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Mount
Abu is the highest peak in the Aravalli Range of Rajasthan state
in western India. It is located in Sirohi district. The mountain
forms a distinct rocky plateau 22km long by 9 km wide. The highest
peak on the mountain is Guru Shikhar is at 1722 meters above sea
level. It is referred to as 'an oasis in the desert', as it is home
to many rivers, lakes, waterfalls and evergreen forests.
The road leading to Mount Abu is a curved one dotted with
huge rocks in weird shapes and some high velocity winds. The only
hill station in Rajasthan, Mount Abu is more than just a
summer retreat. Its Dilwara Jain Temples, dating back 11th- 13th
centuries, make it a popular pilgrimage centre as well. It is highly
visited destination in vacations.
Climate
Summers: Max: 34 degrees C; Min: 23 degrees C
Winters: Max: 28 degrees C; Min: 11 degrees C
Fair & Festivals
Navratri (next 19th to 21st October, 2007): Navratri is held
in Bhinmal with pomp and show every year.
Summer Festival (next 18th to 20th May, 2008): The Summer
festival takes place every year during the month of May on the Budh
Poornima day.
How to reach
Air: The nearest airport is Udaipur (200km).
Train: Mount Abu is located on the broad gauge line between
Delhi and Mumbai via Ahmedabad. Direct trains run to various
destinations including Ajmeri , Jaipur , Jodhpur
and Ahmedabad.
Road: Some buses go all the way to Mount Abu while
some terminate at the Abu road. Convenient bus services are
available from Ahmedabad, Ajmeri, Baroda, Jaipur , Jodhpur, Mumbai
and Udaipur.
PLACES TO SEE
Dilwara Temples
No visit to the Mount Abu can be complete without a visit to
the Dilwara Temples. These temples are the greatest draw for the
tourists apart from the nice climate as well. The Dilwara Temples
enshrines various Jain tirthankars. These temples were built between
11th century and 13th century.
Vimal Vaashi , the oldest temple, was built by Vimal Shah, minister
of Solanki ruler in Gujarat in 1031 AD. This temple is dedicated to
Adinath, the first of the Jain tirthankars. No visit to Mount Abu
is complete without a visit to the magnificient Dilwara Temples.
The older of the temple, Vimal Vasahi is built and dedicated to the
first tirthankar, Adinath. The shrine at the centre has an image of
Adinath, each with a Buddha like cross-legged image. Forty eight
elegantly carved pillars form the entrance to the courtyard of the
temple. The 'House of Elephants' stands in front of the temple, with
figures of elephants marching in procession to the temple entrance.
Nakki Lake
This beautiful lake is set amidst mountains, and is believed to be
carved out by the Gods with their nails. It is a very popular spot,
and is the only artificial lake that is situated at 1200m above sea
level.
It is at the heart of Mount Abu and is a big attraction with
the tourists as well. Legend has it that the lake was scooped out by
a God, including his nails. While taking a stroll around the lake,
look out for the strange rock formations.
Sunset Point
It provides a beautiful view of the setting sun in the azure sky
between two mountains peaks. Steps lead to a high terrace, which
offers a beautiful view of the setting sun.
Toad Rock
It is situated just on the side of the Nakki Lake. It is so called
because of its likeliness of a giant tode about to leap into the
water.
Gurushikhar
It is located 15 kms from Mount Abu. Rising 1800 meters above
sea level, the Gurushikhar peak allows the visitor to look around at
the vistas, with Mount Abu towering over its surroundings.
“Dattareya Temple” stands on the Gurushikhar peak
HOTELS
Heritage Hotels
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Palace Heritage.
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Connaught Palace.
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Cama Rajputana.
Budget Hotels
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