Kota is a little different from other towns of Rajasthan. In fact, it is not just a little different but very, very different from the rest of Rajasthan. Kota has an interesting blend of the old and the new. The choice of the foremost tourist attraction is between between the fort, wildlife sanctuary and the mighty Chambal, Rajasthans only perennial river.

If you interest lies in wildlife then drive 50km towards the south of Kota. The drive through a hilly area will take you to Darrah wildlife Sanctuary. Situated between the Mukundarah hill ranges, this was the once the hunting preserve of the Kota royal family and went on to become one of the first wildlife sanctuaries of independent India.

Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary is the erstwhile royal hunting preserve of the Maharaja of Kota. The wildlife sanctuary is thickly forested, lying along the southeastern border of Kota. This hilly sanctuary with thick forests is worth a visit.

The Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary was established in 1955 and covers an area of 250 sq kms today. It was once the hunting grounds for the Maharaja of Kota before he handed it over to the government.

At the Darrah sanctuary, there are spotted Deers, Wild boars, Bears, Sambhars, Leopards, Panthers, Wolves, Sloth Bears, Chinkaras and Antelopes. The sanctuary is sometimes closed during the monsoon (usually from early July to mid September).

Adventure freaks and wildlife enthusiasts can look forward to a wonderful time at Darrah. Indeed from jungle safaris to treks, there are lots to see and do at the Darrah Sanctuary. Besides, the sanctuary is also home to many rare trees and plants with medicinal values.

Visitors need to obtain permission from the forest ranger or the district forest office before entering the Darrah Sanctuary. Foreign tourists need to pay an entry fee of Rs 100 per person while it is Rs 20 per person for local visitors.

The best time to visit Darrah wildlife sanctuary is between the February to May.