Kota is a vibrant city in Rajasthan and is often known for its educational institutions, but it has much more to offer in terms of tourism. It is situated along the banks of the Chambal River. Places to visit in Kota boast an array of historical monuments, scenic gardens, and architectural wonders. The city is an intriguing blend of heritage, nature, and modern developments, making it an ideal destination for tourists seeking a unique experience. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a nature lover, Kota has something for everyone.
Top 10 Places To Visit In Kota
From tranquil parks to historic forts, Kota has something for everyone. Here’s a list of places to visit in Kota to make your trip memorable.
1. Kota Garh (City Palace)
Photo: Avni Kantoo / Wikimedia Commons
Kota Garh, or City Palace, is a magnificent fort-palace complex that showcases the grandeur of Rajput architecture. Situated on the banks of the Chambal River, this palace served as the royal residence of the rulers of Kota. The palace is adorned with stunning frescoes, mirror work, and intricate carvings. It also houses a museum that displays an impressive collection of royal weapons, armour, artefacts, and miniature paintings. The fort provides a panoramic view of the river and the surrounding city, making it a must-visit destination for history and art enthusiasts.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Major Attraction: Frescoes, museum, panoramic views
Nearest Airport: Jaipur International Airport (240 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Kota Junction (5 km)
Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 hours
2. Chambal Garden
Photo: Aniston Grace / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Chambal Garden is a beautiful park on the banks of the Chambal River. This lush green garden is an ideal spot for families and nature lovers. It offers beautifully manicured lawns, a tranquil lake, and a suspension bridge that adds to the charm. You can also enjoy boating in the lake, while the garden’s serenity provides a perfect backdrop for picnics. The garden is home to various flora and fauna, including exotic birds, making it a popular spot for birdwatching and photography.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Major Attraction: Boating, suspension bridge, birdwatching
Nearest Airport: Jaipur International Airport (240 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Kota Junction (7 km)
Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 hours
3. Seven Wonders Park
Photo: Arvind Sunda07 / Wikimedia Commons
Seven Wonders Park in Kota offers a distinctive experience with replicas of the seven world-renowned wonders. The park houses miniature versions of iconic structures such as the Eiffel Tower, Statue of Liberty, Leaning Tower of Pisa, and more. It is located on the banks of Kishore Sagar Lake, and the park is a perfect blend of art, culture, and scenic beauty. The replicas are beautifully crafted, providing visitors with the experience of seeing these global landmarks in one place. The park is incredibly stunning at night when the structures are illuminated, making it a popular tourist attraction in Kota.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Major Attraction: Replicas of seven wonders, Kishore Sagar Lake
Nearest Airport: Jaipur International Airport (240 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Kota Junction (4 km)
Ideal Duration: 1 to 2 hours
4. Jagmandir Palace
Photo: Ipawanc / Wikimedia Commons
Jagmandir Palace is a stunning palace in the middle of Kishore Sagar Lake. Built by Prince Dher Deh of Kota in the 18th century, this beautiful red sandstone structure reflects the architectural brilliance of its time. The palace, accessible by boat, is surrounded by the tranquil waters of the lake, offering a peaceful retreat. The views from the palace, particularly at sunset, are breathtaking, making it a popular spot for photography. Its serene ambience and historical significance make Jagmandir a must-visit destination in Kota.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Major Attraction: Boat rides, sunset views, lake surroundings
Nearest Airport: Jaipur International Airport (240 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Kota Junction (5 km)
Ideal Duration: 1 to 2 hours
5. Godavari Dham Temple
Photo: Garv Chaplot / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Godavari Dham Temple, located on the banks of the Chambal River, is one of the most famous temples in Kota. Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the temple attracts many devotees, especially on Tuesdays and Saturdays. The temple is known for its vibrant religious atmosphere, beautiful river views, and peaceful surroundings. Visitors can also witness the evening aarti (prayer) at the temple, a spiritual experience. The temple’s location by the river makes it a serene spot for reflection and relaxation.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Major Attraction: Riverbank location, evening aarti
Nearest Airport: Jaipur International Airport (240 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Kota Junction (6 km)
Ideal Duration: 1 to 2 hours
6. Garadia Mahadev Temple
Photo: Rahul Mishra / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Garadia Mahadev Temple is on the edge of a cliff overlooking the Chambal River, offering one of the most stunning panoramic views in Kota. This temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a tranquil retreat for visitors. The temple is known for its peaceful atmosphere and popular spot for meditation and nature photography. The scenic beauty and the temple’s spiritual aura make it a must-visit destination for devotees and nature enthusiasts.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Major Attraction: Panoramic views, peaceful surroundings
Nearest Airport: Jaipur International Airport (240 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Kota Junction (30 km)
Ideal Duration: 1 to 2 hours
7. Kota Barrage
Photo: Piyush Tripathi / Wikimedia Commons
Kota Barrage is an important irrigation structure on the Chambal River, but it has also become a popular tourist spot. The barrage provides a scenic view of the river and is often visited by locals and tourists for leisurely walks and picnics. During the monsoon season, the sight of the gushing water is breathtaking when the water is released from the barrage. The calm surroundings and cool breeze make it a perfect place to unwind after a day of sightseeing in Kota.
Best Time To Visit: July to September (monsoon season)
Major Attraction: Gushing waters during monsoon, riverside walks
Nearest Airport: Jaipur International Airport (240 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Kota Junction (8 km)
Ideal Duration: 1 to 2 hours
8. Umed Bhawan Palace
Photo: Patrice78500 / Wikimedia Commons
Umed Bhawan Palace, now a heritage hotel, was once the residence of the royal family of Kota. Built in 1905, the palace perfectly blends Rajput and Victorian architectural styles. The palace boasts stunning interiors, royal courtyards, and lush gardens. You can experience the grandeur of the royal era by staying at this palace and its majestic architecture and serene ambience. The palace also offers a glimpse into the royal lifestyle of the Kota rulers, making it a tourist attraction in Kota.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Major Attraction: Heritage hotel, royal architecture
Nearest Airport: Jaipur International Airport (240 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Kota Junction (5 km)
Ideal Duration: 1 to 2 hours
9. Abheda Mahal
Photo: Ritukejai / Wikimedia Commons
Abheda Mahal, a lesser-known gem in Kota, is a historic palace surrounded by a serene lake that attracts migratory birds. The palace was once the hunting lodge of the Kota kings and is now a peaceful spot for nature lovers and history enthusiasts. The lake’s calm waters reflect the palace’s beauty, offering picturesque views. Visitors can also spot various bird species, making it a great destination for birdwatchers. The tranquillity of Abheda Mahal makes it an excellent getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Major Attraction: Lake views, birdwatching
Nearest Airport: Jaipur International Airport (240 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Kota Junction (12 km)
Ideal Duration: 1 to 2 hours
10. Kansua Temple
Photo: Ritukejai / Wikimedia Commons
Kansua Temple is an ancient temple in Kota dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is unique for its four-faced Shiva Lingam, a rare sight in Hindu temples. The temple holds significant religious importance and attracts devotees, particularly during the festival of Maha Shivratri. The temple’s simple yet striking architecture, combined with its spiritual significance, makes it a popular tourist destination to visit in Kota for those seeking peace and religious solace. The surrounding area is calm, providing a beautiful environment for visitors to meditate and pray.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Major Attraction: Four-faced Shiva Lingam, religious significance
Nearest Airport: Jaipur International Airport (240 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Kota Junction (7 km)
Ideal Duration: 1 to 2 hours
The places to visit in Kota offer a diverse range of experiences, from historic forts and palaces to serene temples and beautiful gardens. Whether you’re exploring the architectural wonders of the City Palace or enjoying the scenic beauty of the Chambal River, Kota provides an enriching travel experience. Ready to discover the hidden gems of Kota? Book your tour with TripXL and enjoy a well-curated experience exploring this fascinating city in Rajasthan.
Cover Photo: Rakhi Bario / Unsplash