Once part of the Rajput kingdom of Bundi, Kota is now an attractive tourist places. It is located on the banks of Chambal River and was known as Hadoti, the land of Hadas.
In the 1st century A.D., Hada Chauhan Rajput Rao Deva founded Kota. Originally named Hadoti, Kota served Mughal and British rulers against other Rajput kings.
Places to visit in Kota abound with historical landmarks and natural marvels waiting to be explored. Start your journey at the majestic Kota Garh, a fortress steeped in history and grandeur.
The Chambal River, Banas dam, Rajasthan’s only atomic power plant and Kota Stone, Basmati rice and chilies, Kota is an important tourist tourist places to visit in Kota.
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Best Time To Visit Kota
Kota is best visited between October and March, when temperatures drop to 12 – 27 degrees Celsius. Kota is situated in Rajasthan and it has a semi-arid climate, which is why the region experiences a high temperature throughout the year.
Summer is a dry season, which makes it difficult to explore the best places to visit in Kota. After that, the monsoon season brings downpours, bringing relief to the area, and then winter brings the best weather to visit.
Best Places to visit in kota
Seven Wonder Park
Located just 5.7 km away from Kota, this brand-new urban park is the perfect tourist places to visit in Kota to catch a glimpse of all seven world wonders.
Thanks to its reduced-scale replicas of the Great Pyramid, Taj Mahal, Eiffel Tower, and more, this attraction has become one of the city’s top tourist places to visit in Kota.
To improve the garden, the urban renewal agency invested 20 crores in refurbishment.
Situated directly on the shoreline of Kishore Sagar Lake, the park’s location adds to its overall charm. Families and friends come here for a leisurely picnic amidst stunning architecture. Visitors are welcome to capture their joyous moments with cameras allowed inside the park.
Additionally, public facilities such as lockers and restrooms are available, along with food stands offering delectable treats at affordable prices.
The best time to visit is in the evening when the Seven Wonders Park truly comes alive. Conveniently situated in Kota’s heart near Kishore Sagar Lake, getting there is easy via auto-rickshaws or taxis – saving both time and energy.
2. Kota Barrage
Kota Barrage, a historic dam located on the Chambal river, is a best places to visit in Kota. The picturesque tourist places to visit in Kota offers a peaceful atmosphere and breathtaking views of the river and lush surroundings.
The melodious chirping of birds and the rushing sound of water add to the enchanting ambiance.
Witnessing the gates open and the gushing water is truly mesmerizing, especially during monsoon season. Don’t forget to capture a selfie at this charming location.
3. Kishore Sagar Lake
Kishore Sagar, a man-made lake from the 14th century, is a picturesque best places to visit in Kota and definitely worth a visit. The prince of Bundi, Dehra Deh, was responsible for its construction.
The lake features a beautiful water fountain and offers boat rides as well. Surrounding the lake are various street food vendors and eateries to satisfy your hunger.
At night, the vibrant atmosphere and dazzling lights make for a perfect tourist places to visit in Kota to take a relaxing stroll around the lake.
4. Garadia Mahadev Temple
Located at an elevation of 500 feet, the Garadia Mahadev Temple is a Best tourist places to visit in Kota.
This unique temple, situated 27.3 km away from the city centre, offers visitors a sense of divine connection as they stand above the beautiful Chambal river gorge. The local priest conducts ceremonies here until 5:30 pm daily.
It is suggested to avoid visiting this tourist places to visit in Kota late in the evening. To reach the temple, you can opt for a cab or rickshaw ride from Kota, which usually costs between INR 700 to INR 1000. These routes are known for being reliable and stress-free options for tourists.
5. Jag Mandir Palace
Situated in the breathtaking Kishore Sagar Lake, Jag Mandir is a stunning architectural masterpiece. Constructed with striking red stones, this monument has become a popular tourist places to visit in Kota for tourists. It was commissioned in 1740 by the queen of Kota and served as a retreat for the royal family.
In fact, it even appeared in the film Badrinath Ki Dulhania! Visitors can access Jag Mandir by boat and witness its enchanting beauty illuminated at night. Located near Kesar Bagh, this palace is an absolute Best tourist places to visit in Kota.
6. Chambal Garden
This charming garden, a popular tourist places to visit in Kota for travelers, is one of Kota’s most fascinating locations. It offers a tranquil respite from the bustling city life with its idyllic backdrop of a peaceful river and lush greenery.
A pathway winds through the park, bordered by vibrant flowers and lush bushes and trees. Families often come here to enjoy a pleasant picnic while taking in the breathtaking views.
The garden’s central pond is home to gharials, adding to its natural beauty. Everywhere you turn, there are pockets of verdant vegetation, making it an ideal tourist places to visit in Kota for a day trip.
Visitors from all parts of Kota can easily reach Chambal Garden via public transportation such as interstate buses, auto-rickshaws, or cycle rickshaws. Alternatively, taxis or private cars can be hired for convenience.
7. City Palace
The City Palace, which was constructed in the 17th century by Rao Madho Singh, has a museum reflecting Kota’s history and culture. The palace combines Mughal and Rajasthani architectural styles. Investigate the palace and take in the beautiful paintings and decorations.
8. Maharao Madho Singh Museum
This popular museum in Rajasthan is well-known for its extensive collection and displays featuring the ancient Rajputana kingdoms.
It features captivating pictures and paintings depicting the royals of the region, as well as alluring sculptures, artefacts, and antiques showcasing Rajasthan’s rich cultural heritage.
Opening hours are from 10 am to 5:30 pm. Visitors can also admire scintillating exhibits of armor, weapons, regalia, and local art.
9. Godavari Dham Temple
Godavari Dham Temple is a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman which is located on the banks of Chambal River in Dadabri, Kota. As well as Lord Hanuman, the temple also houses idols of Lord Bhairav, Ganpati, and Shiva.
During the mornings and midnights of Tuesdays and Saturdays, you should visit this temple to witness a special aarti. The place is visited by hundreds of religious people, so be sure to make this one of your top tourist places to visit in Kota.
10. Mathuradheesh Mandir
Among the various tourist places to visit in Kota, one of them is Mathuradheesh Mandir. This sacred site pays homage to Lord Krishna, worshipped here as the Mathuradheesh or Lord of Mathura.
It belongs to the Hindu sect of Vallabh Sampradaya and boasts a haveli-style architecture. Its establishment dates back to 1738 and there is an intriguing tale associated with it.
As per local beliefs, the revered idol of Mathureshji was brought to Kota and its chariot came to a halt in front of Dwarkadassji’s haveli, who served as a minister under the king.
The minister generously offered his haveli to be transformed into a temple and enshrine the esteemed deity Lord Mathureshji in its honourable place.
The best things to do in Kota
A walk at seven wonders park
If you haven’t had the chance to visit the Seven Wonders of the World, Kota offers a unique opportunity to experience their splendor in one location.
The Seven Wonders Park in Kota is renowned for its impressive replicas of these iconic monuments, drawing visitors from around the globe. Each replica captures the essence of the original wonders, allowing you to marvel at their grandeur without leaving the city.
The park has earned international acclaim for its remarkable recreations and continues to attract thousands of tourists each year.
Its scenic beauty and well-maintained surroundings provide a perfect setting for a leisurely stroll while admiring the detailed replicas.
Adjacent to the park, Kishore Sagar Lake offers a picturesque tourist places to visit in Kota for a relaxing picnic. The lake’s serene ambiance and scenic views make it an ideal place to unwind after exploring the park.
Additionally, visitors are welcome to bring cameras to capture the breathtaking sights and memorable moments.
This makes the park not only a must-visit for its cultural and historical replicas but also a delightful destination for a family outing or a peaceful retreat.
Waterfall in Kota
Gaipernath Waterfall is a stunning natural attraction in Kota, offering a refreshing escape into nature. Known for its scenic beauty and tranquil environment, it is one of the best places for a cost-free swim in natural water.
The waterfall’s picturesque setting, with its cascading waters and lush surroundings, creates a captivating atmosphere that will leave you mesmerized.
The area around the waterfall is perfect for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy a relaxing picnic with family or friends, hike the nearby trails to reach the waterfall, and capture the beauty of the landscape with your camera.
The journey to the waterfall involves hiring a private taxi to get you to the base of the trail, followed by a short but rewarding hike.
At the base of the waterfall, you’ll find a freshwater swimming pool formed by the cascading water. This natural pool provides a refreshing dip and an opportunity to immerse yourself in the pristine surroundings.
Whether you’re looking to swim, hike, or simply enjoy the natural beauty, Gaipernath Waterfall offers a memorable and rejuvenating experience.
Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary
The wildlife sanctuary in Kota is an excellent destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
It offers a fantastic opportunity to observe a diverse range of wild animals in their natural habitat, including majestic Asian Elephants, graceful Sambar Deer, and elusive Elks.
The sanctuary is home to various exotic animal species and unique plant life, providing a rich experience for wildlife lovers.
In addition to wildlife viewing, the sanctuary also offers a range of adventure activities. Visitors can embark on exciting Jungle Safaris, where they can explore the dense forests and spot various animals in their natural environment.
Trekking enthusiasts will enjoy the numerous trails that wind through the sanctuary, offering both challenging hikes and serene walks amidst nature.
For those who prefer a more leisurely experience, the sanctuary provides ample opportunities for sightseeing, allowing you to take in the stunning landscapes and diverse flora.
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit, a knowledgeable guide is available to assist with the activities, providing valuable insights and ensuring safety throughout your exploration.
Whether you’re interested in wildlife observation or seeking adventure, the wildlife sanctuary in Kota offers a memorable experience for all.
Spot for photography
This valley project, the Kota Barrage, was built in the 1950s as a means of storing water and serves 20,000 acres of agricultural land. Kota Barrage is one of the best places for photography in the city.
The place was not built to attract tourists, but it draws a lot of people, especially photographers. With your family and friends, you can enjoy a cool breeze and an amazing view at this place.
Explore history at Museums in Kota
Kota boasts two notable museums that provide fascinating insights into the city’s history and cultural heritage. The Rao Madho Singh Museum, a key attraction for students, tourists, historians, and art enthusiasts, showcases an impressive collection of valuable artifacts.
Here, visitors can admire silver figurines, terracotta figures, ancient coins, and manuscripts, each piece offering a window into the rich history of the region.
Another significant museum is the Government Museum, located near Kishore Sagar. This museum is renowned for its extensive exhibits on the history and culture of Rajasthan.
Its diverse collections include ancient sculptures, inscriptions, and traditional crafts that highlight the artistic and cultural evolution of the state.
Visitors should be aware that photography is strictly prohibited inside the museum to preserve the integrity of the exhibits. Consequently, it’s essential to leave cameras and other recording devices outside to respect this policy.
Both museums provide a valuable opportunity to explore and appreciate the historical and artistic legacy of Kota and Rajasthan, making them essential stops for anyone interested in the region’s cultural richness.
Visit the Zoological Park
The Zoological Park in Kota is a haven for nature enthusiasts, showcasing a diverse array of wildlife and plant species. Visitors can spend hours exploring the park’s lush landscapes and observing various animals in their natural habitats.
For the most enjoyable experience, it is advisable to visit between October and March when the weather is pleasantly cooler, making exploration more comfortable.
Whether you’re an animal lover or simply appreciate natural beauty, the Zoological Park offers a captivating experience that brings you closer to the wonders of wildlife and plant life.
Trekking in Kota
Since trekking is one of the most daring things one can do while traveling, a lot of people like it in Kota. To enjoy trekking with a group of eight to ten people, you can hire a guide.
Even beginners can easily complete the trekking trail, but physical fitness is a prerequisite. You can hire hiking equipment for a day. You won’t find anything in the sanctuary, so bring food and water with you if you’re trekking.
Kota, a city that beautifully blends tradition with modernity, offers a diverse range of attractions and activities for every kind of traveler. From historical monuments and cultural experiences to natural beauty and recreational spots, Kota has something for everyone.
Starting with the majestic City Palace, visitors can delve into the rich history and architectural splendor of the region. The Seven Wonders Park is another must-visit, providing a unique opportunity to see replicas of world-famous monuments.
For nature enthusiasts, the Chambal Garden is a tranquil escape, offering picturesque views and a serene environment.
The Kishore Sagar Lake, with its stunning Jagmandir Palace, is perfect for a leisurely boat ride, while the serene atmosphere of Gaipernath Waterfall invites visitors to relax and unwind amidst nature.
Adventure seekers can head to Garadia Mahadev, a viewpoint that offers breathtaking vistas of the Chambal River and the surrounding landscape.
Educational institutions like the Kota Barrage and the Kota Zoological Park provide both learning and leisure, making them ideal for family outings.
The latter, with its diverse collection of animals and birds, is particularly popular among children. For those interested in spirituality and history, the Khade Ganesh Ji Temple and the Abheda Mahal offer a glimpse into the city’s religious heritage.
Shopping enthusiasts can explore the bustling markets of Kota, such as the vibrant Chhappan Bhog and the lively markets near the Kotah Garh (City Palace). These markets are perfect for buying traditional Rajasthani handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs.
Food lovers will find Kota’s culinary scene equally enticing, with local delicacies like Kachori, Pyaaz Ki Kachori, and traditional Rajasthani thalis offering a delightful gastronomic experience.
Kota is a city that promises an enriching and memorable visit. Whether you’re exploring its historical sites, enjoying its natural beauty, or indulging in local cuisine, Kota offers a comprehensive travel experience that leaves visitors with lasting memories.
Plan your trip to Kota to discover its myriad attractions and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and heritage of this remarkable city.
