DESTINATION INDIA

Rajasthan(PART-X)

Mount Abu (Mt. Abu)

A pleasant retreat set amidst the lush forested hills, Mt. Abu is a green oasis in the barren desertscape that's Rajasthan. Situated at the southern tip of the Aravali range the hill retreat owes its cool climate to its rich flora covering the entire hillside that includes coniferous trees and flowering shrubs. The road leading to Mount Abu is a curved one characterized by arid region dotted with huge rocks in weird shapes and high velocity winds. The only hill station in Rajasthan, Mount Abu is more than just a summer retreat. Its stunning array of exquisite Dilwara Jain Temples, dating back 11th- 13th centuries, make it a popular pilgrimage centre. Abu according to a legend stands for the son of Himalayan, deriving its name from Arbuada, the powerful serpent who rescued Nandi, the sacred bull of Lord Shiva, from a chasm.

Mount Abu has been home to many sages and saints. Most famous of them was Sage Vashishtha who is believed to have created four agnikula Rajput clans from a fire-pit by performing a yagna or fire sacrifice, to protect the earth from the demons.

Places to see:

Dilwara Jain Temple

These beautifully carved temples built between 11th and 13th century A.D. is sheer elegance in marble, dedicated to the jain Tirthankaras. The main group consists of five temples - The Vimal Vasahi Temple, The Luna Vasahi Temple or The Teja Pala Temple, The Pittalhar Temple, The Parshvanatha Temple and The Mahaveer Swami Temple. The Vimal Vasahi temple is the oldest of these dedicated to the first Tirthankara. Built in 1031 A.D. (by Vimal Shah-a merchant and representative of then Gujarat ruler), it is a superb example of temple architecture.

Nakki Lake

The legendary lake is a shining ‘Jewel’ of the Abu hills. It is said that the lake was dug out by the nails (nakh) of the God’s and thus the name ‘Nakki’. The towns form an amphitheatre around the charming lake, dotted with little islets. It is considered to be the only artificial lake in the country, at an attitude of 1200 mts. Above sea level.  

Gaumukh Temple

 A natural spring flowing through a sculpted cow’s head gives the shrine its name Gau (cow) Mukh (mouth). According to a legend, the famous yagna of sage Vashishtha was performed here. A beautifully sculpted hill temple of Arbuada-the mighty serpent stands against the beautiful backdrop. Nearby is the magnificent marble image of Nandi, the celestial bull rescued by Arbuada.

Adhar Devi Temple

 

Just 3 km outside the town, this entire temple has been cut out from a single rock. The temple has a flight of some 360 steps and the place offers a scene of sublime beauty.

Om Shanti Bhawan or Universal Peace Hall

 

This impressive building houses the famous Brahma Kumari’s World Spiritual University. It has a big hall devoid of any pillars, and can accommodate a gathering of 3500 people.

Sunset Point

The splendid sunset point lies to the south-west of Nakki Lake. Spectacular sight of the setting sun when the hills are covered in the golden glow can be viewed from here. 

Honeymoon Point

Also known as Andra Point, it offers an enchanting view of the verdant plains and valleys. The place looks most beautiful during the dusk hours.