Places to visit in Kota: Surprises Galore!

Last Updated on January 28, 2022 by asoulwindow

Table of Contents

About Kota Rajasthan

Places to visit in Kota are varied despite being overshadowed by other tourist attractions of Rajasthan.

Kota is a small town located near Bundi in Rajasthan. In spite of its small size, there are many interesting places to see in Kota Rajasthan such as the famous Garh Palace, museums, step wells and Garadia Mahadev Temple – the Grand Canyon. It is an offbeat place to visit in Rajasthan. Located on the banks of the famous Chambal River, many visually stunning places are located in and around Kota.

There are many nice places to visit in Kota. Not many know that Kota is the 3^rd most populous city of Rajasthan after Jaipur and Jodhpur. Kota is also the third largest city after Jodhpur and Jaipur.

Nomenclature of Kota

Kota is often also spelt as Kotah. Kota is not to be confused with Kotagiri, a hill station in Tamilnadu and Kota Kinabalu in Malaysia.

Why is Kota famous?

Kota Rajasthan is famous for its historical buildings, coaching institutes and other places to visit in Kota such as Garh Palace.

Kota is also known for its unique painting style, something which I noticed in the adjacent Bundi as well.

Kota is also known for its special Kota Stone which is used as floor in houses. In fact, the outdoor areas of my parent’s house in Lucknow in Uttar Pradesh had floors of the sturdy Kota Stone. The other things Kota is known for is the special Kota Doria Saree and gold jewellery which is also what many tourists shop for when in Kota.

All said and done, Kota is most famous for its IIT-Jee and NEET coaching institutes. In fact, Kota Rajasthan is the coaching hub of India. Many students reside in Kota as they prepare for IIT-Jee exams which helps them get admission in Indian Institute of Technology, one of the premier Engineering institutes of India.

There are many ancient ruins around Kota. You can see some ancient inscriptions which can be traced back to 8^th century. Kota Tourism has many such hidden gems.

Where is Kota located?

Kota is located near Bundi and Chittorgarh in Rajasthan. Did you know that Kota is situated on the East bank of the famous Chambal River, 64 kilometres away from Jhalawar?

This fiefdom of Bundi, Kota is located towards the East of Mewar and South East of the famous Chambal River.

History of Kota Rajasthan

Kota Rajasthan has an interesting and rich history which not many people know about. Kota was founded as a walled city as early as the 14^th century C.E. In the year 1625 C.E. Kota became the capital of the princely state.

After Kota was separated from Bundi, it was at loggerheads with Jaipur state for a long time in the 18^th century. In the year 1818, Kota came under the British rule as per a treaty. After India got independence from the evil British rule in India, it became a part of Rajasthan in the year 1948.

Kota achieved de facto independence from Bundi when Rao Ratan Singh started to claim sovereignty over Kota and 8 nearby districts. Later, in the year 1631, Shah Jehan, the Mughal invader, announce independence of Kotah by issuing a farmaan or Imperial Proclamation.

Rao ratan Singh was the second son of Rao Madho Singh. After independence the descendants of Madho Singh continued to rule Kota, albeit under the evil eye of the Mughal and later British. It was not until the year 1948 C.E. that Kotah was merged with an independent India.

On the occasion of Hindu festival Dussehra and on his birthday, the existing Maharaj Brijraj Singh of Kota presides over the celebrations and religious rituals.

Soul Window Facts

Did you know that Kota was a part of Bundi until the year 1625? It was in 1625 when it was separated from Bundi as an independent state. It was only in the year 1948 that Kota became a part of Rajasthan!

Places to see in Kota Rajasthan

You will be surprised at the various offbeat places to see in Kota. Very few people visit Kota and fewer have even thought of it as a tourist destination. That said, there are many interesting things to do in Kota Rajasthan.

I had visited Bundi and Kota on same day from the lovely jüSTa Lake Nahargarh Palace, a heritage property located in the middle of a lake. This detailed travel guide to Kota will help you plan vacation here.

Below is a list of tourist places to see in and around Kota Rajasthan.

Garh Palace: Best place to visit in Kota

Also known as Kotah Garh or Kotah fort or the City Palace of Kota, it is the main attraction of Kota. City palace or the Garh has a brutal past which includes Nar Bali or human sacrifice.

It was Prince Jait Singh of Bundi who laid the foundation of Garh Palace in the year 1264 C.E.

It is that that the foundation was laid on the very spot where Jait Singh sacrificed and buried the severed head of Koteya, a Bhil chieftain. Jait Singh had just defeated Koteya, who used to reign over this area.

In fact, you can still see a temple devoted to Koteya Bhil within the premises of the City Palace. It sits as a Dvarpala (guardian) of Garh Palace. The royal family still worships at this shrine.

It is thus also concluded that Kotah may be named after Koteya. However, other historians differ and claim that Kota is named after Kot which means a strong fort.

I was impressed with the sheer size of the Fort premises as I entered its main gate. The massive gate itself speaks volumes of the past of Kota. It is one of the oldest surviving structures in Kotah.

You must climb on the top floor of Garh palace like I did. The sweeping views of City Fort and the Kota town and Chambal River is lovely from the top floor.

Garh Palace Baradari

You must also visit the beautiful Baradari. It was built by Rao Madho Singh (1625-1649 C.E.) It is a large room with several pillars. I could not help but admire the beautifully carved patterns and designs on the red pillars of baradari. The views of Kota city from Baradari are splendid.

Room of King

The room of the King within Garh palace precincts is also worth a dekko. It is located on the top floor. It was locked when I visited. I requested a local lady to open and she obliged. I was amazed at the exquisite mirror work and ancient paintings that adorned every inch of walls here. I observed many paintings of Shiv ji, Durga ji and Kings etc.

Balcony

There is also a balcony attached with this room. The King must have observed the city from here. The balcony is also embellished with beautiful artwork. It is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. everyday.

Hawa Mahal of Kota

Much like the Hawa Mahal (Palace of winds) of Jaipur, Kota has a Hawa Mahal of its own as well, though it is not as ornate! It is located near the Naya Darwaza on the Tipta Chauraha which is the main square of the old Kota city.

The screened windows of Hawa Mahal of Kota allowed the Royal women to glance over the activities happening outside even as outsiders were not able to view them. It was constructed by the Maharao Umed Singh II. Plan your holiday in Kota using this comprehensive travel guide now.

Gates of Garh Palace

What else is there to do in Kota? Earlier the access to Garh Palace was through the Sailar Ghazi Darwaza. It is situated close to the Keshorpura Pol, south of the Naya Darwaza. This door is an attraction itself as it is the oldest surviving structure in Kota. It is said that the foundation of this gate was laid over the mortal remains of Koteya Bhil.

This is why you will also see a shrine dedicated to Koteya Bhil even now. This Kota tourist attraction is worth a visit. Your Kota city tour is incomplete without visiting these places of interest. You can take a free walking tour near the gates and markets of Kota.

Architecture of Garh Palace

The buildings of Garh palace are built in typical Rajputana style. Over the years, various rulers of the Rajput royal family of Kota have added new structure to the City Palace such as new apartments and suites. Once you will visit it you will know why Garh Palace is one of the places to visit in Kota.

The Maharao Rao Madho Singh Trust Museum

Located within the premises of the Kotah Garh or the city palace, the Maharao Madho Singh Museum offered me a glimpse in to the rich history of Kota through well displayed world-famous Rajput miniature paintings of the Kota school, arms, armours, royal belongings, old photographs, ritualistic objects, decorative items, yesteryear textiles and wall frescos.

Maharao Madho Singh Museum is a small museum which can be visited within few minutes. Open for public visit since the year 1970, this museum is one of the top places to see in Kota Rajasthan. I hope this Kota tourist places list is helping you!

Phone: 0744-2327695

Government Museum of Kota Rajasthan

Also known as Brij Vilas Palace Government Museum, it is a must-see tourist destination of Kota. It is one of the oldest museums of Rajasthan. What was earlier a palace was converted into a public museum in 1946, just a year before India achieved its independence from the evil British empire!

This museum is home to many ancient artifacts, old statues, miniature paintings, old coins, stone idols, armaments, costumes, arms and other displays. The display of ‘Yupa’ inscription dating back to 3rd century C.E. from Badwa is worth a mention.

The 9^th century idol of Vishnu ji, or precisely Sheshshaayi Vishnu is also displayed here. It was found in Badauli. What’s more? You can also see stone objects from the stone eras here.

Government Museum of Kota is located in the Brij Vilas Palace near the Kishore Sagar Lake.It is one of the top places to visit in Kota.

Baoli

You can walk in the gardens of museum which are punctuated with decorative water fountains. You can also visit the historical Baori or the step well, located within the premises. I also visited a gorgeous step well at nearby Bundi, known as Raniji Ki Baoli. It was very ornate, unique and quite different from the Baoli I saw in Neemrana, Bara Imambada in Lucknow and Agrasen Ki Baoli in Delhi.

Jagmandir Palace & Kishore Sagar Lake

Rajasthan is known for building beautiful palaces in the middle of the lake. Some of such lake palaces I saw in Rajasthan are Padmini palace in nearby Chittorgarh, jüSTa Lake Nahargarh Palace (now a heritage hotel), Siliserh Lake Palace in Kishanpur, Jal Mahal in Jaipur, Taj Lake Palace and Jagmandir in Udaipur etc.

Located right in the middle of the Kishore Sagar Lake, the Jagmandir palace of Kota is one of the best places to visit in Kota Rajasthan.

Commissioned by one of the queens of Kota, the Jagmandir palace is constructed entirely in red sandstone. Jagmandir in Kota was built between the years 1743 and 1745 C.E.

You can admire its beauty from a distance or join the locals by hiring a boat ride which offers great panoramic views of the palace from all sides. You can also have a closer look of the palace from a boat ride in the Kishore Sagar Lake. It is one of the best picnic spots near Kota.

Keshar Bagh Cenotaphs

You can see Royal Cenotaphs of Kota in Keshar bagh, which is situated in the Keshar bagh near Jagmandir palace. Also known as Kshar Bagh, you can see a total of 17 Chattris or Cenotaphs here. In facts scenes from Bollywood film Badrinath Ki Dulhainya featuring Alia Bhatt and Varun Dhawan were shot here which helped in getting it more popularity.

History lovers can’t help but admire its Rajputana architecture. These cenotaphs are built in commemoration of the dead Royals. They are not buried here, the Chattris are built to celebrate their valour and legacy after they leave the world.

Cenotaph of Umed Singh is the most notable one. Umed Singh was just 10 years old when his father Rao Goman Singh breathed his last in the year 1770. Commander In Chief Zalim Singh was the virtual ruler and regent then. Umed Singh passed away in November 1819.

This heritage site is located near the Chatra Vilas Garden and Kishore Sagar Lake. It is one of the best places to visit in Kota.

Soul Window Tip

If you want breath-taking aerial view of the cenotaphs of Kota, the best vantage point is at Lucky Burj which is located near the Kishore Sagar Talav. The best views are seen from the top of the Lucky Burj.

I have also seen many royal cenotaphs in travel destinations such as the nearby Bundi, outskirts of Bikaner, Ahar Cenotaphs in Udaipur, Cenotaph of Maharaja Bakhtawar Singh in Alwar and even remote Ladnu while I was heading to Nagaur from Tal Chappar Blackbuck Sanctuary on a rickety bus.

Most of the Rajputana Cenotaphs I have seen in Rajasthan appear more Islamic than Hindu in its architecture. The domes are the most notable Islamic feature of all.

Jaswant Hada in Jodhpur is the grandest cenotaph I have ever seen in Rajasthan. The Chaurasi Khambon ki Chhatri in Bundi is also noteworthy as it stands on a whooping 84 pillars. The Royal Chhatardis of Bhuj near Rann of Kutch in Gujarat looked ethereal when I visited it during sunset.

Many of these Cenotaphs have beautiful Shivling on them which shows the devotion of Rajputana rulers towards Shiv Bhagwan, the most supreme of Hindu deity.

I am sure you will enjoy reading my exhaustive blogs on these places on A Soul Window, which is frequently mentioned as the Top Travel Blog from all of India. Some also address A Soul Window as No.1 Indian travel blog. Much of what is documented in A Soul Window is no-where to be found in old school travel guide books. Much research goes in writing such detailed travelogues.

Shivpuri Dham

Established by Naga Sadhu Shri Rampuri Ji, Shivpuri Dham is a well-known place near Kota city. He was inspired to build a temple here after he paid a visit to the world famous Pashupati Nath Mandir in Nepal.

What makes Shivpuri Dham in Kota famous is the fact that there is 15 feet tall Shivalinga located here. It is carved from a single stone. This unique Linga weighs as much as 14 tonnes. Personifying Bhagwan Pashupati, you can see 1008 smaller Shivlingas here.

Also, you can notice 525 smaller Shivling here which are shaped like a Yoni. Water from as far as Sindhu River in Leh Ladakh and other sacred rivers of India was brought here for Jalabhishek or offering while the temple was being established. Hindus believe that doing Jalabhishek here fulfils all their wishes!

It is a very peaceful and spiritual place. You can expect huge crowds here in the Hindu month of Saavan (monsoon) and during the festival of Raasleela and Mahashivratri! Other places to see here include Kaal Bhairav Mandir and Amrit Sarovar. Ample parking space is available here.

Abheda Mahal

This medieval palace was meant for the leisure of the rulers of Kota. Situated on the banks of a tank, this is where the royals used to unwind and relax, while soaking in the natural beauty of the area. You can also visit the Karni Mata Mandir, devoted to the presiding deity of Kota Rajasthan.

It is located near Abheda Mahal and is quite popular with Hindu devotees.Distance between the Kota tourist attraction Abheda Mahal and Kota is 8 kilometres. Do visit here during the Kota tour.

Seven Wonder Park

You can see the replicas of all the 7 wonders of the world in this unique amusement park in Kota. Located near the Kishore Sagar Lake at Vallabh Bari, it is fast gaining popularity with locals and tourists alike.

Think Taj Mahal of Agra, Pyramids of Egypt, Petra in Jordan, Eiffel Tower and Colosseum of Rome! Got the drift, eh? Families with kids love this Kota tourist attraction. It is a popular stop during the Kota city tour. It is an unusual thing to do in Kota.

Soul Window Thoughts

I feel that both the European buildings (Eiffel Tower and leaning what?) of the 7 wonders of the world are the damp squib and a misfit. Who made that list anyways? And why is Ajanta and Ellora Caves of Maharashtra not in that list? We have a leaning temple in Varanasi and never made hoo-haa about it anyways!

Kota Barrage

Where there is a river, there is a barrage. Whether it’s the Gomti barrage in Lucknow I grew up watching or the barrage of Kota which is built on the voluptuous Chambal Nadi. The Kota barrage is one of the most significant and important water reservoirs located in the state of Rajasthan.

It is a great picnic spot for the local people of Kota and Bundi who come here to enjoy the spectacular views of water gushing out through the gates with immense force. It reminds me of Bhushi dam in Lonavala near Khandala in Maharashtra which is a favourite destination of tourists during the monsoon. It is situated just 7.7 kms and 20 minutes away from Kota on the Ajmer Kota Road.

It is one of the best places to see around Kota Rajasthan.

Soul Window Travel Facts

Did you know that the Kota barrage sprawls over an area of a whooping 27,332 square kilometres? Hold your seats when I tell you that this area is equal to the size of Haiti, a tiny Caribbean nation near Cuba, Jamaica and Dominican Republic.

Kansua Shiv Mandir

This temple devoted To Shiv ji, is located very close to the Kota Barrage. What makes this Shiv Temple famous is that you can see a rare four faced Shivling. Did you know that there is a similar multifaced ancient Shivling in the Buddhist Vaishali in Bihar? From a stone inscription that was found here, we now know that Kansua Temple was commissioned by Raja Shivgana Maurya. The inscription was made in the year 738 C.E.

This ancient Shiv Temple is popular with both locals as well as tourists. Some people believe that the Pandavas from Mahabharat built a temple here. Also known as Kansua Shiv Mandir or simply Kanswa, it is one of the main places to visit near Kota. It is said that the mere darshan of the Shivling here fulfils all wishes!

Did you know about the mystery of Kansua Temple? There are many secrets associated with this temple. It is said that the first rays of Sun fall on the Shivling here. It is believed that Shakuntala, the wife of Dushyant gave birth to Bharat here on the shores of Malini River. The river still exists!

Kansua Temple, is thus of immense archaeological importance! Kansua Shiv Mandiris located just 10 kms away from Kota. It takes 25 minutes to arrive here via Kota Bapawar Road.

Chambal Udyan

The locals love to hang out at Chambal Udyan or Chambal gardens, especially on the weekends. Thanks to the abundant greenery and boat ride on Chambal River, it is a favourite picnic spot for the local people.

Apart from the scenic beauty of the place, it also attracts birdwatchers. During the winter months, birders can see many exotic foreign species of birds which migrate here. It is located just 8 kms away from Kota. It is one of the most popular places to visit in Kota.

And should I add that it is also a popular Lovers Point in Kota. It is not uncommon to see young couples holding hands and kissing in the corners of the Chambal Garden.

National Chambal Ghariyal (Gavial) Sanctuary

A part of the National Chambal Ghariyal (Gavial) Sanctuary, the world-famous Chambal River is picturesque.

Much like Kukrail in my home city Lucknow in Uttar Pradesh, the National Chambal Ghariyal aka Gavial Sanctuary conserves marsh crocodile and gharials who are depleting due to unethical human practises. This sanctuary was recognised in the year 1983.

Godavari Dham Temple

Located at walking distance from the above-mentioned Chambal gardens, the Godavari Dham Temple is popular with Hindu devotees. This temple devoted to Hanuman ji, is located right next to the Chambal River. The colossal swan made in marble sits atop the entrance gate, welcoming the faithful.

Also known as Shri Sankat Mochan Hanuman Mandir, this shrine is constructed in marble. The traditional architecture of Godavari Dham Templeis worth a dekko! Whether it’s the tall temple tower or the embellished walls of the temple, is demands to be seen! It is a must-see attraction near Kota! It is located 8 kms away from Kota.

Excursions from Kota Rajasthan

There are many quick excursions or short trips which you can easily club with your Kota and Bundi trip. From the much-revered Hindu temples to beautiful waterfalls (yes, in Rajasthan!) and natural Canyon like wonders, you will be amazed to visit the offbeat places to see near Kota. There are many unusual things to do in and around Kota.

Below are some of the best places near Kota which you must visit! This Kota tourist places list will help you plan your travel here.

Khade Ganesh Ji Temple

I cannot think of any other Hindu Temple where everyone’s beloved Ganesh ji is worshipped in his standing form. It is therefore the only temple of India where you can have a darshan of the standing idol of Ganesh Bhagwan. Located in the Southern part of Kota, it is a must visit place for both pilgrims and travellers.

And while you are visiting Khade Ganesh Ji Temple, do not forget to pay your respects at Rangbadi Balaji temple, which is located on the way. These are some lesser-known facts.

Khade Ganesh Ji Mandir is located 26 minutes and 13 kilometres away from Kota via NH52.

Karneshwar Temple

Where there are Hindus, there is a temple devoted to Shiv Bhagwan! Kota is no exception. Shiv Bhakts head to Karneshwar Temple to offer prayers to their beloved God. The temple is situated in a scenic place, the beauty of which is enhanced during the rains. This is why both picnic crowds and devotees can be seen here. Karneshwar Mahadev Temple is located at NH52 on the Jhalawar Road. It is 15.5 kms or 32 minutes away from Kota Rajasthan.

Charan Chauki

It is known as Charan Chauki because it is believed thatthefootprints of Bhagwan Shri Krishna can still be seen here. This is why Hindu Pilgrims find this place very sacred. Krishna Bhagwan is said to have stopped here and rested while he was on his way to Dwarka in what is now Gujarat from Mathura in what is now Uttar Pradesh.

This place falls on the way when you drive to Dad Devi Temple from Kota. Distance between Dad Devi Temple from Kota is just 15 kilometres. This is one of the unusual places to see near Kota.

Dad Devi Temple

Devoted to Shri Dad Devi Mata Ji, an incarnation of Durga Maa, the much-revered Hindu deity, it is a must visit place near Kota. This Hindu temple is the temple of the Royal Family of Kotah. As you will find yourself engulfed by thick jungles, the serenity of the place will start growing on you.

Local people throng this Hindu temple every day. Distance between Dad Devi Temple and Kota is just 18 kilometres. It can easily be clubbed with Kota tour.

Alnia Dam

I was amazed to see prehistoric paintings and art on the rocks in Bhimbhetka in Madhya Pradesh and Wadi Rum in Jordan. Did you know that you can see ancient rock paintings which can be traced back to the Upper Palaeolithic age? Located near a river bank, these prehistoric rock paintings are still in very good condition! It is an unheard-of place and a popular picnic spot for locals. It is also a free thing to do in Kota.

Mukundara Tiger Reserve

It is very often that Tigers from Ranthambore National Park are relocated here. An offbeat destination for wildlife lovers, the Mukundara Tiger Reserve is also home to black bears, various species of deer, wild boar and even panthers. Needless to say, the thick forests of this place also hide many birds under its canopy.

The core area of Mukundara Tiger Reserve is 417 square kilometres. The buffer area is 342.81 square kilometres. I did not see the core and buffer zone area concept while visiting wildlife destinations of Uganda in Africa.

Distance between Mukundara Tiger Reserve and Kota is 50 kilometres.

Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary

Do visit this offbeat wildlife destination near Kota. Wild animals such as leopard, elks, wild elephants, bear, sambar deer, wolves etc call Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary home! Formerly a hunting ground for Royals, it became a protected sanctuary in the year 1955.

You can do wildlife Safaris here. You can spot many endangered mammals and exotic species of birds here. It is also spelt as Durrah Wildlife Sanctuary.

Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary is located 56 kilometres away from Kota Rajasthan.

Garadia Mahadev Temple

If you are traveling to Kota in monsoon, you will love the views of lush green surroundings here. Hindu devotees visit here to offer prayers at the Temple. Garadia Mahadev Temple is devoted to Bhagwan Shiv!

Located on the Dabi road on NH 76, the Garadia Mahadev Temple offers breath-taking views of Chambal River. The view of Chambal River taking a U turn is visually stunning! It is a hidden gem and not many know about it. However, for locals, it is one of the popular picnic spots near Kota.

There are also good photography opportunities here as it is located in a picturesque place. Garadia Mahadev Temple is located some 15 kilometres away from Kota. It is one of the best places for sightseeing near Kota and Bundi.

Do visit for larger-than-life views. Thanks to its jaw dropping views, many tourists also call it the Grand Canyon of India, named after the one in Unites States of America! Even the more famous Gandikota in Southern Indian state of Andhra Pradesh is often referred to as Grand Canyon of India.

Mathuradheesh Temple

It is known as Mathuradheesh Mandir because the main idol of Krishna ji was brought here all the way from Karnaval Village near Mathura in my home state Uttar Pradesh. The idol was then placed in the haveli of Dewan Dwarka Das. Needless to say, this Hindu Shrine is devoted to Shri Krishna, the 8^th avatar of Bhagwan Vishnu.

The Mathuradheesh Temple is affiliated to Pushti Marg, which is a Vaishnavite sect founded by Shri Vallabhacharya ji. It is but natural that the festival of Janamashtami, Holi, Annakoota and Nand Mahotsav is celebrated here with much fanfare.

You have to see how the devotees of Shri Krishna lose themselves as they drown in the festive fervour. No wonder it is the most famous nearby places to visit in Kota.

Gaiparnath waterfall Mandir

This Shiva Temple issituated in a picturesque place.Thanks to the voluptuous waterfall this temple is located near, it is a favourite picnic spot of the locals as well. Do visit the Gaiparnath waterfall Mandir to see spirituality and leisure blending seamlessly.

It is a popular place to visit near Kota. Visitors come here to enjoy the amazing views of cliffs of the Chambal valley and the gorge. The surrounding jungles add to the beauty of this place.

Gushing water from the waterfall and lush green surroundings and watchful eyes of benevolent Shiv ji make this Kota tourist attraction worth a visit. It is a popular picnic spot near Kota.

Kaithoon for Kota Doria sarees

Also spelt as Kaithun, it is known for its unique weave known as kota doria. You can see how Muslim women weave Kota Doria sarees in Kaithoon. The best part is that you can also shop for the same. Most of the women weavers here belong to the Muslim Ansari community.

The Kota Doria weave was awarded the Geographical Indication mark or GI mark in the year 1999, thanks to the real Gold zari work done on the cloths.

Kaithun is located approximately 15 kilometres away from Kota. You must shop for Kota Doria sarees and clothes when visiting Kota.

Souvenirs Shopping Guide to Kota

If you are looking for places to visit in Kota for shopping, then you must go to Kaithoon. Do let me know if you want to add to this comprehensive Kota tourist places list. Most tourists skip Kaithun during Kota city tour, but I recommend it if you are interested in handlooms. Kota trip is incomplete without some shopping.

ATM in Kota Rajasthan

It is my practical advice to not worry too much about cash in Kota. I noticed several ATMs in Kota ate every corner. Since it is a big modern city, expect facility of digital payment at many shops as well.

There is no dearth of ATMs in Kota Rajasthan because it is a big bustling city and is considered one of the most important places in Rajasthan.

Vegan and Vegetarian Food in Kota

There is no dearth of great vegan and vegetarian food in Kota. Vegans might want to watch out for desi ghee or clarified butter while binging on the Kota food. Just ask! Some of the most famous foods of Kota are pyaz kachori, lip smacking daal baati churma, Kadi and desserts such as the Rajasthan special Ghevar.

Some of the places you can eat famous food of Kota are Panna Laal Ke Pakode and Amar Dhaba etc.

Local Transport for sightseeing in Kota

Tuk tuks, local buses, battery rickshaws, auto rickshaws are easily available in Kota throughout the day.

Backpacking Budget Travel Tips for Kota

It is easy to visit Kota on a low backpacking budget. The city of Kota offers facilities like food, hotels and public transport for all economical sections of society. That is the beauty with most of the Indian destinations.

Solo Trip Tips for Kota

It is very easy and safe to visit Kota Rajasthan as both male and female solo travelers. It is easy to get around and manage on our own in Kota.

Luxury travel Tips for Kota

Luxury travelers will be spoiled for choice when visiting Kota Rajasthan. Since Rajasthan is a royal state of India, luxury is a way of life here. From premium stay to fine dining to modern frills, everything is available in Kota.

Photography Tips for Kota

You can get some brilliant shots at the nearby Garadia Mahadev Temple – the Grand Canyon. Visiting here is recommended during sun rise and sun set, when the glow of golden hour paints the canyon in surreal hues.

Places like Baoli as well as the Garh palace complex also lends a gorgeous background for a photo shoot.

Celebrities from Kota

Some famous celebrities such as singer Shreya Ghoshal and Parag Agarwal, CEO of Twitter were schoolmates of my friend Navneet, who is also from Kota. You should watch my interview with Shreya Ghoshal whom I met during Naropa Festival in Ladakh.

Hire local tourist guide in Kota

If you hire a local tourist guide in Kota, your trip can be made more meaningful. The guide can help you learn more about the top places to see in Kota along with some offbeat hidden gems.

There are several unexplored places in Kota which are located away from the crowds. A guide can help you go off the beaten track. Some of these lesser-known places are not to be missed!

Languages spoken in Kota

Harauti is the most popular dialect spoken in Kota. It is followed by Marwari, Hindi and English. These are easily spoken and understood by most people of Kota.

Toilet facility in Kota Rajasthan

Clean public toilets are available at most major tourist attractions, restaurants and picnic spots.

What to wear in Kota Rajasthan?

Light cotton in summer and monsoon and heavy woolen clothes in winter are a must when holidaying in Kota.

Duration of Visit in Kota Rajasthan

How many days to spend in Kota? It depends upon your time, budget and interest.

What can I do in 1 day in Kota?

Most of the major attractions of Kota are located next to each other. This makes it easy to see all the picnic spots and sightseeing attractions of Kota within a day. In fact, I had made a day trip to Kota with my parents and I was able to visit all the main points of attractions of Kota easily.

What can I do in 2 days in Kota Rajasthan?

If you want to visit Garadia Mahadev Temple – the Grand Canyon (which I highly recommend), remote temples in picturesque settings and other lesser-known sightseeing places, then you must visit Kota for 2 days or more. There are many must-see places near Kota which many tourists miss due to lack of awareness. This historic destination deserves more time!

Best time to visit Kota Rajasthan

It is a very commonly asked question on Kota. Here is all you wanted to know about the weather of Kota.

Winters are the best time to visit Kota Rajasthan.

Summer

Avoid Kota in the months of April, May, June as it is very hot in these months. Kota is a North Indian plain which gets very hot in these months. The temperatures of Kota are high in summer.

Monsoon

It rains a lot in the month of Mid-June and July. However, it may not rain daily and thus Kota can be visited in monsoon as well. The weather of Kota is pleasant in monsoon. Since most of the places of interest in Kota are located near to each other, it becomes convenient to explore Kota in rainy season.

Winter

I visited Kota during the cooler months which is also the best time to visit Kota. The cooler months in Kota are October, November, December, January, February and March. December and January are the coldest months but still enjoyable. It is also when you get best local food. Do carry woollen clothes when visiting Kota in winters.

Places to stay in Kota

This is another frequently asked question about Kota. Kota is quite a bustling town and has a plethora of interesting stay options.

We stayed in the jüSTa Lake Nahargarh Palace. It is a lovely property in the middle of the lake. They had arranged cars for us to visit nearby places such as Bundi and Chittorgarh. I stayed in their huge suites. The local food such as Ker Sangri is a must try here. It is a little away from Kota.

Umed Bhawan Palace is another luxury property located in Kota. Kota is quite a bustling town therefore you will find hotels in all budgets here.

Is Kota Safe to visit?

Kota is one of the safest places to visit in Rajasthan and India. The crime rate in Kota is low and tourists are never harmed whether you are travelling in public buses or cocooned in a private cab. All the places to visit in Kota are safe and peaceful.

Soul Window Travel Tips

You can easily see all the main attractions of Kota in a day! Most of the points of interest in Kota are located close to each other. However, you will have to hire a cab or hop on and off from autorickshaws in order to see all places.

How to reach Kota, Rajasthan

It is fairly easy to make it to Kota Rajasthan. Kota is connected with major big and small cities of India. If you want to see the destinations, I mentioned in the Kota tourist places list, then you can opt for below options:

Reach Kota by Bus

You can take public buses to Kota from nearby Bundi, Chittorgarh, Kumbhalgarh, Udaipur, Bikaner and Jaipur etc. Buses run by Rajasthan Road Transport Corporation are the best. They are cheap and punctual.

Reach Kota by Railways

Kota has its own railway junction which is connected with Indian cities such as Pune, Mumbai, New Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai etc. You can take express trains such as Rajdhanis and Superfast trains from New Delhi and Mumbai.

Reach Kota by air

Sanganer airport of Jaipur is closest airport from Kota. From Jaipur you can take a bus or train to Kota. We did a road trip from Jaipur.

Reach Kota by road trip

We visited Kota on an exciting road trip via Bundi. In fact, we saw the best of Bundi and Kota in a single day in a private taxi arranged by our hotel. The road conditions even in remote places of Rajasthan is excellent!

You can also club places such as Ajmer, Udaipur, Chittorgarh, Haldighati and Jaipur like we did on our epic road trip across Rajasthan. Many trains which ply on the Mumbai Delhi route stop here.

Distances from Kota Rajasthan

Here is a distance chart of best places to visit near Kota in ascending order. This will help you plan your trip in Rajasthan. I have made a list of all the best places to see near Kota and Bundi.

Distances from Kota to other places in Rajasthan are as below (In ascending order)

Distance between Bundi to Kota is 38 kilometres and it takes 50 minutes to 1 hour via NH52.

Distance between Chittorgarh to Kota is 172 kilometres and it takes 3 hours via NH27.

Distance between Ajmer to Kota is 202 kilometres and it takes 4 hours, 15 minutes via NH52 and Ajmer Kota Road.

Distance between Jaipur to Kota is 251 kilometres and it takes 4 hours, 30 minutes via NH52.

Distance between Nathdwara to Kota is 265 kilometres and it takes 4 hours, 50 minutes via NH758 and NH27.

Distance between Udaipur to Kota is 282 kilometres and it takes 4 hours, 50 minutes via NH27.

Distance between Kumbhalgarh to Kota is 300 kilometres and it takes 6 hours, 10 minutes via NH27 and NH758.

Distance between Bikaner to Kota is 600 kilometres and it takes 10 hours via NH52 and NH11.

Distance between Jaisalmer to Kota is 670 kilometres and it takes 12 hours via NH125.

Conclusion: Why visit Kota?

It is a pity that not many people go to Kota despite the facts that there is so much to see and do in and around Kota.

Kota is an offbeat place to visit in Rajasthan. Despite a smaller number of tourists travelling to Kota, there are so many interesting places to visit in Kota. Nearby destination such as Bundi, Chittorgarh etc also make it worth a visit!

To summarize, places to see in Kota deserves a visit. You must share this information packed Kota travelogue with your friends and family and plan a trip soon here. There are more points of attractions in Kota than you can imagine!

The view from my Soul Window is off the beaten track!

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