Gondal finds mention in texts like Ain-i-Akbari (written in the reign of Akbar) and Mirat-i-Ahmadi as Vaghelastate in Sorath (Saurashtra). The Gondal state in Kathiawar Agency was founded in 1634 by Thakore Shri Kumbhoji I Meramanji from Jadeja dynasty, who received Ardoi and other villages from his father Meramanji. With his fourth descendant Kumbhoji IV, the State raised itself, by acquiring parganas of Doraji, Upleta, Sarai etc.
Later Sir Bhagwant Singhji who reigned from 1888 until his death in 1944, was its most noted ruler, known for his various tax reforms, compulsory education for women and also removing the purdah tradition for women at a time when the royal households of India were known for this tradition.
Moreover, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, founder of Pakistan ancestors belong to Paneli village in Gondal state.
The Gondal town lies on the banks of Gondali river and in 1901 it had a population of 19,592 and has a railway station on the branch line between Rajkot-Jetalsar on the Western Railway Line ofAhmedabad–Viramgam–Wankaner–Rajkot–Veraval–Somnath Line.Historical places of Gondal
The Riverside Palace was built in 1875 by Maharajah Bhagwat Sinhji for his son Yuvraj Bhojraji, which is groomed be lawns and gardens, and has marvelously appointed sitting arrangement — the "living room" is furnished in typical colonial style withchandelier, antique wooden furniture and sofas; whereas the "Indian room" decorated with beadwork, brassware and paintings, it has now become a heritage hotel.
The Naulakha Palace is the oldest extant palace in Gondal, dating back to the 17th century. It has legendary stone carvings with exquisite "jharokhas" (balconies), a fabulous pillared courtyard, delicately carved arches, and a unique spiral staircase. The large chandelier-lit "durbar" hall (court house) witnesses stuffed panthers, gilt wooden furniture, and antique mirrors. The Private palace museum displays an impressive display of
