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17 Things To Know Before Travelling to Kota, Rajasthan, India
1. Destination Overview of Kota:
Kota is located in the Hadoti region of Rajasthan, India. It is famous for its scenic beauty, temples, monuments, and the iconic Chambal River. It is known for its textile industry and has a lot of cultural and historical heritage. It is also a popular tourist destination, offering several interesting spots and activities for visitors.
2. Top Activities to do in Kota:
• Explore the City Palace, a stunning 18th-century structure that is a must-see.
• Get to know the local culture and history at the Government Museum.
• Take a boat ride on the Chambal River, known for its crocodiles.
• Visit the Maharao Madho Singh Museum for a glimpse into the royal life.
• Trek to the Raniji ki Baori, a stepwell located in the middle of the jungle.
• Get a bird’s eye view of the city from Garadia Mahadev Temple on top of a hill.
• Enjoy a picnic in the Jal Mahal and take a boat ride around it.
• Go shopping at the bustling markets of the city and take home souvenirs.
• Spend a few hours at the Kishore Sagar Lake and explore the nearby monuments.
• Take a wildlife safari and spot the various animals and birds at the Kota Barrage.
• Enjoy a traditional Rajasthani meal at one of the many restaurants in the city.
3. Best Places To Stay in Kota:
• Luxury Places: Hotel Chitvan, RAAS, The Umed Hotel
• Mid Range: Hotel Ashoka, Hotel Krishna Palace, Hotel Nand Residency
• Budget Friendly: Hotel Royal Inn, Hotel Bundi Haveli, Hotel Padmini Palace
4. How to Travel to Kota?:
Kota is connected to other major cities in Rajasthan by rail and road. The nearest airport is Jaipur International Airport, which is about 180 km away. The city also has a good network of public transport including buses, auto-rickshaws, and taxis.
5. Must Try Local Food and Drink in Kota:
• Dal Bati Churma
• Kachori
• Pyaaz Kachori
• Laal Maas
• Gatte ki Sabzi
• Besan Chakki
• Ghevar
• Mirchi Vada
• Papad ki Sabzi
• Ker Sangri
• Kair Sangri
• Mawa Kachori
• Sweet Lassi
6. Best Places to Eat in Kota:
• Hotel Chitvan – Dal Bati Churma and Pyaaz Kachori
• RAAS – Gatte ki Sabzi and Laal Maas
• The Umed Hotel – Besan Chakki and Mirchi Vada
• Hotel Ashoka – Papad ki Sabzi and Sweet Lassi
• Hotel Krishna Palace – Ker Sangri and Kair Sangri
• Hotel Nand Residency – Mawa Kachori
7. Weather and Climate:
Kota has a tropical climate and experiences hot summers and mild winters. The best time to visit Kota is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. It is best to avoid the summer months of April to June as the temperature can get very hot.
8. Local Customs and Etiquette in Kota:
Kota is a conservative city and it is important to dress appropriately. Women should avoid wearing short skirts and low-cut tops in public. It is also important to be respectful of the local culture and traditions. Tipping is expected at restaurants, but not mandatory.
9. Popular Scams in Kota:
• Taxi scams: Be wary of taxi drivers who try to overcharge you for your ride.
• Fake guides: Be aware of fake guides who try to take advantage of tourists.
• Fake products: Be careful when buying any souvenirs or products as they may be fake or of poor quality.
• Currency exchange scams: Always use trustworthy and reputed money changers when exchanging currency.
10. Suggested Trip Duration:
A suggested trip duration to Kota is 3 to 4 days. This will give you enough time to explore the city and its surroundings.
11. Total Estimated Budget Per Person:
The estimated budget per person for a 3-day trip to Kota is approximately INR 5000, which includes accommodation, food, activities, tickets, and other expenses.
12. NearBy Cities:
• Jaipur – 180 km
• Udaipur – 250 km
• Jodhpur – 410 km
• Agra – 590 km
13. Local Language and Communication in Kota:
The official language spoken in Kota is Hindi. English is also widely spoken and understood by locals. There are also English-speaking guides available at tourist destinations for a fee.
14. Accepted Currency and Money:
The local currency in Kota is the Indian Rupee (INR). Credit cards and debit cards are widely accepted, as well as cash in Indian Rupees. Tipping is expected at restaurants, but not mandatory.
15. Health and Medical Information:
It is recommended to get a few vaccinations before travelling to Kota, such as hepatitis A and typhoid. There are several medical facilities in the city, including hospitals, pharmacies, and health centers.
16. Packing Tips for Kota:
It is important to pack appropriately for your trip to Kota. Make sure to bring light and breathable clothing, comfortable footwear, and sunscreen. A hat and sunglasses will also be useful.
17. To sum up:
Kota is a picturesque city located in the Hadoti region of Rajasthan, India. It is known for its stunning monuments, temples, and rivers, as well as its delicious local cuisine and bustling markets. There are plenty of interesting activities and sights to explore, making it a great destination for a 3-4 day trip.