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Mount Abu is located in the south western corner of Rajasthan and is Rajasthan's only hill station. It is also a major pilgrim centre. The Aravalli range that cuts across Rajasthan reaches its greatest height at the Guru Shikhar. Interestingly not many people are aware that this is also the highest point between the Nilgiris in the south and the Himalaya range up North. The origin of Mount abu goes back several centuries.The Padam Puran relates the story of how this holy ciry came into existence. once Nandini, the cow belonging to the venerabel sage Vashishtha, was trapped in adeep chasm and could not get herself free.

When all efforts failed, the sage appealed to Lord Shiva For assistance. Saraswati the divine stream, flooded the pit and the cow floated up. Once his cow was free, Vashishtha approached the great Himalaya and asked him to fill the gorge permanetly to avoid further mishaps. The youngest son of Himalaya, with the assistance of Arbud, the mighty snake filled the For those keen to learn more about the history of Rajasthan it will be interesting to note that this place

Child Marriage Ceremony

was also the site for one of the most sacred rites -a yagya. This was performed by the same sage Vashishtha for the purification of the ancient fighting caste, the Kshatriyas. From this mystical fire rose the mighty Rajputs who later dominated the history of Rajasthan.


Nakki Lake
Due to the presence of Sages and Sheers this place became a holy retreat. But for most visitors today. Mount Abu is a hill station with all the deligthful spots necessary to make their trip interesting.

Delwara Jain Temples

The Nakki Lake is picturesquely set amidst hills and is believed to have been carced out by the gods with their nails. It is a popular spot for boating and the only artificial lake in India that is 1200 mts above sea level. The surrounding hills have several areas of interest. Be prepared to go for long walks and treks as you visit the spectacular Sunset Point, Toad's Rock and the beautifully sculpted hill temple of Gaumukh and Arbuda.

Mount Abu was also an important Vaishnava and Shaivite pilgrim centre up to the 11th century. Today it is recognised the world over for its magnificent Jain temples. No visit to Mount Abu can be complete without a trip to the Famed Delwara Temples. Let your mind be dazzled by the exquisite carvings on stone.

When you look at these temples you find yourself at a loss for words to describe this sheer poetry in stone, this elegance in marble as no description can really do justice to this beauty. These are better seen than described. The most important temple is dedicated to Rishabhji and spraw is to some 48,000 sq.ft. and has 29 halls and 1444 pillars, all distinctively carved. It is four faced and houses an idol of Adinath. Feel free to explore its various mandaps and study the intricate carving your guide will point out the fact that no two pillars are alike the carved design is different on each one. Lush green hills with a wealth of flora and fauna, quiet surroundings and very little traffic makes the drive to Ranakpura very pleasant one.

It is a peaceful area where you need not rush through the sight seeing. When you move towards Jalore you are in fact moving to altogether different landscape. It is a typical small town of Rajasthan where the hustle and bustle of the bigger cities is missing. Take time to get a taste of the countryside, explore the fort and the temples and see how the simple, unspoilt and friendly rural olk, live.