Where is / Where is Mexico / Where is Tonala

Where is Tonala, Mexico


Written and Fact-checked by | Updated On: February 08, 2026 12:41 PM ET


Tonalá is a city and municipality located in the state of Jalisco, Mexico. It is part of the Guadalajara Metropolitan Area, which is in the western part of the country. Tonalá is known for its artisan crafts, particularly pottery and ceramics, and it is a popular destination for those interested in Mexican folk art and culture. It's situated near the larger city of Guadalajara, which is one of the most significant cities in Mexico.




Tonala Location Map, Mexico



Facts about Tonalá, Mexico

CountryMexico
StateJalisco
RegionWestern Mexico (Guadalajara Metropolitan Area)
Municipal SeatTonalá
Named AfterNáhuatl word "Tonallan" (place where the sun rises)
EstablishedPre-Hispanic settlement; Spanish conquest in 1530
Municipality Status1826
Coordinates20.6244° N, 103.2347° W
Total Area166 sq km
Land Area166 sq km
Water AreaMinimal
Population (2020)569,913
Population RankOne of the largest municipalities in Jalisco
Major CityTonalá
Main IndustriesHandicrafts, Ceramics, Commerce, Manufacturing
Major AirportGuadalajara International Airport (GDL)
Time ZoneCentral Time (UTC-06:00)
Known ForTraditional pottery, artisan markets, cultural heritage
Websitehttps://www.tonala.gob.mx


Top Attractions in Tonalá, Mexico

  • Centro Histórico de Tonalá - traditional town center with artisan heritage
  • Mercado de Artesanías de Tonalá - famous market for pottery and handmade crafts
  • Cerro de la Reina - hilltop viewpoint with cultural significance and city views
  • Museo Nacional de la Cerámica - museum showcasing Tonalá’s ceramic traditions
  • Plaza Cihualpilli - central plaza and community gathering spot
  • Parroquia de Santiago Apóstol - historic church and local landmark
  • Tianguis de Tonalá - large weekly street market known for arts and antiques
  • Galerías Artesanales - workshops and galleries of local artisans
  • Casa Histórica de Tonalá - historic residence reflecting colonial-era life
  • Traditional Pottery Workshops - hands-on experiences with local ceramic artists


Distance from Tonalá to Other Mexican Cities

  • Tonalá to Guadalajara - 15 km (9 miles)
  • Tonalá to Tlaquepaque - 12 km (7 miles)
  • Tonalá to Zapopan - 30 km (19 miles)
  • Tonalá to Tepatitlán - 70 km (43 miles)
  • Tonalá to Lagos de Moreno - 140 km (87 miles)
  • Tonalá to Colima - 210 km (131 miles)
  • Tonalá to Manzanillo - 305 km (190 miles)
  • Tonalá to Aguascalientes - 230 km (143 miles)
  • Tonalá to León - 245 km (152 miles)
  • Tonalá to Zacatecas - 345 km (214 miles)
  • Tonalá to Morelia - 315 km (196 miles)
  • Tonalá to Mexico City - 560 km (348 miles)