Things To Do
in Gondal

Gondal, India is a quaint town located in the Rajkot district of Gujarat, known for its rich history and vibrant culture. Once a princely state, Gondal is home to several palaces and temples that reflect its royal heritage. The town is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, making it a peaceful destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and exploration.

With a mix of modernity and tradition, Gondal offers visitors a unique glimpse into the lifestyle of Gujarat.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Heritage
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Gondal Palace, where you can admire the stunning architecture and learn about its history.

afternoon
:

Head to the Swaminarayan Temple for a peaceful experience and enjoy the intricate carvings and serene atmosphere.

evening
:

Stroll through the local markets, where you can shop for handicrafts and souvenirs, followed by a traditional Gujarati dinner.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the famous Naulakha Palace, known for its exquisite design and surrounding gardens.

afternoon
:

Take a short drive to the nearby Khambhalida Caves, where you can explore ancient rock-cut sculptures.

evening
:

Enjoy a cultural performance at a local venue, showcasing traditional music and dance, followed by a delicious meal at a nearby restaurant.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$3-5
🏨Budget Hotel Night$15-30
🚕Taxi Ride within City$1-2
🚌Bus Ticket$0.50
🛍️Souvenir Purchase$2-10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
  • Friendly and welcoming local population.
  • Delicious and diverse local cuisine.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Public transportation may be less frequent.
  • Hot summers can be challenging for outdoor activities.
  • "Kem cho?" - How are you?
  • "Shukriya" - Thank you
  • "Malu khorak chhe?" - Is there vegetarian food?
  • "Mane madad joiye chhe" - I need help
  • "Suno" - Listen

Places to Visit in Gondal

Visit one of these nice places.

Gondal Palace

Capture stunning images of the intricate architecture and lush gardens surrounding the palace.

Naulakha Palace

A picturesque location with breathtaking views, perfect for sunset photography.

Swaminarayan Temple

The temple's ornate carvings and vibrant colors make it an ideal subject for photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Gondal

Gondal is a food lover's paradise, offering a plethora of flavors that reflect the rich culinary heritage of Gujarat.

Gondal Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Dhokla

A savory steamed cake made from fermented rice and chickpea flour, often served with green chutney.

Must-Try!

Thepla

A spiced flatbread made from whole wheat flour and fenugreek leaves, perfect for breakfast or as a snack.

Undhiyu

A traditional mixed vegetable dish cooked with spices, often enjoyed during festivals.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Gondal Market

A bustling market where you can find local snacks like kachoris and samosas, along with fresh produce.

Kankot Chowk

A popular street food spot offering a variety of quick bites and local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Gondal experiences a semi-arid climate with distinct seasons. Winters are mild and pleasant (November to February) with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C. Summers (March to June) can be quite hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C. The monsoon season (July to September) brings moderate to heavy rainfall, refreshing the landscape, while the post-monsoon season (October) sees a gradual drop in temperature and humidity levels.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always greet and show respect to elders, using appropriate titles and gestures.

Dress Modestly

Dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites, to show respect for local customs.

Removing Footwear

It is customary to remove shoes before entering homes and places of worship.

Safety Guide

Safety

Gondal is generally safe for travelers, but typical precautions should be followed. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas, and keep an eye on personal belongings in crowded places. It is advisable to have travel insurance and to stay informed about local news and events.

Tipping in Gondal

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants, though rounding up the bill is also appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but many restaurants and shops now accept digital payments through mobile apps.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter (November to February)

The weather is pleasant, making it the best time to explore outdoor attractions.

Summer (March to June)

Expect hot temperatures; plan indoor activities or visit during the cooler mornings and evenings.

Monsoon (July to September)

The area receives rainfall, which enhances the natural beauty, but be prepared for occasional heavy showers.

Post-Monsoon (October)

Cooler temperatures and fewer crowds make this an excellent month for sightseeing.

Nightlife Guide

Gondal at Night

Gondal's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities, focusing on traditional cultural experiences rather than bars and clubs. You may find a few local spots where families gather in the evenings, especially around markets and parks, where street food vendors set up stalls. Cultural performances, including local music and dance, are occasionally held, providing a glimpse into the region's vibrant traditions.

Hiking in Gondal

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Khambhalida Caves Trail

A scenic hike that leads to ancient rock-cut caves, surrounded by lush greenery.

Gir National Park

Located a bit further away, this park offers trails that provide opportunities to see wildlife, including the Asiatic lion.

Airports

How to reach Gondal by plane.

Rajkot Airport (RAJ)

Located approximately 35 km from Gondal, Rajkot Airport offers domestic flights connecting to major cities in India.

Getting Around

Walkability

Gondal is relatively walkable, especially in the town center where most attractions, markets, and eateries are located within a short distance. Wide sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas make it easy to explore on foot, though it's advisable to stay hydrated and wear comfortable shoes, particularly during the hotter months.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Gujarati Hindus

The majority demographic, known for their rich cultural traditions and festivals.

Jains

A significant community in Gondal, known for their vegetarianism and emphasis on non-violence.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cricket

Cricket is the most popular sport in Gondal, with many locals playing in parks and open fields.

Kabbadi

Traditional Indian wrestling, known as Kabbadi, is also popular among locals, especially during festivals.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Gondal is generally manageable, with less congestion compared to larger cities. Most people use bicycles, scooters, and auto-rickshaws for local transport. Public transportation is available but may not be as frequent, so planning ahead is advisable.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Gondal.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants offer a wide range of vegetarian dishes, making it easy for vegetarians to find suitable meals.

Gluten-Free Options

While traditional Gujarati cuisine often includes wheat, many places can accommodate gluten-free requests.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Gondal include a mix of government and private hospitals. While basic medical care is available, for more complex health issues, travelers may need to visit larger hospitals in nearby cities like Rajkot. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses and to carry a basic first-aid kit.

Discover India

Read more in our India 2025 Travel Guide.

India Travel Guide