The history of the city dates back to the 12th century A.D. when the Hada Chieftain, Rao Deva, conquered the territory and founded Bundi and Hadoti. Later, in the early 17th century AD during the reign of the Mughal Emperor Jahangir, the ruler of Bundi -Rao Ratan Singh, gave the smaller principality of Kota to his son, Madho Singh. Since then Kota became a hallmark of the Rajput gallantry and culture.

The south eastern region of Rajasthan known as Hadoti comprises of Bundi, Baran, Jhalawar and Kota is a treasure of history dating back to several centuries. Kota is located on the eastern bank of Chambal River and is drained by its tributaries. Summers are quite hot (April-June) while winters are quite cool. It experiences slant rainfall b/w June-Sep.

One of the big festivals celebrated in most parts of India is Dussehra. The festival is celebrated with zest and festivities as it also marks the beginning of the winter season after the long, unbearable, hot summer. Dussehra marks the victory of Ram over the demon king Ravana, and the rescue of his wife Sita. In north India, gigantic effigies of the ten-headed Ravana and his brothers are set aflame amidst bursting of crackers. Fairs are usually held on this occasion with lots to eat, buy and enjoy.

Dussehra means the Tenth Day, being the 10th day of the bright half of Ashvin. This day is also known as Vijayadashmi, or the Victory Tenth, because of the victory of Ram over Ravana.

Places to see
In Kota, there are some impressive buildings, some from early days and some built in the beginning of the 20th century. Prominent among them are Jag Mandir, Brij Vilas Palace, Umaid Bhawan Palace and Brij Raj Bhawan, City fort and palace, Kota barrage, Chambal Garden. Tha to the presence of the Chambal river, Kota abounds in Lakes and Gardens.

Hotels
Budget hotels are few in Kota. Most of the accommodation available here in mid range. One can also find erstwhile palaces converted into hotels here. Umaid Bhawan Palace and Brijraj Bhawan Palace are two such hotels. Most of the important hotels in Kota are located on or around the Station Road.

How to reach
By Air - Kota have its own Airport and it is supposed to start in 2009.
By Rail - Kota have its own Railway Junction that is on main Mumbai to Delhi Railway line. Max. of trains stop here.
By Road - From Kota there is direct road to Jaipur, Ajmer, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Bikaner etc.