|
MOUNT
ABU was discovered as a retreat from the urban bustle by the
British. Its salubrious climate, flora and fauna as well as the
exotic culture of the nearby tribals made it an ideal outdoor spot.
The interesting contrast of British style bungalows, the holiday
lodges of the royals (Thikhana) attest to the fact. Among the
flourishing surrounding ranges is the highest point of the Aravalli
-the 'Gurushikhar' with a vast sanctuary that sheltering animals
like langur, wild boars, Sambar, leopards along with a number of
flowering trees.
Long before the advent of the adventurist, however MOUNT ABU was the
meditational retreat as evidenced in its numerous temples. Be
mesmerized by the Dilwara temple as its intricate carvings on the
marble leaves you spell bound. Seek the blessings of Arbuda Devi who
Devi lends her name to the hill resort of Mount Abu. Be amazed by
rocks that appear like a Toad Nun, Nandi or a Camel. Besides, there
is a full complement of horse rides, honeymoon and the sunset
points.
How to Reach
The only hill resort of Rajasthan, Mount Abu is easily accessible
with regular trains that link Mount Abu with other places like
Ahmedabad, Delhi, Jodhpur and Agra. The excellent road network links
Mount Abu with Udaipur and Ahmedabad through bus service.
|
Places to visit |
|
Dilwara
Temples
Mount Abu was an
important Vaishnava and Shaivite pilgrim center up to the
11th century. Today, it is recognized the world over for its
magnificent Jain temples. Half hidden by mango groves, the
famed Dilwara temples are wondrously carved in marble .These
enshrine various Jain tirthankaras- or saints and exhibit
filigree and marble carvings that rival Papier Mache. .
Built between the 11th and 13th century, each figure is
lifelike and each line etched in stone seems likely to jump
to life. Vimal Vasahi is dedicated to Adinath, the first of
the Jain tirthankaras. The central shrine contains an image
of Rishabhdev in a large courtyard with 52 small shrines,
each housing a beautiful statue of Tirthankaras with 48
delicately carved pillars. |
 |
|
|
|
Gaumukh
Temple
A
natural spring that flows as if through a sculpted cow's
head, gives the shrine its name. It was supposedly Guru
Vashistha’s Ashram and was carved out of a rock. Nearby, is
the marble with the image of Nandi. |
 |
|
|
|
Nakki Lake
The
popular spot for boating is set picturesquely among hills
and is 1200 mtrs above sea level. As India's only artificial
lake, it is believed to have been carved out by the Gods
with their nails. |
 |
|
|
|
Toad Rock
Overhanging the Nakki Lake, it appears like a gigantic
(Stone) toad about to leap into the water. |
 |
Unique shopping
Nakki Maal (Nakki Lake
Market) is famous for shopping where all the renowned Rajasthani
arts and crafts like - Jewellery, fabrics, wooden articles, gem
stones, metal crafts, leather ware etc are available. The Rajasthan
Emporium on the Raj Bhawan Road has excellent options for gift items
and souvenirs.
Do’s and Don’t’s
- Before staying in a
paying guest accommodation, always check about its authorization by
the Department of Tourism.
- Always keep your hotel room locked when there or when out for
sight seeing, shopping.
- Always insist on a bill for purchases made
- Purchase from reputed or recognized shops.
- Free rides can culminate in trouble at hotel suggested by the
driver.
- Don't leave your valuables, luggage with the driver.
|
