This picturesque hill-station is also a place holing immense mythological glory is situated amidst forests rich in flora and fauna. This charming place with a pleasant atmosphere is a plateau lying at the attitude of 1220 m, and is rich in vegetation. While driving uphill to Mount Abu, you will come across a range of huge smooth rocks with weird shapes, due to its waning by high velocity winds.

According to the legends, Abu stands for the son of Himalaya. Mount Abu served as retreat to many sages and seers including the famous sage Vashistha. Mount Abu which is a jain pilgrim centre was earlier dedicated to Lord Shiva. The magnificent Dilwara temple is the greatest attraction of Abu.

Prime Attractions of Mount Abu

» Nakki Lake
In the heart of the town, at one end of the Mall is Nakki Lake, which has an interesting history. It is said that it was drawn by the finger nails (nakk) of a sage, Balam Rasia, in response to the demands of the stepmother of the girl he wished to marry. The girl, a princess, and a daughter of the then King of Abu, was also in love with the sage, but because of the evil stepmother the affair ended in tragedy, and has been immortalized in a temple of the Kunwari Kanya, alongside which stands a statue of her lover.

The lake too, has survived to tell the tale. Picturesquely set, with the hills rising all around it, the lake has several islets to which you can hire boats. An interesting facet is the many rock formations around the lake. They have been named Toad Rock, Nun Rock, Nandi Rock and Camel Rock because of their resemblance to these figures. The road appears to be looking broodingly down towards the lake, as if contemplating jumping in. Nun Rock is a large smooth rock, as it supposedly looks a woman with a veil. The climb up to these rocks, through the wooded forests is a beautiful one, with each of the rocks on the way making unique formations, fissures and shapes.

» Dilwara Jain Temples
A visit to these temples is a mesmerizing experience. Built in the 11th and 13th centuries, the architectural wonders in translucent white marble is excellent. These temples are famous for their rich, intricate marble carvings. The temple Vimal Vasahi, which is the oldest of these Jain temples, was built in 1031 A.D. by Vimal Shah. This temple situated in the village of Dilwara, depicts Gurjar-Pratitar temple architecture, made up of a central shrine, a room with a transept, a large colonnaded area, and an ambulatory lined by 52 small shrines, each housing a statue.

» Gaumukh Temple
A natural spring flowing through a sculpted cow’s head gives the shrine its name.The famous ‘yagna’ of sage Vashishtha was performed 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.

» Honeymoon Point
This point provides an enchanting view of the lush green valley and plains. The view of this place looks spectacular especially during the sunset.

» Sunset Point
This serene place offers an amazing view of the crimson colours of dusk kissing lush plains on the horizon.

» Trevor's Tank
The densely wooded hills around this place have an abundance of pheasants, peacocks and partridges. This place is best for bird-lovers.

Shopping in Mount Abu

Curios in marble, sandalwood and sandstone can be bought from the shops around Nakki Lake. Kota saris, bangles and linen with Sanganeri prints are also available. For Rajasthani Handicrafts there is Rajasthali, Rajasthan Government Handicrafts Emporium and Khadi Bhandar.

Places to Stay in Mount Abu

A number of options, according to the budget allocation of the tourists, are available in Abu. The accommodation level ranges from a highly luxurious hotel to a dormitory. But rooms should be booked well in advance if willing to visit this exotic hill station during summer.

How to get there

» Air
Udaipur (185 km) is the nearest airport. Taxis and buses are available to reach Mount Abu.

» Rail
Abu Road (29 km) is the nearest railhead linked with Ahmedabad, Delhi, Jaipur and Jodhpur.

» Road
Abu is well connected with Udaipur (185 km), Ahmedabad (221 km) and Jodhpur (326 km).