A city situated on the banks of the Chambal River in Rajasthan, Kota is a place that merges history, culture, nature and education very beautifully. Though popular as a coaching hub for engineering and medical entrance exams in India, Kota has much more to offer. 

Top Things to do in Kota

Travelers will be amused to visit majestic palaces, elaborate gardens, thrilling wildlife sanctuaries and rich cultural heritage located in Kota. Having said these, here are the best things to do in Kota:  

Explore the Majestic City Palace

Garh Palace or City Palace of Kota is an architectural splendour that exemplifies the grandness of Rajput royalty. The sprawling complex of palaces and courtyards of this place has been built in the 17th century embellished with intricate murals, mirror work and frescoes.

Other than this, Maharao Madho Singh Museum, which also covers a part of the City Palace, holds a variety of regal collectibles, weapons, manuscripts and miniatures paintings, making for one of the best highlights of the palace. If you are a history lover, the halls are beautifully decorated, and you walk through while visiting inside which will take you back to the era of royals. No wonder, that is something you don’t want to miss.

Visit Picturesque Seven Wonders Park

Situated near the beautiful Kishore Sagar Lake, the Seven Wonders Park offers a different kind of place where a number of world’s most popular monuments — from Eiffel Tower, Statue of Liberty, Great Pyramid of Giza to Leaning Tower of Pisa have been constructed in the miniature form.

The lush green lawns in the park are maintained beautifully that can suit all types of visitors including photography, family picnics and to have a relaxed evening stroll. The viewing of the mini monuments lit up at night is especially enchanting.

Stroll Around Kishore Sagar Lake and Jagmandir Palace

Kishore Sagar Lake is an artificial wonder built in 1346 by Prince Dher Deh of Bundi, who wanted this lake so his town had some scenic beauty and peace to it. Jagmandir Palace is a stunning red sandstone structure which stands right in the middle of the lake.

Jagmandir has now acquired a ferry connection from boat rides on the lake and, or you can relax on the shores and review the sunset over those shimmering waters. There is an enchanting scenery where the lights at night and the reflections of the palace have an effect.

During this trip, visit Chambal Garden and take a boat ride

Chambal Garden is a beautifully landscaped park situated on the banks of the Chambal River and is perfect for nature lovers and families. Winding pathways are well maintained, fountains are scattered all over, the lush greenery provides a perfect retreat from city life.

There are gharial (a rare species of crocodile), turtles and many bird species in the Chambal river, and it is one of the main attractions here; one can take a boat ride in the river to see some of them. It is a mixture of adventure and relaxation, suitable for all age categories.

Marvel at the Beauty of Kota Barrage

Kota Barrage on Chambal river is a marvel of engineering and a major source of irrigation for the regions around. Aside from its functional use, the barrage serves as a very busy tourist spot when the gates are opened and water flows out with a powerful force.

The view of the river, the bridge and gushing waters is a thrilling affair especially during the monsoon. Locals also love calling it as their hangout spot.

Come to know the Tranquility of Godavari Dham Temple

The most revered temple in Kota is the Godavari Dham Temple which is dedicated to Lord Hanuman. On the banks of Chambal river, there is the temple, which is known to have a spiritual ambiance and quite beautiful architecture.

The experience of visiting the temple during aarti (prayer ceremony) is truly soulful. Additionally, the temple is situated along the riverfront, and therefore its serene beauty is just perfect for spiritual reflection.

Visit Gaipernath waterfall

Gaipernath Waterfall is one of the hidden natural gems of Rajasthan located at a distance of 25 km from Kota and is at its best during the monsoons. Surrounded by rocky cliffs and lush greenery; the waterfall is quite a favourite picnic spot for picnickers and tracking enthusiasts.

The walk down to the waterfall is hundreds of steps down, not easy, but rewarding nonetheless. If you intend to go then be sure to wear trekking shoes and carry water.

Witness Ancient History at Abheda Mahal

Second, Abheda Mahal – also known as the royal retreat for the kings of Kota. The palace is surrounded by a beautiful pond of hundreds of turtles that swim, and the palace itself features traditional Rajput architecture.

There remains a peaceful setting along with the stories of royalty which is making it a great spot for history buffs and photographers. But lesser known gardens surround it and I came across turtles sunbathing, making for a charm from this site.

Visit the Jawahar Sagar Dam

Another important dam constructed on the Chambal River, near Kota is the Jawahar Sagar Dam. If you are a nature lover, it is surrounded by scenic hills and forests and is a good place for visitors to photograph.

You’ll keenly observe that access to the dam is restricted but the surrounding area is beautiful enough to spend some quiet time, a few moments as if exploring nature while enjoying some photography or if you just need a break and a place to calm down.

Enjoy Shopping at Local Bazaars

One has to indulge in some local shopping on no trip to Kota. Most famous in the world is Kota Doria (or Kota Doriya) sarees — light, exquisite hand woven cotton saree best suited for the Indian summer.

Other than sarees, you are able to purchase:

- Traditional Rajasthani jewelry

- Handicrafts and artifacts

- Miniature paintings

- Colorful textiles and traditional mojari (footwear)

City Mall, Ahluwalia's The Great Mall of Kota, and other popular shopping areas include malls, shop street, and local markets in and nearby Rampura, Gumanpura etc.

Savor Local Rajasthani Cuisine

There is a perfect sum of traditional Rajasthani and North Indian foods in Kota. In the city, they should taste:

Dal Baati Churma: The Rajasthani classic!

Kachoris: Stuffed, spicy fried pastries — a local favorite.

Laal Maas: A fiery mutton curry for the spice lovers.

Ghevar and Rabri: Traditional Rajasthani sweets.

Authentic flavors come from local restaurants, street stalls and all popular dhabas (roadside eateries).

Explore the Kota Zoological Park

The Kota Zoological Park is inside the Chambal Garden complex, and is a nice place for a family, especially if you are planning to travel with kids. There are various leopards, deer, peacocks, and other species of animals and birds in the zoo.

This is a good combination of a leisurely walk and wildlife spotting in a well maintained environment.

Go to Kota to attend the Dussehra Festival

October is the time for a visit to Kota when along with the History City, you will experience the grand Dussehra festival! It is Rajasthan’s biggest and most colorful celebration. The effigies of Ravana, his brother Meghnath and son KumbhKaran are burned at huge fires along with dramatic performances and colorful processions.

The fairs are held under the festive atmosphere along with colorful fairs and cultural performances that provide you with a deep insight into Rajasthani festivals and traditions.

Conclusion: 

While usually associated with coaching institutes Kota has got a lot to offer to tourists also. Kota doesn’t fail to impress with its history, monuments, gardens, library walk, riverfronts, local culture and more.

Whether you want to boat in Kishore Sagar lake, check in the Seven Wonders Park to see the wonders of the world, purchase traditional sarees, or self- magnetize at Chambal river, there are probably Kota chinks for you. Remember that Kota thus deserves a special place in your itinerary then and there!