Rajkot was once the capital of the princely state of Saurashtra. Today it is best known as the town where Mahatma Gandhi spent the early years of his life when his father was a Diwan or Prime Minister to the king of Saurashtra.

Rajkot is one of the most important commercial and industrial cities of Saurashtra. the gandhi house is now a memorial to the Mahatma, the Rashtriya Shala is promoting his love for handlooms by teaching and encouraging various kinds of weaving and handicrafts.

Lakes around Rajkot, like Aji Dam and Nardi, attract winter birds.

Places to visit

• Kaba Gandhi No Delo
  Gandhiji's ancestral home which now houses the Gandhi Smriti, a permanent exhibition.
• Watson Museum And Library
  Located in the pleasant Jubilee Garden, the museum is a good introduction to Saurashtra's cultural heritage.
• The Rajkumar College
  As early as in 1870, the state had become known for its Rajkumar college, built for the education of the princes of the Indian state.
• Rashtriya Shala
  It was founded by Mahatma Gandhi which has a centre of patola weaving.
• Jagat Mandir
  It is a beautiful carved temple of Shri. Ramakrishna Paramhansa. It is made of redstones.
• Lal Pari Lake And Randerda
  A picturesque picnic spot, 5 kms. from Rajkot
• Aji Dam
  It is situated 8 Kms. from Rajkot and supplies the town's water.

Access

• Air : Various Airlines operate daily services connecting Rajkot with Mumbai (Bombay).
• Rail : Rajkot is a junction on the Western Railway, Viramgam-Okha meter guage line.
• Road : State transport buses and private luxury coaches connects various centres of Gujarat. It is situated 798 Kms. from Mumbai (Bombay) via Ahmedabad, 101 Kms. from Junagadh, 193 Kms. from Porbandar and 216 Kms. from Ahmedabad.