Kota

The historical town of Kota is located in southern Rajasthan. A place with a diverse landscape, Kota is situated on the eastern banks of Chambal river on a high sloping tableland. Running from southeast to northwest of Kota, the Mokandarra hills divide the town. The best time to visit Kota is during the winter months when the climate becomes cool and pleasant.

Kota has a chequered history. It was under the rule of Rajputs for a long period. During the 17th century, Kota became a princely state. It was after becoming a princely state that the forested landscape received a serious facelift. It continued in that order till India's independence in 1947. The lovely monuments of Kota in the form of forts, palaces and gardens reflect the erstwhile glory of the place.

Housed in the Brij Vilas Palace complex, the museum is maintained by the state government. The museum has a good collection of rare coins, manuscripts, stone idols and other sculptural fragments. These items were found mainly during excavations in Baroli and Jhalawar. The collections throw some light on various aspects of life in the place during the past.

In sharp contrast to the barren landscape of most parts of Rajasthan, Kota has colourful gardens and lush greenery. The most popular is the Chambal garden on the banks of river Chambal. A pond has also been dug within the garden areas where crocodiles have been kept. Another beautiful garden of the place is Chhatar Bilas Garden having a nice collection of royal cenotaphs or chhatris. The beautiful gardens have emerged as popular picnic spots of Kota.

Built in the year 1345, Taragarh Fort is a huge and beautiful structure. Some 39 kms from the town centre is the entrance to the fort through a sharply sloping road. Impressive carvings of elephants welcome visitors at the gateway to the fort. Kept on the largest rampart of the fort is Bhim Burj, a legendary cannon of that period. Within the fort complex, there are many large reservoirs where water was kept. A spectacular view of Kota town is available from the fort complex.

Though a small palace, the beauty of Jagmandir and its surroundings never fail to enthrall visitors. The palace was built in the year 1740 on a small island in the Kishore Sagar lake. Built by one of the Maharanis of Kota, best views of the palace can be had in early mornings and evenings. Boat rides in the waters surrounding the palace could be another joyful experience.