Mount Abu, literally ‘Hill of Wisdom’, is Rajasthan’s only hill station. Sprawling along a 2km long plateau, it is at an altitude of 1220 metres, and is the highest point on the Aravalli ranges. Abu was the summer resort for the Maharajas and the princes to escape the sweltering desert. The gigantic blocks of rock, towering along the crest of the hill, the lush green trees and the colourful birds and animals make Abu one of the most beautiful hill stations in India. Mount Abu is also a major Rajput and Jain pilgrimage centre.
Mount Abu has been home to many sages and saints. Most famous of them was Sage Vashishtha who is believed to have created four Agnikula Rajput clans from a fire-pit by performing a 'yagna' or fire sacrifice, to protect the earth from the demons. The Yagna was performed besides a natural spring situated below Abu, emerging from a rock shaped like a cow's head and hence the site was called Gaumukh.
Area of Mount Abu : 38,000 sq km (approx.)
Population in Mount Abu : 28,000 (approx.)
Altitude of Mount Abu : 1220 meters above the sea level (approx.)
STD Code of Mount Abu : 02974
Languages Spoken in Mount Abu : Hindi, Rajasthani, English & Gujrati.
Best time to visit Mount Abu : February to June and September to December
Museums and Art Gallery in Mount Abu : Archaeological Museum, Brahma Kumaris Spritual University and Museum
Gardens in Mount Abu : Ashok Vatika, Gandhi Park, Terrace Garden, Municipal Park, Shaitan Singh Park, Etc.
Wildlife Sanctuary in Mount Abu : Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary.
Mount Abu Tourist Attractions :
Dilwara Jain Temple : Built between 11th and 13th century AD, the beautifully carved temples dedicated to the Jain Tirthankaras are sheer elegance in marble. The Vimal Vasahi temple is the oldest of these temples dedicated to the first Tirthankara. Built in 1031 A.D. (by Vimal Shah-a merchant and representative of then Gujarat ruler), Vimal Vasahi temple is a superb example of temple architecture. The Lun Vasahi Temple, dedicated to the 22nd Tirthankaras-Neminath, was built in 1231 A.D. by two brothers - Vastupal and Tejpal, Ministers of Raja Vir Dhawal, a ruler of Gujarat-belonging to the Porwal Jain community. With door casings, pillars, architraves, and sculptures on porticos, the temple is an excellent specimen of craftsmanship.
Nakki Lake : Legends say has that this small lake, was scooped out by a God using only his nails (or nakh as in Hindi). The lake is surroundedby scenic hills, beautifully laid parks and unique rock formations. Situated close to the Nakki lake is the temple dedicated to Shri Raghunathji with a beautiful image of the deity that was constructed here in 14th century A.D. by Shri Ramanand the famous Hindu preacher.
Sunset Point : There are many view points around the town. Most famous among them is the Sunset piont which offers a spectacular sight of the setting sun when the hills are covered in the golden glow can be viewed from here.
Trevor’s Tank : Named after the British engineer who constructed it, Trevor’s Tank is a delight for birdwatchers with densely wooded hills that are a haven to pigeons, peacocks and partridges. The tank is about 5 km from the town.
Museum and Art Gallery : Located at the Raj Bhawan, Museum and Art Gallery was a fine collection of archaeological excavations dating back to 8th-12th century A.D. It also has Jain bronze carvings, brassworks etc. for viewing.
Adhar Devi Temple : The temple is chiseled out of a huge rock reached by a flight of 360 stairs. A favourite tourist spot.
Gaumukh Temple : The temple here derived its name from a natural spring flowing through a sculpted cow’s head. The famous ‘yagna’ of sage Vashishtha was performed here. A splendidly sculpted hill temple of Arbuada - the majestic serpent stands proudly against the beautiful backdrop. Close to the temple is the exquisite marble image of Nandi, the celestial bull rescued by Arbuada.
Fairs and Festivals in Mount Abu :
Summer Festival : The Summer Festival is held every year in the month of Aashadh (June). The three-day festival is a feast of folk and classical music and a window to the tribal life and culture of Rajasthan. The grand finale of the festival is a display of dazzling fireworks, which adds to the tourist's delight.
Mahavira Jayanti : The birth anniversary of Lord Mahavira is celebrated as Mahavira Jayanti. Jain pilgrims from all over the country converge at the Dilwara temples for this most important festival of Jainism.
Shopping in Mount Abu :
Nakki Maal (Nakki Lake Market) is famous area for shopping , tourist can purchase all famous arts and crafts of rajasthan from here like - Jewellery, fabrics, wooden articles, gem stones, metal crafts, leather ware etc.
Accommodations in Mount Abu :
There are several luxury, deluxe and budget hotels that cater to the needs of the tourists to Mount Abu.Accommodation is easily available in Mount Abu. Though during the peak season i.e. in summers advance booking takes place. Accommodation options range from hotels to dormitories. Thus, there is a place to stay in Mount Abu for the tourists with varying budgets. Even good food is available in Mount Abu. There are several eateries and restaurants that cater to the needs of the tourists. In fact while travelling Mount Abu in holiday you must feast on the delicious delicacies. You may take your pick from the Maharashtrian, Gujarati, Rajasthani, south Indian, Punjabi, Chinese or Continental dishes. The variety offered is so vast that you may try new dishes in every meal. Even the smaller eating joints in Mount Abu are shining clean. Amongst the many delicious dishes you must try out the pao bhaji and the Rajasthani thali.
How to Reach Mount Abu :
By Air : Udaipur is the nearest airport. Daily flight form Delhi, Mumbai and Jaipur are available to Udaipur.
By Train : Abu Road is the nearest railway station and is about 22 kms from Mount Abu. And well connected by Ahemdabad, Jaipur, Mumbai and Jodhpur.
By Road : Rajasthan Roadways run very comfortable deluxe buses from Jaipur and Abu Road to Maunt Abu. It is also connected by road to Delhi, Udaipur, Ajmer, Bundi and Udaipur.
