Do you know the name of the largest state in India? Well, no points for guessing; it’s Rajasthan — the land of all things grand. For many, the word Rajasthan automatically brings to mind vast stretches of glistening dunes, camel rides, and mesmerizing forts. But there’s more.
As the largest state of India with a variety of landscapes, Rajasthan has it all. From big, beautiful lakes to grand Havelis, from sunsets on sands to national parks—the platter is actually as diverse as a big Rajasthani thali.
If Rajasthan has got your attention, then without further ado, let’s present to you its only hill station—Mount Abu. Located in the Sirohi district of Rajasthan, this isolated massif of the Aravalli range has an elevation of 4000 ft. Due to its height, lush greenery and surrounding lakes, Mount Abu is a respite from the scorching summer of Rajasthan.
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
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A Wonderful Mix Of History And Mythology
In the Puranas, this area was referred to as ‘Arbudaranya’ i.e., the forest of Arbu. So clearly, the word Abu has its roots in ‘Arbu’. According to mythology, Arbuda was a serpent who saved the life of Nandi, Lord Shiva’s bull, on this mountain.
In 1311 CE, Rao Lumba of the Deora-Chauhan Dynasty conquered Mount Abu from the Parmars. Later, the British took it on lease from the Maharaja of Sirohi to set up their base away from Rajasthan’s dry, hot summer.
If history, mythology and nature interest you, you’re surely in for a treat in Mount Abu.
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Places To Visit Around Mount Abu
Nakki Lake
Want to enjoy the serene emerald-green water? Then, Nakki lake might be the place for you. One of the top tourist attractions around Mount Abu—Nakki lake also has boating facilities available for visitors.
Image Source: Rajasthan Tourism Website, Govt. of Rajasthan
Guru Shikhar
Blessed with a panoramic view and a temple on top, Guru Shikhar is the highest point of Mount Abu. The temple Guru Dattatreya worships the Hindu trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva.
Toad Rock View Point
Located close to Nakki lake, this remarkable structure of the igneous rock is proof that nature has its unique way of making art.
Image Source: Rajasthan Tourism Website, Govt. of Rajasthan
Dilwara Jain Temple
If you love smelling history out of thin air, visit this temple built around the 11th-13th century. This world-famous temple with intricate work on white marble is an architectural delight for many.
Image Source: Rajasthan Tourism Website, Govt. of Rajasthan
Achalgarh Fort
Originally built during the Parmar dynasty, it is one of the most coveted forts of Rajasthan. Do visit the Achaleshwar Mahadev temple just outside the fort.
Trevors Tank
Crocodiles, anyone? Well, this man-made crocodile breeding spot near Mount Abu has too many of them.
Image Source: Rajasthan Tourism Website, Govt. of Rajasthan
Mount Abu Sanctuary
Home to many wild animals like the Indian leopard, striped hyena, grey jungle fowl, pangolin and Indian fox, this sanctuary is all-things-nature. From exotic flora and fauna to birds, the pure air of the sanctuary will definitely relax you.
Image Source: Rajasthan Tourism Website, Govt. of Rajasthan
How To Reach
- By Flight: The nearest domestic airport is Udaipur, 176 km away from Mount Abu. From Udaipur, Mount Abu is a 3-4 hour taxi ride. Taking a bus will be the cheapest if you’re on a budget trip. If you’re flying internationally, the nearest airport is in Ahmedabad, 221 km from Mount Abu.
- By Train: The railway station, Abu road, is 28 km away from Mount Abu and is well-connected to all the major cities of India.
- By Road: If a long drive through scenic routes is your thing—driving to Mount Abu can be one of your best decisions. Closely connected to the National Highway 14, a road trip to Mount Abu and its adjacent areas can be a life-changing experience.
Where To Stay
Be it AirBnbs, hotels, palaces, or manors—Mount Abu has lodging options for all kinds of travelers. Want to have a staycation? Book one of the many Airbnb.
List of Airbnbs
Cost: INR 7988 per night, 3 beds
Cost: INR 7779 per night, 5 beds (4-12 PAX)
List of Hotels
Hotel Hillock: Located near Nakki lake, this hotel has a big outdoor pool.
Price: INR 6900 onwards
The Colonial Manek Manor: This bungalow built during the British Raj has a quintessential colonial flavour.
Price: INR 4307 onwards
Best Season to Visit: November to March
This winter, head to Mount Abu and explore all that this ancient mountain has to offer.