A pleasant retreat set amidst the lush forested hills, Mt. Abu is a green oasis in the barren desertscape thats 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.

The Yagna was performed besides a natural spring situated below Abu, emerging from a rock shaped like a cow’s head and hence the site was called Gaumukh.

The Raj period approached it as a relaxation place to rewind along with the royalties and semi royalties. The place sways in an interesting contrast of British style bungalows, the holiday lodges of the royals (Thikhana) along with the presence of the various communities of the tribals located amidst the thick lush of the forest on the hills surrounding the region.

The flora and fauna enjoys the adulation of the tourist to the fullest. 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. This glorious ambience suited mainly to the likes of sages and tribals and both made a great impact in the history of the region.

The tribes still conducting there authentic life styles in the wake of 21st century is rather interesting and so is the collection of various monuments of different religious sects like the famous shrines of Jainism.

Mount Abu, the only hill resort of Rajasthan, situated at the highest peak of the Aravali at an altitude of 1220 meters. This "Hill of Wisdom" and a true " Olympus of Rajasthan" stands on an independent hillock, which is separated from the main Aravali ranges by a deep gorge.

When ascending the mountain, one can hardly fail to be impressed with the grandeur and the scenic beauty, the gigantic blocks of rocks, towering along the crest of the hill, are especially striking, in some cases so weather- worn, that they present most fanciful and weird shapes, while in others appear so slightly balanced as to be in danger of rolling down.

It is not only one of the prettiest hill stations in the country, but a major Rajput and Jain pilgrimage center. The legend goes that a 'yagna' was performed here and four Agnikula or fireborn Rajput clans the Chauhans, Parmaras, Pratiharas and Solankis were created out of fire. 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 hill boasts of rich vegetation and thick forest, it stands out as an oasis in the arid environs, it is pleasant climate picturesque setting invite thousands of tourists for pleasure trips and relaxation.

Places to See
Dilwara Jain Temples ( the places of temples )
These world-renowned temples are the greatest draw of Mount Abu. The exteriors are quite simple and one is quite unprepared for the splendor of the interior that awaits. The main group consists of five temples wh9ich are marvels in white marble, constructed between 11th and 13th centauries. These temples are known for their rich intricate carvings, it is art at its best, and one is not able to believe that these are work of human hands. The temples of Vimal Shah and the temple of Vastupala and Tejapala are of particular interest.

Temple of Vimal Sah
Popularly known as Vimal Vasahi, it was built by Vimahl Sah (an officer of the Chalukya King BhimaI) 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
Built in the 13th century, commonly known as Luna Vasahi, this temple is dedicated to Neminatha, the twenty second Jain Tirthankara. The pattern of arrangement of the sanctum and statues is almost similar to the temple of Vimal Sah.

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
The cozy little hill resort throbs around this artificial lake, believed to be dug out by the god's with their nails (nakh), and thus the name Nakki. The town forms an amphitheatre around this lake, doted with little islets. Boats, Shikaras and paddle boats are available for rowing on this beautiful lake.

Toad Rock
Rock carved by nature, overhangs the placid waters and it seems, as if the toad like rock is ready to dive into the blue waters of the lake.

Temple of Raghunathji
The great preacher Ramananji is believed to have installed the image of Shri Raghunathji ( Lord Rama) over here in the 14th century, it is situated near Nakki Lake.


Sunset Point
South-west of Nakki Lake , this splendid sunset offers a great view during the dusk hours, when the entire horizon is painted in a crimson color. The view of the lush plains is breathtaking.

Honeymoon Point
Also known as the Andra Point, 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. Temple of Vashishtha, and a fire pit, where Agnikula Rajputs are also said to have been created, are a quite old and interesting site here.

Om Shanti Bhawan
Also known as the Universal Peace Hall, it is the Brahma Kumari`s World Spirituality University. It has a big hall without any pillars and can accommodate up to 3500 people.

Adhar Devi or Arbuda Devi Temple
This magnificent temple is approached though a flight 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 & 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.