Mount Abu: Rajasthan’s Oasis of Serenity and Adventure

Introduction

In the heart of the arid desert state of Rajasthan, Mount Abu emerges like an emerald jewel, offering a cool and tranquil escape from the otherwise scorching landscape. Standing proudly at an altitude of 1722 meters above sea level, Mount Abu is the state’s only hill station. Draped in lush green forests, interspersed with cascading waterfalls, serene lakes, and ancient architectural marvels, Mount Abu is not just a preferred leisure destination but a cultural and historical treasure trove.
This picturesque retreat, nestled within the Aravalli Range, blends the simplicity of tribal abodes with opulent British-era bungalows and regal holiday lodges. It’s a mesmerizing contrast that fascinates travelers and nature lovers alike, drawing visitors all year round.

A Brush with History and Mythology

  • Referred to as "Arbudaranya" or "the forest of Arbhuda" in the Puranas
  • Legend of serpent Arbhuda saving Lord Shiva’s bull, Nandi
  • Sage Vashistha’s yajna and the emergence of Agnivanshi Rajputs
  • Historical association with Gurjara community

Top Places to Visit in Mount Abu

Nakki Lake – India’s First Man-Made Lake

  • Set in the Aravalli hills of Mount Abu, Nakki Lake, or Nakki Jheel, is a peaceful spot for nature lovers.
  • Scenic lake cradled by hills and legends.
  • Immersion site of Mahatma Gandhi’s ashes on 12 Feb 1948.
  • It is also considered the Love Lake of Mount Abu as the clear blue waters, surrounded by lush greenery, create a charming and romantic atmosphere.
  • Popular for boat rides and sunset views.
  • Nearby Toad Rock provides excellent photo opportunities.
  • Best time to explore it is during monsoons and winters.
  • Summers are comparatively hot in Mount Abu. Therefore, it is better to avoid visiting between March-June.
  • It is better to visit Nakki Lake in the morning as the spot often becomes quite busy during the evening hours.

Guru Shikhar – The Peak of Serenity

  • Highest point in the Aravalli Range.
  • Temple of Guru Dattatreya at the summit.
  • Breathtaking sunrise and panoramic views.
  • Visiting in October and November offers a cooler ambiance with cloudy skies and a misty charm.
  • Once the road ends, the steps leading to the peak are uneven, so take extra care if you're traveling with elderly people or children.
  • Wear comfortable, non-slip footwear as some parts of the hike are slightly steep, though overall, it's an easy climb.
  • Guru Shikhar Peak is located 15 kilometers from Mount Abu and is easily accessible by hiring a cab. From there, a short climb of about 300 steps takes you to the summit. Two-wheelers are also available for rent for those who prefer a more flexible journey.

Dilwara Jain Temples – Architectural Perfection

  • Built between the 11th and 13th centuries.
  • Cluster of five temples carved from white marble:
    1. Vimal Vasahi Temple
    2. Luna Vasahi Temple
    3. Pittalhar Temple
    4. Parshwanatha Temple
    5. Mahavir Swami Temple
  • Renowned for intricate carvings and architectural brilliance.
  • Bathing before puja is mandatory; facilities are provided inside the Dilwara Temples.
  • Cameras, phones, and belts are prohibited; lockers are available for belongings.
  • Women must avoid skirts/shorts above the knees; men should avoid wearing shorts.
  • Free guides are available inside, so no need to hire one externally.
  • The Dilwara Temple is 2.5 km from Mount Abu, accessible by car via Delwara or Pilgrim Road, with taxis and auto-rickshaws available; the nearest airport is in Udaipur, 170 km away.

Achalgarh Fort and Achaleshwar Mahadev Temple

  • Fort built by the Paramara dynasty, reinforced by Maharana Kumbha.
  • Temple enshrines naturally occurring Shiva linga and toe print of Lord Shiva.

Toad Rock View Point

  • Iconic rock formation shaped like a toad.
  • Overlooks Nakki Lake and surrounding landscape.
  • Ideal for photography and sightseeing.

Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary

  • Spans 288 square kilometers.
  • Home to Indian leopards, hyenas, foxes, and pangolins.
  • Bird watchers' paradise with exotic species.
  • Mount Abu's flora includes a rich variety of plants, such as 81 tree species, 89 shrub species, medicinal herbs, orchids, and bamboo forests, particularly in the southwestern part of the sanctuary.
  • The sanctuary's fauna includes endangered species like hyenas, jackals, and sloth bears, with over 250 bird species, and historical evidence of lions, last seen in 1970.
  • Visitors should avoid feeding animals to protect their diets, refrain from polluting the area as it is home to many species, wear comfortable clothing for easy exploration, and not carry plastic on the premises.

Peace Park – A Haven of Tranquility

  • Managed by the Brahma Kumaris.
  • Beautiful gardens, meditation areas, and rock gardens.
  • Guided tours and meditation sessions.

Trevor’s Tank – Crocodile Breeding Spot

  • Man-made crocodile park.
  • Lush greenery, birdwatching, and picnic spot.

Mount Abu Honeymoon Point

  • Honeymoon Point is named for two rocks resembling a man and woman.
  • It is popular among couples and photographers for its scenic views and romantic ambiance.
  • A proposed ropeway from Bheru Taraknath Temple to Honeymoon Point is yet to be implemented.
  • Foot journeys to the point offer a memorable and rewarding experience.

Experiencing Mount Abu’s Unique Cuisine

  • Traditional Rajasthani Thali – Dal baati churma, gatte ki sabzi.
  • Street Food – Pav bhaji, samosas near Nakki Lake.
  • Desserts – Rabri and kesar kulfi.

Adventure and Outdoor Activities



  • Trekking – Trails to Guru Shikhar and Achalgarh.
  • Rock Climbing and Rappelling.
  • Nature Walks – Explore surrounding forests and hills.

Best Time to Visit Mount Abu

  • November to March – Pleasant weather for sightseeing.
  • Monsoon (July to September) – Lush greenery and romantic ambiance.

Getting There

  • By Air – Maharana Pratap Airport, Udaipur (176 km away).
  • By Train – Mount Abu Road railway station (28 km away).
  • By Road – Well-connected to major cities by bus and car.

Mount Abu beckons travelers seeking a blend of natural beauty, historical splendor, and spiritual solace. Pack your bags and let the magic of Rajasthan’s only hill station enchant you.

The places to visit in Mount Abu offer a range of experiences, from serene lakes and sacred temples to panoramic peaks and lush wildlife sanctuaries. Whether you're looking for relaxation or adventure, the places to visit in Mount Abu cater to every type of traveler. These stunning spots, including Nakki Lake, Guru Shikhar, and the Dilwara Jain Temples, are just a few of the must-see places to visit in Mount Abu. Don't miss the opportunity to explore this beautiful hill station, full of historical significance and natural wonders.