Here’s a sample 1-day itinerary for Gondal, along with a table of key attractions, approximate time needed, and known fees.
Morning
- 08:30 AM – Breakfast in Gondal
- Enjoy a local Gujarati breakfast or thali at a nearby restaurant.
- Recommended: Local eateries near Naulakha Palace.
- 09:00 AM – Visit Naulakha Palace & Museum
- The most famous heritage site of Gondal.
- See royal artifacts, furniture, palanquins, toys, and the Darbar Hall.
- Estimated time: 1.5 – 2.5 hours.
- 11:15 AM – Visit Orchard Palace & Royal Garages (Vintage Car Collection)
- Part of the Huzoor Palace complex.
- Explore the royal garages housing vintage cars, including Rolls Royce and American classics.
- Estimated time: 1 – 1.5 hours.
Afternoon
- 01:00 PM – Lunch Break
- Try traditional Kathiyawadi cuisine.
- Suggested: Local dhabas or heritage restaurant near the palace area.
- 01:45 PM – Visit Akshar Deri (Swaminarayan Temple Complex)
- A sacred shrine of Gunatitanand Swami, located within the Swaminarayan Mandir complex.
- Peaceful and spiritual stop.
- Estimated time: 20 – 30 minutes.
- 02:30 PM – Visit Riverside Palace
- Beautiful riverside heritage palace.
- Offers great views, peaceful gardens, and a glimpse of royal lifestyle.
- Estimated time: 30 – 45 minutes.
- 03:15 PM – Visit Bhuvaneshwari Ayurvedic Pharmacy
- Historic Ayurvedic pharmacy functioning since early 20th century.
- Watch traditional methods of making herbal medicines.
- Estimated time: 20 – 30 minutes.
Evening
- 04:00 PM – Local Bazaar / Handicraft Shopping
- Explore Gondal’s traditional markets for beadwork, embroidery, brass and silverware.
- Estimated time: 30 – 60 minutes.
- 05:00 PM – Leisure / Sunset / Café Time
- Relax at a café or visit one of your favorite spots again for photos.
- Ideal spot: Gardens near Naulakha or Riverside Palace.
- 05:30–06:00 PM – End of Day / Depart Gondal
- Head back to your hotel or onward destination (e.g., Rajkot).
Table of Major Tourist Attractions in Gondal
| No. | Place Name | Popularity Rank | Avg. Time Spent | Entry Fee / Charges | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Naulakha Palace & Museum | ⭐ #1 | 1.5 – 2.5 hours | Usually Free / Nominal | Main palace complex; features royal artifacts, museum, and toy/carriage exhibits. |
| 2 | Orchard Palace & Royal Garages (Vintage Car Collection) | ⭐ #2 | 1 – 1.5 hours | ₹120 (approx.) + camera/video fees | Famous for vintage Rolls Royce & 1940s American cars. |
| 3 | Riverside Palace | ⭐ #3 | 30 – 45 minutes | Nominal / part of palace entry | Heritage palace on the riverbank; scenic gardens. |
| 4 | Akshar Deri (Swaminarayan Shrine) | ⭐ #4 | 20 – 30 minutes | Free | Peaceful and spiritual landmark. |
| 5 | Bhuvaneshwari Ayurvedic Pharmacy | ⭐ #5 | 20 – 30 minutes | Free / Donation-based | Historic Ayurvedic medicine factory. |
| 6 | Local Bazaar / Handicraft Shops | ⭐ #6 | 30 – 60 minutes | Free (Shopping Cost Varies) | Traditional beadwork, brass, embroidery, and crafts. |
Important Travel Tips
- Best time to visit: October to March (pleasant weather).
- Museum timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (some close for lunch 12–3 PM).
- Closed days: Some attractions (like vintage garages) may close on Mondays.
- Camera charges: ₹80–₹200 for photography/video in palace museums.
- Hire a guide: Local guides add depth to palace and museum visits.
- Shopping tip: Bargain politely in bazaars; fixed price in palace shops.
- Dress comfortably: Lightweight cotton clothing and walking shoes.