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An amazing, juxtaposition of majestic medieval age and modern industrialization, mainly the Hydro Electric Plant on the Chambal River and the Nuclear Power Plant has a few traces of its past still left. The fort overlooking the river Chambal is the foremost tourist attraction. It also houses the museum with a rich collection of art and artefacts and some elaborately painted chambers.

Earlier it was a part of Bundi state, but later it grew to be a bigger state. What retains the past glory are the untouched wealth of impressive forts, opulent palaces and temples dating back over several centuries.

These temples were conquered by the Hada chieftain Rao Deva. It was at the time of the Mughal Emperor Jahangir that Rao Ratan Singh gifted this territory to his son Madho Singh. The Kota state reflects in the form of a beautiful collection of Stone Idols (murties) in the Raj Mahal, embellished with gold stained glass work on the walls, the silver mirror work on ceilings and the marvelous wall paintings.

The south eastern region of Rajasthan known as Hadoti comprises of Bundi, Baran, Jahalwar and Kota is 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.

When Jait Singh of Bundi defeated the Bhil chieftain Koteya in a battle, he raised the first battlement or the 'Garh'(Fort) over his severed head.

The independent State of Kota became a reality in 1631 when Rao Madho Singh, the second son of Rao Ratan of Bundi was made the ruler, by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. Soon Kota outgrew its parent state to become bigger in area, richer in revenure and more powerful. Maharao Bhim Singhplayed a pivotal role Kota's history, having held a 'Mansab' of five thousand and being the first in is dynasty to have the title of Maharao.

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.

Places to See

KISHORE SAGAR - JAG MANDIR
Kishore Sagar, a picturesque artificial lake was constructed in 1346 by the prince Dhee Deh of Bundi.Jagmandir and aesthetic monument was built in the middle of the lake with ripples of the blue waters enhancingthe serenity. Boating facility is an added attraction of the place. Near the lake is Kshar Bagh, famous for its royal cenotaphs.

MAHARAO MADHO SINGH MUSEUM
Situated in the old palace, it houses a rich collection of Rajput miniature paintings of the Kota school, exquisite sculptures, frescoes, arms and other valuable antiques. The museum is the treasure bouse of artistic items used by the former rulers of Kota. Timings : 11AM to 5 PM Entry Fee : Rs.7/- per person for Indians and Rs40 per person for foreign tourist Camera Fee: Rs.35/- and Rs. 70/- Holiday : Every Friday and National Holidays

GOVT. MUSEUM
It is situated in Brijvilas Palace, Kshar bagh near Kishore Sagar Lake. It has superb collection of rare coins, manuscripts and representative selection of Hadoti sculpture. A piece brought here from Baroli (Badoli) is noteworthy for its beauty and historical interest. Timings : 10AM to 5 PM Entre Fee : Rs.2/- Holiday : Every Friday and National Holidays Photography is prohibited. It is allowed only with the permission of Director of Archaeology and Museums, Jaipur.

CHAMBAL GARDEN
The lush green garden near Amar Niwas Palace makes a lovely picnic spot. While absorbing the ambience of the place one can enjoy boating in River Chambal.

HAVELI OF DEVTA JI
It is situated on the bank of River Chambal, near Garh - Palace. It is famous for its frescoes. The haveli has few rooms full of miniature paintings, which are worth a visit. It is a private residence. Prior permission is required to visit the Haveli.

KOTA BARRAGE
This is the irrigation canal system on the Chambal river. The beautiful setting here is just ideal for a stroll.

KANSUA TEMPLE
A rare four faced Shivlinga is installed here Other places to see Mathuradheesh temple, Bhitria Kund, Adhar Shila, traffic Park, Adhar Shila and Budh Singh Bafna Haveli are worth seeing.