Mount Abu, nestled in the Aravalli Range in the western Indian state of Rajasthan, stands as the state's only hill station. It is a serene and picturesque destination, known for its lush green landscapes, tranquil lakes, and a temperate climate that provides respite from the scorching heat of the Rajasthan plains.
Dilwara Jain Temples, a complex of ornately carved marble temples, is a prominent attraction in Mount Abu. These temples are celebrated for their exquisite architecture and intricate marble carvings, making them a pilgrimage site and an architectural marvel. The Nakki Lake, surrounded by hills and rock formations, offers boating opportunities and scenic beauty. The nearby Toad Rock is a popular spot for panoramic views of the surroundings.
Dilwara Jain Temples, a complex of ornately carved marble temples, is a prominent attraction in Mount Abu. These temples are celebrated for their exquisite architecture and intricate marble carvings, making them a pilgrimage site and an architectural marvel. The Nakki Lake, surrounded by hills and rock formations, offers boating opportunities and scenic beauty. The nearby Toad Rock is a popular spot for panoramic views of the surroundings.
The Jain Dilwara temples of India are located about 2½ kilometers from Mount Abu, Rajasthan's only hill station. These temples built by Chalukya between the 11th and 13th centuries AD are world famous for their stunning use of marble. The five legendary marble temples of Dilwara are a sacred pilgrimage place of the Jains. The marble temples have an opulent entranceway, the simplicity in architecture reflecting Jain values like honesty and frugality.
Dedicated to Lord Rama, this temple is centered on a spring gushing from the mouth of a marble cow. This temple is built on the spot where sage Vashishta is said to have performed his Agnikul yagna. There is also a tank - the Agni Kund. The Agni Kund is believed to be the site of a sacrificial fire which Saint Vashishth used to perform the yagni from which the four clans were born.
Situated 15 kms away from the town, it is the highest peak of this hill station. 1722 mts above sea level, it allows a bird's eye view of the idyllic surroundings of Mt. Abu. A small shaivite shrine and an ancient temple of Dattatreya at the summit are worth to watch. There is a huge brass bell outside the shrine, which overlooks the lush greenery of Mount Abu.
At the heart of Mount Abu, is the shimmering blue Nakki Lake. According to legend, the gods scraped this lake out of the ground using just their fingernails. This charming attraction is a popular picnic spot and provides a variety of boats for traversing the lake. Early mornings provide the best views of the surrounding hills and also an opportunity to spot some exotic birds by the shoreline.
South West of the Nakki Lake steps lead up high terrace which offers an amazing view of the Sun gradually drowning itself between two mountain peaks. The view of the lush plains is breathtaking. Visit to Mount Abu would be a memorable one when you would sit in the Lap of Nature on top of the mountain experiencing an evening full of magic with the natural beauty sunset.