Mount Abu Tourist Destinations

A pleasant retreat set amidst the lush forested hills, Mt. Abu is a green oasis in the barren desertscape that's Rajasthan. Situated at the southern tip of the Aravali range the hill retreat owes its cool climate to its rich flora covering the entire hillside that includes coniferous trees and flowering shrubs. The road leading to Mount Abu is a curved one characterized by arid region dotted with huge rocks in weird shapes and high velocity winds. The only hill station in Rajasthan, Mount Abu is more than just a summer retreat. Its stunning array of exquisite Dilwara Jain Temples, dating back 11th- 13th centuries, make it a popular pilgrimage centre. 'Abu' according to a legend, stands for the son of Himalaya, deriving its name from Arbuada, the powerful serpent who rescued Nandi, the sacred bull of Lord Shiva, from a chasm. Mount Abu has been home to many sages and saints. Most famous of them was Sage Vashishtha who is believed to have created four Agnikula Rajput clans from a fire-pit by performing a 'yagna' or fire sacrifice, to protect the earth from the demons. The Yagna was performed besides a natural spring situated below Abu, emerging from a rock shaped like a cow's head and hence the site was called Gaumukh.

PLACES OF INTEREST ARE:

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.

Nakki Lake: To pass and energetic evening rowing or simply to drift along, enjoying nature's beauty, be at the focal point of the town, Nakki Lake. This lovely artificial lake is ringed by hills and overhung by the enormous Tod Rock. Exploring the lake's little islets is a pleasant recreation. It is said to have been dug by the gods themselves with their nails, hence its name "Nakki". The summer villas of many Rajput rulers have been converted into hotels overlooking the lake.

Dilwara Jain Temples: Built between 11th and 13th century A.D, these temples are famous for their superb carvings in marble. Vimal Vasahi, the oldest temple, was built by Vimal Shah, Minister of Solanki ruler of Gujarat in 1031 AD. It is dedicated to Adinath, the first of the Jain Trithankaras. Made of white marble, it is an outstanding example of Jain temple architecture. It has a central shrine, a room with a transept, a large colonnaded area and an aisle consisting of 52 niches with statues of the Tirthankaras in each one. The inner sanctum contains the figure of Adinath in a mediating posture. The door jambs and lintel are encrusted with carvings. The Neminath Temple was built 1231 AD by the two brothers, Vastupal and Tajpal of the Porwarl Jain Community. A fine specimen of workmanship, as seen it its carvings, friezes, pillars and sculpted porticos, this temple is dedicated to Neminath, the twenty second Jain Trithankara. A lot of inspiration and encouragement went into the construction of this temple and rewards of gold and silver, equivalent to the weight of marble covered, were offered to the labourers. The scroll arches are profusely sculpted and so are the pillars, no two of which are alike. Built in the Solanki style of architecture, this temple has a breathtaking marble pendant hanging liked a crystal chandelier form the central dome of the porch. It descends from the ceiling like an exotic bunch of half-open lotuses, with such intricately carved cups, that they appear to be transparent.

Sunset Point: The best Mountain View can be savoured form Sunset Point, south west of Nakki Lake, where the sun gradually drowns itself in the azure sky between two mountain peaks. Steps lead up to a high terrace which offers an awe-inspiring view of the setting sun.

Honeymoon Point: A rather secluded spot, which looks beautiful at sunset hour. It also presents a pleasant view of the Abu Valley and the green fields on the other side of the mountains. Its older name was Anadra Point.

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