha Palace is the oldest palace located within the destination, which is also one of the prominent attractions of the state. Known for its architecture, this palace also houses a private palace museum.

Gondal is an important place in Gujarat, as the first largest Gujarati dictionary was written here. This dictionary was written and financed by Sir Bhagwat Sinhji Maharaj. Another famous tourist attraction of the place is Riverside Palace, which was built in 1875 by Maharaja Bhagwat Sinhji.
   
Travelling to Gondal is easy with the availability of flights, trains and buses. The nearest airport serving the destination is Rajkot Airport, located at a distance of 40 km from Gondal. However, tourists travelling from international destinations can board flights to Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, located in Mumbai.

Travellers can board trains to Rajkot railway station, which is located on the Western Railway broad-gauge network. Buses are also available to Gondal operating from places like Mumbai, Ahmedabad and Rajkot. The best time to visit this beautiful place is during the winter months, which commence from the month of October and extend till the month of March.