City Palace Garh, Kota

Kota, Rajasthan, India

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City Palace Garh, locally known simply as “Garh Palace” or “Kota Garh,” is a historic fortified palace complex in the heart of Kota, Rajasthan, on the banks of the Chambal river, which served as the former residence of the Raos and Maharaos of the Kingdom of Kota.

According to tradition, its foundations were first laid in 1264 CE by Prince Jait Singh of Bundi State at the spot where he sacrificed and buried the severed head of the local Bhil chieftain Koteya, the former ruler of the region, and the name “Kotah” is often linked to this act or to the presence of a strong fort (kot).

The sprawling complex consists of numerous palaces, halls, and courtyards built by successive Rajput rulers, including notable structures such as the magnificent Bada Mahal with its intricately carved marble façade, Gulab Mahal, Purana Mahal, Arjun Mahal, Hava Mahal, Diwan-e-Aam, Akhada Mahal, and Kanvarpadi-ka-Mahal, all decorated with elaborate frescoes, mirror work, floral motifs, and depictions of hunting scenes and legends of Lord Krishna.

A major attraction within the palace is the Rao Madho Singh Museum, which opened to the public in 1970 and houses a vast collection of royal artifacts, including canons, weapons, armour, palanquins, royal costumes, manuscripts, miniature paintings, wall paintings, and ritual paraphernalia, some dating back to the 13th century, offering a deep glimpse into the culture and lifestyle of Kota’s rulers.