Mount Abu is the only hill station of Rajasthan, at an altitude of 1,220 Mt. It is located on top of Aravalli hill, surrounded by the dense thorny forest. Mount Abu is one of the most famous pilgrimage sites of the Jains and known for its grand Dilwara Jain Temples. Besides the temples and sites of historical importance, Mount Abu is also rich in natural scenic beauties.

According to a legend, the place derives its name from Arbuda, a serpent who descended to the spot to rescue Shiva's bull, Nandi.

In the medieval times, Mount Abu was a part of the Chauhan kingdom. Later it was leased to the British by Maharaja of Sirohi. It was used as the headquarters of the resident to Rajputana (another name for Rajasthan). And like all other hill station, Mount Abu was also the favorite summer destinations of the Britishers, who drove to this hilly retreat to escape the dusty, dry heat of the plains.

Mount Abu is also well known for the famous Dilwara temples and many more archaeological remains. There are interesting treks and picnic spots, romantic royal retreats of the various erstwhile families of bygone Rajputana and some relics of the Raj period. The scenic landscapes include gigantic blocks of rocks in weird shapes, an array of coniferous trees, flowering shrubs, lovely lakes and the cool climate much in contrast to the arid environs of the state.

Dilwara Temples, Mount Abu
The artistically crafted, Dilwara Temples are made of marble. It was built during 11th & 13th century AD which are sheer elegance of marble, dedicated to the Jain Tirthankaras. It consisting of five marble Jain temples. The Vimal Vasahi Temple is the oldest of these, dedicated to the first Tirthankara. Built in 1031 AD (by Vimal Shah- a merchant and representative of the then Gujarat ruler), it is a superb specimen of temple architecture.

Gaumukh Temple, Mount Abu
Gaumukh Temple is Dedicated to lord Rama. Gaumukh which mean the mouth of cow is centered on a spring gushing from the mouth of a marble cow. According to the Hindu mythology, the world is formed by a cow licking salt; the source of the Ganges has the same name. This is said to be the site of the ancient 'agnikund' fire rituals. It is 4 kms south of Mount Abu.

Nakki Talav, Mount Abu
Nakki Talav is a sparkling blue artificial lake located virtually in the heart of the town. According to the popular legend, Nakki Talav is said to have been gauged from the earth surface by Gods using their fingernails. And this is how, it got its name Nakki Talav. The entire Nakki Lake is encircled by road. Rowing boats are available on hire from the jetty by Gandhi Park.

View Points, Mount Abu
Several points around the edge of the plateau offer spectacular views across the plains. The best are Honeymoon Point (Anadra Point) and Sunset Point, where hundred of people gather to watch the sunset every evening in a carnival atmosphere on a pony rides.

How To Get There to Mount Abu

Air
The nearest airport from Mount Abu is Maharana Pratap Udaipur Airport, Dabok (Udaipur) 207-km. One can hire a taxi to get to Mount Abu.

Rail
The nearest railway station is Abu Road (29-km) situated on Mumbai-Ahmedabad-Ajmer-Jaipur-Delhi route. From Abu Road one can take a taxi, jeep or bus to Mount Abu.

Road
It is well connected with the major parts of Rajasthan. Ahmedabad is 222-km via Palanpur. Jodhpur is 235-km via Sirohi and Pali. Udaipur is 156-km via Pidwara.