North India
Tourist Places
Mount Abu Guide

The
Raj period approached it as a relaxation place to rewind along with the royalties
and semi royalties. The place sways in an interesting contrast of British style
bungalows, the holiday lodges of the royals (Thikhana) along with the presence
of the various communities of the tribals located amidst the thick lush of the
forest on the hills surrounding the region.
The flora and fauna enjoys the adulation of the tourist to the fullest. Among
the flourishing ranges is the highest point of the Aravalli is the 'Gurushikhar'
with a vast sanctuary that shelters a number of species like langur, wild
boars, Sambar, leopards and many more along with a number of flowering trees
thus enhancing the whole scenario. This glorious ambience suited mainly to
the likes of sages and tribals and both made a great impact in the history
of the region
Places of Interest in Mount Abu
Temples
Mount Abu was an important Vaishnava and Shaivite pilgrim center up to the 11th
century. Today, it is recognized the world over for it's magnificent Jain temples.
No visit to Abu can be complete without a trip to the famed Dilwara temples.
These temples are the greatest draw of Abu, apart from its salubrious clime.
Half hidden by mango groves their sober exterior belies the wealth of their
interior ornamentation. Wondrously carved in marble, the Dilwara temples enshrine
various Jain tirthankaras, saints. Built between the 11th and 13th century,
are famous for their superb carvings in marble.
Wildlife
The sanctuary comprises the oldest mountain ranges - The Aravali. It was declared
as a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1960. Apart from having several sightseeing places
this sanctuary is a draw for nature lovers as it has great potential for Eco-tourism,
In shape this sanctuary is long and narrow but the top spreads out into a
picturesque plateau which is about 19 km. is length and 5-8 km. in breadth.
Attitudinally it varies from 300m. at the foot Mil to 1722 m. at Gurushikhar,
the highest peak of the Aravali Ranges. The rocks are igneous and due the
weathering effect of wind and water, large cavities are common the rocks.
This feature is typical of Aravali and particularly of Mt, Abu. Toad Rock
in Mount Abu is one such example.
Lakes
Nakki Lake [1 km]: The lake is picturesquely set amidst hills and is believed
to have been carved out by the Gods with their nails. It is popular spot for
boating and the only artificial lake in India that is 1200 mts. above sea level.
The surrounding hills have several area of interest.