Places to visit in Mount Abu Tourist Places Rajasthan India
Mount Abu, nestled amidst lush forested hills of Aravalli’s is the only hill station of Rajasthan and is equally important for pleasure seekers and devoted pilgrims. It is said to be named after serpent Arbuda (Abu in short), the son of Himalayas, who came here to rescue nandi, the wahan (Mount) of Lord Shiva.
Dilwara jain Temple (3km)
Delightful Dilwara (Devalwara) or the ‘Place of Temples’ is the major attraction of Mount Abu. The world renowned temples are noted for excellent architecture and exquisite carvings. The main group consists of five temples, which were built between 11th and 12th centuries. The pure white marble temple of Vimal Sah or Vimal Vasahi was built in 1031 and is the oldest of the temple group. It is dedicated to Adinath or Rishabdeo, the first Jain tirthankara and is noted for its impressive 48 pillared mandapa (portico) in front of the main sanctum. The eight central pillars of the mandapa forms an octagon, which holds up a dome with circular rims and ornately carved pendant like roof. Along the intricately carved corridor are 52 niches studded with statues of the Jain tirthankaras. The 13th century shrines of Vastupala and Tejapala are dedicated to Neminatha, the 22nd second Jain tirthankara. The pattern of arrangement of the sanctum and statues is almost similar to the temple of Vimal Sah. The Chaumukha temple, dedicated to Parasavnath and the Adinath temple lie across the road.
Nakki Lake
This shinning ‘jewel’ of the Abul hills is believed to be dug out by the god’s with their nails (nakh) and thus the name Nakki. It is perhaps the only artificial lake in the country, at an altitude of 1200m above sea level. Boating facilities are available and one may choose motot boats, ordinary boats, shikaras and paddle boats to explore the serene waters of Nakki. The embankments of the lake are dotted with magnificent summer villas of various erstwhile princely states of the country. Most of them have been converted into guest houses or hotels.
Toad Rock
The magnificent rock out crop resembling a ‘Toad’ overlooks the placid waters of the Nakki Lake.
Temple of Raghunathji
The sacred shrine near the Nakkilake is assocated with the great preacher Ramanandji. He installed an image of Shri Raghunathji (Lord Rama), at the temple in 14th century.
Mount Abu Tour Information
Gau Mukh Tempel (4km)
This ancient site near the nakki lake of immense filled by a natural spring, flowing through a spout, shaped like a cow’s head, hence the name Gau (cow)Mukh(mouth). According to a legend the famous yagna (sacrifice) of legendary sage Vashishtha was performed here, which created the four “Agnikula’ or Fire born Rajput clans to protect the earth form the demons. A splendidly sculpted hill temple of Arbuda, the mighty serpent is located nearby, amid scenic surroundings. There is also a marble statue of Nandi, who was rescued by Arbuda from a chasm.
Sunset Point 2km)
The splendid sunset point lies to the south-west of Nakki lake.
Honeymoon Point (Anadra Point) (2.5km)
It affords great views of the verdant valley and superb plains, especially during the sunset time.
Om Shanti Bhawan or Universal Peace Hall
This impressive building houses the famous Brahma Kumari’s World Spiritual University. It has a big hall devoid of any pillars and can accommodate a gathering of 3,500 people.
Adhar Devi or Arbuda Devi Temple (2km)
The temple beautifully carved out of a huge rock can be reached by a flight of 360 steps. It is also a popular tourist spot.
Government Museum and Art Gallery
It was set up in 1962, within the premises of Raj Bhawan. A rich collection of archaeological finds dating back to 8th – 12thcentury, weapons, musical instruments, ornaments and garments, miniature paintings, sculptures and specimens of wood carving etc are exhibited here.
Mount Abu Sanctuary
It sprawls over a lush area of 288 sq km comprising of sub tropical evergreen forests. The cool breeze laden with fragrance of wild roses and jasmine sweeps through the sanctuary making it a paradise for nature lovers. It is home to animal species like leopard, sloth bear, wild boar, sambar, chinkara and langur. There are also more than 25o species of exotic birds.
Trevor’s Tank (3km)
The tank amidst densely wooded hills teems with rich variety of beautiful birds. The most commonly seen birds are, pheasants, peacocks and partridges.
Mount Abu Trip Information
Achalgarh (10km)
The 14th century built by Rana Kumbha of Mewar is famous for the temples of Achaleswar mahadev and the Kantinath Jain.
Guru Shikar (15km)
Guru Shikhar or the saint’s pinnacle rises to a height of 1772 m and is the highest peak of the Aravalli’s. It has a small Shaivite shrine and temple of Dattatreya. A bird’s eye view of the sylvan surroundings can be enjoyed from here.
Abu Road (28km)
The medieval town is set at the foot of Mount Abu. One can buy pure vermilion (sindhoor or kum kum), incense, oil lamps, beautiful marble images and fragrant flowers here. Polished stones of jasper, agate, cornelian, amethyst and necklaces or bracelets of semi-precious stones are available at reasonable price. Exquisitely carved ivory or bone statues, bowls and ornaments, scarves and skirts, printed or embroidered with mirror work are other worth purchasing articles.
Mount Abu City Map
Mount Abu City Distance Guide |
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| Ajmer | 375 Km | ||
| Alwar | 647 Km | ||
| Bharatpur | 707 Km | ||
| Bikaner | 569 Km | ||
| Bundi | 418 Km | ||
| Chittaurgarh | 297 Km | ||
| Jaipur | 505 Km | ||
| Jodhpur | 326 Km | ||
| Jaisalmer | 572 Km | ||
| Kota | 455 Km | ||
| Udaipur | 185 Km | ||
| Delhi | 767 Km | ||
| Mumbai | 766 Km | ||
| Agra | 737 Km | ||
| Ahmedabad | 221 Km | ||