Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
Things to do in Kota will immerse you in the perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that this vibrant city offers. Situated on the banks of the Chambal River, Kota is renowned not just for its top-tier educational institutes but also for its royal palaces, lush gardens, and bustling markets. From exploring magnificent historical landmarks to strolling through tranquil parks, Kota captures the essence of Rajasthan’s royal heritage and scenic charm. Here’s a guide to the best things to do in Kota, showcasing its cultural richness and breathtaking landscapes.
Top 10 Things To Do In Kota
Discover a hand-picked list of the best things to do in Kota for an unforgettable trip!
1. Explore Kota Garh (City Palace)
Photo: Arastu Gupta / Wikimedia Commons
Kota Garh or City Palace, is an imposing edifice that houses the aristocratic heritage of the city. The thirteenth-century palace inlays both the Mughal and Rajput styles of architecture in its structure. The great building also contains a museum that reflects the state’s royal past and the compilation of miniature paintings, a royal armoury, and ancient manuscripts. The ornate, overhanging balconies and great spacious courtyards permit the visitor to imagine just how extravagant the life of the Kota rulers must have been. No doubt for history buffs, visiting the City Palace is one of the best things to do in Kota.
Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Entry Fee: ₹50
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
Location: Rampura, Kota
2. Visit Chambal Garden
Photo: King of Hearts / Wikimedia Commons
Lush-green lawn with a big pond and a sparkling fountain, Chambal Garden is a cool retreat from the hustle-bustle of the city, situated on the riverbank of Chambal River. This garden is mainly attractive because of its suspension bridge that runs across, giving a great view of the Chambal River, making it one of the top things to do in Kota. It is an ideal picnic place for picnickers, families, and nature lovers who want to spend their time in a serene environment with beautiful surroundings.
Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: 10 AM – 7 PM
Location: Amar Niwas, Kota
3. Explore Seven Wonders Park
Photo: Tanveer Ahmed / Wikimedia Commons
One of the interesting places to visit in Kota is Seven Wonders Park. Beginning with an unforgettable experience, well-maintained grounds house replicas of the seven wonders of the world, namely the Eiffel Tower, the Great Pyramid of Giza, and the Statue of Liberty. This place is perfect for evening walks, photo shoots, and family picnics. Real models of these kinds are lit up and take on an almost magical feel throughout the night, thus making it a place which should be a must-visit when considering what to do in Kota during a trip.
Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Entry Fee: ₹10
Timings: 2:30 PM – 10 PM
Location: Kishore Sagar Lake, Kota
4. Take A Boat Ride At Kishore Sagar Lake
Photo: Arvind Sunda07 / Wikimedia Commons
The most mesmerising thing to do in Kota constitutes a boating spree in the tranquil waters of Kishore Sagar Lake. This artificial lake, built in 1346, is surely an enchanting locale amidst sprawling palaces and temples. The lake houses a beautiful Jagmandir Palace in the middle of it, made of red sandstone. Be it at the magical time of dawn or at the time of a setting sun, a boat ride at the Kishore Sagar Lake makes the experience extremely serene. Not only is it a gross specimen of things to see in Kota, but it is also one of the most ideal experiences for leisure and photography.
Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Entry Fee: Free (boating charges extra)
Timings: 8 AM – 8 PM
Location: Kishore Sagar Lake, Kota
5. Discover Jagmandir Palace
Photo: Ipawanc / Wikimedia Commons
Located in the middle of Kishore Sagar Lake, Jagmandir Palace is an architectural marvel built in 1740 by one of Kota’s queens. Though entry into the palace is restricted, visitors can enjoy boat rides around the island to admire the palace from afar. Its reflection in the water, set against a backdrop of blue skies and green hills, makes it one of the most beautiful things to see in Kota. The tranquillity surrounding this historic site makes it a prime location for those searching for what to do in Kota beyond city life.
Ideal Duration: 1 hour
Entry Fee: Free (boating charges apply)
Timings: 8 AM – 8 PM
Location: Kishore Sagar Lake, Kota
6. Visit Kota Barrage
Photo: Piyush Tripathi / Wikimedia Commons
Kota Barrage, a key irrigation dam located on the Chambal River, is also a popular tourist spot. The barrage offers everyone stunning panoramic views of the Chambal River and its picturesque surroundings. Watching the water gush through the dam gates, especially during the monsoon season, is a memorable experience. Kota Barrage is a must-visit for those wondering what to do in Kota if you enjoy scenic walks or photography. It’s an ideal spot to capture breathtaking photos of the river and nearby landscapes.
Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: 24*7
Location: Chambal River, Kota
7. Explore Abheda Mahal And Abheda Biological Park
Photo: Ritukejai / Wikimedia Commons
For a combination of history and nature, head to Abheda Mahal, a stunning palace set near a serene lake. The palace, known for its tranquil atmosphere, is an excellent location for birdwatching and photography. Right next to it is the Abheda Biological Park, a small wildlife sanctuary home to animals like deer and peacocks. Exploring these attractions is one of the best things to do in Kota for those looking to enjoy nature while also discovering some of the city’s historical gems.
Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Entry Fee: ₹30
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
Location: Abheda Road, Kota
8. Visit Garadia Mahadev Temple
Photo: Glavo / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Garadia Mahadev Temple is a peaceful spot perched on a cliff with one of the most breathtaking views of the Chambal River. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple provides a stunning panoramic view of the river’s meandering path through deep gorges. It’s a perfect place for meditation and spiritual reflection, especially at sunrise or sunset. Visiting this temple is among the most scenic things to see in Kota, and it offers a serene escape for those searching for spiritual experiences while exploring what to do in Kota.
Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Entry Fee: ₹30
Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
Location: NH-76, Kota
9. Explore Brijraj Bhawan Palace
Photo: Mr-Bozen / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Brijraj Bhawan Palace, now a luxurious heritage hotel, was once the royal residence of the Kota rulers. Its colonial architecture, coupled with its location on the banks of the Chambal River, offers a glimpse into Kota’s regal past. Visitors can enjoy a meal at the hotel’s restaurant or simply stroll through its lush gardens. The palace is also famous for its ghostly legends, adding an air of mystery to its charm. A visit to Brijraj Bhawan is one of the most unique things to see in Kota, blending luxury and history.
Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Entry Fee: Free (charges for meals at the hotel)
Timings: 10 AM – 7 PM
Location: Civil Lines, Kota
10. Visit Godavari Dham Temple
Photo: Baatcheet Films / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Along the banks of the Chambal River, Godavari Dham Temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and attracts a large number of devotees. This beautiful temple is one of the top things to see in Kota for those interested in spiritual and religious experiences. Known for its peaceful surroundings, visitors can enjoy participating in the daily aarti or simply sit by the river to absorb the temple’s calming atmosphere. It’s a must-visit for those seeking a deeper connection with Kota’s religious and cultural heritage.
Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: 5 AM – 10 PM
Location: Chambal River Road, Kota
Things to do in Kota offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and spiritual sites, making it an ideal destination for travellers of all kinds. Whether you’re boating on Kishore Sagar Lake, marvelling at the architectural wonders of Kota Garh, or enjoying a peaceful moment at Garadia Mahadev, Kota has something for everyone. Book your Kota tour with TripXL today and experience the wonders of this historic city.
Cover Photo: Rakhi Bario / Unsplash
