Gondal

Gondal

History

Gondal State was established in 1634 AD by Thakore Shri Kumbhoji I Meramanji from a Hindu Rajput dynasty of the Jadeja clan, who received Ardoi and other villages from his father Meramanji.

With his fourth descendant Kumbhoji IV, the State raised itself, by acquiring the parganas of Dhoraji, Upleta, Sarai, and Patanvav,among others. The last ruler of Gondal State, Maharaja Bhojrajji Bhagwatsimhji, signed the instrument of accession to the Indian Union on 15 February 1948.

Historical places of Gondal

The Naulakha Palace is the oldest extant palace in Gondal, dating back to the 17th century.  It has stone carvings with jharokhas (enclosed balconies), a pillared courtyard, delicately carved arches, and a unique spiral staircase. The large chandelier-lit durbar (court) contains stuffed panthers, gilt wooden furniture, and antique mirrors. The Private Palace Museum has a display of silver caskets which were used to carry messages and gifts for Maharajah Bhagwat Sinhjiduring his silver jubilee as ruler of Gondal.

The Riverside Palace was built in 1875 by Maharajah Bhagwat Sinhji for his son, Yuvraj Bhojraji. It has groomed lawns and gardens, a living room furnished in typical colonial style with chandelier, antique wooden furniture and sofas, and an "Indian room" decorated with beadwork, brassware and paintings. The palace has now become a heritage hotel.

The Huzoor Palace is the current royal residence. One wing of this palace, called the Orchard palace, is open to the public. It was built as an annex of the Huzoor Palace in the late 19th century to host guests of the Maharajas. The property gets its name from the fruit orchards, lawns and gardens that surround the palace.

Orchard Palace was converted into a seven-room heritage hotel decorated with 1930s–1940s art deco furniture, antiques and handicrafts. The garden contains many types of birds, including a large population of peacocks. The Room of Miniatures is a sitting room with a collection of miniature paintings, brass, and furniture. One of the highlights of the palace is the Rail Saloon of the royal family of Gondal which has been converted into a suite with a drawing room, dining room and bedroom. The royal garages have an extensive collection of vintage and classic cars.