Not too far from the realms of the Thar desert, its shape-shifting sand dunes, mighty forts and palaces, the Kalbeliya dancers and scorching heat, there lies a city with lush green forests, pleasant weather and plenty of flora and fauna. The only hill station of Rajasthan, a pleasant surprise in the middle of an arid state.
This monsoon, book your tickets to Mount Abu, where you can experience the natural splendour of lakes, mountains and forest right in the middle of the desert land.
Guru Shikhar
The walk up to Guru Shikhar, the highest mountain peak in Rajasthan is one of the best destinations for trekkers. The winding road is lined with unspoiled forest- a feast for the eyes.
The peak, 1,722 m above sea level, is named after sage Dattatreya, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. On the top of the hill, there’s cave and a temple dedicated to him.
Nakki Lake
Surrounded by the lofty Aravali hills, this serene lake-half a mile in length-has an interesting mythological story related to it. As per the legend, the king had announced that he would marry his daughter to the man who’d dig a lake overnight.
So Balam Rasia, the man who wanted to marry the king’s daughter, used his nails (nakh) to dig the lake in just one night. Later on, the princesses’ stepmother refused to marry her to him.
Toad rock
On a hill right behind the Nakki lake, there’s this rock that’s shaped like a toad ready to jump into the water.
The path leading up the rock goes through the forest and walk is pretty thrilling. You’ll have to use the stairs carved in stone to get to the top from where you can have a mesmerising view of Nakki Lake.
Dilwara Jain Temple
Built between the 11th & the 13th century, Dilwara Jain temples are a breathtaking example of intricate carvings done on marble structures.
The serenity inside the temple will give you a sense that you’re as far from the maddening rush of the city as you can be.
Achalgarh fort
There’s no place in Rajasthan where the royal dynasty hasn’t built a fort. Achalgarh fort was built by Maharana Kumbha, the ruler of Mewar, who built a total of 32 forts in Rajasthan during his reign.
Though the upkeep of this historical site isn’t up to the mark, it nonetheless stands witness to the history.
Trevor’s tank
If you’re a nature lover, Trevor’s Tank is a must-visit location.
It’s a reservoir in an isolated setting where one is likely to spot crocodiles sunbathing, a variety of fishes in the water, and birds.
Brahma Kumari Ashram
The headquarter of Brahma Kumari Ashram, one of the largest spiritual organisations in the world, is there in Mount Abu.
You can visit their ashram, meditate, listen to the speeches, and take a look at how the Brahma Kumars & Brahma Kumaris lead a simplistic life.
Need more reasons to visit Mt. Abu, do you?
