Mount Abu Travel Guide

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 world-renowned Dilwara Jain temples are the greatest draw of Mount Abu.

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 for relaxation.

Temple of Vimal Sah:
The Temple of Vimal Vasahi (Vimala Sah) is the oldest of the temples. It was built by Vimal Shah in 1021 and dedicated to the Adnath or Rishabdeo. It stands within a quadrangular court and houses a shrine with a large brazen image of Adinath preceded in front by a Mandapa (portico) supported by 48 pillars. The eight central pillars form and octagon holding up a dome with its circular rims and richly carved pendant like roof.

Amba Devi shrine in the south west of the quadrangle is believed to be older than the temple itself. On the right side of the entrance is the Hathi Khana or Elephant room consisting of a life size statue of Vimal Sah.

Temple of Vastupala & Tejapala:
The Luna Vashi temple is dedicated to the 22nd Tirthankara Shri Nemi Nathji. It resembles the architectural plan of the Vimal Vashi temple although it was built 200 years after that temple.

The remaining three temples of this complex, one is across the road and is not important architecturally, the Chaumukha temple s dedicated to Parasavanath, the adinath temple with a bell and chain decoration on the pillars are the other two temples.

Nakki Lake:
Legend has it that this small lake, virtually in the center of Mount Abu, was scooped out by god using only his nails, or nakh. Some Hindus thus believe it to be a holy lake. The lake is surrounded by hills, parks and strange rock formations. The best known, Toad Rock, looks just like a toad about to hop into the lake. The 14th Century Raghunath Temple stands beside the lake. Boats, Shikaras and paddle boats are available for rowing on this beautiful lake.

Temple of Raghunathji:
The temple of Raghunathji is located in close proximity to the Nakki Lake. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, who incarnated as Raghunathji in this earth to save his followers from the various calamities of life. According to a legend, it was Sri Ramanand who placed the statue of Raghunathji inside the temple, in the 14th Century AD. Sri Ramanand was reputed as a very great preacher.

Sunset Point & Honeymoon Point
Sunset Point located in South West of Nakki Lake provides you a scenic view of the setting sun. The scenic hills, tranquil surrounding, and the pleasant climate make it a favorite spot of the tourists. Close in by the sunset point is Honeymoon Point, Also known as the Andra Point, provides the tourist with the view of the verdant valley and superb plains is awe inspiring, especially during the sunset time.

Gau Mukh:
Near the Nakki, this holy spot has an old tank which gets water from a spout, shaped like a cow's head, hence the name Gau Mukh. Gau Mukh place provides a quite old and interesting Temple of Vashishtha and a fire pit, where Agnikula Rajputs are also said to have been created.

Adhar Devi or Arbuda Devi Temple:
Located in a cave surrounded by pictorial beauty of dense forest and high mountain ranges, the Adhar Devi Temple dedicated to Goddess Durga. This magnificent temple has several embellished statues and reached through a climb of 360 steps. This temple is chiseled out of a huge rock.

Gardens & Parks:
There are many well laid out lush gardens and parks blooming with flowers in this hill city, the prominent amongst them are Gandhi Park, Municipal Park, Shaitan Singh Park and Terrace Garden.

Mount Abu Sanctuary:
This wildlife sanctuary is spread over288 sq. km. The lush green scenic landscape is dominated by the sub-tropical evergreen forests, one can cool refreshing breeze loaded with the fragrance of wild roses and jasmine here.

This sanctuary has a treasure rich varied with fauna as well as flora. The key animals are the leopard, sloth bear, wild boar, Sambar, Chinkara and Langur. More than 250 species of exotic birds can be observed. The most important among them is the gray jungle fowl, making it a pilgrimage for the bird watchers.