Mount Abu is the only hill station in the desert state of Rajasthan. Mount Abu powwows amongst the 1220 meters high rocky granite mountains at the southwestern corner of the Aravalli hills. A serene lake rests in the heart of the hill town surrounded by hilly forest. Mount Abu is famous amongst travelers for its peaceful settings, famous temples and several historical remains. You can also enjoy several interesting picnic points, trekking trips and royal retreats. This hill station is situated in the Sirohi district of Rajasthan.
Places to see in Mount Abu:
1. Dilwara Temple: This temple complex comprises of 5 Jain temples in pure marble. These temples were built somewhere around the eleventh and thirteenth century. These temples are devoted to the Jain pilgrims. Out of these five temples the Vimal Vasahi temple is the first temple that was built here by Vimal Shah, a tradesman and spokesperson of the then leader of Gujarat. It is simply magnificent, the carvings are breathtaking. But be prepared to face long queues.
2. Gaumukh Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Rama. It houses a small spring spouting from the cow mouth made of marble. It is at a distance of four kilometers from Mount Abu in the south direction.
3. Mount Abu Museum: Established in 1962 inside the Raj Bhawan.
4. Mandakini Kund
5. Toadrock: A huge rock formation in the shape of a toad is a magnificent site. To reach the toadrock one has to climb several flights of steps.
6. Nakki Lake: The legend says that many gods dug up mud using their nails, and that is how the Nakki Lake came into existence. It is a lovely lake surrounded by tree covered hills all around. You can enjoy the full lake by taking a boat ride. Paddle boats and row boats are available for rent at optimum cost.
7. There are several view points across the hill station that offers simply astounding views.
8. Guru Shikhar: The highest peak of the Aravali hills stating tall at 1722 meters.
9. Achalgarh: This is a fort built by the Rana Kumbha, a ruler of Mewar around the fourteenth century. This fort also houses Jain temples in its complex called the Achaleswar Mahadev Temple and the Kantinath Temple.
How to reach:
By Air: The airport closest to this hill station is at Udaipur, Maharana Pratap Udaipur Airport. This airport is at a distance of 200 kilometers approximately. Cabs are available for hire from Udaipur to Mount Abu.
By Rail: The railway station closest to Mount Abu is on Abu Road about twenty-nine kilometers from the town. From Abu Road station one can easily hire a cab, jeep or a bus to reach Mount Abu.
By Road: It is at a distance of 156 kilometers from Udaipur. Ahmedabad is also one of the closest metropolitan city at a distance of 222 kilometers via Palanpur.
Local transportation
Cabs are available on hire to explore various tourist attractions in and around Mount Abu. You can also rent a motorcycle on per day basis to explore the city on your own.
Climate
Best months to visit Mount Abu are from April to June and October to November.
Adventures
There are several excursion outings that you can plan while in Mount Abu. Guides are available for taking you on excursion trips.
