Kota is a beautiful town in
Rajasthan
, full of gaiety, cheer and steeped in colorful history. Located on the eastern bank of the Chambal River, Kota once belonged to the princely state of Bundi under the rule of the Chauhans. Kota is well known for its ancient palaces, havelis or mansions and castles. In the 17th century, Emperor Jahangir declared Kota a separate state and it was ruled by Rao Madho Singh the heir apparent to the throne of Kota. The city is a modern settlement now and is known for its natural and man made marvels.
Though Kota boasts of a small airport, the main international airport at
Jaipur (240 km) connects it to the rest of the world through regular flight services. Kota is a main railhead and connects the city with other major railway junctions in the country. Being situated on the NH 12 (Jaipur Jabalpur Highway) has provided Kota excellent road links with the rest of India.
Dussehra is one of the prime festivals of Rajasthan and is celebrated with great pomp and grandeur in Kota. The festival commemorates the 9 day battle between Rama, the Divine king and Ravana, a demon. On the 10th day is called the Vijaya Dashami or the 'Day Of Victory'. Ram Lila enactments of this epic battle and other devotional programs are organized all through this period.
The main attractions of the city of Kota are:
- Kota Fort
- Chambal Garden
- Maharao Madho Singh Museum
- The Government Museum
- Jag Mandir- Kishore Sagar
- Haveli Of Devtaji
- Kota Barrage
- Kansua Temple
- Bhitria Kund
- Adhar Shila Budh Singh Bafna Haveli
- Yatayat Park