KOTA - MAGIC ALONG THE MIGHTY CHAMBAL

Along the eastern bank of the Chambal River lies Kota - an amazing juxtaposition of the majestic medieval age and modern industrialisation temples its untouched wealth of impressive forts, opulent palaces and splendid temples dating back over several centuries retain the past glory, the present day edifices and heavy industries have made it the industrial heartland of Rajasthan. 

The history of the city dates back to the 12th century A.D. when the Hada Chieftain, Rao Deva, conquered the territory and founded Bundi and Hadoti. Later, in the early 17th century AD during the reign of the Mughal Emperor Jahangir, the ruler of Bundi -Rao Ratan Singh, gave the smaller principality of Kota to his son, Madho Singh. Since then Kota became a hallmark of the Rajput gallantry and culture. 

The commanding fort stands overlooking the modern Chambal Valley Project with its many dams- Kota Barrage,Gandhi Sagar,Rana Pratap Sagar and Jawahar Sagar. An old palace,dating back to the time when Kota was under the control of Hada Chieftaincy-Hadoti faces the Kota Barrage. The Durbar Hall is ornate with beautiful mirror work and has ebony and ivory doors. Exquisite miniatures of the Kota school are housed within the Hall. Other noteworthy edifices of the bygone era are the Brij Raj Bhawan Palace,Jag Mandir-and island Palace, a splendid haveli (mandion) with beautiful frescoes and the royal cenotaphs. 

Festival 

Kajli Teej (July/Aug): The celebrations of the festival are different than the usual Teej festivities. Unlike Teej, which is celebrated on the third day of the month of Shravana, Kajli Teej is celebrated on the third day of the month of Bhadra. An exeberant procession of Teej in a decorated planquin, starts from the beautiful Naval Sagar and culminates at the Azad Park.

Cultural performances by the local artistes as well as by artistes from Hadoti region are part of the celebrations. Though the Teej procession is carried our for only two days, the festivities continue till the eighth day, finally ending on Janmashtami, the birth anniversary of Lord Krishna. 

General Information

Area : 38.10 sq. km. 
Altitude 237 metres Climate Summer : 41.8 degree C(Max.) 28.0 degree C(Min) Winter : 23.2 degree C(Max.) 5.0 degree C(Min) 
Rainfall : 26-44 cms. 
Clothing Summer: light tropical Winter : light woolen 
Languages: Rajasthani, Hindi, English 
Best Season October to March.

Excursions 

Bardoli (48 km): The oldest and the most beautiful temple complex of Rajasthan dating back to the 9th century A.D. lies on the way to the Pratap Sagar Dam. The intricate carvings and an exquisite image of Natraj (Shiva)-the cosmic dancer on the door of the mandap,offer fine examples of craftsmanship. Many interesting shrines also lie closeby. 

Rana Pratap Sagar Dam and Bhainsrodgarh (50-55 km): Bhainsrodgarh Fort lies on the right bank of the Chambal River and a village lies within the fort. The fort is set amidst scenic surroundings. An ancient temple of Gaipar Nath Mahadev on the way is an idyllic picnic spot. 

Bhanddeora Temple (Ramgarh) (110 km): Situated in the Baran district atop the Ramgarh hill, is the 11th-12th century temple now in ruins. Easily approachable by jeep and car. The Remains of Garhgachh (110 km): The 9th and 13th century AD temples in red stone, situated in the Baran district near Atru (30 km). 

Nahargarh Fort (145 km): An impressive structure in red stone, the fort is a fine example of the Mughal architecture. 

Sitabari (120 km): An ideal picnic spot,situated near the village of Kelwara in the Baran district on the way to Kota-Shiv Puri. The old temples of Sita,Laxman and seven water tanks are worth a visit. The place is the venue of a tribal fair held in May/June every year. 

Shergarh (125 km): A historic fort near Barora 10 km in Atru Tehsil in the Baran district. 

Fort of Shahbad and Mosque (160 km): The fort was constructed in 1577 AD by the Chauhan ruler Muktaman. The mosque is the biggest in Rajasthan and was built during the reign of Aurangazeb. 

Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary (50 km.): An erstwhile royal hunting preserve,it is a thickly wooded sanctuary lying along the south-eastern border of Kota adjacent to the mountain range. The wildlife variety includes panther, spotted deer, tiger, wild boar and bear. 

Rock Paintings of Alaniya (25 km): Beautiful rock paintings adorn the bank of the River Alaniya.