It is situated on the eastern border of Gujarat, 5 kilometres (3.1 mi) from the Kushalgarh Tehsil of Banswara District, Rajasthan, near the Titodi River.

It is believed that the town was founded by a Bhil king called Zhala Vasaiya, whose tombstone is still visible by the entrance of the Maniben School.

The Bhil people believe that the Jhalod name originates from the Zalai Mata temple, which is consecrated to the town's goddess, Zalod.

After Scindia of Gwalior gave the area to the British, the state became one of the original "Five Mahals" of the Panchmahal District within Bombay Province during the Raj in India.

Cows and buffalos are kept in a semi-intensive type of system and the sale of milk is a source of income.

There is a library for the general public nearby Bharat tower and there is a police station and other government offices in town.