Mount
Abu is a pleasant retreat set between the lush green forested hills in the
barren deserts cape of Rajasthan, India. Mount Abu is situated at an
altitude of 1220 meters above sea level. Mount Abu is around 180 km away
from Jodhpur and also well connected with other famous cities and towns of
Rajasthan. Mount Abu is well known for its cool climate and rich flora
dotted with coniferous trees and flowering shrubs. The route leading to
Mount Abu is a curved one, characterized by waterless region dotted with
huge rocks in curious shapes and high velocity winds.
The Most Popular Sights to Visit in Mount Abu
Gaumukh Temple
This is a natural spring flowing through a sculpted cow's head gives the
shrine its name. It is believed that, sage Vashishtha has performed a famous
'yagna' of here. A beautifully sculpted hill temple of Arbuada - the mighty
serpent stands against the beautiful backdrop. Nearby is the magnificent
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.
is pure elegance in marble, dedicated to the Jain Tirthankaras. Built in
1031 A.D, the Vimal Vasahi temple is the oldest of these dedicated to the
first Tirthankara. It is a superb example of temple architecture. The
central shrine has an image of Rishabhdev and large courtyard with 52 small
shrines, each featuring a beautiful statue of Thirthankaras with 48
beautifully carved pillars, forming 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, Ministers of Raja Vir Dhawal,
a ruler of Gujarat-belonging to the Porwal Jain community. With intricate
door casings, pillars and sculptures on porticos, the temple is a superb
specimen of craftsmanship.
Shri Raghunathji Temple
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.
Nakki Lake
Legend has that this small lake, was scooped out by a god using only his
nails (nakh).The lake is surrounded by hills, parks and strange rock
formations. Several Maharajas built lavish summer houses around the Nakki
Lake.
Adhar Devi Temple
Adhar Devi Temple is carved out of a huge rock reached by a flight of 360
stairs. This is a favorite tourist spot.
Museum and Art Gallery
Located at the Raj Bhawan, Museum and Art Gallery is a collection of
archaeological excavations dating back to 8th-12th century A.D. It also
exhibits Jain bronze carvings, brass works etc.
Viewpionts
There are many view points around Mount Abu. Most famous among them is the
Sunset point which provides a spectacular sight of the setting sun when the
hills are covered in the golden glow can be viewed from here. Other popular
spots include Honeymoon point, which also offers a view of sunset, the Crags
and the Shanti Shikhar.
Gardens and Parks
Beautifully decorated parks and gardens are spread throughout the hilly
paradise. Ashok Vatika, Gandhi park, Municipal Park, Shaitan Singh Park and
Terrace Garden are some of the noticeable gardens.
Shopping experience in Mount Abu
Shopping in Mount Abu is always a good experience for every one. Mount Abu
has market having variety of shops. Here one can find variety of Rajasthani
and Gujarati articles and handicrafts. If you are interested to buy marbles,
sandalwoods and sandstones then visit the shops around Nakki Lake. Some of
the famous items which one can buy from here are jewelry, fabrics, wooden
articles, gemstones, metal crafts, leather ware, Kota saris and apparels,
Rajasthani bangles and many more.
How to Approach Mount Abu
By Air : Udaipur is the nearest airport. Daily flight form Delhi,
Mumbai and Jaipur are available to Udaipur.
By Rail : Abu Road is the nearest railway station and is about 22
kms from Mount Abu. And well connected by Ahemdabad, Jaipur, Mumbai and
Jodhpur.
By Road : Rajasthan Roadways run very comfortable deluxe buses from
Jaipur and Abu Road to Maunt Abu. It is also connected by road to Delhi,
Udaipur, Ajmer, Bundi and Udaipur.
