Surendranagar district is the interface between Gujarat and Saurashtra, topographically as a part of the district partakes of the Rann of Kutch. Some areas are barely few meters above sea level and are salt waste lands. The Rann to the north of Surendranagar supports an eclectic variety of desert flora and fauna namely the Wild ass or ‘Ghudkar’ at a designated sanctuary near Dasada. As a direct result of its princely kingdoms, Surendranagar's landscape is littered with forts, palaces, step wells and temples giving cadence to the stone artistry of that region.
Gujarat’s varied topography is best exemplified in Surendranagar district with its salt plains to the North, dense forests to the South and rich grasslands with agriculture land ideally suited for the growing cotton crop. The grasslands attracted communities of cattle herders predominantly Ahirs and Bharwads. Surendranagar, Wadhwan and Limdi are major centers
The markets of Surendranagar, Wadhwan city and Limbdi have developed into a vibrant intermingling of embroidered styles, items of patchwork and a range of hand-woven textiles from around the region. Torans and hangings which adorn most Gujarati homes have been a consistent craft produce of this area incorporating a variety of embroidery techniques with glass and bead work in styles and configurations illustrative of the community involved in the work.
The abundance of cotton crop has over the years lead to migrations and settlements of communities of weavers, enthusiastically enegaged in a plethora of styles ranging from hand spun, hand woven khadi and plain cotton weaves to intricate single ikat patterning along with carpets and durries. With increasing competition from industrial textile units, threatening this nascent sector, the government has initiated a variety of schemes to instill design sensibilities, have marketing skills and generate a balance of sustainability in the sector.
The Sompura community of stone carvers and masons are still very active in the area around Dhrangadhra and it is to them that various agencies turned to, in reconstructing old heritage sites which were damaged in the aftermath of the earthquake.