Mount Abu Important information

Mount Abu

Mount Abu

Mount Abu, nestled amidst lush forested hills of Aravalli's is the only hill station of Rajasthan and is equally important for pleasure seekers and devoted pilgrims. It is said to be named after serpent Arbuda (Abu in short), the son of Himalayas, who came here to rescue Nandi, the wahan (Mount) of Lord Shiva.

Tourist Acctration in Mount Abu

• Dilwara Jain Temple
• NakkiLake
• Toad Rock
• Temple of Raghunathji:
• Gau Mukh Temple
• Sunset Point
• Honeymoon Point
• Om Shanti Bhawan or Universal Peace Hall:
• Adhar Devi or Arbuda Devi Temple
• Government Museum & Art Gallery
• Mount Abu Sanctuary
• Trevor's Tank

Dilwara Jain Temple (3 km.) : Delightful Dilwara (Devalwara) or the 'Place of Temples' is the major attraction of Mount Abu. The world renowned temples are noted for excellent architecture and exquisite carvings. The main group consists of five temples, which were built between llth and 12th centuries. The pure white marble temple of Vimal Sah or Vimal Vasahi was built in 1031 and is the oldest of the temple group. It is dedicated to Adinath or Rishabdeo, the first Jain tirthankara and is noted for its impressive 48 pillared mandapa (portico) in front of the main sanctum. The eight central pillars of the mandapa forms an octagon, which holds up a dome with circular rims and ornately carved pendant like roof. Along the intricately carved corridor are 52 niches studded with statues of the Jain tirthankaras.

The 13th century shrines of Vastupala and Tej apala are dedicated to Neminatha, the 22nd second Jain tirthankara. The pattern of arrangement of the sanctum and statues is almost similar to the temple of Vimal Sah. The Chaumukha temple, dedicated to Parasavnath and the Adinath temple lie across the road.

NakkiLake: This shinning 'jewel' of the Abu hills is believed to be dug out by the god's with their nails (nakh) and thus the name Nakki. It is perhaps the only artificial lake in the country, at an altitude of 1200 mts. above sea level. Boating facilities are available and one may choose motor boats, ordinary boats, shikaras and paddle boats to explore the serene waters of Nakki. The embankments of the lake are dotted with magnificent summer villas of various erstwhile princely states of the country. Most of them have been converted into guest houses or hotels.

Toad Rock : The magnificent rocky out crop resembling a 'Toad' overlooks the placid waters of the Nakki lake.

Temple of Raghunathji: The sacred shrine near the Nakki lake is associated with the great preacher Ramanandji. He installed an image of Shri Raghunathji (Lord Rama), at the temple in 14th century.

Gau Mukh Temple (4 km) : This ancient site near the Nakki lake is of immense religious importance. There is an old tank which is filled by a natural spring, flowing through a spout, shaped like a cow's head, hence the name com (cow) Mukh (mouth). According to a legend the famous yagna (sacrifice) of legendary sage Vashishtha was performed here, which created the four ' Agnikula' or Fireborn Rajput clans to protect the earth from the demons. A splendidly sculpted hill temple  of Arbuda, the mighty serpent is located nearby, amid .The   tourist   festival   is   held surroundings. There is also a marble statue annually from 1st -3rd July and Nandi, who was rescued by Arbuda from a  chasm. resort. Folk dances of Rajasthan

Sunset Point (2 kms.) : The splendid sunset point lies to the south-west of Nakki lake etc.

Honeymoon Point (Anadra Point) (2.5 km) : Affords great views of the verdant valley and super

plains, especially during the sunset time.

Om Shanti Bhawan or Universal Peace Hall: This   impressive   building   houses   the   famous  Brahma Kumari's World Spiritual University. It has  a  big  hall   devoid   of  any   pillars   and   can accommodate a gathering of 3,500 people.

Adhar Devi or Arbuda Devi Temple (2 kms.) :

The temple beautifully carved out of a huge rock can be reached by a flight of 360 steps. It is also a popular tourist spot.

Government Museum & Art Gallery : It was set up in 1962, within the premises of Raj Bhawan. A rich collection of archaeological finds dating back to 8th - 1 2th century, weapons, musical instruments, ornaments and garments, miniature paintings, sculptures and specimens of wood carving etc. are exhibited here.

Mount Abu Sanctuary : It sprawls over a lush area of 288 sq. km., comprising of sub­tropical evergreen forests. The cool breeze laden with fragrance of wild roses and    5 jasmine sweeps through the sanctuary making it a paradise for nature lovers. It is home    jj; to animal species like leopard, sloth bear, wild boar, sambar, chinkara and langur. There    « are also more than 250 species of exotic birds.

Trevor's Tank (3 kms.) : The tank amidst densely wooded hills teems with rich variety of beautiful birds. The most commonly seen birds are, pheasants, peacocks and partridges.

REACHING THERE

Airport: Udaipur (185 km).

Railhead: The nearest rail head is Abu Road (28 km).

Road :  Mount Abu  is  well connected by road. Ahmedabad (222 kms.), Jaipur (490 kms.)