Perched in the imposing Aravalli Mountain ranges, Mount Abu takes the pride of being the only hill station in Rajasthan. Mount Abu is one such place in Rajasthan where you can witness the picturesque charisma of nature, the grandiosity of architecture, the rustic wilderness of alpine region, fascination of wildlife, and pleasant climate in one place altogether. Because of its pristine ambiance and cool weather, Mount Abu is considered as the Summer Capital of Rajasthan.
Apart from its mind-blowing atmosphere, thanks to its location and unexplainable exquisiteness of nature that make Mount Abu the most distinctive tourist destination in Rajasthan. The hill station is predominantly known for ‘Dilwara Jain Temples’ but there is a lot more to explore. Let’s explore the famous places to visit in Mount Abu.
Dilwara Jain Temples
- Location: Delwada, 2 km from Mount Abu
- Deity: Jain Tirthankaras, primarily Lord Adinath and Lord Mahavir.
- Timings: 6:00 am – 12:00 pm (for Jain devotees) and 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm (for tourists)
- Best time to visit: October to March for pleasant weather.
- How to Reach: Accessible by air via Udaipur Airport (176 km), by train via Abu Road (29 km), and by road from major Rajasthan cities.
Built during the 11th century, Dilwara Jain Temples are the soul of Mount Abu. Dilwara Temples are worldwide known for its phenomenal stone carvings, incredible craftsmanship, and astonishing architecture with breathtaking structural designs. The remarkable use of marble in all over the temple and ornate statuettes on the roofs, walls, gateways, and pillars take the architectural brilliance Dilwara Temples to the next level. Constructed by Vastupal Tejpal, Dilwara Jain Temples is actually a cluster of five magnificent temples. Inside the temple on every hook and corner, there is an enigmatic beauty that spills the prideful values of Jains.
Dilwara Jain Temple is a major pilgrim spot for the Jains but for the world, it is no less than an architectural wonder. With its austerity, serenity, and architectural splendor, it creates a magical aura that would call you again and again. The flawless engravings and miscellaneous scenes, taken from the Jain as well as Hindu mythological, add a life to this far-fetched architecture. Dilwara Jain Temple is the most important place among places to visit in Mount Abu.
- Also Check out: 15 Famous Jain Temples of India
Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary
- Location: Shergaon Path, Block No. 2, Mount Abu
- Timings: Open daily from sunrise to sunset.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March for pleasant weather and wildlife sightings.
- How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Udaipur Airport, about 185 km away.
- By Train: Abu Road is the nearest railway station, approximately 28 km from Mount Abu.
- By Road: Well-connected by road, accessible by bus or car from nearby cities.
- What to See:
- Rich biodiversity with diverse flora and fauna.
- Species like Indian leopard, sloth bear, wild boar, and various bird species.
- Nakki Lake, Trevor’s Tank, and Shanti Shikhar are scenic spots within the sanctuary.
- Stunning viewpoints, including Honeymoon Point and Sunset Point.
- Peaceful nature walks and trekking opportunities.
Mount Abu is a hill station still it is rich in vegetation and wildlife. Encompassing a total area of 288 km2 amid the Aravalli mountain ranges, Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary got the ‘wildlife sanctuary’ status in 1980. Bestowed with an abundance of various flora and fauna, Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary is worldwide known for being the home of leopards and feline predators. In the thorn & evergreen forests of Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary, a plethora of threatened species of birds, animals, and vegetation are found. Sloth bear, Sambar, jungle cat, jackal, Indian cat, and wild boar are the common animals in Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary.
If you’re a bird lover, you’re going to love Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary because here nearly 250 species of birds are found. Aside from the birds, Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary is also extremely abundant with the lush greenery. It houses around 115 types of plants. Definitely, a paradise for nature and bird lovers and one of the most beautiful places to visit in Mount Abu.
Nakki Lake
- Timings: Open from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM.
- Max. Depth: Approximately 35 meters.
- Time Required: 1-2 hrs
- Entry Fee: No entry fee
- How to Reach: Well-connected by road, reachable by local transport or private vehicles.
Nakki Lake is the most loved tourist destination in Mount Abu. With a panoramic backdrop of Aravalli hills and located on the altitudes of 11,000 km, Nakki Lake is the most beautiful and romantic place to visit in Mount Abu. The serene lake has many stories of its origin but the most common held view is that it was dug out by the Hindu Gods by their nails. That’s why it is also called Nakki Lake. This lake is still considered as a sacred lake among the Hindus. The quaint surrounding and the gurgling fountains underline the charm of Nakki Lake 100 times more.
You can assume the holiness of this lake with the fact that the ashes of Mahatma Gandhi Ji were immersed in Nakki Lake. The place where the ashes were immersed is known as Gandhi Ghat. Nakki Lake is a place where you can spend a romantic evening or enjoy a picnic with your family or sit and admire the beauty. You can also go for adventurous activity such as boating in the lake or horse riding around the lake. Nakki Lake is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Mount Abu.
- Suggested to Read: Most Beautiful Lakes to Visit in Rajasthan
Toad Rock
- Location: South of Nakki Lake in Mount Abu (1722 m above sea level)
- Timings: Accessible year-round, no specific opening or closing hours.
- Height: Approximately 25 feet.
- How to Reach: Easily accessible by a short walk from the lake’s vicinity.
- What to See:
- Unique rock formation resembling a toad, with a naturally sculpted “toad” shape.
- Offers panoramic views of Nakki Lake and the surrounding landscapes.
- Popular spot for photography and sightseeing.
- Part of the natural beauty and attractions in the Mount Abu area.
Before leaving from the Nakki Lake, don’t forget to visit Toad Rock which is at stone’s throw from Nakki Lake. If you’re a trek lover, this place is for you. Toad rock is actually a naturally made statuette resembling a tortoise. Watching Toad Rock is definitely intriguing but watching the vividness of entire city from the high above is something what you can’t get easily. Trekking and the view of entire city are the two major reasons people visit Toad Rock for.
Achalgarh Fort
- Location: 11 km from Mount Abu
- Timings: Open from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM.
- Entry Fee: No entry fee
- Time Required: 2-3 hours
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- How to Reach: Well-connected by road, accessible by car or local transport from Mount Abu.
- What to See:
- Historic fort built in the 14th century by Rana Kumbha of Mewar.
- Famous for the Achaleshwar Mahadev Temple within its premises.
- Scenic views of the Aravalli Range and the surrounding landscapes.
- Visit the Honeymoon Point and the nearby Kantinath Temple.
- Witness the massive cannon called “Mevad Sikar” at the fort.
If you’re in Rajasthan, you’re meant to witness the royal palaces and stellar forts. Some are well-conserved while some have gone in ruins but there will definitely be a fort in every city of Rajasthan. Achalgarh Fort, built by the Maharajas of Paramara Dynasty and later revamped by Maharana Kumbha of Mewar, spills the boasting historical saga and consummate architecture of Rajputs in a hill station. Inside the fort, there is an ancient temple of Lord Shiva named Achaleshwar Mahadev Temple.
The fort also has two giant foot imprints which are believed to be of Lord Shiva himself. This temple is a major attraction inside the fort. Located on the crest of Aravalli Hills, Achalgarh Fort offers a breathtaking vibrant view of entire city. Now the fort is tumbledown but it still never fails to impress its visitors. Achalgarh Fort is among the beautiful places to visit in Mount Abu.
- Other Interesting Blog to Read: Famous Palaces & Hill Forts in Rajasthan
Guru Shikhar
- Best Time to Visit: Ideal to visit from October to March for pleasant weather.
- Elevation: It is the highest peak in the Aravalli Range, standing at an elevation of 1,722 meters (5,650 feet) above sea level.
- How to Reach: Accessible by a 15 km drive from Mount Abu, well-connected by road.
- What to See:
- Panoramic views of the Aravalli Range and surrounding landscapes.
- A temple dedicated to Lord Dattatreya, a revered deity.
- Serene and peaceful atmosphere, ideal for meditation and relaxation.
- Hiking and trekking opportunities in the nearby areas.
- Stunning sunsets and photo-worthy moments.
Guru Shikhar is said to be the highest point in Aravalli hills. There are some temples in Guru Shikhar but people mainly visit this place to have an awe-inspiring view from the high above. Amid the bewitching ambiance of Guru Shikhar, you’ll feel yourself far away from the world chaos. There is a temple of Lord Brahma named ‘Temple Dattatreya’ in Guru Shikhar and the very interesting fact about the Dattatreya Temple is that the sound of temple’s bell is so loud that one can hear it from the miles away. To reach Guru Shikhar, you have to do trekking.
Sunset Point or Honeymoon Point
- Location: Situated in the South West of Nakki Lake, Mount Abu.
- Best Time to Visit: Visit in the evening to witness a stunning sunset.
- How to Reach:
- It’s easily accessible on foot from Nakki Lake, around 2 km.
- Alternatively, one can take a taxi or use local transportation.
- What to See:
- Spectacular views of the sun setting over the hills, casting vibrant hues across the sky.
- Picturesque landscape with lush greenery and serene surroundings.
- Nearby attractions include Honeymoon Point and the adjacent cliffs.
- Perfect spot for romantic evenings and photography.
- Peaceful ambiance, ideal for a leisurely stroll and relaxation.
Situated at the altitude of 4000feet and with a breathtaking backdrop of Nakki Lake, Sunset Point is the most picturesque place in Mount Abu. If you to see the sun setting down in the majestic hills of Aravalli, no other place in Mount Abu can be better than sunset Point. The sunset view of Honeymoon Point is so charismatic that it has rendered its beauty even to Bollywood movie ‘Qayamat se Qayamat Tak’. The untwining climate and tranquil surrounding of this place can entice anybody. In Sunset Point, hush, amusement, and nature’s charisma exist together.
This is one of the beautiful places to visit in Mount Abu. The rugged slopes, mesmerizing sunset view, and stupefying milieu make the Honeymoon Point a much-loved tourist destination in Mount Abu. A must-visit place especially for the love-birds!
Trevor’s Tank
- Location: 5 Kms from Mount Abu.
- Best Time to Visit: Monsoon season (July to September) for lush surroundings.
- How to Reach: Around 5 km from Mount Abu town, accessible by taxi, auto, or trek.
- Attractions:
- Man-made reservoir amidst rocky hills.
- Excellent for birdwatching, especially during the monsoon.
- Serene environment for picnics and nature walks.
- Named after Colonel G.H. Trevor, the British engineer who built it.
With the name, can you assume what this place would be all about? Well, Stretching in an area of 5 km, Trevor’s Tank is a wildlife region particularly known for the crocodiles. There are many other animals as well but the deadly crocodiles dominate the park. If you haven’t watched such lethal animals in zoo, you should surely visit this place. When you’re in Trevor’s Tank, keep your camera handy because here you’ll feel like to capture every moment. Due to its plush greenery and tranquil ambiance, Trevor’s Tank is also an ideal place for the family picnic.
Universal Peace Hall
- Location: Dadi Prakashmani Rd, Mount Abu
- Timings: Time:8:00 to 7:30 PM
- Entry Fee: Typically free, with optional donations.
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round for spiritual reflection and peace.
- How to Reach: Accessible by taxi or walking within Mount Abu town.
- Things to Do:
- Meditate and find inner serenity.
- Attend spiritual programs by the Brahma Kumaris.
- Enjoy the well-maintained gardens.
- Learn about the organization’s teachings.
- Experience a tranquil retreat in the Aravalli hills.
In Mount Abu, there are not many architectural attractions. Apart from the Dilwara Jain Temples and Achalgarh Fort, you would hardly get to see any historical monument recounting the legacy of our history. But when it comes to modern architecture, Mount Abu is no less than any other city. Universal Peace Hall is the seal mark of this statement. Having an across-the-board corridor where minimum 5000 people can sit, Universal Peace Hall is a stunning white marble-made palace. The awestruck architecture of Universal Peace Hall certainly deserves a visit.
Raghunath Temple
- Location: Located in the shores of Nakki Lake.
- Deity: Dedicated to Lord Raghunath (Lord Rama), an incarnation of Lord Vishnu.
- Timings: 5:00 am – 8:00 pm
- Entry Fee: No entry fee
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round; visit during festivals for a vibrant experience.
- How to Reach: Easily accessible within Mount Abu town, reachable by walking or a short drive.
This temple dates back to the 14th century and is on the top priority list of places to be visited. It is near the Nakki Lake. Often it is seen that many travelers who come here on a holiday suddenly turn pilgrims and offer their prayers at the temple.
Adhar Devi Temple
- Location: 2 km north of Nakki lake.
- Timings: 05:00 am – 08:00 pm.
- Entry Fee: No entry fee
- Best Time to Visit: Visit during the cooler months from October to March.
- How to Reach: Located approximately 3 km from the main town of Mount Abu.
This temple lies to the north of Mt. Abu. It is at a great height and we have to climb a staircase of 365 steps. This takes us to the shrine. The temple is built out of a natural cliff of the rocks. There is a thus a low ceiling and thus one has to stoop in to reach the temple. A panoramic view of the city can be had from here.
- Also Read: Popular Hindu Temples in Rajasthan
Brahma Kumaris Spiritual University and Museum
- Location: Nestled in the serene landscapes of Mount Abu, Rajasthan, India.
- Timings: 08:00 am – 07:30 pm.
- Entry Fee: No entry fee
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round for spiritual enrichment and retreat.
- How to Reach: Located within Mount Abu town, easily accessible by taxi, auto-rickshaw, or on foot.
- Things to Do:
- Attend spiritual programs and meditation sessions.
- Explore the tranquil campus with lush gardens and peaceful surroundings.
- Learn about the teachings and philosophy of the Brahma Kumaris.
- Participate in yoga and self-improvement workshops.
- Experience a serene retreat in the beautiful Aravalli hills.
This is a university for attaining spiritual enlightenment. This institution spreads knowledge of spirituality and aims at restoring peace and harmony in this world. The University conducts meditation sessions and ensures complete and collective enlightenment. It is internationally famous.
Best Time to Visit Mount Abu
Mount Abu is a hill station and known for trekking and adventurous activities, so you can visit the city throughout the year. The weather and climate always remain pleasant in Mount Abu. Interestingly, no matter what seasons are going on, you’ll find Mount Abu always draped with lush greenery. I wonder why it is called ‘Mount Abu’. It should have been called ‘Green Abu’. Anyways, you can visit Mount Abu anytime when your bags are packed. The flamboyant city will greet you with its all splendor and charisma.
How to Reach Mount Abu
With the popularity, you might be thinking that Mount Abu is a large and well-connected city. Right? Then, you’re wrong. Getting Mount Abu isn’t as easy as getting any other tourist destination in Rajasthan. So, let’s see how to reach Mount Abu conveniently by all modes of transportations.
Airways
Mount Abu has not its own airport, so you have to land in Dabok Airport, Udaipur, which is the closest airport, nearly 185 km from the city. From Udaipur Airport, you can get Mount Abu by the taxis, autos, and buses.
Railways
If you’re going by the trains, take a halt at the ‘Abu Road Railway Station’. From the railway station, the city is just 26 km away. The Abu Road Railway Station is well-connected to the major cities of India. But don’t expect the trains throughout the day. Merely 2-3 trains stop at Abu Road Railway Station going to a particular city of India.
By Road
The most convenient way to reach Mount Abu is by the road. Mount Abu is very well connected to the major cities of India by the road network. National Highway- 14 is very close to the Mount Abu which makes the transport network easy. To commute within the city, you can hire any vehicle at any time. Mount Abu is a famous tourist attraction, so there is never a dearth of vehicles. In fact all the places to visit in Mount Abu can be accessed road.
Mount Abu is a rugged terrain but the city has a unique magnetism. Whether you’re going on a family trip or on a honeymoon, Mount Abu won’t let you down. It will certainly leave you enthralled by its bewitching beauty.
