Districts headquarter and the capital of former princely State of Palanpur, the city is circled by hillocks in the close vicinity of Aravali Mountains. It derives its name from Palansi Chauhans who inhabited the city in 14th century. The Chauhans were replaced by Muslim rulers who ruled till independence. A thriving commercial centre, the city has become crowded due to mercantile growth.

There is a Kirti Stambh and a Rajmahal, the old palace of the Nawab, now used for govt. offices. Outside Mira Gate, there are two Dargahs, one of the poet Anwar Kazi and the other of Saint Mursheed, worshipped by Muslims. An ancient stepwell `Mithi Vav' is the best-preserved architectural monument with seven galleries on the wall on either side. Access 70 kms. from Mehsana on Ahmedabad-Abu highway, a railway junction on A'bad-Delhi line, Gujrat S.T. central station.