Mount Abu the only hill station of Rajasthan is the true jewel of the place. Being located in the Sirohi district the hill station is a popular destination for the residents to retreat from the scorching heat of the state. The hill station is at respectable distance from major cities of Rajasthan hence is jam packed by travellers in the peak season. Being well connected by rail and road the place is one of the admirable tourist attractions of Rajasthan. If you happen to visit Rajasthan, then visiting Mount Abu becomes mandatory for you to praise the beauty of nature and also to admire the marble carvings at Dilwara Jain Temple. But, this is not the only identity of Rajasthan, the place so many tourism offerings for the visitors. If you happen to visit Mount Abu then here are the five places that you must not miss on the city tour.
Dilwara Jain Temple: Being built in between 11th to 13th century, the Dilwara Jain Temples is only 3 kilometers away from Mount Abu. The brilliant marble carvings at the temple is something that makes it one of the must visit of Rajasthan. The ornamental carvings and the flawless stone laying technique make it one among the most beautiful pilgrimage spots in the world. It is a group of temples that consists of five temples devoted to Jain Tirthankars. The globally renowned carvings at the ceiling of main temple makes tourist to admire the beauty of place.
Nakki Lake: A boat ride in the lake during the hot and humid season is all you want and you can get this pleasure at Nakki Lake of Mount Abu. It is not only an ancient lake but also a sacred lake of Rajasthan. As per Hindu mythology the lake was dug out by the Gods by simply using their nails to gain shelter from the Demon Bashkali. However there are many stories in context with the lake but it is more popular as Mahatma Gandhi's ashes were immersed in the lake. A boat ride in Nakki Lake and shopping and eating at the surrounding area is the much preferred activity of the travelers.
Guru Shikhar: The best thing you can do at a hill station is to capture the beauty of the hills from the highest point. If you are expecting the same picturesque view at Mount Abu then Guru Shikhar is the place where you need to go. It is the highest point of Aravali Range in which the city is located. The place is perfect to get a panoramic view of the whole region and is famous for its temple of Guru Dattatreya an incarnation of the Hindu Deities 'Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva' in one.
Wildlife Sanctuary: The Wildlife sanctuary of Mount Abu has an abundance of various flora and fauna. While there are traces of past dwellings of the lion and the tiger, but as of now the prime feline predator found here is the Leopard. You can find a rare special of Sambhar here along with the other animals. This is one of the must watch of the city if you are a wildlife lover.
Abu Road: Don't get confused considering Abu Road and Mount Abu as the same places. It is situated approximately 11 kilometers away from the hill station. Although this is a totally different town, situated near the Banas River, Abu road is a must visit. It normally refers to a railway station which is located in a picturesque surrounding. The weather is generally pleasant; however, to enjoy this place to its fullest, one must visit it between November and December. If you are on a religious tour of Rajasthan then Abu Road is a place where you can find several temples.
So these are the five main attractions of Mount Abu that you must check out. On your visit to the sole Hill station of Rajasthan don't forget to admire the beauty of these locations.
Martin Wynn
