Are you looking for tourist places to visit near Kota? If yes, well, you will find the best ones here. Kota is a well-known city in Rajasthan where you can find some mindblowing places.
There are several places near Kota with huge historical importance, popularity, natural sceneries, etc. In this article, we will look into the top 15 such places that you can visit near Kota to have a memorable trip with your friends and family.
Places To Visit Near Kota: All You Need To Know!
1. Bundi Palace
I bet that the Bundi Palace is one of the best tourist places to visit near Kota. The palace is also known as the Garh Mahal, which is proof of the amazing traditional architecture. This palace was built in 1607 by Rao Rajaratan Singh Hada.
The place is known for its stunning turquoise and gold walls and unique Chinese-inspired ceilings. The palace portrays the stories of heroism and sacrifice of rulers from the 17th and 18th centuries. Inside you can find the Ratan Daulat or Diwan-i-Am, with its white marble throne and the beautifully carved cars of the stable. It is indeed a historical wonder that everyone must visit once!
Distance from Kota: Approximately 40 kilometers.
Timings: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
Route: You can take a car via Talab Rod and Gad Palace Road.
- Things to do:
- Admire the delicate turquoise-and-gold murals.
- View the Chinese-inspired ceiling inside the palace.
- See the Ratan Daulat or Diwan-i-Am, constructed by Rao Raja Ratan Singh.
- Check out the white marble coronation throne.
- Explore the beautifully carved coaches in the stable.
2. Garadia Mahadev Temple
The next place on our list of best places to visit near Kota is the Gardia Mahadev Temple! This temple is a hidden gem nestled in the beautiful landscapes of Kota, located on a shallow cliff. It offers a breathtaking view of the view of the Chambal River.
The temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is a place of great religious significance for its devotees. The location of this temple in the Chambal mountain range makes it a quiet and peaceful place for tourists. You can come here to enjoy the scenery and peaceful surroundings of this holy place and click some of the best photos with the natural backdrops!
Distance from Kota: About 25 kilometers.
Timings: 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Route: You can take NH52 or NH27 from Kota.
Things to do:
- Offer prayers at the Lord Shiva shrine.
- Enjoy the panoramic views of the Chambal River and plains.
- Explore the temple architecture.
- Participate in adventure activities like zip-lining, rappelling, and rock climbing.
- Visit nearby attractions and attend the annual fair.
3. Kacheeda Valley
The Kachida Valley is a wonderful natural scenic spot known for its rolling terrain and dense forests. This valley is really a hidden gem located within the Ranthambore National Park with rich biodiversity. The valley is especially known for its panther, sloth, and bear populations, making it one of the best places to visit near Kota for all adventure lovers!
The location of the valley is isolated from the main tourist attractions thereby providing an ideal habitat for all these animals. Because of the variety of birds found here, the Kachida Valley is also considered a paradise by bird watchers. The valley has been considered a part of the national park, as the place was once a huge hunting ground. Now, the valley has turned into a conservation area to preserve the unique flora and fauna in it!
Distance from Kota: About 145 kilometers.
Timings: 6 AM to 5 PM.
Route: You can access it via NH 148N, or a jeep safari from Ranthambore National Park.
Things to do:
- Embark on a wildlife safari to spot panthers and sloth bears.
- Enjoy nature walks and the lush greenery of the valley.
- Try local food at the stalls.
- Visit early to watch the sunrise, which is a view worth remembering.
- Get to witness the rich diversity of flora and fauna.
4. Brajvilas Museum
The Braj Vilas Museum is one of the best historical places to visit near Kota. It is also known as the Brij Vilas Palace Museum which portrays the cultural richness of Kota. This place was once a palace, and now it has been converted into a museum before India gained independence in 1946.
The museum reflects Kota’s rich cultural heritage and has a well-preserved collection of Ancient artifacts. The museum has impressive palace-like architecture which is the one that adds to the charm of the museum, making it one of the best places to visit near Kota. It is a must-visit place for those willing to explore the history of the city and its surroundings!
Distance from Kota: About 4 km away from Kota.
Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
How to access from Kota: You can hire a car or opt for museum tours to visit the Palace Museum.
Things to do:
- Explore the cultural heritage of Kota through various artifacts.
- View collections that have been preserved for public viewing.
- Participate in museum tours.
- Check out archaeological findings and historical documents.
- Admire coins and other valuable exhibits.
5. Ranthambore National Park
The Ranthambore National Park is one of the largest and most famous national parks in India. The park has a tiger reserve in itself thereby protecting the tiger population. The park lies in the Sawai Madhopur district in Rajasthan.
In 1955, it was declared as a wildlife sanctuary and later on, the government gave it the national park status in 1980. The park was a part of the Project Tiger movement that was announced in the year 1973 to increase the tiger population and stop tiger poaching. You can visit this park to experience the thrill of seeing Bengal tigers in their natural habitat and to explore the rich ecosystem including diverse flora and fauna as well!
Distance from Kota: The park is approximately 148 kilometers away from Kota, and you can reach there by car via SH33 and SH1.
Timings: The safari timings are from 7:00 AM to 10:30 AM and from 2:30 PM to 6:00 PM.
Route: The best route is to take the route via NH 148N to reach the spot in 3 hours.
Things to do:
- Go on a thrilling Jeep or Canter safari to spot tigers and other wildlife.
- Hike up to the majestic Ranthambore Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Visit Kachida Valley, known for its panthers and bears.
- Enjoy birdwatching and spot various species in their natural habitat.
- Explore the Ranthambore School of Art and admire local artwork.
6. Aquagreens Waterpark
If you wish to visit a theme park near Kota, here is a suggestion for you. Try visiting the Aquagreens Water Park! This is an amusement park in Kota and is a wonderful place to relax and enjoy the water and lush vegetation. It is Kota’s first water park, it has become a popular destination for local families and friends looking for a break from the heat.
The park offers a variety of rides for all ages, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy. Aquagreens Water Park has quickly established itself as one of the best places to visit near Kota, due to its various water sports. If you are an adventure seeker or looking for a pleasant place and have a refreshing break from everyday life, this is the right place to visit!
Distance from Kota: Approximately 6 kilometers via NH148N and SH33.
Timings: Monday to Saturday: 12:00 – 7:30 PM, Sunday: 10:30 AM – 7:30 PM.
Route: The best route from Kota is via NH148N and SH33.
Things to do:
- Try all the water slides and pools in the park.
- Relax in the lush green surroundings.
- Have fun with family-friendly activities.
- Experience adventure slides suitable for all ages.
- Beat the heat with a refreshing day out.
7. Abheda Biological Park
Abheda Biological Park is also known as Kota Zoo which is an important zoo in Kota. It was established with the aim of promoting wildlife conservation and education focusing on anti-poaching and wildlife protection. The park is an important center for the research, breeding, and restoration of endangered species and their habitats.
The park has a collection of wildlife like rhinos, elephants, panthers, wolves, rhinos, and sambhars. The total number of animals present is around 752 according to the Central Zoo Authority approved within India (CZI). It was one of the five eco-parks of Rajasthan and is one of the best places to visit near Kota.
Distance from Kota: About 11 kilometers away from Kota.
Timings: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Route: Take the route Nanta Rd which doesn’t take you more than 20 mins. The park is located near the banks of the Chambal River, close to Abheda Mahal.
Things to do:
- Get to see all the wildlife near the park.
- Visit the research and breeding center for endangered species.
- Go for a picnic in the greens nearby.
- Capture beautiful moments with photography.
8. Kishore Sagar Lake
If you wish to witness a historic artificial lake in Kota, here is a suggestion for you. Visit the Kishore Sagar Lake which is quite close to the Kota city. The lake was built in the late 14th century by Dehra Deh, prince of Bundi. The lake covers an area of approximately 37 hectares and was constructed to ensure a reliable water supply for the people of the area.
The lake is surrounded by green gardens and historic buildings, which adds to the lake’s beauty. Moreover, it also gives a timeless charm with the amazing Jagmandir Palace which is present in the middle of the lake. It seems as if the palace floats on the lake and offers a spectacular view!
Distance from Kota: 4 kilometers away from Kota.
Timings: Open 24*7.
Route: Get on the NH 52 and take the Sarovar Road. You can also hire a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or use local transportation.
Things to do:
- Enjoy the serene beauty of the lake, and go for a peaceful walk.
- Visit the majestic Jagmandir Palace in the center of the lake.
- Relax and spend moments of calmness around the lake.
- Engage in boat rides on the lake during the day.
- Capture stunning views and photography.
9. Chambal River Front
Chambal River Front in Kota is a beautiful place where you can find an excellent urban structure that combines the natural beauty of the lake. It is part of the city’s plan to increase green space and encourage eco-tourism. The riverfront offers a peaceful environment to get rid of the hustle and bustle of the city.
There are beautifully landscaped parks and walking trails along the riverfront which makes it one of the best places to visit near Kota. There are a variety of shows that happen every day like Kota Fountain Show, Carnival Parade, Chambal Mata Aarti, and more.
Distance from Kota: About 8.5 km away and only a 10-minute drive from Kota.
Timings: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Route: You can take a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or private vehicle to reach the Chambal Riverfront from Kota City.
Things to do:
- Have a peaceful walk along the riverbank.
- Engage in water sports and boating activities.
- Visit cultural shows and monuments.
- Relax in the children’s park and food court.
- Explore the walking and cycling tracks.
10. Mukundara Hills Tiger Reserve
If you are an adventure seeker and love to explore wildlife, then you need to visit the Mukundara Hills Tiger Reserve. The reserve expands over 759 square kilometers and is the newest addition to India’s Project Tiger movement.
This tiger reserve was launched in 2013 and serves as the main link between Ranthambore and Madhav National Parks. The reserve not only has tigers but also supports elephants, sloth bears, rhinos, and a wide variety of flora as well. The terrain of hills and valleys provides a backdrop for wildlife photography and best place for nature lovers to enjoy the peacefulness of the reserve.
Distance from Kota: Approximately 66 km.
Timings: 10 am to 5 pm.
Access from Kota: Get on the NH 148N to reach Mukundara Hills Tiger Reserve in one and a half hours.
Things to do:
- Explore the rich flora and fauna.
- Visit nearby attractions like Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary and Bhainsrodgarh Fort.
- Enjoy the Sorsan Grasslands.
- Explore the ancient Badoli Temples.
- Get to see the Gagron Fort and the Jhalawar region.
11. Bhanwar Kunj Waterfall
The Bhanwar Kunj Waterfall is one of the hidden gems of Kota, and a must-visit place, especially during the rainy season. Because, once it rains, the waterfall looks awesome with the flowing water over the cliffs. This waterfall is one of the best places to visit near Kota and a popular destination for locals and tourists.
The lush surroundings and sounds of the water provide a peaceful retreat for those who want to escape city life. If you are looking for one of the peaceful places near Kota, I would recommend this place!
- Distance from Kota: About 16 km away from Kota.
- Timings: There are no specific visiting hours.
- Access from Kota: Get on the RJ SH 33 which will take you only 30 mins to reach the spot.
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Things to do:
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- Enjoy the scenic beauty of the waterfall, and take a shower to have a refreshing trip ahead.
- Experience a boat safari on the nearby Chambal River.
- Explore nearby wildlife and natural landscapes and click some awesome photos.
- Visit the hanging bridge viewpoint for a better view.
12. Seven Wonder’s Park
What if I said that you can visit all the seven wonders of the world in Kota?! Yes, Seven Wonders Park in Kota is an architectural marvel that features miniature versions of all seven world wonders. It is the best of Rajasthan tourism which offers the exact replicas of the Taj Mahal, the Great Pyramid of Giza, the Eiffel Tower, and other wonders all in one place.
If you are a person who wishes to go on a world tour, you can visit Kota to see how these wonders actually look. The growing tourism here is a creative initiative of Kota’s Urban Improvement Trust, and these are an interactive way to appreciate global landmarks. So why not visit this park and click some amazing photos?!
- Distance from Kota: It is just 6 km away from Kota.
- Timings: Open from 2:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
- Access from Kota: You can reach there by auto-rickshaw or cab.
Things to do:
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- Get to see the world’s great structures like the Eiffel Tower, Leaning Tower of Pisa, Pyramids, and Taj Mahal.
- Enjoy the beautiful vista near Kishore Sagar Lake.
- Spend time exploring and taking photos of all seven wonders of the world.
- Relax and enjoy the park’s ambiance in the evening.
- Visit nearby attractions such as Kishore Sagar Lake.
13. Gaipernath Waterfalls
Gaiparnath Falls is another natural retreat near Kota that offers a peaceful place for tourists to have a quiet time. This waterfall looks its best in monsoon when there is a lot of water flow due to rains and lush vegetation around. There is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva that makes the place religious, making it a place of worship for nature lovers and adventurers.
It is one of the best places to visit near Kota to take a natural water shower and to have the best swims. You can also have an adventurous trek around the waterfall which leads to a unique landscape around and will be a fun hike with beautiful views.
- Distance from Kota: Approximately 24 km from Kota.
- Timings: There are no specific timings, but visit the waterfall in the daytime.
- Access from Kota: Take the route via RJ SH 33 to reach the spot in 40 minutes.
Things to do:
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- Enjoy picnics in the scenic surroundings to have family time.
- Try going on a small trek around the greens near the waterfall.
- Enjoy clicking some of the best natural photos.
- Take a satisfying shower in the waterfall.
14. Kota Barrage
The Kota Barrage was created across the Chambal River in 1960. It is one of the best places to visit near Kota that stands as proof of the technological progress of India soon after independence. It was built to support the irrigation for agriculture and energy production.
The river serves as an important source of irrigation water for Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, facilitating a green transition in these areas. This is a great tourist attraction in Kota that offers excellent views of the water and surrounding vegetation, making it a lovely place to relax and take pictures. The Kota Barrage is not only a marvel of infrastructure but also a symbol of human excellence in infrastructure!
- Distance from Kota: It is located about 9 km away from Kota City.
- Timings: open 24 hours a day, but it’s advisable to visit during the daytime for the best experience.
- Access from Kota: Easily accessible through the Baran Road which takes only 20 mins.
Things to do:
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- Enjoy the scenic views of the dam on the Chambal River.
- Spend time enjoying the view and surroundings.
- Visit the children’s park nearby and spend time enjoying with children.
15. Taragarh Fort
The last place that is on our list of best places to visit near Kota is the Taragarh Fort. This fort is located on Nagpahari Hill in Ajmer and is an excellent architectural excellence of the Chauhan dynasty in the 12th century. The fort offers the best views of Ajmer. when seen from the top.
Taragarh Fort is also famous for its network of tunnels built across the mountain ranges to escape when there is danger. The historical significance and architectural splendor of this fort make it one of the best places to visit near Kota for people who are interested in India’s rich past and the heritage of its Rajput rulers.
- Distance from Kota: Approximately 39 km from Kota city center.
- Timings: Open 24/7.
- Access from Kota: Tale the NH 52 via Mangli.
Things to do:
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- Explore the historical and architectural marvel of the fort.
- Enjoy beautiful views of the city, especially at night.
- Click some memorable photographs and add them to your diary.
