Last Updated on January 5, 2023 by admin
Planning to visit Rajasthan’s only hill station? This guide on places to visit in Mount Abu covers all the Mount Abu tourist places and the best sightseeing options.
Mount Abu in Rajasthan is a favourite destination for Gujaratis due to its proximity from major cities of Gujarat. Abu-Ambaji tour has been a loved choice for decades where honeymoon couples and families would take blessings of Amba Mata in Ambaji situated in Gujarat and cross the border to Rajasthan to visit Mount Abu hill station.
It has been a popular destination as it offers many things to do and places to visit in Mount Abu. It appeals to couples, families, adventure enthusiasts, heritage admirers as well as wildlife lovers. The trip to Mount Abu can also be combined with other cities of Rajasthan making it a perfect getaway in the state.
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About Mount Abu, Rajasthan
Surrounded by the Aravalli Range, Mount Abu is the only hill station in the desert plains of Rajasthan. Very different from the desert landscape, Mount Abu is actually lush with forests, lakes, waterfalls and parks.
The hill station also has religious importance with the presence of many Jain temples the town being headquarters of Brahmakumaris Spiritual Institution.
Note: Entry fees to Mount Abu is INR 100 per car.
Places to visit in Mount Abu | Things to do in Mount Abu
Spending a weekend in Mount Abu or more, the following are some of the places to visit in Mount Abu.
Dilwara Temple, Mount Abu
Built between the 11th and 13th centuries, the Dilwara Temple of Mount Abu is a Jain temple. Mount Abu tourism cannot be complete without visiting Dilwara temple also known as Delvada temple.
Dilwara temple is made in the Maru-Gurjara architecture from the Solanki era. The same Solankis who built the complex Modhera Sun Temple and Rani-ki-Vav in Gujarat.
The Jain Temples at Dilwara evoke a sense of awe with the exquisite sculpting in ceilings, domes, columns and walls. The temple is a finished canvas for many unnamed artists who recreated images from Indian myths and legends on stones.
Carved in white marble, the temple is known for its extraordinary architecture. Dilwara temple features unique craftsmanship, with intricate carvings all over the temple complex. The sculptures that adorn the temples are of numerous gods, goddesses, yaksas, dancers, musicians, apsaras and nagins. Other designs include trees, flowers and geometrical designs.
The most outstanding feature of Dilwara temple is the thousand-petalled Lotuses that decorate the domes in the Rangmandaps.
Dilwara Jain Temples are made up of five temples – Vimal Vasahi, Luna Vasahi, Pittalhar, Parshvanath, and Mahavir Swami, all of which have exemplary structures and give off unmatched spiritual vibes.
200 km away from Mount Abu lies another beautiful Jain temple made in marble. Read about it here: Ranakpur Jain Temple.
Boating in Nakki Lake, Mount Abu
One of the most favourite Mount Abu tourist places is Nakki Lake.
According to a local legend, the lake was built by Gods to protect themselves from a common enemy called ‘Bashkali’. While another legend says that the local king had ordered that whoever dug a lake with his nails overnight, could marry his daughter. It was called ‘Nakh ki Jheel’ nakh meaning nails and jheel meaning lake.
But legends aside, Nakki Lake is India’s first man-made lake, at the height of 11,000 meters.
There are many ways to spend time at Nakki Lake. While the most popular activity is boating in Nakki Lake, visitors can take a walk around the walking track around the lake periphery. There is a garden and sitting area with kid’s activity area. Visitors can also engage in water sports such as zorbing overlooking the sunset. There are small vendors selling souvenirs and other knick-knacks. And there is a food court too.
The sunset at Nakki Lake Mount Abu is spectacular and one must plan to visit here during sunset.
Nakki Lake boating fees:
INR 100 per person for 30 minutes pedal boat ride.
INR 150 per person for 30 minutes shikara boat ride.
Toad Rock
Located near Nakki Lake, Toad Rock is a popular viewpoint and Mount Abu sightseeing place. This naturally formed rock is shaped like a toad which attracts tourists for a photograph. Visitors have to climb approximately 250 steps, to enjoy panoramic views of Nakki Lake and the Aravalli range.
Guru Shikhar
A short 15 km drive from Mount Abu lies the highest peak of Aravalli Range – Guru Shikhar. Guru Shikar point is at the height of 1,722 meters above the sea-level. It is not only a tourist attraction in Mount Abu but is a religious site as well.
The peak is dedicated to Lord Dattatreya. Datta in Sanskrit means given. Dattatreya, according to Hindu belief is the son given to the sage Atri and his wife Anasuya by the Trinity, Vishnu, Shiva, and Brahma. Another temple at Guru Shikhar is Dattatreya’s mother Ahilya.
There is a huge bell with the inscription 1411 A.D on the peak which is a huge attraction. The sound from this bell can be heard from long distances.
From the car park area, the peak is approximately 600 steps away. The steps are short and easy to climb. The sides of the steps are lined with local shops selling souvenirs, jewellery, bags, and clothes. There are small eateries selling lemon juice, Maggi and wafer packets.
Parking fees: INR 50 per car.
Achaleshwar Mahadev Temple, Mount Abu
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Achaleshwar Mahadev Temple is a popular attraction among pilgrims and tourists. Located on the foothills of Achaleshwar Fort, the temples have beautiful carvings. Achaleshwar Mahadev temple is said to have been built around a giant toe-print of Lord Shiva, making it one of the most revered religious sites in Mount Abu.
There are smaller shrines in the temple complex dedicated to other gods and goddesses.
Achalgarh Fort, Rajasthan
Located 10 km away from Mount Abu, Achalgarh is a treasure trove in itself with many things to do and see. Visitors can easily spend one day in Achalgarh.
The fort is estimated to have been built in the 9th century by the Paramara dynasty and later renovated by Rana Kumbha in the 15th century. Bordered by massive walls that enclose a few beautiful temples inside, the Achalgarh Fort offers interesting glimpses of Mewar architecture.
Visitors can start by paying a visit to the Achaleshwar Mahadev Temple and the Jain temple on the foothills. A short ride away is the steps to Achalgarh. There are jeeps driven by locals who take you to the dedicated point from the labyrinth lanes. This is a 1 km ride and they charged INR 300 for pick up and drop for 7 of us.
The climb through the steps of Achalgarh fort takes visitors to the entrance of the Jain temple. White marble pillars and carved sculptures envelop the courtyard making one feel at peace. The shrine is a few more steps away from the courtyard. The main idol weighs several tons and is made of Panchaloha (5 metals). The temple is a “chaumukhi”, with an idol facing all four cardinal directions.
Note: Entry fees to Achalgarh are INR 5 per person.
Chamunda Mata Temple and Gopichand ji Cave, Mount Abu
After climbing further visitors come across a gate welcoming them to Chamunda Mata temple. A few steps away is the Chamunda Mata temple and a small lake in front of it. According to a legend, this lake was filled by the tears of Saint Mirabai.
Further to the right, a pebbled road leads to Gopichand ji Cave a saint who did ‘tapasya’ (austerity) for 12 years. He and his nephew did tapasya for 12 years in a competitive spirit to please Goddess Kali. Pleased with the devotion, Goddess Kali presented herself from a rock. The impact was such that an idol in the shape of goddess was left behind. The rock formation is coloured and worshippers go here to get blessed by the goddess.
The view from Achalgarh is panoramic, giving a bird’s eye view of the Aravalli range.
Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary
If wildlife is your calling then Mount Abu will not disappoint. With rich flora and fauna, this Mount Abu wildlife sanctuary is a heavenly place.
The sanctuary is spread across an area of 288 sq. km and is home to a variety of rare and exotic animals. Most frequently seen wildlife include the Indian leopard, sloth bear, pangolin, Indian fox, and wild boar, to name a few. There are also around 250 species of birds and a variety of trees and plants found here.
In order to experience nature in its raw form, there are many Mount Abu camping options. They take visitors on walking nature trails and adventure enthusiasts can stay in tents in the jungles. This adrenaline rush makes many travellers visit Mount Abu every year, especially during monsoon. Rains make Mount Abu lush green and it is a sight to behold.
Peace Park, Mount Abu
As the name suggests, Peace Park is a park that is surrounded by a beautiful environment and serenity. It is an ideal place for meditation and peaceful recreation.
Established by the Brahma Kumari’s, it is an establishment that is surrounded by lush greenery and a garden maintained by their management. It has a playground, a rock garden with succulents, citruses, orchids, ornamental shrubs, roses, creepers, climbers, and other flora.
There are also stone caves and huts used for meditation.
Tourists can visit Peace Park with permission from Brahma Kumaris regional centres.
Honeymoon Point, Mount Abu
The Honeymoon Point in Mount Abu is at an elevation of 4000 feet and offers an exquisite sunset against the backdrop of Nakki Lake.
It is a popular tourist destination in Mount Abu. although the name is given to attract honeymooners, all tourists throng this point for wonderful views of the valley. for couples and nature lovers.
Beware, as this area gets notorious for traffic jams and parking is a nightmare. On long weekends, one may get a parking space 1km away.
Universal Peace Hall, Mount Abu
An architectural marvel, Universal Peace Hall was constructed in 1983 and can accommodate 5000 people at the same time. The hall has no pillars which means there is a seamless interaction between the speakers and listeners.
Universal Peace Hall is the main assembly hall in the Brahma Kumari Spiritual University. Another unique feature of this hall is the facility to translate speeches into 16 different languages simultaneously during events.
Visitors can learn Rajya Yoga meditation and participate in spirituality and meditation workshops, seminars, conferences and courses here.
Crocodile park Trevor’s Tank, Mount Abu
Trevor’s Tank is one of the interesting places to visit in Mount Abu. It is a crocodile breeding site in the midst of the forest. Due to its unique location and availability of water. Trevor’s Tank is home to a variety of other wildlife and birds. This is an offbeat place in Mount Abu.
Gaumukh Temple, Mount Abu
Gaumukh Temple in Mount Abu is the most important pilgrimage site and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Worshippers and tourists wanting to visit this temple have to climb 700 steps among lush green forests. The temple houses idols of Nandi, Lord Rama, Lord Krishna, and Saint Vashishth.
One of the reasons which make this place popular is a mysterious stream of water flowing from the mouth of a large marble statue of a bull.
Mount Abu Sunset point
Located near Nakki Lake, Sunset Point as the name suggests offers great views of the sunset. A short walk away, the sunset point is a good place for families to have a picnic.
Shopping in Mount Abu
Shopping in Mount Abu can be quite time-consuming due to the variety of stuff available. It sells the best of both states – Gujarat and Rajasthan. There are many shopping areas in Mount Abu but the main street leading to Nakki Lake is the most vibrant one. Shopping is one of the most important things to do in Mount Abu. Other bazaars are in Achalgarh and Guru Shikhar. These brightly coloured markets reminded me of Shopping for souvenirs in Jaipur.
The shops sell traditional Rajasthani items such as lac bangles, silver jewellery, leheriya dupattas, wooden handicrafts, etc. Other souvenirs from Rajasthan include elephant-printed pants, turban-printed t-shirts, keychains, fridge magnets, wooden name plates, and so much more.
Must-try food in Mount Abu
Being a tourist destination, Mount Abu in Rajasthan has developed food that caters to all visitors. The hotels and cafes serve Rajasthani and Gujarati thali meals as well as Punjabi and continental cuisine. Indian popular street food like panipuri, pav-bhaji and chaats are easily available. The must-try food in Mount Abu is as follows:
Softy Ice Cream in Mount Abu
Softy ice cream is an extremely popular dessert in Mount Abu. There are shops lined up near Nakki Lake selling softy ice cream. The ice cream is softer and less dense as compared to regular ice cream cones which is why it is called softy.
There are over 20 flavours of softy available and it is served in a wafer cone.
Rabdi in Mount Abu
Rabdi is sweet thick milk, that is made when the milk is left on flame for hours. The milk turns into cream and that thick cream along with the same milk is added with sugar and dry fruits. Rabdi can be served hot or cold depending on your preference and is available in both variants.
Rabdi in Mount Abu is available at shops near Nakki Lake.
Best time to visit Mount Abu
Mount Abu enjoys good weather all over the year and hence it is good to visit at all times. Each season has its own speciality and people throng this hill station for the same reasons. Mount Abu gives a cooling respite in summers. However, the day temperature would hover around 38 degrees celsius.
Monsoon in Mount Abu is special because the Aravalli ranges come alive with waterfalls, mist and lush greenery everywhere. This is the perfect time to trek.
While winters in Mount Abu are super chilly with cold winds. In extreme winter, there have been reports of Nakki lake freezing.
All in all, tourists can visit Mount Abu any time of the year.
How To Reach Mount Abu
By flight
The nearest airport to Mount Abu is Udaipur located at a distance of 210 km. One can also get down at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Airport at Ahmedabad, 221 km away. Both these airports are connected to all major cities of India. One needs to hire a car or take a train to Abu Road.
By train
The nearest railway station to Mount Abu is Abu Road which is 32 km away. There are regular trains to Abu Road from Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Jaipur and other major cities.
By road
Regular buses (Both private and state government) ply between Mount Abu and Ahmedabad, Udaipur, Jaipur and Delhi.
Where to stay in Mount Abu | Best resorts in Mount Abu
Hotels in Mount Abu cater to all kinds of tourists. There are villas, hotels, homestays and resorts in Mount Abu.
I have visited multiple times and my latest accommodation in Mount Abu was at Hummingbird Resorts. The resort is near Achalgarh fort, a little far from Mount Abu and the touristy Nakki lake. This is a breather because there are no traffic jams or parking problems here. The resort has a nicely maintained garden, swimming pool, kids’ play area and good food options. The resort is vila with 3 rooms and a common sitting and dining area. If you are travelling in a group, it is a great option.
Resorts in Mount Abu: Cama Rajputana, Sterling Abu
Hotels in Mount Abu: Hotel Aravali, Hotel Hillock, Hotel Chacha Inn
Frequently Asked Questions about Places to visit in Mount Abu
Is Udaipur better than Mount Abu?
Mount Abu is a picturesque hill station while Udaipur is a city full of lakes, palaces, museums, and forts. Both the places have their own charm and you can pick out the destination as per your choice.
What is famous in Mount Abu?
Mount Abu is a beautiful hill station that offers lovely views of the Aravalli ranges and the famous Nakki Lake. Mount Abu is famous as a religious and spiritual destination too that has Brahma Kumaris headquarters and important Jain temples.
What should I buy in Mount Abu?
There is no dearth of shopping in the markets of Mount Abu. Silver jewellery, lac bangles, leheriya sarees and dupattas, marble decor items, and wooden artefacts are very popular.
How many days are required in Mount Abu?
A weekend in Mount Abu is ideal to cover all the places to visit in Mount Abu.
Is Mount Abu safe?
Yes, Mount Abu is extremely safe for tourists of all kinds. If you are planning a solo trip in Rajasthan, then Mount Abu should be on your list.
Sustainable tips for places to visit in Mount Abu
- Mount Abu is a hill town and so it is best to avoid polythene bags. Do not use single-use or disposable plastic. Dispose of biscuit wrappers, wafer packets, and juice boxes in designated bins. Do not litter the highways, places of tourist interest or riverbanks.
- Respect nature during adventure activities and do not harm it in any form. A single cigarette butt can give rise to fires hurting the economy of the entire region.
- Do not pluck flowers/fruits without permission. Be a responsible and respectful tourist.
- Keep a safe distance in case you sight a wild animal. Do not feed them or tease them.
- Eat and enjoy local food.
Read More Posts from Rajasthan:
- Panna Meena ka Kund, Jaipur
- Places to visit near Eklingji Temple
- Anokhi Museum, Jaipur
- 3 days Jaipur itinerary
- 3 days in Udaipur
- Kumbhalgarh Fort
- Udai Bilas Palace Dungarpur
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