Mount Abu: Rajasthan’s Hidden Hill Station Paradise

 

Mount Abu, the only hill station in the desert state of Rajasthan, offers a cool retreat amidst the heat of the surrounding plains. Nestled in the Aravalli Hills near the Gujarat-Rajasthan border, Mount Abu stands at an elevation of about 1,220 meters (4,003 feet) and is known for its scenic beauty, lush green forests, serene lakes, and ancient temples.

The town is a mix of natural charm and spiritual ambiance. Its centerpiece is Nakki Lake, surrounded by hills and parks, where visitors can enjoy boat rides and sunsets. Near the lake, the Toad Rock viewpoint offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding valley.

Mount Abu is also a prominent spiritual center. It is home to the famous Dilwara Temples, an architectural marvel of white marble built between the 11th and 13th centuries. These Jain temples are renowned for their detailed carvings and are considered among the finest temple architecture in India.

The town also features the Brahma Kumaris World Spiritual University, which attracts thousands of spiritual seekers from across the globe. The peaceful atmosphere and well-maintained campus make it a place of calm reflection.

For nature lovers, Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary offers a chance to explore Rajasthan’s flora and fauna, including leopards, sloth bears, langurs, and over 250 bird species. The sanctuary is especially beautiful during the monsoon season when the forests come alive.

Besides its religious and natural attractions, Mount Abu also offers a vibrant local market, delicious Rajasthani cuisine, and cozy resorts that cater to both luxury and budget travelers. It's a great destination for families, honeymooners, and solo adventurers alike.

Whether you're seeking peace in the temples, adventure in the hills, or romance by the lake, Mount Abu provides a unique and refreshing experience in the heart of Rajasthan.

History of Mount Abu

Mount Abu has a rich and ancient history that spans mythology, religion, and royal rule. According to Hindu mythology, Mount Abu was known as Arbuda, named after the serpent god Arbuda, who is said to have saved the life of Nandi (Lord Shiva’s bull). As per legends, the sage Vashistha retired here and created four Agnikul Rajput clans by performing a fire sacrifice on this mountain.

The region has long been considered sacred and has been a place of pilgrimage for Hindus and Jains alike. In particular, the Dilwara Temples, built by Jain ministers of the Solanki dynasty between the 11th and 13th centuries, signify the importance of the area in Jainism. The intricate carvings in these temples are unmatched and display the zenith of temple craftsmanship.

During the medieval period, Mount Abu was ruled by local Rajput clans. The Chaulukyas (Solankis) of Gujarat also played a role in its development, and their influence is evident in the temple architecture and inscriptions found here.

In the British era, Mount Abu became the summer capital of the Rajputana Agency due to its cool climate and natural beauty. The British developed it as a hill station and built bungalows, churches, and offices, many of which still exist today. This colonial charm adds to the town’s diverse heritage.

Today, Mount Abu remains a blend of spirituality, history, and nature, making it a unique and historically rich destination in Rajasthan.

Nearby Tourist Places in Mount Abu

1. Nakki Lake

Nakki Lake is the heart of Mount Abu, surrounded by hills, trees, and walking paths. It's ideal for boating and offers a peaceful retreat. Legends say gods dug the lake using their nails (nakh), giving it its name. Evening walks and sunset views here are a favorite among tourists and honeymooners.

2. Dilwara Temples

These Jain temples are architectural masterpieces carved from white marble. Built between the 11th and 13th centuries, the temples are known for their detailed artwork and unmatched carvings. Despite being centuries old, the craftsmanship still appears modern. It's one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Jains worldwide.

3. Guru Shikhar

Guru Shikhar is the highest peak in the Aravalli Range, standing at 1,722 meters above sea level. It offers breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Abu and the surrounding plains. The site also hosts a temple dedicated to Guru Dattatreya. It’s perfect for photography, trekking, and spiritual visits.

4. Achalgarh Fort

Achalgarh Fort is a historic fort built by the Paramara dynasty and later renovated by Rana Kumbha in the 15th century. Inside the fort lies the Achaleshwar Mahadev Temple and several Jain temples. The fort offers an impressive view of the surrounding hills and holds great religious importance.

5. Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary

This sanctuary spans over 288 square kilometers and houses leopards, hyenas, wild boars, and hundreds of bird species. It’s also rich in medicinal plants and rare orchids. A visit here offers nature walks, bird watching, and a chance to explore Rajasthan’s only hill station forest ecosystem.

6. Sunset Point

Located on the southwestern end of Mount Abu, Sunset Point offers spectacular views of the sun dipping behind the hills. It's a popular spot for evening relaxation and photography. The area becomes lively with local vendors and tourists every evening, making it a must-visit viewpoint.

7. Toad Rock

Toad Rock is a massive rock formation that resembles a toad about to jump into Nakki Lake. It is a popular photo spot and can be climbed for panoramic views of the lake and hills. Kids and adventure lovers particularly enjoy the short climb to the top.

8. Brahma Kumaris Ashram

Mount Abu is the spiritual headquarters of the Brahma Kumaris. The ashram offers meditation sessions, lectures, and peaceful gardens. It attracts people from all over the world seeking mental peace and spiritual development. The serene environment makes it a refreshing place to unwind.

9. Trevor’s Tank

Trevor’s Tank is a man-made crocodile breeding spot and a scenic picnic area surrounded by forest. It’s a paradise for bird watchers and nature lovers. The area is calm, cool, and perfect for spending a few relaxing hours with family or in solitude.

 How to Reach Mount Abu

By Train :

Mount Abu’s nearest railway station is Abu Road, located 27 km away. It’s well-connected to major cities. From there, taxis, jeeps, or buses take around 45 minutes uphill to Mount Abu.

By Air :

The closest airport is in Udaipur, about 175 km away. From Udaipur, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Mount Abu in around 3.5 to 4 hours.

By Road :

Mount Abu is well-connected by national highways to cities like Udaipur, Ahmedabad, and Jaipur. You can travel by private car, taxi, or take regular government and private luxury buses.