Do you know the name of the largest state in India? Well, no points for guessing; this is Rajasthan – the land of all things grand. For many, the word Rajasthan automatically conjures up vast expanses of glistening dunes, camel rides and mesmerizing forts. But there is more.
Desert Ships (Source: Pixabay)
As India’s largest state with a variety of landscapes, Rajasthan has it all. From large and beautiful lakes to grand Havelis, from sunsets over the sand to national parks, the plateau is actually as varied as a large Rajasthani thali.
Rajasthani Thali (Source: Wikimedia Commons)
If Rajasthan has captured your attention, then without further ado, we are going to introduce you to its only hill station, Mount Abu. Located in the Sirohi district of Rajasthan, this isolated massif of the Aravalli range has an elevation of 4000 feet. Due to its height, lush greenery and surrounding lakes, Mount Abu is a respite from the scorching Rajasthani summer.
A body of water near Brahmakumari Ashram (Source: Wikimedia Commons)
Image source: Wikimedia Commons
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A wonderful blend of history and mythology
In the Puranas, this area was called “Arbudaranya”, meaning the forest of Arbu. So clearly, the word Abu has its roots in ‘Arbu’. According to mythology, Arbuda was a snake that saved the life of Nandi, the bull of Lord Shiva, on this mountain.
In 1311 CE, Rao Lumba of the Deora-Chauhan dynasty conquered Mount Abu from the Parmars. Later, the British rented it to the Maharaja of Sirohi to set up their base away from the dry and hot summer of Rajasthan.
If you are interested in history, mythology and nature, you will surely enjoy yourself at Mount Abu.
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Places to visit around Mount Abu
Lake Naki
Want to enjoy the serenity of emerald green water? Then Lake Nakki might be the place for you. One of the main tourist attractions around Mount Abu, Lake Nakki also has boating facilities for visitors.
Nakki Lake (Source: Rajasthan Tourism Website)
Image source: Rajasthan Tourism website, Government. of Rajasthan
Guru Shikhar
Boasting panoramic views and a temple at the top, Guru Shikhar is the highest point of Mount Abu. The Guru Dattatreya temple worships the Hindu trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva.
Guru Shikhar Temple (Source: Rajasthan Tourism website)
Toad’s point of view
Located near Lake Nakki, this remarkable igneous rock structure is proof that nature has its unique way of making art.
Toad Rock View Point (Source: Rajasthan Tourism website)
Image source: Rajasthan Tourism website, Government. of Rajasthan
Dilwara Jain Temple
If you like to feel history from scratch, visit this temple built between the 11th and 13th centuries. This world famous temple with intricate white marble work is an architectural delight to many.
Dilwara Jain Temple (Source: Rajasthan Tourism Website)
Image source: Rajasthan Tourism website, Government. of Rajasthan
Achalgarh Fort
Originally built during the Parmar dynasty, it is one of the most coveted forts in Rajasthan. Visit the Achaleshwar Mahadev temple just outside the fort.
Achalgarh Fort at Mount Abu (Image source: Flickr)
Trevors Tank Top
Crocodiles, anyone? Well, this artificial crocodile breeding ground near Mount Abu has too many.
Trevor Reservoir (Source: Rajasthan Tourism Website)
Image source: Rajasthan Tourism website, Government. of Rajasthan
Mount Abu Shrine
Home to many wild animals like Indian leopard, striped hyena, gray jungle fowl, pangolin and Indian fox, this sanctuary is completely natural. From exotic flora and fauna to birds, the clean air of the sanctuary is sure to relax you.
Mount Abu Shrine (Source: Rajasthan Tourism Website)
Image source: Rajasthan Tourism website, Government. of Rajasthan
How to reach
- Per flight: The nearest domestic airport is Udaipur Airport, 176 km from Mount Abu. From Udaipur, Mount Abu is 3-4 hours by taxi. Taking a bus will be the cheapest if you are on a budget trip. If you are traveling overseas, the nearest airport is in Ahmedabad, 221 km from Mount Abu.
- By train: The railway station, Abu road, is 28 km from Mount Abu and is well connected to all major cities in India.
- By the road: If a long drive on scenic roads is your thing, driving up Mount Abu may be one of your best decisions. Closely connected to National Highway 14, a road trip to Mount Abu and its adjoining areas can be a life-changing experience.
Where to stay
Whether it’s AirBnbs, hotels, palaces or mansions, Mount Abu has accommodation options for all types of travelers. Fancy a stay? Book one of the many Airbnbs.
List of Airbnbs
Cabin in Mount Abu
Cost: INR 7,988 per night, 3 beds
Farm stay in Mount Abu
Cost: INR 7779 per night, 5 beds (4-12 PAX)
List of hotels
Hillock Hotel: Located near Lake Nakki, this hotel features a large outdoor swimming pool.
Price: from INR 6,900
The colonial mansion of Manek: This bungalow built during the British Raj has a quintessential colonial flavor.
Price: from INR 4307
Best season to visit: November to March
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This winter, head to Mount Abu and explore all that this ancient mountain has to offer.
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