Maharao Madho Singh Museum

The Maharao Madho Singh Museum is housed within the historic Garh Palace in Kota, Rajasthan. Established in 1970 by the Rao Madho Singh Museum Trust, it showcases royal memorabilia of the erstwhile ruling family of Kota. The museum features an extensive collection of Rajput miniature paintings from the Kota school, ancient sculptures, frescoes, royal armory, silver howdahs, and other artifacts reflecting the region's rich heritage.

Visitors can explore the ground floor of the Garh Palace, which has been converted into a museum displaying royal artifacts. The museum houses intricate miniature paintings, wall frescoes depicting hunting scenes and processions, royal weapons, garments, musical instruments, and silver palanquins. The palace complex itself features historic architecture with multiple gateways, including the Hathian Pol with elephant structures, and offers views of the Chambal River banks.

The museum is named after Rao Madho Singh, who established Kota as an independent state from Bundi in 1624 CE. The Garh Palace foundations were laid in 1264 CE by Prince Jait Singh of Bundi. The museum was established in 1970 by the Rao Madho Singh Museum Trust under Maharao Bhim Singh to preserve Kota's heritage. The palace served as the residence of the Raos and Maharaos of Kota until the early 20th century.

The museum preserves the artistic heritage of the Kota school of painting, one of the prominent Rajput painting traditions. It houses important cultural artifacts including the mahi-o-maratib standard, a prestigious Mughal honor. The palace remains central to ceremonial life, particularly during Dussehra festivals.