Mount Abu
Looking
for greens in Rajasthan? Go to Mount Abu. This is one
of the few places in the desert-state having greenery.
Located in the southern end of Aravalli mountains, Mount
Abu is a summer retreat. It is well-known for its Dilwara
Jain temples of the 11th century, and it is also a pilgrim
centre. Sages like Vasishta lived here. About the origin
of Mount Abu there is a mythological story. The story
is that Abu rescued the sacred bull Nandi here and therefore
the place got its name.
Delwara
Jain temples: These temples were built during 11th
to 13th centuries. They are dedicated to the Jain Tirthankaras.
Vimal Vasahi temple is the oldest, built in 1031 AD. Another
is Lun Vasahi temple. The Adhar Devi temple with its many
stairs is a tourist attraction.
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Panchakalyanak
scenes: Auspicious events from a Jain Tirthankar's
life, Luna Vasahi Temple, Delwara
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Nakki
Lake: The islets in the artificial lake and
the rock formations on the sides are of interest. According
to a legend, the Gods carved out the lake with their nails,
nakki meaning nail.
Gaumukh
Temple: This site got this name because a spring
is flowing from a sculpted cow's head. There is also a
marble structure of Nandi.
Raghunathji
Temple: Dedicated to Raghunathji, the temple
is situated near Nakki lake. It was built in the 14th
century.
Other
Sites: Museum and Art Gallery, Sunset Point,
Honeymoon Point, Trevor's park (5km)
HOW
TO REACH: The nearest airport is in Udaipur, 185 km.
The nearest rail station is Abu Road, 30 km. Taxi, jeep
and bus are available from Abu Road to Mount Abu.
FAIRS
& FESTIVALS: The Summer festival (First week of
June)
ENTERTAINMENT:
Boating facility at Nakki lake
CLIMATE:
Summer, 23 to 34 deg C; winter, 11 to 28 deg C; Best
season: Feb-June and Sept-Dec
CLOTHING:
Light cotton in summer and woollen in winter
LANGUAGES:
Gujarati, Hindi and English
