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Chhota Udepur was among the three princely states of eastern Gujarat- the other two were Devgadh Baria and Rajpipla.

The founders of Chhota Udepur are the direct descendants of the famous Hindu King Prithviraj Chauhan, who bravely fought against the Muslim invaders and was immortalized in ' Prithviraj Raso'- a romantic- heroic ballad, narrating the love of Samyuukta and Prithviraj. After sing a gallant battle at Ranthambhore to Muslim invaders,, the Khichi Chauhan Rajputs moved to the hilled of Pavagadh via Malwa, established the capital at Mohan neat Nrmada and finally shifted the capital to Chhota Udepur. After 1822 AD treaty, with British, an era of peace prevailed and many royal and public buildings were erected in his town.

The original fortification in the town lies in ruins, overgrown with shrubs and creepers and Drabber hall burnt down few years back. Many buildings were built in early 20's, around this fortification, in the fashion big mansions of Bombay, by the relatives of the ruler.

The town is situated at the edge of a big lake, with blooming lilies and boulevard with palm trees. The series of temples along the lake dotting the skyline makes a perfect setting for the colorful tribal haat (market).

Among several temples at Chhota Udepur, the Jain derasar and Kali Temple worth visiting. The Kali Temples is dedicate to the Goddess Kali is worshipped by the royal family. The Jain dearasar is a typical example of plaster-decorated buildings of Gujarat, imitating woodcarvings and figurines in plasterwork, showing the influence of Victorian art. The arcades, with decorated pillars, wit decorated pillars, the figures with musical instruments, their dressing, headgear and hairstyle painted in an unconventional manner with bright colors , make a beautiful composition.

The visit to the sprawling 18 acre palace campus is must for any visitor to Chhota Udepur. The two palaces - Kusum Vilas Palace and Prem Bhavan Palace are the finest examples early 20 th century Indian Palace architecture.

The Kusum Vilas Palace was design by a famous architectural firm of Bombay - Bhatkar & Bhatkar, in the early 20's. The design concept was to create a palace in a harmonious fusion of the architectural style of Champaner with modern amenities of an elevator and other functional requirements. A large porch, arcaded facade and balanced architectural treatment of the 5 storied central wing with receding volume, capped with a dome lends majesty to the palace. The interiors are a blend of east and west. The carved pilasters, friezes gilded with real gold are replicas of such architectural elements at Champaner. The British made elevator has a foyer at ground level, enclosed by series of exquisitely carved stone jalis bringing in an ethereal light effect. The grand reception room on ground floor has large doors, a carved false ceiling, French furniture, Belgium mirrors and superb Italian marble statues. The wall paintings by an Indian artist, depicting the picturesque settings of Chhota Udepur and previous capital Mohan, are most remarkable.

The Prem Bhavan Palace in the same campus is now a heritage hotel, offering excellent accommodation, food and package tours to near by interesting places.

Other architecturally beautiful royal buildings, now used as public buildings and government offices are - Collector's office, Rani mahal, college and ITI building.