Mount Abu, in the desert state of Rajasthan in India, is an oasis and a great retreat on the highest peak of the range named the Aravalli. More importantly, it is the single hill station in the state, which is located at an altitude of 1220 m. On this rocky plateau, you can definitely expect all time cool climate, great flora, and the eye captivating hillside sceneries. And yes, there is no dearth of waterfalls, lakes, and verdant forests. In fact, the road to Mount Abu itself is unique where the tall and unusual rocks meander with the edges and winds of high velocity pass through it. So, I am sure that you are going to enjoy the varied tourist attractions in Mount Abu.
If you are a first time seer, then one of the must see tourist attractions in Mount Abu is the sculpted Gaumukh Temple. This is the shrine on the hill dedicated Arbuada. As per the legend, Arbuada is a serpent who protected the life of the celestial cow called Nandi whose magnificent portray of marble can be also seen here. Look for a natural spring that emerges from a carved head of the cow. Religiously, the legend reveals that sage Vasishtha did his ‘yagna (offering to the fire pit)’ here in order to protect the planet.
The Dilwara Jain Temples is among the most awaited tourist attractions in Mount Abu. You will be proud to explore the amazing array of great sculpted temples made in 11th and 13th centuries from marble. These temples are dedicated to the Jain Tirthankars (apostles). They are just structurally unmatchable. Of these, just do not miss to visit the most ancient Vimal Vasahi temple where the first Tirthankara who was Lord Rishabdev resides.
The Nakki Lake is among the top tourist attractions in Mount Abu. Its name means nails and it is so called because the celestial gods in the prehistoric times had made this lake by digging with their nails. Currently, the tourists throng this area for the scenic vistas via boating. These views are of the Toad Rock (rock in toad’s shape), the Maharaja Jaipur Palace perched above a hill, and the Raghunath temple.
Shri Raghunathji Temple is accessible from the lake, which is devoted to Shree Ram, the hero of Ramayana. His appealing idol is placed here since the 14th century. Some more temples are worth a visit. One of them is the Dattatreya Temple wherein the idol of Lord Dattatreya resides. He is the god bearing three faces – one of Lord Brahma, another of Lord Vishnu, and the remaining one of Lord Shiva. This shrine is on the Guru Shikhar peak located at a distance of 15 km. It is the highest peak residing at the height of 1722 m and is also a popular tourist sight to have some picturesque views of the surroundings. There also some Shaivite shrines here.
Besides the Dilwara temples, one of the most adored tourist attractions in Mount Abu is the Durga and Ambika Mata Temple. The temple is the most visited shrine by the locals and tourists alike. It is devoted to Mother Durga who is the supreme form of power in this universe and Mother Amba, an incarnation of Mother Durga). One more most loved temple is the Adhar Devi Temple situated at an altitude of 360 stairs. Stunningly, it is sculpted from a sole rock. Walk the footsteps of Lord Vishnu by visiting the Vishnu Footprint. It is said that the Lord once walked here.
Talking about the points here, the Sunset Point is must a visit for a great view of the sunset in between the shimmering glow decorating the adjacent hills. Next, the Andra Point offers a magnificent scenic view of the hill station’s valleys and plains. It is suggested to come here at sunset to enjoy a more appealing vista.
Gardens and parks are just awesome here because of which this retreat can be called as a heaven on Earth. So, make a visit to the Ashok Vatika, Terrace Garden, Gandhi Park, Shaitan Singh Park, and the Municipal Park.
The Museum and Art Gallery at the Raj Bhavan is where you can discover an array of archaeological findings that date to the period of 8th to 12th centuries. Check out for the bronze brass works that are one of the best instances of the Jain architecture.
Are you interested in awakening your soul? Well, then the great Brahma Kumaris’ World Headquarters is here, which is run by the nuns. It is a well recognized global Spiritual University.
Trevor’s Tank at a distance of 5 km is a tourist point where one can easily spot birds pulsating the dense hills. So, come here to hear the sounds of peacocks, pigeons, and partridges. Thinking about the name of this place? Well, it is the name of the British engineer who made this sight.
Achalgarh at a distance of 8 km is where you can marvel at the fort of the 14th century. Accessible by a vehicular road, the sight is the home of many architectural Hindu and Jain shrines. The most famous one are the Achaleswar Mahadev (Lord Shiva) temple of 1412 and the Jain shrine of Kantinath of 1513.