Mount Abu: Exploring Rajasthan's Hidden Hill Station Gem
Mount Abu is a picturesque hill station located in the Aravalli mountain range of Rajasthan, India. It is the only hill station in the state and is situated at an altitude of 1,220 meters above sea level. The town is surrounded by lush green forests and is known for its scenic beauty, rich cultural heritage, and unique architecture. In this article, we will explore Mount Abu's culture and provide a comprehensive guide on how to reach Mount Abu by air, train, and road.
Mount Abu Culture
Mount Abu is a melting pot of cultures and has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. The town was once home to several ruling dynasties, including the Chauhans and the Solankis. The town's culture is heavily influenced by these dynasties, and it is reflected in the town's architecture, art, and cuisine.
One of the most famous cultural attractions in Mount Abu is the Dilwara Jain Temples. These temples are known for their intricate carvings and are considered to be one of the finest examples of Jain architecture. Other popular cultural attractions include the Nakki Lake, Guru Shikhar, and the Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary.
Mount Abu is also famous for its colorful festivals, including the Winter Festival, which is held in December, and the Summer Festival, which is held in May. These festivals showcase the town's rich cultural heritage and offer visitors a chance to witness traditional music, dance, and food.
How to Reach Mount Abu:
Mount Abu is well connected to major cities in India by air, train, and road. Here is a detailed guide on how to reach Mount Abu by each of these modes of transportation.
By Air: The nearest airport to Mount Abu is Udaipur Airport, which is located approximately 185 km away from the town. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Mount Abu. Several airlines operate flights to Udaipur from major cities in India, including Delhi, Mumbai, and Jaipur.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Mount Abu is Abu Road Railway Station, which is located approximately 28 km away from the town. The railway station is well connected to major cities in India, including Delhi, Mumbai, and Jaipur. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Mount Abu.
By Road: Mount Abu is well connected to major cities in Rajasthan and Gujarat by road. The town is located approximately 475 km away from Delhi and can be reached by taking the NH8 and NH27 highways. Several state-run and private buses operate from major cities in Rajasthan and Gujarat to Mount Abu. You can also hire a taxi from these cities to reach Mount Abu.
Places to visit in Mount Abu:
The town is surrounded by lush green forests and is a popular tourist destination. In this article, we will explore some of the top tourist attractions in Mount Abu with their respective distances.
Dilwara Jain Temples (2 km)
The Dilwara Jain Temples are one of the most famous tourist attractions in Mount Abu. These temples are known for their intricate carvings and are considered to be one of the finest examples of Jain architecture. The temples are located approximately 2 km from the town center and can be reached by taxi or local buses.
Nakki Lake (1.5 km)
Nakki Lake is a popular tourist spot in Mount Abu and is located approximately 1.5 km from the town center. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a serene and peaceful environment. You can enjoy boating or take a stroll around the lake to enjoy the natural beauty.
Guru Shikhar (15 km)
Guru Shikhar is the highest peak in the Aravalli mountain range and is located approximately 15 km from Mount Abu. The peak offers a panoramic view of the surrounding hills and is a popular spot for trekking and hiking. You can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Guru Shikhar.
Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary (7 km)
The Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary is located approximately 7 km from the town center and is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, and sloth bears. The sanctuary also has several hiking trails, which offer visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of the region.
Adhar Devi Temple (3 km)
Adhar Devi Temple is a popular Hindu temple located approximately 3 km from the town center. The temple is situated in a cave and is dedicated to Goddess Durga. You need to climb a series of steps to reach the temple, which offers a stunning view of the surrounding hills.
Sunset Point (2.5 km)
Sunset Point is a popular spot to witness the beautiful sunset in Mount Abu. The point is located approximately 2.5 km from the town center and offers a stunning view of the sun setting behind the Aravalli mountain range.
Achalgarh Fort (11 km)
Achalgarh Fort is a 14th-century fort located approximately 11 km from Mount Abu. The fort has several ancient temples and is known for its beautiful architecture. You can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach the fort.
Types of Accommodation in Mount Abu:
Mount Abu offers a range of accommodation options to suit the needs and budgets of different travelers. Some of the popular types of accommodation in Mount Abu are:
Hotels: Mount Abu has several hotels ranging from budget to luxury categories. These hotels offer comfortable accommodation, and many of them come with facilities like swimming pools, spa, and restaurants.
Resorts: There are several resorts in Mount Abu that offer luxurious accommodation amidst the serene natural beauty of the hill station. These resorts are ideal for travelers looking for a relaxing getaway.
Guesthouses: Guesthouses are a popular option for budget travelers in Mount Abu. These guesthouses offer basic accommodation and are usually run by local families.
Homestays: Homestays are becoming increasingly popular in Mount Abu. They offer a chance to experience the local culture and hospitality while staying in comfortable accommodation.
Climate Conditions of Mount Abu:
Mount Abu has a subtropical highland climate, which means that the summers are mild, and the winters are cold. The monsoon season in Mount Abu starts in June and lasts till September. During this time, the hill station receives heavy rainfall.
Best Time to Visit Mount Abu:
The best time to visit Mount Abu is from October to March. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and the temperature ranges between 12°C to 29°C, making it an ideal time for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The hill station also looks its best during this time, with the lush greenery and beautiful natural scenery. However, if you are interested in witnessing the famous Mount Abu Winter Festival, which takes place in December, you can plan your visit accordingly.
Things to Do in Mount Abu:
Visit the Dilwara Jain Temples: These intricately designed marble temples are a must-visit for their stunning architecture and rich history.
Explore the Nakki Lake: Take a leisurely stroll around the lake, go boating or try some local snacks and shopping at the nearby markets.
Take a Trek: The hill station offers a range of trekking options, such as the trek to the top of Guru Shikhar, the highest peak in the Aravalli range.
Visit Wildlife Sanctuary: Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including leopards, sloth bears, and Indian foxes.
Attend the Mount Abu Winter Festival: Held in December every year, this festival is a celebration of the local culture, music, and food.
Tips to Visit Mount Abu:
Plan your visit during the winter months, from October to March, to avoid the scorching heat of Rajasthan.
Hire a local guide to get the most out of your visit to the Dilwara Jain Temples and other cultural attractions.
Carry comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a hat or scarf to protect yourself from the sun during the day.
Try the local food and sweets such as dal-bati-churma, gatte ki sabzi, and rabri.
Bargain while shopping at the local markets.
Book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid any last-minute hassles.
In conclusion, Mount Abu is a beautiful hill station that offers a range of experiences to its visitors. From exploring the cultural attractions to enjoying the natural beauty and outdoor activities, Mount Abu has something for everyone. By keeping these tips in mind, you can plan a hassle-free and enjoyable visit to this charming hill station.
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