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Kota formerly known as Kotah, is a city in the northern Indian state of Rajasthan. Kota is situated on the banks of Chambal River and is emerging as an important industrial centre. Surprisingly unexplored, the Kota region of Rajasthan has some splendid treasures for the tourist to take home memories of. Its impregnable fortresses, sprawling palaces, exquisitely wrought palaces and lovely waterways act as a magnificent foil to its exotic wildlife and delicate fresco Paintings. .
Situated on the banks of the Chambal River, at an important juncture of the trade route between Delhi and Gujarat, Kota is Rajasthan’s Fifth Largest City. This bustling, sprawling city is also called the industrial capital of the state. The tentacles of the modern world have the city in its grip with the Chambal Valley Project giving it a major position on the state's industrial map. Yet memories of its ancient links linger strongly. Present Day Kota owes its foundations to a Kotya Bhil warrior who 800 years ago built a small fortification at Akelgarh and put up a protective mud-wall around it all the way to Retwali. In 1580, Rao Madho Singh strengthened both the fortification and the wall. In time to come, Kota acquired the Hallmark of Rajput power as well as culture.
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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 heart land 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.
The south eastern region of Rajasthan known as Hadoti comprises of Bundi, Baran, Jhalawar and Kota is a treasure of history dating back to several centuries. Prehistoric caves, paintings, formidable forts and the mighty Chambal River hurtling from the Vindhyas are dotted in the region.
History of Kota in Rajasthan, India
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 history of Kota is linked with the history of Bundi. Both Bundi and Kota came under the rule of the Chauhans in the 12th century. When Jait Singh of Bundi defeated the Bhil Chieftain Koteya in a battle, he raised the first battlement or the 'Garh'(fort) over his severead head. The descendents of the Chauhans set up their capital at Bundi and ruled from here. While Bundi was the capital, Kota formed the land granted to the eldest son of the ruler. This arrangement continued until 1624. In 1624, Emperor Jahangir, the great Mughal ruler, partitioned Bundi and made Kota an independent state. Rao Madho Singh, son of the ruler of Bundi, ascended the throne of Kota. It became a part of the British Empire in 1818 and later became a part of the Indian state of Rajasthan, when it gained independence in 1947.
Maharao Bhim Singh played a pivotal role in Kota's history, having held a 'Mansab' of five thousand and being the first in his dynasty to have the title of Maharao. Apart from the several monuments that reflect the erstwhile glory of the town, Kota is also known for its palaces and gardens. Kota is located in the southern part of the state of Rajasthan, in the northwestern part of India. It is located on the eastern bank of Chambal River and is drained by its tributaries. Kota is on a high sloping tableland forming a part of the Malwa Plateau. Kota is situated on the banks of chambal river and is fastly emerging as an important industrial centre. It boasts of Asia's largest fertilizer plant, precision instrument unit and atomic power station nearby. Surprisingly unexplored, the Kota region of Rajasthan has some splendid treasures for the tourist to take home memories of. Its impregnable fortresses, sprawling palaces, exquisitely wrought palaces and lovely waterways act as a magnificient foil to its exotic wildlife and delicate fresco Paintings. Situtated on the banks of the Chambal River,at an important juncture of the trade route between Delhi and Gujrat, Kota is Rjasthan's Fifth Largest City. This Bustling,sprawling city is also called the industrial capital of the state.
The tentacles of the modern world have the city in its grip with the Chambal Valley Project giving it a major position on the state's industrial map. Chemicals,fertilizers, synthetic fibres, tyrecord and sophisticated instruments, industry's mainstay, have helped in pushing this ancient city into the forefront of modernisation. Yet memories of its ancient links linger strongly. Present Day Kota owes its foundations to a Kotya Bhil warrior who 800 years ago built a small fortification at akelgarh and put up a protective mud-wall around it all the way to Retwali. In 1580, Rao Madho Singh strenghtened both the fortification and the wall. In time to come, Kota acquired the Hallmark of rajput power as well as culture.
Geography and Climate of Kota in Rajasthan, India
Kota is located along the eastern bank of the Chambal River in the southern part of Rajasthan. The exact cartographic coordinates are 25.18° N 75.83° E. It covers an area of approximately 12,436 km² (3.63 per cent of the Rajasthan State). It has an average elevation of 271 metres (889 feet). The district is bound on the north and North West by Sawai Madhopur, Tonk and Bundi districts. The Chambal River separates these districts from Kota district, forming the natural boundary.
Distance from Major Cities
Delhi - 454km
Jaipur - 256km
The climate of the city is of the tropical type due to the proximity to the Tropic of Cancer and is subject to extremes of heat during summer, and has mildly cold winters. The summer season in Kota lasts from April to late October. Kota Weather, in the summer time, is usually warm. The average temperature in the daytime hovers around 42.6°C. The climatic conditions of Kota, Rajasthan in winters are generally quite pleasing. The average temperature falls in the range of 29.7°C (max) to 9°C (min) during wintertime. However, the climate of Kota may experience some chilly nights in the winter season. The best time to visit Kota is during the period of November to early April.
The average annual rainfall in the Kota district is 885.6 mm. Most of the rainfall can be attributed to the southwest monsoon which has its beginning around the last week of June and may last till mid-September. Pre-monsoon showers begin towards the middle of June and post-monsoon rains occasionally occur in October. In the winter season also, there is sometimes a little rainfall associated with the passing western distribution over the region.
Economy of Kota in Rajasthan, India
Situated on the banks of Chambal River, the city is the trade centre for an area in which cotton, millet, wheat, coriander and oilseeds are grown; industries include cotton and oilseed milling, textile weaving, distilling, dairying, and the manufacture of metal handcrafts. Chemicals, fertilizers, synthetic fibres, tyrecord and sophisticated instruments, industry's mainstay, have helped in pushing this ancient city into the forefront of modernization. Kota is one of the major industrial hubs in northern India, with many prominent chemical and engineering companies based here. The rail junction, a road hub, lies 4.8 km (3 miles) to the north.
Kota also has an extensive industry of stone-polishing of a particular kind of stone called Kota Stone. Kota stone is blue in colour and is used for the floor and walls of both residential and business buildings. It is a cheap alternative to marble. The fine-grained variety of limestone is known as Kota stone. The rich greenish-blue and brown colours of this stone are most popular. Kota stone is preferred for flooring and wall cladding, paving and facades of buildings. This is because they have the unique properties of lime stones. They are very tough, non water-absorbent, non-slip, non-porous and have excellent stain removability. Moreover, their resistance to wear and delamination is higher than other stones. They are available in different sizes and thicknesses. The varieties include Kota Blue Natural, Kota Blue Honed, Kota Blue Polished, Kota Blue Cobbles, Kota Brown Natural and Kota Brown Polished.
Kota is famous for its distinctive style of painting. Kota is well known for its saris, stone products and a vibrant education sector. Kota's economy today is driven by the all-India fame of its coaching classes. The numerous coaching centres which prepare aspirants for India's elite engineering and medical colleges have given a totally new character and identity to the city. The Crosthwaite Institute is located in Kota, as are old and new palaces of the Maharajahs.
Kota in Rajasthan is famous for the fine translucent muslins called Masuria Malmal. Originally, such saris were called Masuria because they were woven in Mysore. The weavers were subsequently brought to Kota by Rao Kishore Singh who was a general in the Mughal army. The weavers were brought to Kota in the late 17th and early 18th centuries and the saris came to be known as 'Kota-Masuria'. Kota saris are popularly known as 'Masuria' in Kota and Kotadoria outside the state. 'Doria' means thread.
Kota is major industrial hub in Rajasthan with many prominent chemical and engineering companies based in the city. It boasts of Asia's largest fertilizer plant, precision instrument unit and atomic power station nearby.
Places of Tourist Interest of Kota in Rajasthan, India
There are a number of interesting places to be visit in Kota. The city fort and palace, one of its main attractions, is located on the eastern banks of the Chambal River, near the Kota Barrage. This type of fort-palace complex is one of the largest to be found in the state of Rajasthan. The museum within the city palace is worth visiting, as it houses a good collection of artifacts. Kishore Sagar tank, built in 1346, located near the palace is an important tourist attraction. The little Jagmandir palace, built on a small island at the center of this tank by one of the local rulers in 1740, is another place to visit. Adjacent to the Kishore Sagar is the Brij Vilas Palace Museum, a small government museum. Other tourist spots in Kota include a number of gardens. The Chambal gardens and the Chhattar Bilas gardens are the main ones to be visited. Chhattar Bilas gardens have a number of royal cenotaphs.
Maharao Madho Singh Museum of Kota in Rajasthan, India
Situated in the old palace, the museum has a superb collection of Rajput miniature paintings of the Kota school, exquisite sculptures, frescoes and armory. The museum also houses a rich repository of artistic items used by the Kota rulers. The museum is definitely not to be missed as it is reportedly one of the best museums in the state. This was formerly a palace and is named after the son of the ruler of Bundi who was made the first ruler of Kota State by the Mughal emperor Jehangir. The museum is closed on Fridays and state holidays. It gives a wonderful glimpse of the glory and history of the place with miniature paintings and ancient armory on display.
Kota Barrage of Kota in Rajasthan, India
A part of the irrigation canal system on the Chambal River, this beautiful setting is ideal for outings and evening strolls. This barrage not only control floodwater and irrigate canals, it also serves as an alternative bridge in the monsoon season. Kota Barrage is the fourth in the series of Chambal Valley Projects, located about 0.8 km upstream of Kota City in Rajasthan. Water released after power generation at Gandhi Sagar, Rana Pratap Sagar and Jawahar Sagar Dams, is diverted by Kota Barrage for irrigation in Rajasthan and in Madhya Pradesh through canals on the left and the right sides of the river. The work on this dam was completed in 1960.
Kishore Sagar and Jag Mandir of Kota in Rajasthan, India
Between the City palace and the RTDC Hotel Chambal is the picturesque artificial tank of Kishore sagar. Prince Dher Deh of Bundi got the Kishore Sagar Lake constructed in 1346. Right in the middle of the tank, on a small island, is the beguiling little palace of Jagmandir. Built in 1740 by one of the maharanies of Kota, it is best seen early in the morning but is exquisite at any time of the day. Made up of red sandstone, the palace looks a picture of serenity standing in the middle of the lake. The azure waters around the red-sandstone monument enhances its beauty. Boat-rides can be enjoyed in the lake. The Keshar Bagh famous for its royal cenotaphs lies in the vicinity.
Chambal Garden of Kota in Rajasthan, India
The Chambal Gardens are on the banks of the Chambal River, south of the fort. Chambal Garden is a beautifully landscaped garden at the Amar Niwas. Its lush surroundings make it a popular picnic spot offering enjoyable boar rides. The centerpiece is a murky pond stocked with crocodiles, which can be crossed by a wobbly suspension bridge. Once common all along the river, by the middle of the 20th century the crocodiles had been virtually exterminated by hunting. There are also some rare Gharial (thin-snouted, fish eating crocodiles) Situated near the river Chambal, Chambal garden serves as a popular picnic spot. One can even go for boating in the Chambal River
Rana Pratap Sagar Dam of Kota in Rajasthan, India
Rana Pratap Sagar dam is the second in the series of Chambal Valley Projects, located 52 km downstream of Gandhi Sagar dam across the river Chambal in Rajasthan. This dam was completed in the year 1970.
It is a straight masonry gravity structure, 54 meters high. The power house is located on the left side of the spillway and consists of 4 units of 43 MW each, with firm power generation of 90 MW at 60% load factor. The total catchment area of this dam is 24,864 km2, of which only 956 km2 are in Rajasthan. The free catchment area below Gandhi Sagar dam is 2,280 km2. The live storage capacity is 1,566 Mm3.Rajasthan State has a 50% share in the power generation of this station.
Govt. Museum of Kota in Rajasthan, India
Housed in the Brijvilas Palace near the Kishore Sagar, the museum displays a rich collection of rare coins, manuscripts and a representative selection of Hadoti sculpture. Especially noteworthy is an exquisitely sculptured statue brought here from Baroli.
The archaeological section of the museum consists of various sculptures, some dating back to the Gupta period (4th century).Sculptures worth mentioning are Shesh Sayi Vishnu from Badoli (Chittaurgarh), Jain image of Vardhaman from Baran and a dancing pair from Ramgarh. Some specimens and also displayed in this section. Yupa pillars from Badwa are very important specimens of 3rd century A. D. showing the popularity of Vedic rites. Coins of different dynasties can also be seen in this section.
The Painting section has several miniature paintings of Bundi, Kota, Nathdwara and Jaipur schools. Paintings of Shrimad Bhagawata of the early 17th century are most attractive from the point of view of workmanship.
Various Sanskrit manuscripts can be seen in the manuscript section. They include Vedic, Astronomical and Astrological works. Some Hindi manuscripts are also preserved. The Gita and the Bhagawata written in the minutest letters on paper scroll are worth mentioning from the calligraphic point of view. Apart from these arms, several kinds of handicrafts, costumes, etc., are also displayed in this section. A panoramic view of the cultural aspects of Kota region is available in this section through photographs, charts, maps etc.
Timings: 1000 hrs to 1700 hrs. Entry Fee: Rs.2/- Closed on every Friday and Government holidays. Photography is prohibited. A prior permission has to be obtained from the Director of Archaeology and Museums,Jaipur.
Haveli Of Devataji of Kota in Rajasthan, India
The beautiful Haveli of Devta Shridharji is located in the middle of the busy market. The haveli is adorned with impressive murals and rooms beautifully decorated with some amazing miniature paintings.
Excursions around Kota in Rajasthan, India
Kota excursions consist of some of the finest places near the city. Excursions around Kota, Rajasthan are a must see for those visiting the city. Some of the famous places to visit around Kota are:
Bhanddeora Temple near Kota in Rajasthan, India
Kota to Bhanddeora Temple is one of the primary tourists destination visited on an excursion from Kota. The temple is situated atop the Ramgarh Hill and presents a spectacular view of the sprawling city that lies beneath. The temple is frequently visited by the tourists who enjoy the architecture that belongs to the 11th and the 12th century.
The visit to the Bhanddeora Temple in Rajasthan includes a jeep trek of 110 kilometers from the city of Kota. The old place of worship was constructed in the early centuries and still bears the magnificence and the grandeur of its primary years. The carvings created on the temple are marveled by the tourists. The temple is popularly known as the 'Khajuraho of Rajasthan'.
The majesty of the sacred sanctum has slowly withered with time. The temple now stands in the ruinous state on the hill top. The temple was earlier the prominent place of worship of the hamlets that are situated close on the foothills of the Ramgarh Hill. The temple also rose to popularity as an tourists destination which is easily accessible from the city of Kota in the state of Rajasthan. The ride in the jeep from Kota to Bhanddeora Temple also unveils a thrilling journey through the sandy roads of the desert state with scanty vegetation on either sides. There are more tourists places to visit in the district of Baran where the temple is situated.
Bhainsrodgarh near Kota in Rajasthan, India
Bhainsrodgarh Fort lies on the right bank of the Chambal River at a distance of around 50 Km from Kota. The fort is set amidst scenic surroundings and a village lies within the fort. Bhainsrodhgarh has a 14th century fort which was never besieged by an enemy force. Perched on a ridge overlooking the Chambal River, it is still occupied by the descendents of a feudal family. A prior permission is needed to visit the fort. An ancient temple of Gaipar Nath Mahadev on the way is an idyllic picnic spot is also worth a visit.
Rock Paintings of Alaniya near Kota in Rajasthan, India
At a distance of around 25 Km from Kota are the beautiful rock paintings that adorn the bank of the River Alaniya.
Remains of Garhgachh near Kota in Rajasthan, India
Garhgachh contains the ruinous temple built of red stone. The ancient temple structures in Garhgachh are representative of the richness of artistry and architecture with which they were built. The temple presently stands in the dilapidated condition in the district of Baran in Rajasthan still oozing the magnificence which it contained when it was first built.
The remains of Garhgachh stands at a distance of 110 kilometers from the city of Kota. The tourists may travel to the region in jeeps and private cars. The cars and jeeps regularly traverse the region making popular visits to the ruinous remains of the temples in Garhgachh. The beautiful temples of the region were built between the 9th and the 13th century. The architecture of the temple are reminiscent of the Rajput temple architecture. The remarkable feature of the temples is the red stone with which the magnificent temples were built. The red color of the temples and the old charm mesmerizes the tourists.
The visit from Kota to Garhgachh may include traversing the region of Atru that lies at a distance of 30 kilometers from the temple premises. The small hamlet of Atru is itself a popular tourist destination near the city of Kota. The barren and desolate temples of Garhgachh are frequently visited by the tourists who travel to the city of Kota.
Bundi near Kota in Rajasthan, India
Bundi in Rajasthan, India, a special destination in its own, is an oasis in the desert state, a serene civilization far from the madding crowd and a well known tourist destination attracted Sir Rudyard Kipling, Rabindra Nath Tagore, Virginia Fass, Satyajit Ray and many more. Bundi is Rudyard Kipling's first destination, in Hadoti, that is accessible from Jaipur by road. Thousands of tourists both domestic and foreign come here to see and discover this beautiful place.
Bundi is the undiscovered splendour, 36 Kms from Kota ruled by the Hada Chauhans. First destination is Hadoti. Set in a narrow encircling gorge, the palaces and fortress of Bundi have a fairy tale like quality about them. Few other places in India have such a picturesque location. Isolated and independent, the entire township appears like a miniature painting, frozen in time for the traveller. At some point, the only movement felt seems to be the movement of the traveller. Bundi is a haven wanting to be discovered by tourists foreign as well as Indian. The ethereal beauty and grandeur of Bundi architecture is vivdly brought out in the palaces of India. The rulers who built these palaces must have had terrific egos, a great sense of style and great sense of humour. Bundi is one of the few places in India which can lay its claim to an authentic school of painting. The splendid paintings in the Chitrashala in the Bundi fort and also in the fort at Dugari are par excellence and can be compared with probably the best anywhere in the world.
This little town of Bundi has till date retained a medieval atmosphere. Bundi is not exactly a tourist tramping ground but never the less, this adds on to its appeal with a curiosity to explore it. The look of the town has a Bluish hue same as that of Jodhpur. With no renovating desire, the art is in a crumbling state of disrepair. The view over the town and surrounding countryside from the top are magical, especially at sun set. Inside the ramparts are huge reservoirs carved out of solid rock, and the Bhim Burj, the largest of the battle- fields, on which there is, mounted a famous cannon. The place offers a unique culture with baoris, palaces & forts , lakes and the beautiful natural surroundings. The Bundi Palace, built of locally quarried stone, presents one of the finest examples of Rajput architecture. Intricately carved brackets, pillars and balconies and sculpted elephants are used liberally. Of special interest here are the Diwan-I-Am, Hathi Pol and the Naubat Khana. Also located in the palace is the famous Chitra Shala which provides a colourful glimpse of history - the walls and ceiling of this palace are completely covered with paintings of the Bundi School. Hunting and court scenes, festivals, processions, animal and bird life and scenes from Lord Krishna’s life are still in very good condition.
Bundi has other palaces and hunting lodges like the Phool Sagar Palace, Sukh Mahal and Shikar Burj. Each palace has its own historical importance Phool Sagar houses a collection of murals done by the Italian prisoners of war who were held here; Sukh Niwas Palace evokes memories of Rudyard Kipling who not only stayed here but is believe to have found inspiration for his famous work Kim from the scenes that he saw here. Bundi is also known for its baolis or step-wells. Unique to Rajasthan and Gujarat, the step-wells served as water reservoirs for the months of summer when there was a scarcity of drinking water. At one time, there were over fifty such wells in Bundi but most of them have suffered the ravages of time. One very good example still to be found in the heart of the town is called Raniji-ki-Baori. It has exquisitely carved pillars and ornate archways - even the simple function of drawing water from the well became a special occasion for the womenfolk, they dressed up in their finery to visit these elaborate structures.
In a word Bundi offers virtually everything to a tourist in terms of its exclusive paintings, exotic forts, unparalleled architecture, lakes and step wells (Baoris), outdoor locations, wildlife or the folklore, traditional music and handicrafts.
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Sitabari near Kota in Rajasthan, India
Sitabari is a picturesque picnic spot, situated near the village of Kelwara in the Baran district on the way to Kota -Shiv Puri at a distance of about 120 Km from Kota. 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. Thousands of people take a holy dip in the tanks called Sita Kund, Laxman Kund and Suraj Kund. According to the Hindu Holy book Ramayana, Sitabari marks the place where Sita was left by Laxman in the forest when they lived in exile.
Shergarh near Kota in Rajasthan, India
Shergarh has a historic fort near Barora, 10 km in Atru Tehsil in the Baran district and 125 Km from Kota. While exploring this wonderful city, one can also visit the Shergarh wildlife sanctuary which has a rich flora of dry teak, Khair and Dhok trees and fauna consisting rare tiger, endangered leopard, sloth bear, endemic Deers, hyena and wild boar.
Fort of Shahbad & Mosque near Kota in Rajasthan, India
Chauhan King Mukutman got Shahabad fort constructed in 1577 AD. It is one of the best and strongest forts in the Hadoti area. Situated in the Shahabad city is the Shahi Jama Masjid. It is the biggest mosque in Rajasthan, built during the time of Aurangzeb.
Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary near Kota in Rajasthan, India
The 250 Sq.Km. Darrah wildlife sanctuary is located about 50 Km. from Kota. An erstwhile royal hunting preserve, it is a thickly wooded sanctuary lying along the south-eastern border of Kota adjacent to the mountain range. Here there are spotted deers, Wild boars, Bears, Sambhars, Leopards, Panthers and Antelopes. The sanctuary is sometimes closed during the monsoon (usually from early July to mid -September).
You need to get permission to visit from the local forest ranger or contact the district forest office in Kota. The foreign tourist visiting Darrah wildlife sanctuary needs to pay an entry fee of Rs 100 per person. Indian Tourist has to pay an entry fee of Rs. 20 per person.
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Baroli near Kota in Rajasthan, India
Baroli is situated 45 km southwest of Kota and houses the oldest and the most beautiful temple complex of Rajasthan dating back to the 9th century A.D. lying on the way to the Pratap Sagar Dam. Set is a peaceful area, many of these 9th century temples were vandalized by Muslim armies but much remains. The main temple is Ghateshwara Temple, which features some impressive columns. Although it is one of the best preserved temples here, some of its figures have been damaged. Many of the sculptures from the temple are displayed in Brij Vilas Palace Museum in Kota. 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 lay close by.
Ishwari Niwas Haveli near Kota in Rajasthan, India
Ishwari Niwas Haveli of Bundi, Rajasthan is situated at a distance of approximately 40 km from Kota district. The city of Bundi and Kota was once constituted of a single state, ruled by the Hada Chauhans. Ishwari Niwas Haveli dates back to the time of the reign of Maharao Ishwari Singh. Built as the residence of the Dewan of Bundi, the havelis was later taken over by Kesari Singh, the Maharao's brother. Kesari Singh Ji still resides in a part of the haveli. Built in a traditional manner, the haveli is a beautiful fusion of Indian as well as European style of architecture.
A few years back, the havelis was turned into a guesthouse and, today, it partly functions as a heritage hotel. Ishwari Niwas Palace Heritage Hotel, near Kota, has twenty sizeable rooms on offer, which are beautifully furnished and well provided. Conventional style is dominant in the design of the hotel. Evenings in the Ishwari Niwas Palace Hotel of Rajasthan are spent lounging around a small fountain in the courtyard, under the star-studded sky.
Fairs and Festivals of Kota in Rajasthan, India
Gangaur and Dussehra are two important Hindu festivals celebrated with great fervor in Kota. Dussehra, an important festival of the Hindus commemorating the victory of good over evil, is celebrated in Kota like other parts of India with great fervor. The specialty of Dussehra in Kota is the Dussehra Mela celebrated in the month of October.
Dussehra Mela of Kota in Rajasthan, India
Dussehra, an important festival of the Hindus commemorating the victory of good over evil, is celebrated in Kota like other parts of India with great fervor. The specialty of Dussehra in Kota is the Dussehra Mela celebrated in the month of October. One of the big festivals celebrated in most parts of India is Dussehra. The festival is celebrated with zest and festivities as it also marks the beginning of the winter season after the long, unbearable, hot summer. Dussehra marks the victory of Ram over the demon king Ravana, and the rescue of his wife Sita. In north India, gigantic effigies of the ten-headed Ravana and his brothers are set aflame amidst bursting of crackers. Fairs are usually held on this occasion with lots to eat, buy and enjoy.
Dussehra means the Tenth Day, being the 10th day of the bright half of Ashvin. This day is also known as Vijayadashmi, or the Victory Tenth, because of the victory of Ram over Ravana. As Dussehra is preceded by the Navratri or the nine days of the worship of Goddess Durga, some rituals related to the Goddess are also carried out that day. The rituals of Durga Puja involve the usual puja of goddess Durga along with Lord Ram. On this day in Satyug, Ram (the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu), killed the great demon and king of Lanka, Ravan, who had abducted Ram's wife Sita. Ram, along, with his brother Lakshman, follower Hanuman, and an army of monkeys fought a great battle for ten days to rescue his wife Sita.
According to another story, Kautsa, the young son of Devdatt, a Brahmin, was living in the city of Paithan. After studying under the guidance of Rishi Varatantu, he insisted on his guru accepting a present, or gurudakshina. Initially the guru refused but later asked for 140 million gold coins, one hundred million for each of the subjects taught. The obedient student went to the King Raghu to ask for the money, as the king was renowned for his generosity. Within three days the king made the God of Wealth Kuber make a rain of gold coins near the shanu and apati trees. After giving the promised amount to the guru, Kautsa distributed the rest of the coins among the needy on the day of Dussehra. Even today, in Ayodhya, the capital of King Raghu, people loot the leaves of the apati trees and present to each other as sone or gold.
Dussehra is one of the significant Hindu festivals, celebrated with much joy and happiness in the entire country. The occasion marks the triumph of Lord Ram over Ravana, the victory of good over evil. Brilliantly decorated tableaux and processions depicting various episodes from Ram's life are taken out. On the tenth day, or the Vijayadasami, colossal effigies of Ravana, his brother Kumbhkarna and son Meghnad are placed in vast open spaces. Actors dressed as Ram, his consort Sita, and brother Lakshman arrive and shoot arrows of fire at these effigies, which are stuffed with firecrackers. The result is a deafening blast, and an explosion of sound and light enhanced by the shouts of merriment and triumph of the spectators.
Also part of the celebration is the Ram Lila or the dramatic depiction of episodes from the lives of Ram, Sita, and Lakshman. All the regions across the country have evolved their own distinctive style, and performances at different places are done in the local language.
This was also the day to worship the weapons. According to legend, Arjuna, one of the Pandav princes, hid his weapons in a shami tree when the Pandavs were banished into the forests. After one year he returned from the forest and on the day of Dussehra, he retrieved his weapons and worshipped them along with the shami tree. Hence the custom of worshipping weapons on this day started.
Gangaur Festival of Kota in Rajasthan, India (Mar-April)
Gangaur is an 18-day festival celebrated by women all across Rajasthan. Married women pray for the long lives of their husbands while unmarried girls pray for a good match. The festival celebrates the love between Shiva and his consort Gauri or Parvati.
The festival commences on Holi. Women gather flowers and draw water from selected wells while chanting hymns in praise of the goddess. At the end of 18 days, the festivities culminate with the arrival of Lord Shiva to escort his wife back home. A grand procession, symbolic of a marriage procession, carries a beautifully decorated idol of Gauri in a gold and silver palanquin through the city. The procession includes elephants, camels, horses, dancers, drummers and joyous children.
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Location and Transport of Kota in Rajasthan, India
Kota is located in the southern part of the state of Rajasthan, in the northwestern part of India. It is located on the eastern bank of Chambal River and is drained by its tributaries. Kota is on a high sloping tableland forming a part of the Malwa Plateau. The Mokandarra hills run from southeast to northwest axis of the town. It is 36 km from Bundi. Summers are quite hot (April-June) while winters are cool (October-February). It experiences scant rainfall between June and August.
By Air
Kota does not have an airport of its own. There is a small aerodrome, which is not operational. The nearest airport offering international flights is at Jaipur (239 km away).
By Road
The main bus station in Kota is located on Bundi Road near the eastern bank of the Chambal River. There is a good bus service from Kota to Ajmer (6 hours) , Chittorgarh (6 hours), Jaipur (6 hours), Udaipur (6 hours), Jodhpur (11 hours) and Bikaner (12 hours). The district is well connected with neighbouring districts and with major cities outside the state. National highway No.12 (Jaipur—Jabalpur) passes through the district. The total road length in the district is 1,752 km. as of 31 March 2000.
By Train
Kota railway station is located at the extreme northern end of the town. As Kota is on the main Delhi–Mumbai railway line via Sawai Madhopur, a number of trains pass through and stop here. The trip to Jaipur takes about 5 hours, while it takes 10 hours to reach Delhi from Kota. Delhi—Mumbai railway line passes through the Kota junction. The district has 148.83 km of railway line in the Kota—Ruthia section, 98.72 km on Nagda—Mathura (Mumbai-Delhi) section and 24.26 km on Kota—Chittorgarh section. The broad gauge railway facility between Kota and Jodhpur via Jaipur was also inaugurated.
Getting around
To move within the city, travelers can either use auto-rickshaws or cycle-rickshaws. Minibuses link the main bus station with the railway station.
Facts and General Information of Kota in Rajasthan, India
Area : 193.58 sq. km.
Altitude : 251.1 metres
Rainfall : 88 cms.
Best Season : Oct-Feb.
Clothing : Summer light tropical
Winter: light woolen
Language : English ,Hindi, Rajasthani.
Weather
In Summer: 42.6 C (Max) - 29.7 C (Min)
In winter: 24.5 C (Max) - 11.6 C (Min)
Rainy Season : from July to Mid Sept, and very humid (Upton 90%)
Kota STD Code : 0744
As of 2001 India census, Kota has a population of 1,568,525. Males constitute 53% of the population and females 47%. Kota has an average literacy rate of 70%, higher than the national average of 59.5%: male literacy is 78%, and female literacy is 62%. In Kota, 13% of the population is under six years of age.
Shopping in Kota
Kota shopping destinations are best known for their rich arts and crafts. The most famous and sought after shopping item in Kota are the Kota Doria saris. Kota saris are finely weaved with cotton and silk threads. The traditional weaving method is being used even today to make the saris. Amongst the various types of Kota saris, the more popular ones are hand-woven chequered and printed Kota saris.
You can also buy some beautiful potteries and stone crafts in Kota. Specifically the stone crafts serve as the perfect souvenirs and gift items to take back home with you. Apart from these, another well-known handicraft of Kota consists of the miniature paintings. They can serve as gifts for others as well as decoration items for your home.
You will not find huge shopping malls or very big markets in the city. The main shopping places in Kota, Rajasthan are the local bazaars. The major shops where you can buy are the government emporia and some prominent private departmental stores. However, do remember to bargain a little if you are buying something from the local vendors.
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