Ahmedabad - 265 KM
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In the 19th century, Gondal was reputed for its wide roads, excellent education, efficient electric supply and excellent communications. It was ahead. of all native states by at least 50 years. The maker of modem Gondal was Maharaja Bhagwat Singhji who introduced wide-ranging economic and social reforms in the late 19th and early-20th centuries. The owner of the palaces of Gondal, HH Jyotindra Sinhji, is the great-grandson of Maharaja Bhagwat Singhji. As soon as we enter Gondal, we can, even today, visualize this grandeur of its past. The Riverside Palace is just one such symbol. Having only 11 rooms, each room is decorated with a theme, antique furniture, brass beds and huge oil paintings of royalty. It is a pride of the city and flavored the golden age of that principality. The Navlakha Palace here was built in 17th century with the expenses reaching the figure of Rupees 9 lakhs. The then Maharaja Sangram Singh had built i
The grand Tower with the clock in it is decorating the Palace. In the background is the weighing scales that were used by the rulers to weigh them in silver and gold coins on some occasions. The poor received these coins, thus proving the large-hearted charity of the kings.
The tourists who flock here can have a special meal or snacks with the descendants of the royal family, so that they can have a glimpse of the royal way of life. These princes gracefully display their great collection of 32 vintage cars, and the Railway Saloon car, and horse drawn carriages too. It is not known generally that when Gandhiji came to get blessings for his Dandi Yatra he was given the title of Mahatma here first. While informing of this fact, the Maharani Kumud Kumari's eyes shine with veritable royal pride.
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