The Raj period approached it as a relaxation place to rewind along with the royalties and semi royalties. The place sways in an interesting contrast of British style bungalows, the holiday lodges of the royals (Thikhana) along with the presence of the various communities of the tribals located amidst the thick lush of the forest on the hills surrounding the region.

The flora and fauna enjoys the adulation of the tourist to the fullest. Among the flourishing ranges is the highest point of the Aravalli is the 'Gurushikhar' with a vast sanctuary that shelters a number of species like langur, wild boars, Sambar, leopards and many more along with a number of flowering trees thus enhancing the whole scenario. This glorious ambience suited mainly to the likes of sages and tribals and both made a great impact in the history of the region.

The tribes still conducting there authentic life styles in the wake of 21st century is rather interesting and so is the collection of various monuments of different religious sects like the famous shrines of Jainism.

Mount Abu, the only hill resort of Rajasthan, situated at the highest peak of the Aravali at an altitude of 1220 meters. This "Hill of Wisdom" and a true " Olympus of Rajasthan" stands on an independent hillock, which is separated from the main Aravali ranges by a deep gorge.

When ascending the mountain, one can hardly fail to be impressed with the grandeur and the scenic beauty, the gigantic blocks of rocks, towering along the crest of the hill, are especially striking, in some cases so weather- worn, that they present most fanciful and weird shapes, while in others appear so slightly balanced as to be in danger of rolling down.

It is not only one of the prettiest hill stations in the country, but a major Rajput and Jain pilgrimage center. The legend goes that a 'yagna' was performed here and four Agnikula or fireborn Rajput clans the Chauhans, Parmaras, Pratiharas and Solankis were created out of fire. Till 11th century, Mount Abu was an important Vaishnav and Shiva pilgrimage center, but now it has gained importance as a Jain pilgrim center.

The hill boasts of rich vegetation and thick forest, it stands out as an oasis in the arid environs, it is pleasant climate picturesque setting invite thousands of tourists for pleasure trips and relaxation.


Fort & Palaces in Mount Abu

Dilwara Temples
Mount Abu was an important Vaishnava and Shaivite pilgrim center up to the 11th century. Today, it is recognized the world over for it's magnificent Jain temples. No visit to Abu can be complete without a trip to the famed Dilwara temples. These temples are the greatest draw of Abu, apart from its salubrious clime. Half hidden by mango groves their sober exterior belies the wealth of their interior ornamentation. Wondrously carved in marble, the Dilwara temples enshrine various Jain tirthankaras, saints. Built between the 11th and 13th century, are famous for their superb carvings in marble.

Gurushikhar(15 km)
The highest peak on the mount (1722 mts above the sea level) allows a bird eye view of the sylvan surroundings of Mount Abu.A small shrine and a temple of Dattatreya standing on the shikhar are worth a visit.


Toad Rock
Overhanging the Nakki Lake, so called because of its likeness to gigantic toad about to leap into the water

Sunset Point:
It provides a lovely view of the setting sun, South-West of Nakki lake, where the sun gradually drowns itself in the azure sky between two mountain peaks, steps lead up to high terrace which offers an awe inspiring view of the setting sun.


Excursions of Mount Abu

Guru Shikhar ( 15 kms.)
Known as the saint's pinnacle, it is the highest peak of the aravalis at 1772 meters above sea level, it affords a panoramic view of the adjoining areas and a small Shaivite Shrine, the temple of Dattatreya, a saint whose footprints are carved inside are situated here. Similar foot prints of Ramananda, the great Vaishnavite preacher can be seen a litter further, and a little down below, at the base of the rock, is a great bell suspended by a wooden frame having a Gujarati inscription dating back to 1411 AD.

Achalgarh (10 Kms.)
This majestic fort built by Rana Kumbha of Mewar in the 14th century, houses some magnificent temples the important ones are, the temple of Achaleswar Mahadev (1412 AD) and the Kantinath Jain Temple (1513 AD), it was a gold plated image. The Mandakini Kund near the Achaleswar Temple and the Sculpture of Parmar Dharavarsh are of special interest. Other temples are of Meena & Chamundi.

Trevor`s Tank ( 3 km)
Trevor`s tank named after the British engineer, is a heaven for the bird watchers, situated amidst the densely wooded hills of the Aravali Ranges. A rich variety of Beautiful birds can be observed. The most important are being the pheasants, peacocks and partridges.

Achalgarh ( 8 km)
Medieval monument of Mt Abu, is the Achalgadh fort commissioned by Rana Kumbha, who was responsible for dozens of gigantic fortresses in southern Rajasthan, with massive battlemented walls and a situation on a mountain peak offering great views. A steeply winding path leads up to the 15th century fortress and the temples within the fortified walls, great for a view of the countryside.The carved Jain temples are a 10 minute climb, worthwhile for the view and the sculpture.

Below the path is the Achleshwar temple, with a Nandi said to be made of the five metals-gold, silver, copper, brass and zinc, called Panchadattu, and weigh more than 4 tons. The temple is believed to have been built in the 9th century around a toe print of lord Shiva, with a hole claimed to reach the netherworld, a natural Shivalinga and idols of a crystal like stone, which looks opaque, but when a candle is placed behind it sparkles like crystal. Nearby is the pleasant looking Mandakini lake, enclosed by rocky hills, with images of a Rajput king and buffaloes. According to legend, the tank was filled with ghee and the watering hole of demons disguised as buffaloes until they were shot by Raja Adi Pal.


Lakes in Mount Abu

Nakki Lake [1 km] :
The lake is picturesquely set amidst hills and is believed to have been carved out by the Gods with their nails. It is popular spot for boating and the only artificial lake in India that is 1200 mts. above sea level. The surrounding hills have several area of interest.


Temples in Mount Abu

Dilwara Temples
Mount Abu was an important Vaishnava and Shaivite pilgrim center up to the 11th century. Today, it is recognized the world over for it's magnificent Jain temples. No visit to Abu can be complete without a trip to the famed Dilwara temples. These temples are the greatest draw of Abu, apart from its salubrious clime. Half hidden by mango groves their sober exterior belies the wealth of their interior ornamentation. Wondrously carved in marble, the Dilwara temples enshrine various Jain tirthankaras, saints. Built between the 11th and 13th century, are famous for their superb carvings in marble.

Gaumukh Temple (Vashistha Ashram)
My sages and sheers had their retreats on Mt. Abu, the most famous being sage Vashistha. To regenerate the human race, he performed a yagya or magic fire from which were born the agnikula clans of Chauhan, Solankis, Pannars and Pratihars. A natural spring that flows that through a sculpted cow's head, gives the shrine its name. Nearby is the marble image of Nandi who was rescued by the mighty serpent 'Arbuda'. Carved out of a rock, the hill temple of Arbuda lies against a picturesque back drop. It is accessible by car or jeep up to 3 km, from where a descent of 750 steps has to be covered on foot.


Wildlife in Mount Abu

Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary
The sanctuary comprises the oldest mountain ranges - The Aravali. It was declared as a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1960. Apart from having several sightseeing places this sanctuary is a draw for nature lovers as it has great potential for Eco-tourism, In shape this sanctuary is long and narrow but the top spreads out into a picturesque plateau which is about 19 km. is length and 5-8 km. in breadth. Attitudinally it varies from 300m. at the foot Mil to 1722 m. at Gurushikhar, the highest peak of the Aravali Ranges. The rocks are igneous and due the weathering effect of wind and water, large cavities are common the rocks. This feature is typical of Aravali and particularly of Mt, Abu. Toad Rock in Mount Abu is one such example.

Mount Abu has a very rich floral biodiversity starting with xenomorphic subtropical thorn forest at the foot hills to subtropical evergreen forest along water courses and valleys at higher altitudes. These forests consist of 112 plant families with 449 genera and 820 species. Of these, 663 species are dicots while 157 species are monocots. Mount Abu is the only place in Rajasthan where one can observe a variety of orchids. The place is also rich in bryophytes and algae. Three species of wild roses and 16 species of feras some of which are quite rare have also been reported from here. The South-West part of the Sanctuary is rich in bamboo forests.

The sanctuary is rich in herbal medicinal plants also. About 81 species of tree, 89 species of shrubs, 28 species of climbers and 17 species of tuberous plants of medicinal importance have been identified. A variety of fauna Including highly rare, threatened and endangered species are found in this sanctuary. The past history of Mount Abu indicates the presence of Lion (last recorded in 1872) and Tiger (last reported in 1970). Presently the Panther is the apex predator.

Other animals found here are Sambhar, Jungle Cat, Small Indian Civet, Wolf, Hyaena, Jackal, Indian Fox, Common Langoor, Wild Boar, Pangolin, Rate!, Common Mongoose, Indian Hare, Porcupine, Hedgehog, etc. The sanctuary provides an ideal habitat for Sloth Bear, The population of Sloth Bear is increasing regularly as it can be seen while going through the forests or motoring on the road.


Fairs & Festivals of Mount Abu

The fairs and festivals are celebrated in a great style as in other parts of the state, The tribal folk of the region lend special color to the festivities of Mount Abu, leaving a spell binding effect over the visitors, the important festivals of the hill city are:

Summer festival (June)
A special occasion for the hill resort, as the people throng from al parts of the country to escape the sizzling heat of the plains, and rejuvenate their sapping energies. They are treated to one of the most exotic festival which lingers in their minds for long.

Gangaur Festival (March- April)
A festival for young maids and married women, dedicated to Gauri, the incarnation of Goddess Parvati. Women pray for the prosperity and long live of their husbands, while girls seek good husbands from the goddess. A colorful procession are taken out with pomp and gaiety. Gangaur hold a special place for the Garasia tribal, inhabitants of the Sirohi- Mt. Abu region. They celebrate this festival over one month. The unusual and interesting feature of their celebration is the procession of the Gangaur image from village to village. The tribal youth get an opportunity to meet and mingle freely, select a life partner of their choice and marry by eloping. A romantic but strange custom, sanctioned by the society.

Patotasav
Celebrated at Shri Raghunathji Temple.


How to Reach Mount Abu

Air:
The nearest airport is Udaipur (185 kms)

Rail:
The nearest railway station is Abu Road (28 km)

Road:
Mt. Abu is well connected by road with major cities of the country.

Agra: 735 km Via Ajmer, Jaipur, Bharatpur

Ajmer: 360 km via Sirohi, Pali Beawar

Ahmedabad: 222 km via Palanpur, 250 km via Ambaji

Mumbai: 751 km Abu Road, Ahmedabad, Baroda

Delhi: 752 km Pali, Ajmer, Jaipur

Jaipur: 490 km via Sirohi, Pali, Ajmer

Jodhpur: 267 km via Sirohi, Pali, Ajmer

Udaipur : 185 km via Pindara, Jaswantgarh, Gogunda, Iswal

Udaipur : Gogunda, Iswal 277