MOUNT ABU

Mount Abu was also known as the Arbuda Mountain. It is the only hill station in the desert state of Rajasthan. It lies in the Aravalli mountain range at an approximate elevation of around 1,220 meters above sea level, with its highest point being ‘Guru Shikhar’ which is at a height of 1,722 meters above sea level.

Mount Abu, which has been mentioned in the Hindu Epic Mahabharata and is known for to be the place where the Great Sage Vashishta retired..

The Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary, Trevor’s Crocodile Park, Nakki Lake and the most Famous Dilwara Jain Temples are situated here. Apart from these, one can also visit the ruins of Achalgarh Fort which was built in the 17th century..

How to reach Mount Abu

By Road :: There are well connected by road to all over India with National Highway & State Highway, come here from various places of India. Deluxe – Volvo Buses are operator for all places.

By Rail :: Abu Road is (30Km) is nearby railway station , thus major station between Delhi – Ahmedabad Line, There are well connected to all over India with Various Express – Special – Ac, Frequently run Train for all major Station in India i.e. South / East / West / North India.

By Air :: Nearest airport is Dabok Airport, Udaipur i.e. 210 kms.

Best time to visit - The winters are generally cold with the temperature reaching a low of about 12°C. This season is from November to February and experiences the maximum temperature of about 29°C. The best time to visit Mount Abu is all round the year as the climate remains constantly pleasant.

ATTRACTIONS OF MOUNT ABU

1. Dilwara Jain Temples

The Dilwara Jain temples were built between the 11th and the 13th century. The ornamental marble carvings and the flawless stone laying technique make it one among the most beautiful pilgrimage spots in the world. The temple complex consists of 5 temples which are unique to the Jain culture in India namely Vimal Vasahi, dedicated to the first Jain Tirthankara, Adinath; Luna Vasahi, dedicated to the 22nd Jain Tirthankara, Neminatha; Pithalhar, dedicated to the first Jain Tirthankar, Rishabha; Parshvanath, dedicated to the 23rd Jain Tirthankara, Parshva and Mahavir Swami, dedicated to the last Jain Tirthankara, Mahavira.

2. Nakki Lake

One of the most popular attractions in mount Abu is Nakki Lake. According to Hindu mythology the lake was dug out by the Gods by simply using their nails to gain shelter from the Demon Bashkali, however many such mythological stories exist leading to the creation of this lake. Nevertheless, the place is a great spot for picnic with friends and family alike. The lake is also famous as mahatma Gandhi’s ashes were immersed here leading to the construction of Gandhi Ghat, which is also a popular monument located here.

3. Guru Shikar

Guru Shikar is the highest point in mount Abu and forms the highest point in the Aravalli mountain range. The place is perfect to get a panoramic view of the whole region and is famous for its temple of Guru Dattatreya an incarnation of the Hindu Deities ‘Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva’ in one.

4. Sun Set Point

A destination is not complete without a Sunset point, and Mount Abu isn't an exception. The outlandish view of the rugged Aravali ranges, sunkissed by the radiating rays of the setting sun is what draws scores of tourists to this picturesque location.

5. Achalgarh

The name refers to a fort and an ancient kingdom, which was originally built by the Paramara Dynasty rulers. The fort was reconstructed in 1452 by Maharana Kumbha the ruler of the Mewar kingdom and was renamed as “Achalgarh’ or the immovable. The fort however stands in ruins to this day, leaving behind many remnants which make this place a tourist attraction. The main entrances are characterized by two towers carved out of grey granite, which still stand as a memorial of this once pompous and majestic fort. The place is located at an amazing location and is famous for its ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva known as the Achaleshwar Mahadeva Temple. The temple is said to have a foot impression of Lord Shiva himself and also has a brass Nandi and 3 sculptures of buffalos near the pond.

6. Wildlife Sanctuary

The Forest located between the Aravalli mountain range was declared as a wildlife sanctuary in 1980 and covers an area of approximately 288 sq kilometers. It is a sub tropical forest which has an abundance of various species of flora and fauna. While there are traces of past dwellings of the lion and the tiger, but as of now the prime feline predator found here is the Leopard. The rare species found here are sambhar, common langur, wild boar, bear, pangolin, common mongoose, jungle cat, wolf, hyena, jackal, Indian fox, Indian hare, porcupine and hedgehog. These forests are also said to be the home to around 250 species of birds but the most special one is the grey jungle fowl which is unique to this area.

OTHER ATTRACTIONS

1. Toad Rock

Known as The mascot of Mount Abu, Toad Rock is one of the most frequented points. To see the panoramic beauty of the surrounding lake and greenish hilly regions you can climb up the rock and capture the breathtaking scenery.

2. Brahma Kumaris World Spiritual University

Brahma Kumaris World Spiritual University is an international, non-governmental spiritual organization founded by Dada Lekhraj Kripalani in the 1930s, with its headquarters located in Mount Abu. The hill of the Brahma Kumaris is also called 'Madhuban' (forest of honey). The group is a largely self-sufficient community, with a large international family of practising yogis .

3. Honey Moon Point

The honeymoon point at an elevation of 4000 foot offers an exquisite view of the sun setting down. Also known as Anadara Point. The beauty lies in the backdrop of Nakki Lake and Old gateway to Mount Abu

4. Trevor’s Tank

Trevor’s tank or Trevor’s crocodile park is a man made crocodile breeding spot located 5 kilometers away from mount Abu. It is a great picnic spot The place also house various fauna like the black bear and obviously the various crocodiles resting on the rocky shores

5. AMBA MATA Temple

Amba Ji is Situated in Rajasthan– Gujarat Border 50km Far from Mount Abu. Ambaji is a small town in Banas kantha district of Gujarat state. It is famous for Ambaji temple that draws millions of devotees every year. This town is one of the 51 Shakti Peetha Tirthas of India according to Hindu religious mythologies. So, it is famous pilgrim place for devotees. This sacred town lies in the hilly areas of Aravali rages and Arasur deep forests.