Mount Abu is the highest peak in the Aravalli Range at a average height of 1,219 mtr's above sea level is the oasis in the deserted land of Rajasthan and posses the honor of being the only hill-station in Rajasthan as well as north-west India. It is located in Sirohi district. The mountain forms a distinct rocky plateau 22km long by 9 km wide. The highest peak on the mountain is Guru Shikhar, at 1722 meters above sea level. Situated amidst lush green forested hills on the highest peak in the Aravali range is also the summer capital for the Indian state of Rajasthan, home to lakes, waterfalls and green forests, the hill retreat, has a very cool and soothing climate thanks to its rich flora covering the entire hillside that includes coniferous trees and flowering shrubs. The road leading to Mount Abu is a curved one characterized by arid region dotted with huge rocks in weird shapes and high velocity winds. The only hill station in Rajasthan, Mount Abu is more than just a summer retreat. The world famous tourist destination is known for its Dilwara Jain temples and natural beauty world over. Mount Abu with its word-class tourist facilities with hotels ranging from budget class to three star and heritage provides a great holiday escape and honeymoon attraction. Every year more then three million national and international tourists visit mount Abu enjoying its scenic beauty, rich flora & fauna as well as the marble art of Dilwara Jain temples.

Mount Abu is a unique destination for Adventure and eco tourism. The Raj period approached it as a relaxation place to rewind along with the royalties and semi royalties. The place sways in an interesting contrast of British style bungalows, the holiday lodges of the royals (Thikhana) along with the presence of the various communities of the tribals located amidst the thick lush of the forest on the hills surrounding the region.

The flora and fauna enjoys the adulation of the tourist to the fullest. Among the flourishing ranges is the highest point of the Aravalli is the 'Gurushikhar' with a vast sanctuary that shelters a number of species like langur, wild boars, Sambar, leopards and many more along with a number of flowering trees thus enhancing the whole scenario. This glorious ambience suited mainly to the likes of sages and tribals and both made a great impact in the history of the region.

The tribes still conducting there authentic life  styles in the wake of 21st century is rather interesting and so is the collection of various monuments of different religious sects like the famous shrines of Jainism.

Mount Abu is declared closed area since 1965. Although, complete area of 328 sq. km. of Abu Hills is declared protected but officially 112.98 sq. km. is under unnotified sanctuary area. In shape, Mt. Abu Wildlife Sanctuary is long and narrow but the top spreads out into a picturesque plateau, which is about 19 km in length and 5-8 km in breadth. Once home to the meditating Rishi and Munis; the legend has it that Mount Abu is home to 33 crore Gods and Goddess. According to the legend the name Abu means son of Himalayas (or Ar-Booda, "the hill of wisdom"), deriving its name from Arbuada - the powerful serpent, which rescued Nandi the sacred bull of Lord Shiva. Mount Abu has been home, to many Rishi and Munis (sages and saints), including the famous Rishi Vashishtha, who is believed to have created four Agnikul Rajput clans, from a fire- pit, by performing a yagna or fire sacrifice, to protect the earth from the demons.

History of Mount Abu in Rajasthan, India

The history of Mount Abu is as diverse as the city itself. It was once a part of the Chauhan kingdom of Rajasthan and served as a summer resort for the Rajput kings of the region. After that, it was leased by the British government from the then Maharaja of Sirohi for use as the Headquarter of the resident to Rajputana (another name for Rajasthan).

During the British rule in India, it was the favorite summer destination of the British, who came here to escape the dusty, dry heat of the plains particularly Rajasthan. It also served as a sanatorium for the troops. The small huts and cottages here tell stories of those times even today.

Mount Abu was the home of many saints and sages in the old days. Legend has it that all the 330 million gods and goddesses of the Hindu pantheon used to visit this holy mountain. It is also the place where the great saint Vashishth lived and performed a yagna (sacrificial worship on a fire pit) to create four Agnikula (four clans of fire) to protect the earth from demons. The yagna was supposed to have been performed near a natural spring, which emerged from a rock shaped like a cow's head.

According to another legend, once sage Vashishth's cow Nandini was trapped in a deep gorge and could not free herself. The sage appealed to Lord Shiva for assistance. The Lord sent Saraswati, the divine stream, to help flood the gorge so that the cow could float up. Vashishth then decided to ensure that such mishaps did not occur in future. He asked the youngest son of Himalaya, the king of mountains to fill the chasm permanently. This he did with the assistance of Arbud, the mighty snake. This spot came to be known as Mount Arbud and was later changed to its present form - Mount Abu.

This place is held in reverence by Jains as well since Jain scriptures record that Lord Mahavira, the 24th Jain Tirthankar (spiritual leader), also visited Mount Abu and blessed the city.

Geography of Mount Abu in Rajasthan, India

It spreads out into a plateau which is about 19 km in length and 6 km in breadth. In altitude, it varies from 300 meters at the foot to 1722 meters at Guru Shikhar, the highest peak in Rajasthan. The rocks are igneous and due to the weathering effect of wind and water, large cavities are common in them. It is very rich in floral bio-diversity starting from xenomorphic sub-tropical thorn forests in the foot hills to sub-tropical evergreen forests along water courses and valleys at higher altitudes. There are about 112 plant families with 449 genera and 820 species. Of these, 663 species are dicots while 157 species are monocots.

Mount Abu is the only place in Rajasthan where one can observe a variety of orchids. The place is also rich in bryophytes and algae. Three species of wild roses and 16 species of feras some of which are quite rare have also been reported from here. The south-west part of the sanctuary is rich in bamboo forests. About 81 species of trees, 89 species of shrubs, 28 species of climbers and 17 species of tuberous plants of medicinal importance have been identified in this sanctuary.

A variety of fauna, including highly rare, threatened and endangered species are found in this sanctuary. The past history of Mount Abu indicates the presence of lion (last recorded in 1872) and tiger (last reported in 1970). Presently the leopard is the apex predator. Other animals found here are sambhar, jungle cat, small Indian civet, wolf, hyaena, jackal, Indian fox, common langoor, wild boar, pangolin, common mongoose, Indian hare, porcupine and hedgehog. The sanctuary provides an ideal habitat for the sloth bear too. It is unique in the sense that more than 250 species of birds are found here, but the speciality of the Abu sanctuary is the grey jungle fowl.

Tourist Attractions of Mount Abu in Rajasthan, India

The Mount Abu region in Rajasthan offers a lot to see and do. There are a lot of man made beauties- consisting of temples and other tourist spots. However, the beautiful scenic views, the native flora and the native fauna offer a nature lover’s paradise. If you are a person that appreciates natural beauty, then Trevor’s Tank here at Mount Abu is the perfect place for you to visit on your holiday in Mount Abu. It is also advisable to go for a picnic or an adventure tour (with help of a local guide) and a full day outing at this beautiful location

Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary of Mount Abu in Rajasthan, India

The Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary was established in 1960 and covers 290 km² of the mountain. Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary is located in one of the oldest mountain ranges of India, the Aravalli range. It was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1960. The Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary is home to many sightseeing points offering fantastic views. It is made from igneous rocks which have formed large cavities in many areas due to the weathering effects of wind and water. This is common throughout the entire Mount Abu region. Many people visit the Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary just for the sightseeing and views, but most visit The Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary for the animals and birds. The Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary is about 7 kilometres long and only 300 metres wide. This means that while you take the long walk down The Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary you won’t miss much on either side. In addition to the sightseeing opportunities, the Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary is a popular destination for eco-tourism. The Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary crosses a variety of mountain highs, from 300m to 1722m at Gurashikhar- the highest peak in the Aravali Ranges.

The Mount Abu Region and the Aravali Ranges have a wide and rich floral diversity. The foothills of the mountain ranges contain xeromorphic subtropical thorn forests whilst the rivers and tributaries are boarded by subtropical evergreen forests, which also appear at higher levels. There is an evergreen forest that meets the water and the valleys on the other side. The Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary houses around 112 plant families with 449 genera and 820 species. Many of these species are dicots and the rest are monocots. Many of these species are very rare and threatened. You can also find many orchids at the Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary. Don’t forget the many roses and bamboo rich areas.

The Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary contains a wide and varied range of fauna for you to appreciate. There are over 250 species of bird- including the popular grey jungle fowl. The Mount Abu Wildlife sanctuary also houses leopard sloth bear, wild boar, sambar, chinkara and langur amongst others. Many of the animals in the sanctuary are extremely rare and threatened. It is believed that the lion and tiger once populated the region, but cats of this variety have not been in the season for a long time.
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Dilwara Temples of Mount Abu in Rajasthan, India

Dilwara Jain Temples is one of the finest Jain temple known world over for its extraordinary architecture and marvelous marble stone carvings, some experts also consider it architecturally superior to the Taj Mahal. It seems fairly basic temple from outside but every cloud has a silver lining, the temple interior showcases the extraordinary work of human craftsmanship at its best. These temples were built between 11th to 13th century AD, The beautiful lush green hills surrounding the temple gives a very pleasant feeling. The ornamental details of marble stone carvings is phenomenal and unmatched, The minutely carved ceilings and the pillars are just amazing. All this was done at a time when no transport or roads were available at a height of 1200+ Mtrs in Mount Abu, Huge blocks of marble stones were transported on elephant backs from the Arasoori Hills at Ambaji to this remote hilly region of Mount Abu. Dilwara temples is also a popular Jain pilgrimage attraction. Dilwara Temple complex consist of five major sections or temples devoted to five jain trithankaras(saints):

Shri Mahaveer Swami Temple - This temple was constructed in 1582 and is devoted to Lord Mahaveer the 24th Tirthankara of Jain's, this temple is relatively small the temple's upper walls have pictures of the porch painted by craftsmen of sirohi in year 1764.

Shri AdiNath Temple or Vimal Vasahi Temple - This temple is build by Vimal Shah, Minister of Solanika ruler of Gujarat in 1031 A.D., this temple is the oldest of all and dedicated to Shri Adinath Ji - The first jain trithankar, the temple has an open courtyard surrounded by corridors all beautifully decorated with marble carved stones. Cells inside this temple are contain tiny images of Jain saints artistically carved on marble stone minutely. The internal dome is aesthetically decorated with design's of flowers and petals, the huge hall of the temple pillars decorated with the carving work of female figures playing musical instruments. The temple also have the "Guda Mandapa" - A simple hall decorated with the images of Shri Adi Nath.

Shri ParshavNath Temple or Khartar Vasahi Temple - This temple was built by Mandika clan between 1458-59 A.D., this temple has the tallest shrine  along with four big Mandapa's amongst all dilwara temples. The carving on the pillars of this temple is yet another example of these jain temples architectural superiority.

Shri Rishabdaoji Temple or Peethalhar Temple - This temple is known as Pittalhari/Peethalhar temple because in this temple most of the statues are built using ‘Pittal’ (Brass Metal). This temple was built by Bhima Shah, a minister from Gujarat dynasty, like other temples of Dilwara this temple is also having Gudu Mandapa and Navchowki.

Shri NemiNathJi Temple or Luna Vasahi Temple - This temple was built in 1230 A.D. by two brothers known as Tejpal and Vastupal, they dedicated this temple to the 22nd saint of Jainism - Shri Nemi Nathji. This temple has one hall named Rag Mandapa which has three hundred and sixty (360) tiny idols of Jain trithankar all minutely crafted on marble proving once again why these jain marble temples of Dilwara are superior to Taj Mahal, Among all these white marble idols the idol of Shri Neminath Ji is made up of black marble.The pillars of this temple were built by Maharana Kumbha of Mewar.

The Dilwara Jain Temples are open from 12 P.M. to 3 P.M. for tourist's for free and No photography is allowed inside the temple complex.
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Achalgarh of Mount Abu in Rajasthan, India

AchalGarh, sometimes spelt Achalgadh, is one of the many beautiful medieval monuments that can be found in the picturesque Mount Abu, located in the desert in the state of Rajasthan, India. It was commissioned by Rana Kumbha, the esteemed designer who was responsible for many huge fortresses in Southern Rajasthan. The fort was built by Maharana Kumbha in 1452 CE, one of the several forts built during his reign. The fort is not in good condition now. Achalgarh is just 8 Kilometers from the main Mount Abu town and is well connected by road.

The fortress AchalGarh is surrounded by massive battlement walls. It is situated at the top of a mountain peak and offers picturesque views all year round. AchalGarh is found at the top of a steep winding path, whereby the 15th century fortresses and the temples are enclosed within the fortified walls. These fortified walls provide scenic lookouts onto the countryside. There are some features of historical and religious importance in and around the fort.

A 10 minute climb from AchalGarh brings you to the beautiful and historic Jain Temples, including the Achaleswar Mahadev Temple (1412) and the Kantinath Temple (1513). These temples are a must visit for more great views and the beautiful sculpture.
Another must visit temple can be found below the path. The Achleshwar temple is famous for containing a Nandi which is said to be made of 5 metals, fold, silver, copper, brass and zinc. The Nandi is made up of Panchadhattu and weighs more than 4 tonnes.

It is believed that the Achleshwar temple was built in the 9th century and legend has it that it was built around a toe print of Lord Shiva. There is also a pit that is said to reach to the netherworld. Achleshwar also contains a natural Shivalinga. (A Shivalinga is phallus-shaped and fixed on a base, which is shaped like a yoni. The structure symbolizes the supreme creative energy. It is usually made of stone but can also be of wood, metal, crystal, and soapstone.) There are also many other sculpted idols which are made of a crystal like stone. In natural light, this stone looks opaque, but if you place a candle behind the idols they take on a beautiful crystal-like sparkle, the stone is called the crystal stone or Sfatik in Hindi. Near by the temple, we find the scenic looking Mandakini Lake. This lake is surrounded by rocky hills, and rock walls covered with images of a Rajput king and buffaloes. These pictures are said to represent the legend that says the lake was filled with ghee and the watering hole of demons disguised as buffaloes. This was until they were shot by Raja Adi Pal.

Nakki Lake of Mount Abu in Rajasthan, India
 
Nakki Lake the mythological lake with a very interesting story behind its creation is the heart of Mount Abu, the legend has it that this lake was dug by Gods or Devtas using their nails or nakh that's why the name Nakki Lake - few sections of local tribes also consider Nakki Lake as a holy lake and worship it, Nakki lake is also the only Indian artificial lake situated at a height of 1200 Mtr's above sea level. Recently in 2006-2007 Nakki lake was granted a huge financial boost for its protection amongst eight other lakes in India.

Situated within walking distance from the main market and almost 80% of Hotel's and restaurant’s of Mount Abu, Nakki lake posses the crown of being the heart of Mount Abu. The hub of evening activity and boating - Nakki Lake is the perfect place to spent your evening with your partner, friends and family.

The picture perfect location of the lake surrounded with mountains, gardens and rock formations also make it a very good location for photography. In the evening the setting sun makes the canvas. Boating in the lake and horse rides around the lake is available.

By the side of the lake there is a path leading to Sunset Point. It is forbidden to climb to Sunset Point due to dangerous bandits living around the path to Sunset Point. Raghunath Temple and Maharaja Jaipur Palace are also on hills near the Lake. There is the Toad Rock on a hill near the lake. Toad rock is so called as it looks like a toad about to jump into the lake, from the side of the rock facing the lake. There are two ways to go up and down the rock; to climb the rocky hill side or to use the steps leading down to Nakki Lake.

Gurushikhar of Mount Abu in Rajasthan, India

Gurushikhar holds the honor of being not only the highest peak of Mount Abu but the whole of Aravali mountain range, Situated at a height of 1722 meters from the sea-level, Gurushikar provides a breathtaking panoramic view of Mount Abu town and green aravali range. If you are traveling through the beautiful Mount Abu region in Rajasthan, you should ensure that you pay a visit to Guru Shikhar for postcard picture quality views of the town of Mount Abu and the Aravali Range, Guru Shikhar is also home to many beautiful and historic temples.

Coming to the peak of Guru Shikhar, you must make sure that you visit the temple of Guru Dattatreya. Many Hindus in the Western Indian regions believed that Dattatreya is a God. They believe that Dattatreya is an incarnation of the Divine Trinity Brahma, Vishnu and Siva. The word Datta means "Given," Datta is called so because the divine trinity have "given" themselves in the form of a son to the sage couple Atri and Anasuya. He is the son of Atri, hence the name "Atreya." Nearby is an historic bell which was inscribed with 1488 V.S (1411AD.) Unfortunately the old bell has disintegrated and had to be replaced by a new one.

If you go to the peak just a little to the north-west of Guru Shikhar, you can visit the shrine dedicated to Ahilya, the mother of Dattatreya. Like those from the taller Guru Shikhar peak, the views are simply enchanting.

To get to the peak of Guru Shikhar, you need to travel the approximately 7km long Dilwara AchalGarh road. It you are already traveling through the Mount Abu region, this is a very short trip to see the panoramic views offered of both the town and the lush green Aravali Range. A visit to Guru Shikhar also gives you the ability to enjoy a visit to the historic temples and shrines.

Trevor’s Tank of Mount Abu in Rajasthan, India

Trevor’s Tank is a picturesque location just 5 kilometers from the main town of Mount Abu, and one of the Mount Abu region’s most popular tourist destinations. It is a nature lover’s paradise that is named after the British engineer who built it. Trevor, the British engineer who built it, was dedicated to building a beautiful place for people to enjoy and watch nature. At Trevor’s Tank you can see and enjoy the following:

The man made tank (referred to as Trevor’s Tank after the British engineer who built it) is used to breed crocodiles. A visit to Trevor’s Tank offers picturesque scenery and a multitude of views. If you visit Trevor’s tank, you should pack a picnic. It is a popular picnic destination for tourists and locals alike.

Trevor’s Tank contains many viewing stations that offer you the unique opportunity to watch the plentiful wildlife in their natural habitat. This is a very popular night time activity. If you visit Trevor’s Tank during the right season, and you are very quiet, you may be lucky enough to spot one of the wild black bears that inhabit the region.

Birdwatcher’s from throughout the world flock to Trevor’s Tank because it is a dream location and there are a lot of bird species. If you spend long enough there you could spot pigeons, peacocks and partridges, amongst the rich hills and thick forest.

Adhar Devi Temple of Mount Abu in Rajasthan, India

Situated in a cave, The Adhar Devi Temple is one of the popular religious themed tourist destinations in the Mount Abu region. It is situated three kilometers north of the main town of Mount Abu. The Adhar Devi Temple is reached by climbing up 365 stairs carved into the mountain. The temple itself is located inside a rocky cleave and is reached by crawling through a small opening into the cave.

The Adhar Devi Temple is dedicated to the Goddess Durga. It got its name because the legend has it that "Adhar" of the Mataji (Goddess deity) fell here also it was believed that the image of the goddess could be found there hanging in mid air. As well as being a popular tourist destination, the Adhar Devi Temple is also a common destination for many religion pilgrimages The Adhar Devi temple receives most pilgrims during the 9 days of the holy Navratri season.

The Adhar Devi temple contains many beautiful statues, and those that make the effort to climb the stairs are rewarded with many picturesque views of the surrounding mountains and forests. The climb up to the Adhar Devi temple can be a difficult one so it is recommended that you wear appropriate clothing and footwear. You should not be turned off by this walk as the scenic views surrounding the temple and the wondrous beauty inside make this climb worth the effort.

Gaumukh Temple of Mount Abu in Rajasthan, India

The Mount Abu region of Rajasthan contains many beautiful and popular tourist destinations. If you are visiting there you must visit the Gaumukh Temple. If you do take the opportunity to visit the Gaumukh Temple and its beautiful surrounds, you can enjoy walking excursions, picnics as well as viewing the beautiful temple and its statues. The Gaumukh Temple is also popular for religious pilgrimages and meditation.

The Gaumukh Temple was built in its location as a dedication to Saint Vashishth. It is believed that Saint Vashishth performed a yagna there that created the four major Rajput clans. There is also a tank that you should visit- the Agni Kund. The Agni Kund is believed to be the site of a sacrificial fire which Saint Vashishth used to perform the yagni from which the four clans were born.

The cow is considered a sacred animal by those who make religious pilgrimages to the Gaumukh Temple and nearby the temple you will find a spring that is believed to have emerged from the mouth of a rock that is shaped similar to a cows head.  Down on the Abu Road side of Mount Abu, a small stream flows from the mouth of a marble cow, giving the shrine its name. There is also a marble figure of the bull Nandi, Shiva's vehicle. The tank here, Agni Kund, is said to be the site of the sacrificial fire, made by sage Vashistha, from which four of the great Rajput clans were born. An image of Vashishtha is flanked by the figures of Rama and Krishna.

If you are a visitor to the Mount Abu region and you wish to experience some of the local religious culture, you must visit the Gaumukh Temple. Once only popular for Ancient sages and saints to meditate at, the Gaumukh Temple is now a popular tourist destination. The Gaumukh Temple is located around 5 kilometers from the Hanuman Temple situated in a wild valley that is reached by climbing down over 700 steps. The area is covered with very think forest cover and visiting the place after dark & rainy season is not recommended without proper information and local guidance, you should plan for a full day trip to Gaumukh if you want to enjoy the beauty and nature of this place.
                                
General Tips:
Shoes and all leather articles should be left at the entrance of the temple.

Temples of Mount Abu in Rajasthan, India

The mountain is also home to several Hindu temples, including the Adhar Devi Temple, carved out of solid rock; the Shri Raghunathji Temple; and a shrine and temple to Dattatreya built atop the Guru Shikhar peak. The world headquarters of the Brahma Kumari order of lady renunciates is also located here, as is the World Spiritual University of the same denomination. The Adhar Devi temple, about 3km north of town, is chiseled out of a huge rock reached by a flight of 365 steps. You have to stoop to get through the low entrance of the temple. It is a favorite tourist spot. There is also believed to be a footprint of Vishnu on top of Mount Abu.

This is a little-known temple, dating back to 961 AD with images of Durga and many other female divinities. Ambika, a form of the Hindu mother goddess, is the principal image in the shrine and worshipped as Shakti, a primeval source of energy. She is associated with Durga through her lion mount and is connected to the Jains through a vision advising Vimala about building his Adinath temple at Mount Abu. The Durga temple, Ambika Mata Temple lies in a cleft of rock in Jagat, just outside of Mount Abu. Ambika Mata Temple is a Hindu temple to the goddess Durga located in a cleft of rock in the village of Jagat about 50 km southeast of Udaipur in the state of Rajasthan in India.

The many fine sculptures have been excellently preserved. Exquisite details appear high on the exterior walls of the temple, above larger sculptures of gods or goddesses, with musicians, dancers, and singers of the heavenly court, as well as countless beautiful women. The richess and arrrangement of the carving often has a curling vegetal motif.

The theme is of a mountain palace, a heavenly abode of the gods. The tower is covered with intricate motifs, including clouds, and is surrounded by small shikhara towers which echo the surrounding mountain peaks. The architecture of the mountain palace, as the heavenly abode of the gods, echoes the temple which is their earthly residence.

Situated near the ‘Nakki’ lake is the temple dedicated to Shri Raghunathji with a beautiful image of the deity that was placed here in 14th century A.D. by Shri Ramanand the famous Hindu preacher.

Museum & Art Gallery of Mount Abu in Rajasthan, India

The museum is divided into two sections. The first section has been adorned by a diorama of local tribal hut with their usual living style by adding a gallery of weapons, musical instruments, ladies ornaments like barly, damani, karna, guthma toda, gaga wala thoomar, kanksi berla, various type of earrings and garments etc. belonging to hill dwellers. The second section has a series of miniature paintings based on raga-ragnis, lain images from Sirohi, medium sized shields, a small canon called 'Topdi' and some pieces of carvings on local wood.

The notable collection of this museum, are the finely carved out statues of Devdasi or Nartakis (Dancer) ranging from 6th century A.D. to 12th century A.D. procured from an ancient township called Chandravati, 7 kms away from Abu. There is an image of the Chakrabahu Shiva having a trishul in one hand and a khadag in the other and sitting on Nandi, the bull. On each side of Shiva are dancing girls.

In the Abu collection consisting of 404 sculptures, the most distinctive exhibit is the Vish Kanya (snake goddess) which is 3 feet high. It is shown breast-feeding a snake. The figures are well executed and the attitudes are impressive and natural. It also has the Surya (8th century A.D.) found in Achalgarh, the Shiva (10th century A.D.) brought from Dilwara temple. The Chanvar Vahini and Laxmi (12th century A.D.) are also from Chandravati and the Chanmunda (8th century A. D.). The Sculpture Gallery has some memorial inscriptions collected from nearby areas e.g. Chapa's inscription, (local heroine of Achalgarh).

Viewpoints of Mount Abu in Rajasthan, India

Of the various points around the town, Sunset Point, 1.5 km from the tourist office of Mount Abu, is the most popular. Hoards stroll out here every evening to catch the setting sun, the food stalls and all the usual entertainment. Is is a one kilometer walk from the road to the viewpoint or you can hire a horse.

Honeymoon Point, 2.5 kms northwest on Ganesh Road, also known as Andra Point, offers an enchanting view of the verdant plains and valleys. The place looks most beautiful during the dusk hours. The route to Honeymoon Point goes past the Nakki Lake. Other popular viewpoints include the Crags and the Shanti shikhar. Shanti Sikhar, west of Adhar Devi temple, presents panoramic views.

Gardens & Parks of Mount Abu in Rajasthan, India

Beautifully laid parks and gardens are interspersed throughout the hilly paradise. Ashok Vatika, Gandhi park, Municipal Park, Shaitan Singh Park and Terrace Garden are some of the noteworthy gardens.

Another park, the Brahma Kumaris Peace Park is both lovely and serene, It is the realisation of a dream, a natural environment where silence and recreation co-exist, The Peace Park is nestled between two famous peaks of the Aravalli hills - the well known spiritual pilgrimage destinations of Guru Shikhar and Achal Garh. The Park Is an oasis of natural beauty found only 8 kms from the Brahma Kumaris Headquarters in Mount Abu.

Summer Festival of Mount Abu in Rajasthan, India

Mount Abu is a major pilgrim tourist center located near Udaipur in south-west of the state of Rajasthan in India and also happens to be the only Hill Station of Rajasthan. This beautiful paradise comes alive with festivities every summer in the Hindu month of Aashadh (May – June). The summer festival of Mt.Abu is held every year during Buddha Poornima in the month of May or June. The festival celebrates the warmth and cheerfulness of the people of hill station, their colorful life and vivacious nature, who welcome the tourist from the depth of their hearts. The steep rocks, tranquil lakes, picturesque locations and the pleasant climate of Mount Abu make it an ideal location for the festival. The festival goes on for three-day and showcases the traditions, culture and the tribal life of Rajasthan. The hospitality of the people, their colorful culture and exotic location made this festival a never to be forgotten experience.

Folk dances and a general atmosphere of gaiety prevail in this tiny hill resort and the tourists have ample time to relax and enjoy. The festival is a feast of folk and classical music and a window to the tribal life and culture of Rajasthan. The Summer Festival features dance forms like the ballads, Gair, Ghoomar and Daph folk dances, which enchant the spectators with their grace and variety. The hospitality of the people, their lively culture and exotic location make this festival a memorable experience during your tours to Rajasthan. This festival is one of the most popular fairs and festivals of Rajasthan.

The festival begins with a ceremonial procession, which starts from the RTDC Hotel Shikhar and gather at the Nakki Lake Chowk followed by folk performances from artists of Rajasthan and Gujarat states. The grand finale of the Festival is a display of dazzling fire works all three days. This three day colourful festival is organized by the Rajasthan Tourism, Municipal Board, Mt.Abu & District Administration.

Festivities of the Summer Festival of Mount Abu in Rajasthan, India

Mount Abu Summer festival commences with the singing of a ballad which is followed by folk dances which mesmerize the spectators. Exciting boat race is organized on the Nakki Lake that adds variety to the festival. The Rowing Competition at the Nakki Lake enjoys extreme respect and belief within the locals due to the legend attached to the Nakki Lake according to which it is believed that the Gods formed the lake-bed by digging it with their fingernails (called nakh in Hindi language) hence the name Nakki Lake. The second and third day of the festival is more attractive as various competitions are organized for the whole day. Skating Race, skater's Show, CRPF Band Show, Boat Race, Horse Race, Tug of War, Panihari Matka Race and Deepdan add more enthusiasm to the festival.

Festivities start from the morning hours so it’s a good idea to grab a cup of tea and a seat at one of the sidewalk cafes for breakfast as these talented locals entertain the morning crowd. Around lunchtime teams of locals and tourists participate in boat races along the splendid Nakki Lake. Selected streets are cordoned off for roller skating races (skates can be rented for less than $1) that catapult you past the food vendors and street performers and into the warm afternoon breeze.

As evening approaches the outdoor Sham-e-Qawwali Indian music extravaganza takes over the town center. The famous Qawwals or high pitch singers from all over the state come to perform here and captivate the audience with their vocal skills.   The grand finale of the summer festival of Mount Abu is a display of dazzling fireworks which catches the fancy of every tourist.
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Location and Transport of Mount Abu in Rajasthan, India

Mount Abu is the only Hill Station of Rajasthan located near Udaipur in South West of the state of Rajasthan in India.Udaipur (185 kms.) is the nearest airport. Abu Road (29 kms.) is the nearest railway station. Taxis and buses are available from both the airport and the railway station. There is also a good network of bus services connecting Mount Abu to important places like Ahmedabad, Udaipur, Jodhpur, and Jaipur.

By Air
Udaipur is the nearest airport to Mount Abu, 185 km away. Tourists can easily opt for various road transport facilities available at the airport for reaching Mount Abu. A number of domestic airlines have their scheduled flight to Udaipur, which connect the city to the major cities in the country.

By Road
Mount Abu is well-connected by roads, as it is in close proximity to National Highway No 8 and 14. A small roadway connects the city to National Highway no 8, which in turn connects it to major cities like Jodhpur and Delhi. There is also a good network of roads making it accessible to other important places in the state. With good road conditions you can also travel by private car/taxi.
Distance: Jodhpur (326 km), Udaipur (185 km), Ahmedabad (221 km)

By Train
The railway station at Abu Road is a two-hour drive from Mount Abu and is well-connected to the rest of the country through a number of trains. It is a major stoppage for a number of important long-distance trains of the Western and Northern Railways.

Facts of Mount Abu in Rajasthan, India

As of 2001 India census, Mount Abu had a population of 22,045. Males constitute 58% of the population and females 42%. Mount Abu has an average literacy rate of 67%, higher than the national average of 59.5%: male literacy is 77%, and female literacy is 55%. In Mount Abu, 14% of the population is under 6 years of age.

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.

Mount Abu Weather
In Summer: 33.8 C (Max) - 23.3 C (Min)
In winter: 20.3 C (Max) - 0 C (Min)
Rainy Season : from July to Mid Sept, and very humid (Upton 90%)

STD Code: 02974
Population: .018 millions
Area: 25 sq km.
Language: Hindi, English & Rajasthani
Altitude: 1219 metres
Clothing: Summer light tropical (cotton) for summer & Light woolen for winter