Mount Abu Rajasthan
A pleasant retreat set amidst the lush forested hills, Mt. Abu is a green oasis in the barren desertscape thats Rajasthan. Situated at the southern tip of the Aravali range the hill retreat owes its cool climate to its rich flora covering the entire hillside that includes coniferous trees and flowering shrubs. The road leading to Mount Abu is a curved one characterized by arid region dotted with huge rocks in weird shapes and high velocity winds. The only hill station in Rajasthan, Mount Abu is more than just a summer retreat. Its stunning array of exquisite Dilwara Jain Temples, dating back 11th- 13th centuries, make it a popular pilgrimage centre. ‘Abu’ according to a legend.stands for the son of Himalayan, deriving its name from Arbuada,the powerful serpent who rescued Nandi, the sacred bull of Lord Shiva, from a chasm.Mount Abu has been home to many sages and saints. Most famous of them was Sage Vashishtha who is believed to have created four agnikula Rajput clans from a fire-pit by performing a ‘yagna’ or fire sacrifice, to protect the earth from the demons.The Yagna was performed besides a natural spring situated below Abu, emerging from a rock shaped like a cow’s head and hence the site was called Gaumukh.
Temples Of Mount Abu
1. Gaumukh Temple
A natural spring flowing through a sculpted cow is head gives the shrine its name. The famous yagna of sage Vashishtha was performed here. A beautifully sculpted hill temple of Arbuada-the mighty serpent stands against the beautiful backdrop. Nearby is the magnificent marble image of Nandi, the celestial bull rescued by Arbuada. 
2. Dilwara Jain Temple
These beautifully carved temples built between 11th and 13th century A.D. is sheer elegance in marble, dedicated to the Jain Tirthankaras. The Vimal Vasahi temple is the oldest of these dedicated to the first Tirthankara. Built in 1031 A.D.
The central shrine has an image of Rishabhdev and large courtyard with 52 small shrines, each housing a beautiful statue of thirthankaras with 48 elegantly carved pillars form the entrance to the courtyard.
3. Adhar Devi Temple
The temple is chiselled out of a huge rock reached by a flight of 360 stairs. A favourite tourist spot. Sunset Point Spectacular sight of the setting sun when the hills are covered in the golden glow can be viewed from here.
4. Shri Raghunathji Temple
Situated near the Nakki Lake is the temple dedicated to Shri Raghunathji with a beautiful image of the deity that was placed here in 14th century A.D. by Shri Ramanand the famous Hindu preacher.
5. Museum and Art Gallery
Located at the Raj Bhawan, it was a collection of archaeological excavations dating back to 8th-12th century A.D. It also has Jain bronze carvings, brassworks etc. for viewing.
Other Attractions Of Mount Abu
1. Nakki Lake
The Nakki Lake was scooped out by a Hindu god just by his nails therefore it is believed to be holy to the Hindus. The lake is surrounded by hills, parks and strange rock formations. The Popular among the Rocks are Toad rock, the Nun rock and the Nandi or Camel Rock. The temple of Raghunath built in the 14th century stands besides the lake. Earlier several Maharajas use to build lavish summer retreat along the Nakki Lake.The lake is the heart of Mt Abu where every kind of activity goes on, from the short stroll around the lake to the juice stalls, ice cream parlour, balloon vendors and photographers wooing the guests for a photograph amidst the beautiful sceneries.
2. Shopping
In Mount Abu there is a mini market for Rajasthani handicrafts. Marble, sandalwood and sandstone can be bought from the shops around Nakki Lake. Kota saris, bangles and linen with Sanganeri prints are also available in the market.
How To Reach
By Air
The nearest airport from Mt Abu is situated in Udaipur at a distance of 185 kms.
By Rail
The closest railway station is at Abu road which links the place with major destinations like Ahmedabad, Delhi, Jaipur and Jodhpur
By Road
Good network of bus services connect Mount Abu to other major cities of Rajasthan .
