Mount Abu

Is the highest peak in the Aravalli Range of Rajasthan state in western 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 is at 1722 meters above sea level. It is referred to as 'an oasis in the desert', as it is home to many rivers, lakes, waterfalls and evergreen forests.

The road leading to Mount Abu is a curved one dotted with huge rocks in weird shapes and some high velocity winds. The only hill station in Rajasthan, Mount Abu is more than just a summer retreat. Its Dilwara Jain Temples, dating back 11th- 13th centuries, make it a popular pilgrimage centre as well. It is highly visited destination in vacations.

Climate

Summers: Max: 34 degrees C; Min: 23 degrees C
Winters: Max: 28 degrees C; Min: 11 degrees C

Fair & Festivals

Navratri (next 19th to 21st October, 2007): Navratri is held in Bhinmal with pomp and show every year.

Summer Festival (next 18th to 20th May, 2008): The Summer festival takes place every year during the month of May on the Budh Poornima day.

How to reach

Air: The nearest airport is Udaipur (200km).

Train: Mount Abu is located on the broad gauge line between Delhi and Mumbai via Ahmedabad. Direct trains run to various destinations including Ajmeri , Jaipur , Jodhpur and Ahmedabad.

Road: Some buses go all the way to Mount Abu while some terminate at the Abu road. Convenient bus services are available from Ahmedabad, Ajmeri, Baroda, Jaipur , Jodhpur, Mumbai and Udaipur.

PLACES TO SEE

Dilwara Temples

No visit to the Mount Abu can be complete without a visit to the Dilwara Temples. These temples are the greatest draw for the tourists apart from the nice climate as well. The Dilwara Temples enshrines various Jain tirthankars. These temples were built between 11th century and 13th century.

Vimal Vaashi , the oldest temple, was built by Vimal Shah, minister of Solanki ruler in Gujarat in 1031 AD. This temple is dedicated to Adinath, the first of the Jain tirthankars. No visit to Mount Abu is complete without a visit to the magnificient Dilwara Temples.

The older of the temple, Vimal Vasahi is built and dedicated to the first tirthankar, Adinath. The shrine at the centre has an image of Adinath, each with a Buddha like cross-legged image. Forty eight elegantly carved pillars form the entrance to the courtyard of the temple. The 'House of Elephants' stands in front of the temple, with figures of elephants marching in procession to the temple entrance.

Nakki Lake

This beautiful lake is set amidst mountains, and is believed to be carved out by the Gods with their nails. It is a very popular spot, and is the only artificial lake that is situated at 1200m above sea level.

It is at the heart of Mount Abu and is a big attraction with the tourists as well. Legend has it that the lake was scooped out by a God, including his nails. While taking a stroll around the lake, look out for the strange rock formations.

Sunset Point

It provides a beautiful view of the setting sun in the azure sky between two mountains peaks. Steps lead to a high terrace, which offers a beautiful view of the setting sun.

Toad Rock

It is situated just on the side of the Nakki Lake. It is so called because of its likeliness of a giant tode about to leap into the water.

Gurushikhar

It is located 15 kms from Mount Abu. Rising 1800 meters above sea level, the Gurushikhar peak allows the visitor to look around at the vistas, with Mount Abu towering over its surroundings. “Dattareya Temple” stands on the Gurushikhar peak

HOTELS

Heritage Hotels

• Palace Heritage.
  
• Connaught Palace. .
  
• Cama Rajputana.

Budget Hotels:

• Lake Palace View.

 

Content Copyright © Ricardo Fernan 2007, All Rights Reserved