Mount Abu in Lush Aravalli Hills,An Oasis of Rajasthan
Mount Abu lies in the oldest geological feature of the Aravalli ranges in Rajasthan. It is well known for its flora and fauna, cool to cold weather conditions, scenic beauty, and a rich history and religious importance.
The name Mount Abu comes from the ancient name Arbuda. It means the forest of Arbuda. It cites a high-powered viper who is said to have saved Nandi, Lord Shiva’s bull, from a gorge on the mountain range. It is also a retreat for several sages.
Mount Abu is known as the oasis of the desert, as it is far-flung and secluded from the dunes. It has green hills, rivers, lakes, waterfalls and dense forests creating a clear-cut disparity to the parched deserts of Rajasthan. It’s the only place in the region that gives a cool and prolific, and green retreat from the heat and dryness of the region. Not to forget it, you might come across many animals like Bears, Leopards, sambar, deer, wild boars and chinkaras. Well, Mount Abu is also a wildlife Sanctuary with over 250 species of birds, monkeys, crocodiles and some lovely fish. As you enter the hills, you will be welcomed by too many Langurs, but avoid feeding the wildlife as it is prohibited.
You will also happen to come across peacocks roaming around, along with chirps of grey jungle fowls, green avadavats and parrots.
Places to explore in Mount Abu
It’s a sacred hill with Hinduism and Jainism. Mount Abu was devised by Lord Rama himself to save his brother Lakshmana from the wrath of Ravana. There are some great places you can explore in and around the hills.
Lake is a foremost human-made lake. Take a stroll around the lake or market, or just chill at the bench with some hot corn. The lake has some scenic beauty, surrounded by rock formations and greenery. It’s the heart of Mount Abu and a favourite pick for tourists. It is also in the main market where you can shop, walk, boat and relax. Mahatma Gandhi’s ashes were immersed here, hence it’s a very sacred lake to the Local Garasia tribe. You can take a darshan at the Gandhi Ghat.
The Achleshwar Mahadev Temple is resolute to Lord Shiva as it is built around the toe print of Lord Shiva. It is near Achalgarh fort. You can climb up to the highest point in the Aravali mountain range, which offers an amazing view of Guru Shikhar. It’s at a height of 1772 meters above sea level. Guru Dattatreya temple, which is an incarnation of Lord Hindu, Lord Brahma and Lord Shiva, is situated at the peak along with Chamundi temple, Shiva temple and Mira Temple.
You can also visit the Honeymoon point, sunset view points across the hills and Champa Caves.
Intricately and beautifully carved in the 11th-13th century in marble is the famous Dilwara Jain temple. Mount Abu also has some secret spaces where you can enjoy the calmness of the hills, and they are the Dhrudhiya waterfalls, Peace peak, Trevor’s tank, Sant Sarovar Ashram and the lake. The scenic hill top view at the Toad rock, Jawai, Gaumukh temple, Raghunath temple, etc. The best time to roam around Mount Abu is by taking a stroll in daytime and avoiding late evenings, or else you might bump into a bear.
There are some great rock climbing opportunities, as the Mt Abu ranges have diverse and natural rock formations. The best time for rock climbing is in summer and winter. Several avid rock climbers, be they professionals or beginners, or clubs, come here to practise their skills in these natural settings.
You can enjoy shopping at the local bazaar for traditional handicrafts made by Rajasthani artists. You might find some lovely bangles, lehengas, and marble work. Sandalwood and sandstone are a great pick, too.
You can enjoy some delicious Rajasthani meals, including dal baati, Gatte ki sabji, Ker sangri and other desi mithais like Ghevar and Malpua. Not to forget the Pyaz ki kachori there. You can also pick some yummy ice-creams, no matter what the weather, along with some fast food items for your loved ones. Avoid March to June as it gets hot, but monsoons and winters are the best times to come here.
How to reach Mount Abu!
You can arrive at the nearest city of Lake Udaipur by air, which is near Mt Abu. It’s just 185 km away by bus or taxi. Ahmedabad is your second option. You can reach there either by train, bus or by road at your own convenience. All trains are well-connected to major cities, and they stop at Abu Road. From here, you need to take a local taxi to go up to the hills, which is just 28km. Drive through the beauty and explore the Aravallis oasis.
Also read https://traveljuntion.com/hairshchandragad/
