Whether you’re boating on Nakki Lake, marveling at Jain architecture, or hiking through wildlife trails, the popular tourist destinations in Mount Abu promise a memorable experience. Perched on the Aravalli Range in southern Rajasthan, Mount Abu offers a refreshing escape from the desert heat and a rich tapestry of spiritual, historical, and ecological attractions. Known for its cool climate, lush forests, and sacred sites, Mount Abu is a favorite among honeymooners, pilgrims, and nature lovers alike. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the top places to explore in this hill station:
🛕 1. Dilwara Temples
- Architectural marvel built between the 11th and 13th centuries
- Renowned for intricate marble carvings and Jain craftsmanship
- Includes five temples: Vimal Vasahi, Luna Vasahi, Pittalhar, Parshvanatha, and Mahavir Swami
- A spiritual and artistic highlight of Mount Abu
🌊 2. Nakki Lake
- A man-made lake surrounded by hills and gardens
- Ideal for boating, photography, and evening strolls
- Legend says it was dug by gods using nails (“nakh”)
- Nearby attractions: Toad Rock, Sunset Point, and eateries
🏔️ 3. Guru Shikhar
- Highest peak in the Aravalli Range (1,722 meters)
- Offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and plains
- Houses the Guru Dattatreya Temple, dedicated to a Hindu deity
- Popular for trekking and sunrise photography
🏰 4. Achalgarh Fort
- Built by Rana Kumbha in the 14th century
- Includes the Achaleshwar Mahadev Temple and scenic viewpoints
- Offers a glimpse into Rajput military architecture
- Surrounded by lush greenery and historic ruins
🌿 5. Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary
- Spread over 288 square kilometers
- Home to leopards, sloth bears, langurs, and over 250 bird species
- Rich in flora: orchids, bamboo groves, and medicinal plants
- Ideal for nature walks, birdwatching, and eco-tourism
🧘 6. Arbuda Devi Temple
- Located in a cave on a hilltop, accessible via 365 steps
- Dedicated to Goddess Durga, revered by locals
- Offers spiritual serenity and scenic views
- Popular during Navratri and local festivals
💑 7. Honeymoon Point
- Offers romantic sunset views over the valley
- Surrounded by pine trees and rocky outcrops
- A favorite among couples and photographers
- Best visited in the evening for golden hour magic
🪨 8. Toad Rock
- A natural rock formation resembling a toad about to jump into Nakki Lake
- Accessible via a short climb from the lake
- Offers panoramic views and quirky photo ops
- A fun stop for families and casual hikers
🏛️ 9. Brahma Kumaris Spiritual University
- Headquarters of the Brahma Kumaris movement
- Offers meditation sessions, spiritual retreats, and guided tours
- Peaceful campus with gardens and learning centers
- Ideal for those seeking inner peace and mindfulness
🏞️ 10. Trevor’s Tank
- A man-made reservoir and picnic spot
- Known for crocodiles, birdlife, and lush surroundings
- Great for nature photography and quiet relaxation
- Less crowded than other attractions
🧭 Offbeat Attractions
- Shri Raghunath Temple: Near Nakki Lake, dedicated to Lord Vishnu
- Sunset Point: Offers dramatic views of the sun dipping behind the hills
- Peace Park: A tranquil garden maintained by Brahma Kumaris
- Adhar Devi Temple: Another cave temple with mythological significance
🛍️ Local Markets and Shopping
- Mount Abu Bazaar: Handicrafts, Rajasthani textiles, and souvenirs
- Government Handicraft Emporium: Authentic local products
- Popular buys: wooden toys, marble statues, silver jewelry, and herbal products
🍛 Cuisine and Dining
- Try Rajasthani thali, dal baati churma, and gatte ki sabzi
- Popular eateries: Chacha Café, Mulberry Tree, Sher-e-Punjab
- Street food near Nakki Lake: chaat, ice cream, and corn on the cob
🏨 Accommodation Options
- Luxury: Hotel Hilltone, Palace Hotel (Bikaner House), Sterling Mount Abu
- Mid-range: Hotel Hillock, Hotel Sunset Inn
- Budget: Forest rest houses, guesthouses, and homestays
📅 Best Time to Visit
- October to March: Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities
- Summer (April–June): Mild temperatures, popular for hill station escape
- Monsoon (July–September): Lush greenery, fewer crowds, but occasional rain
🚗 How to Reach
- By Road: Well-connected via NH-27 from Udaipur, Ahmedabad, and Abu Road
- By Train: Nearest station is Abu Road, 28 km away
- By Air: Nearest airport is Udaipur (185 km) or Ahmedabad (221 km)
🌿 Eco-Tourism and Sustainability
- Mount Abu promotes plastic-free tourism and nature conservation
- Wildlife sanctuary supports community-led eco-initiatives
- Visitors are encouraged to respect local customs and natural habitats
