Gondal

Gondal

Information on Gondal
Gondal, a fortified town is located on the River Gondali. Gondal was the capital of the former princely state of Gondal and was ruled by the Jadeja Rajput clan, who ruled the princely states of Kutch, Jamnagar, Rajkot and Gondal for more than 300 years. But in the late 19th century and early 20th century the present state of Gondal saw various developments under the rule of Maharaja Bhagwat Singhji. Maharaja Bhagwat Singhji introduced various social reforms and planned the development of the Gondal town. Due to his reforms, the town of Gondal grow into one of the most progressive princely states in the region with an efficient system of roads, railways, schools, hospitals, highways, sanitary drainage, irrigation and free compulsory education.

Tourist Attractions in Gondal
Some of the tourist attractions in Gondal are the Naulakha Darbargadh Palace. Naulakha palace was built during the 17th century, and is the oldest palace in Gondal. This palace was constructed in nine lakhs and thus named so. There are stone carvings with exquisite balconies, a fabulous pillared courtyard, delicately carved arches, and a unique spiral staircase in the palace. The Orchard Palace is located in a huge complex of fruit orchards, lawns and gardens, and is a wing of the Huzoor Palace (the present royal residence) where the ruling family of Gondal entertained guests. The Royal Garages have an extensive collection of vintage and classic cars, sports cars and American cars from the World War II and post war period. Gondal is also a paradise for birdwatchers. Various birds like demoiselle cranes, rosy pelicans, flamingoes, spoonbills, ibises, ducks, sand grouse, great horned owl, gray and painted partridge, quails, larks and warblers can be seen at the lake in Gondal. In the grasslands various animals like blue bull antelope, jackal, jungle cat can also be seen.

How to reach Gondal