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17 Things To Know Before Travelling to Kota Wildlife Sanctuary, Rajasthan, India
1. Destination Overview of Kota:
Kota Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the western part of Rajasthan, India. It is a home to many wild species, including tigers, leopards, wild elephants, hyenas, and many other species. It is also known for its rich flora and fauna, which make it a popular destination for nature lovers.
2. Top Activities to do in Kota Wildlife Sanctuary:
• Wildlife Safari: Get an up close and personal look at the diverse wildlife of the sanctuary with a jeep safari or a walking safari.
• Bird Watching: Kota Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a wide variety of birds, which include migratory birds, resident birds, and some rare species.
• Nature Walks: Explore the picturesque landscape of the sanctuary on foot.
• Camping: Enjoy the serenity of the sanctuary by camping out in the wilderness.
• Boating: Take a boat ride on the lake and enjoy the beauty of the sanctuary from a different perspective.
• Photography: Capture some amazing shots of the diverse wildlife of the sanctuary.
3. Best Places To Stay in Kota Wildlife Sanctuary:
• Luxury Places: Harsh Palace, Kota, The Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur, and The Royal Orchid Fort Resort, Kota.
• Mid Range: Hotel Sunray Palace, Kota, The Royal Retreat, Kota, and The Grand Bagh, Ajmer.
• Budget Friendly: Hotel Royal Inn, Kota, Hotel Rockfort, Kota, and Hotel Suncity, Kota.
4. How to Travel to Kota Wildlife Sanctuary?:
Kota Wildlife Sanctuary is located approximately 300 km from the nearest airport, Jaipur International Airport. The closest railway station is Kota Junction, which is approximately 15 km from the sanctuary. Taxis are available from the airport and railway station to the sanctuary.
5. Must Try Local Food and Drink in Kota:
• Dal Batti Churma: A popular Rajasthani dish made with dal, ghee, and spices.
• Gatte ki Sabzi: Gram flour dumplings cooked in a spicy onion and tomato gravy.
• Bajre ki Khichdi: A traditional Rajasthani dish made with millet, lentils, and vegetables.
• Kachori: A deep-fried snack made with spicy stuffing.
• Pyaaz Kachori: A deep-fried snack made with onion stuffing.
• Mirchi Bada: A deep-fried snack made with chilli stuffing.
• Laal Maas: A fiery Rajasthani curry made with mutton and spices.
• Ghevar: A traditional Rajasthani sweet made with maida, ghee, and sugar syrup.
• Kulfi: A traditional Indian ice-cream made with sweetened milk and nuts.
6. Best Places to Eat in Kota Wildlife Sanctuary:
• Spice Garden Restaurant, Kota: Try the traditional Rajasthani thali, Paneer Tikka, Dal Batti Churma, and Kulfi.
• Chhoti Haveli Restaurant, Kota: Try the Veg Thali, Paneer Butter Masala, Biryani, and Paneer Tikka.
• Sankla Restaurant, Kota: Try the Butter Chicken, Dal Makhani, Paneer Tikka, and Biryani.
• Anandam Restaurant, Kota: Try the Dal Batti Churma, Veg Thali, Laal Maas, and Paneer Tikka.
• The Grand Bagh Restaurant, Ajmer: Try the Dal Makhani, Biryani, Laal Maas, and Paneer Tikka.
7. Weather and Climate:
Kota Wildlife Sanctuary has a tropical climate with a hot and humid summer and a mild winter. The best time to visit is from October to February when the weather is pleasant. It is advisable to avoid travelling during the monsoon season from June to September as the sanctuary is prone to flooding during this time.
8. Local Customs and Etiquette in Kota Wildlife Sanctuary:
• Dress modestly and respectfully in the sanctuary.
• Avoid touching any of the animals and their habitats.
• Speak in low tone and do not disturb the peace of the sanctuary.
• Do not litter or pollute the sanctuary.
• Follow the instructions of the tour guide carefully.
9. Popular Scams in Kota Wildlife Sanctuary:
• Overcharging for safaris and other activities.
• Selling fake tickets for safaris and other activities.
• Unlicensed guides and drivers.
• Fake guides and drivers.
10. Suggested Trip Duration:
A minimum of 2 nights and 3 days is suggested for a first time traveler to Kota Wildlife Sanctuary.
11. Total Estimated Budget Per Person:
Stay: INR 800-3000 per night depending on the type of accommodation.
Food: INR 500-1000 per day for two meals.
Activities: INR 500-1000 for safaris, boat rides, and other activities.
Tickets: INR 100-150 for tickets to attractions.
12. NearBy Cities:
• Jaipur: 300 km
• Ajmer: 150 km
• Udaipur: 250 km
• Jodhpur: 320 km
13. Local Language and Communication in Kota Wildlife Sanctuary:
The official language in Kota Wildlife Sanctuary is Hindi. English is widely spoken in the sanctuary and guides are available who can speak English.
14. Accepted Currency and Money:
The Indian Rupee is the accepted currency in Kota Wildlife Sanctuary. Credit and debit cards are also accepted in some places. Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated.
15. Health and Medical Information:
It is advisable to get vaccinated against rabies and other diseases before travelling to Kota Wildlife Sanctuary. There are several medical facilities and emergency services available in and around the sanctuary.
16. Packing Tips for Kota Wildlife Sanctuary:
• Comfortable clothes and shoes for the safari and other activities.
• Sun protection and insect repellent.
• Water bottle and snacks.
• Camera and binoculars.
• Hat and sunglasses.
• First-aid kit.
17. To sum up:
Kota Wildlife Sanctuary is a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, boasting of a diverse wildlife, picturesque landscape and a plethora of activities to indulge in.