Mount Abu, located close to Sirohi District, is considered to be the only available hill station in the state of Rajasthan, which is otherwise known for its beautiful desert landscape. This mount is popularly frequented among tourists from across the globe and lies in Aravalli Mountain Range, about 1,220 m above sea level. ‘Guru Shikhar’ is its highest point being at a height of about 1,722 m above sea level. Since Rajasthan experiences scorching desert heat, especially during the hot summer season, locals and tourists like prefer to visit this only hill station of the place to escape this heat. According to Hindu mythology, this place does have great significance. It is here that Sage Vashistha is known to have retired. With time and constant promotion by the Rajasthan tourist department, this place managed to earn its place in the must visit spot in Rajasthan. It does offer a unique blend of Rajasthani flavours and does deserve a visit.
Interesting places to be in Mount Abu
- Guru Shikhar: This place is well known for its stunning scenic views, trekking, viewpoint, and nature and for photographic enthusiasts. Spending a couple of hours is sufficient here it indulge in its beauty. It is the highest point of Aravalli Range and is a wonderful place to derive a panoramic view. It is also visited by devotees to perform pujas at the Guru Dattatreya temple, an incarnation of Hindu Deities, namely, Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma’. It does offer a serene, calm and peaceful atmosphere and sure to make the traveller to leave behind the tension and stress of life back home, due to its mesmerizing and enchanting surroundings. You need to pack beverages and food for the trip, but not alcohol, since the place is regarded to be sacred by the people here. You can visit the Peace Park nearby, go hiking and trekking, visit Thrill Zone Adventure Park.
- Dilwara Jain Temple: It is popular for its beautiful architecture, rich history, as a pilgrimage center and for photography. It is open on all days from 12 to 5pm. From Mount Abu, this temple is located just 2.5 kms away and built between 11th and 13th century. Marble has been used amazingly in the architecture. Moreover, the flawless stone laying procedure and ornamental carvings is what has made it unique and beautiful in appearance. There are in total 5 temples in the complex signifying the country’s Jain culture, namely, Luna Vasahi, Vimal Vasahi, Parsvanath, Pitalhar and Mahavir Swami. The ceilings adorn with lotus type engravings including numerous scenes taken from Hindu & Jain mythology, created with carved marble sculptures.
- Achalgarh: Open from 5am to 7pm, this place is known for its history, ruins and viewpoints. The name actually refers to an ancient kingdom and fort, constructed originally by Paramara Dynasty rulers. Later, Maharana Kumbha had reconstructed this fort in 1452 and renamed it as Achalgarh, meaning, ‘immovable’. Currently, the fort is in ruins. Two towers that are carved from grey granite are the main entrances, while the amazing location and fort walls offer panoramic view of its surroundings. You can visit Achaleswar Mahadeva temple closeby, shop for souvenirs at the nearby markets, visit Jain temple within the fort or go hiking.
- Sunset Point: You can witness the beautiful glowing sun setting at this point at its full glory. Many Bollywood movies have been shot at this locale to capture its original beauty. It has a relaxing atmosphere and pleasant climate. You can enjoy the scenic views, picnic or shop for souvenirs.
- Nakki Lake: It is a wonderful place to relax and forget the early worth and the problems that come with it. It is also a fabulous place to indulge in nature and photography and hence, a popular tourist attraction. This is a sacred and ancient lake, which as per Hindu mythology, had been dug by the Gods with their nails only for getting shelter from Demon Banshkhali. There are also other mythological stories which exist surrounding its creation. It is a great place to spend quality time with family, children and friends and to have picnic. It is at this lake that Mahatma Gandhi’s ashes had been immersed. There has been constructed a Gandhi Ghat, also a well-known monument. Several eateries, restaurants and hotels have come up to cater local delicious food at affordable prices. There is also a fountain which increases the appeal and beauty of this place. You can indulge in boat riding, zorbing or relax at the garden close by.
- Achaleshwar Mahadev Temple: It is a popular pilgrimage centre and has beautiful architecture. This temple is well known for its Shiva linga that is said to have occurred naturally. The temple boasts of having Lord Shiva’s foot impression, along with 3 sculptures made of buffalos and a brass Nandi, close to the pond. You can visit Achal Fort Ruins, the tank or go shopping.
- Mount Abu Bazaars: They are open on all days and frequented by locals and tourists alike. These famous markets are must visit and the trip would be incomplete without shopping here for souvenirs and other local made items. It includes Kashmiri Cottage Emporium, Government Handicraft Emporium, Khadi Bhandar and Piccadilly Plaza. The markets are located very close to one another and are popular for its handicrafts, textiles, handlooms, Kashmiri shawls, Ayurvedic oils and much more. You can taste delicious and tasty mouth-watering cuisines available here.
- Trevor’s Tank: It remains open from 9am to 5pm and is also referred to as Trevor’s crocodile park, a man-made crocodile breeding place. It is located just about 5km from Mount Abu. It has an amazing entrance and provides relaxed and fresh feel. It is best visited during the mild winter November & December months. You can have a great picnic here with family and friends. Check out fauna here such as the black bear, crocodiles, etc. Shutterbugs and birdwatchers can have a great time. It does appear like that of Rivendell’s Indian version. The nearby peaks offer excellent bird watching sessions.
Booking the best hotels in Mount Abu will help you to have a relaxing and satisfied trip.