Kuno-Palpur Wildlife Sanctuary is a hidden gem hiding amidst Vindhyan Hills in the state of Madhya Pradesh. This wildlife sanctuary is a well kept secret and is a safe haven for a large number of flora and fauna. The tranquil wilderness and the serene rivers makes this place look magical. The dense lush green trees hid many treasures amidst them that will surely beckon you to explore. This wildlife sanctuary being an offbeat destination is not visited by a lot of people and hence is quite peaceful.
Distance from Kota: 340 km
Known For : Chittorgarh Fort Padmini Palace Kalika Mata Temple
The capital of the erstwhile kingdom of Mewar, Chittorgarh is a land of forts, citadels, ruins, and immortal folklore of sacrifice and heroism. Located in South-Eastern Rajasthan, Chittorgarh is known for Chittorgarh Fort, the largest fort in India built on a hilltop, spreading over an area of around 700 acres. The magnificent fortress will always be remembered for the courageous self-sacrificing Jauhar performed by Rani Padmini to thwart the conquest of the fort by Alauddin Khilji.
Distance from Kota: 171 km
Best Time: October to March
Known For : Ranthambore Tiger Reserve Jeep Safari Ranthambore Ranthambhore Fort
This is one of the best tiger reserves of the country, known to have "friendly" tigers and chances of sighting one here is reasonably better than many other tiger reserves of India. Along with this Ranthambore has one of the richest flora and fauna making it an absolutely must visit area. Nestled in the foothills of Vindhya and Aravali Hills, Ranthambore is famous for its tiger reserves and the variety of flora and fauna found. The Ranthambore National Park, along with the Ranthambore Fort and the surrounding hills and valleys, altogether make Ranthambore a traveller's delight.
Distance from Kota: 139 km
Best Time: October to Apr
Kachida Valley is also inside the reserve. Panther population of the reserve resides here. You will have to reach this valley via the jeep safari. Panthers don't usually leave this area in order to avoid conflict with the tigers. Bears are also found here.
Distance from Kota: 145 km
Situated in Daulatganj near Kota, Garadiya Mahadev Temple is not just a revered Hindu temple but also a popular tourist spot because of its location at the scenic Chambal gorge. Perched at a height of 500 feet from the mean sea level on a picturesque cliff, the temple is enshrined by Hindu God Shiva. Boasting of immense scenic beauty, views of the virgin green plains sprawling all over and flanked by river Chambal on the side, the place is one of the most ideal picnic spots in the region.
Distance from Kota: 27 km
Known For : Sikar Churu Nawalgarh
Shekhawati is a semi-arid getaway full of open air galleries, enchanting havelis & palaces and legendary forts. This region has been recognised as the open art gallery of Rajasthan"" having the largest concentration of frescos in the world." Shekhawati has a history similar to that of Nawalgarh where in the Marwari men went to cities like Bombay and Calcutta in search of work and the time they found success and their businesses flourished, that is exactly when these plush havelis emanated.
Distance from Kota: 369 km
Best Time: November to March
Kota Barrage is the fourth construction in the Chambal Valley Project over River Chambal. It was built to store the waters stored by the three previous dams of the project Gandhi Sagar Dam, Jawahar Sagar Dam and Rana Pratap Sagar Dam, and then channelize it to the dry areas of Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh for irrigation purposes via canals. At present, it helps in agriculture in around 20,000 acres of land. The 19 gate long barrage forms a bridge over River Chambal at Kota, on which people gather to enjoy the fascinating view of frothy white water being thrusting out in full force.
Distance from Kota: 8 km
Aquagreens Water Park is located at Bundi Road in Kota. It is the only waterpark in Kota and serves as a great place for a family getaway. This water park is quite colorful and a fun place to enjoy various water rides, slides, showers and more. There are some restaurants as well. The timings are from 12:30 p.m to 7:30 p.m from Mon-Sat, and 10:30 a.m to 7:30 p.m on Sundays.
Entry fees: INR 250 for Adults and INR 200 for Children
(+50 on Sundays).