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MOUNT ABU
Mount Abu is the lone Hill station in Rajasthan, this scenic hill station serves as a green haven in the barren deserts of Rajasthan. Positioned at the southern tip of the Aravali range the hill retreat owes its fresh cool climate to its rich vegetation covering the entire hillside that includes trees and flowering shrubs. . There are interesting treks and picnic spots, royal retreats of the various families of the bygone Rajputana and some remnants of the Raj period.
It is built around a lake and is surrounded by woody hills. Legend has it that the place derives its name from Arbuda, a serpent which descended to the spot to rescue Lord Shiva’s bull, Nandi. Besides having all the characteristics of a pleasant and enjoyable hill resort, Mount Abu is also well known for the famous Dilwara temples and several archaeological remains.
Places of Interest
Gaumukh Temple
A natural spring flowing all the way through a sculpted cow’s head gives the shrine its name. The famed ‘yagna’ of sage Vashishtha was performed here. A magnificently sculpted hill temple of Arbuada-the mighty serpent stands against the beautiful backdrop. Nearby is the outstanding marble image of Nandi, the celestial bull rescued by Arbuada.
Delwara Jain Temple
These beautifully carved temples built between 11th and 13th century A.D. are utter elegance and grace in marble, dedicated to the jain Tirthankaras. The Vimal Vasahi temple is the oldest of these dedicated to the initial Tirthankara. Built in 1031 A.D. (by Vimal Shah-a merchant and representative of the then Gujarat ruler), it is a superb illustration of temple architecture. The central shrine has an reflection of Rishabhdev and a large courtyard with 52 small shrines, each home to a beautiful statue of thirthankaras with 48 elegant and classy carved pillars form the entrance to the courtyard. The Lun Vasahi Temple, dedicated to the 22nd Tirthankaras-Neminath, was built in 1231 A.D. by two brothers-Vastupal and Tejpal, both Ministers of Raja Vir Dhawal, a ruler of Gujarat-belonging to the Porwal Jain community. With door casings, pillars, and sculptures on entrances, the temple is a fine example of great craftsmanship.
Adhar Devi Temple
The temple is chiseled out of an enormous rock reached by a flight of 360 stairs. A preferred tourist spot.
Sunset Point
Spectacular sight of the setting sun while the hills are covered in the golden glow can be viewed from here.
Honeymoon Point
Also known as Andra Point, it provides an enchanting view of the lush green plains and valleys. The place looks most beautiful during the early evening hours.
Shri Raghunathji Temple
Situated near the ‘Nakki’ lake is the temple dedicated to Shri Raghunathji with a stunning image of the deity that was placed here in 14th century A.D. by Shri Ramanand the famous Hindu preacher.
Gardens and Parks
Beautifully laid parks and gardens spread throughout this hilly delight. Ashok Vatika, Gandhi park, Municipal Park, Shaitan Singh Park and Terrace Garden are some of the noteworthy gardens.
Guru Shikhar (Highest peak)
Guru Shikhar, the highest peak of Mount Abu, is also probably the most beautiful. There is a certain sense of serenity about the temple built atop this peak. The temple might just been out of a fairy tale, with only a tiny portion in pink sticking out of an otherwise plain white chalk building.
General Information
Altitude: 1219 mt above sea level.
Best Time to Visit : Feb-June , Sept to Dec.
Travel Info
By Rail: There are direct trains to Abu Road Station (27 km away from Mount Abu) from Delhi, Jodhpur and Agra. A fast train takes four hours between Ahmedabad in Gujarat and Abu Road.
By Road: Regular buses connect Abu Road to Mount Abu. The trip takes about an hour. Taxis and jeeps are also available.