Popular Tourist Destinations in Mount Abu: A Complete Guide to Rajasthan’s Hill Station

Mount Abu, nestled in the Aravalli Range of Rajasthan, is the state’s only hill station and a jewel of Indian tourism. Exploring the popular tourist destinations in Mount Abu offers a blend of spirituality, adventure, and leisure. Known for its cool climate, lush greenery, and rich cultural heritage, Mount Abu attracts travelers seeking respite from desert heat and those eager to explore temples, lakes, and scenic viewpoints.

🌄 Introduction to Mount Abu

Location: Situated in Sirohi district, Rajasthan, near the Gujarat border.
Altitude: 1,220 meters above sea level.
Climate: Pleasant year-round, with cool summers and mild winters.
Tourism Appeal: Famous for temples, lakes, wildlife sanctuary, and panoramic views.

🏯 Popular Tourist Destinations in Mount Abu

Nakki Lake

Heart of Mount Abu, surrounded by hills and gardens.
Legend says it was dug by gods using their nails (“nakki”).
Activities: Boating, evening strolls, and photography.
Nearby attractions: Gandhi Ghat and Toad Rock.

Dilwara Temples

Built between the 11th and 13th centuries.
Renowned for exquisite marble carvings and Jain architecture.
Temples include Vimal Vasahi, Luna Vasahi, and Parshvanath.
Considered among the finest Jain temples in India.

Guru Shikhar

Highest peak of the Aravalli Range (1,722 meters).
Offers panoramic views of Mount Abu and surrounding plains.
Houses the Guru Dattatreya Temple.
Popular for trekking and sunrise/sunset views.

Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary

Spread over 288 sq. km.
Home to leopards, sloth bears, wild boars, and over 250 bird species.
Rich flora including orchids and bamboo forests.
Ideal for nature walks and eco-tourism.

Sunset Point

Located in South West Nakki Lake.
Famous for breathtaking sunset views over the Aravalli hills.
Popular among couples and families.

Honeymoon Point

Also known as Andra Point.
Offers romantic views of valleys and hills.
Popular among newlyweds and leisure travelers.

Achalgarh Fort

Built by the Paramara dynasty, later renovated by Maharana Kumbha.
Houses Achaleshwar Mahadev Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Scenic surroundings with medieval architecture.

Toad Rock

Natural rock formation resembling a toad about to jump into Nakki Lake.
Popular for trekking and photography.
Offers panoramic views of the lake.

Trevor’s Tank

Crocodile breeding center and birdwatching spot.
Named after British engineer Trevor.
Surrounded by lush greenery, ideal for picnics.

Arbuda Devi Temple

Ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Arbuda.
Located in a cave, reached by climbing 365 steps.
Important pilgrimage site with mythological significance.

Brahma Kumaris Spiritual University

Headquarters of the Brahma Kumaris movement.
Offers meditation, spiritual courses, and retreats.
Attracts visitors seeking peace and mindfulness.

Adhar Devi Temple

Carved out of a rock, dedicated to Goddess Durga.
Requires climbing 365 steps to reach.
Offers scenic views and spiritual ambiance.

Gaumukh Temple

Dedicated to Sage Vashishtha.
Features a natural spring flowing from a cow’s mouth-shaped rock.
Associated with mythological stories of the sage’s ashram.

🎭 Cultural Significance

Spiritual Hub: Jain temples, Hindu shrines, and Brahma Kumaris center.
Legends: Nakki Lake and Arbuda Devi Temple tied to mythological tales.
Festivals: Summer Festival in May celebrates local culture with folk dances, music, and boat races.

🛍️ Shopping in Mount Abu

Markets near Nakki Lake: Handicrafts, souvenirs, and Rajasthani textiles.
Specialties: Marble artifacts, Kota sarees, and sandalwood items.
Local Products: Herbal medicines and woolen clothes.

🍲 Cuisine in Mount Abu

Rajasthani Dishes: Dal Baati Churma, Gatte ki Sabzi, Laal Maas.
Street Food: Kachori, samosa, and jalebi.
Local Specialties: Rabri, malpua, and seasonal fruits.
Dining Options: Lakeside cafes and heritage restaurants.

📅 Suggested 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Lakes and Temples

Morning: Nakki Lake boating and Toad Rock trek.
Afternoon: Visit Dilwara Temples.
Evening: Sunset Point.

Day 2: Peaks and Forts

Morning: Trek to Guru Shikhar.
Afternoon: Explore Achalgarh Fort and Achaleshwar Temple.
Evening: Honeymoon Point.

Day 3: Wildlife and Spirituality

Morning: Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary.
Afternoon: Trevor’s Tank and Arbuda Devi Temple.
Evening: Brahma Kumaris Spiritual University.

💰 Travel Costs

Budget Trips: ₹8,000–₹12,000 per person (3 days).
Mid-Range Trips: ₹15,000–₹25,000 per person.
Luxury Trips: ₹30,000+ per person (heritage hotel stays).

✈️ Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit: October to March for pleasant weather; May for Summer Festival.
Transport: Nearest railway station is Abu Road; nearest airport is Udaipur.
Local Travel: Taxis, auto-rickshaws, and trekking.
Safety: Respect temple customs; carry water during treks.
Booking: Reserve accommodations early during peak season.

🌟 Why Visit Mount Abu?

Unique Hill Station: Rajasthan’s only hill retreat.
Spiritual Richness: Jain temples, Hindu shrines, and meditation centers.
Natural Beauty: Lakes, peaks, and wildlife sanctuary.
Cultural Vibrance: Festivals, crafts, and cuisine.

📖 Conclusion

Exploring popular tourist destinations in Mount Abu is a journey into Rajasthan’s diverse heritage. From the serenity of Nakki Lake to the grandeur of Dilwara Temples, from the heights of Guru Shikhar to the spirituality of Arbuda Devi Temple, Mount Abu offers something for everyone.

Whether you are a pilgrim seeking blessings, a couple looking for romance, or a traveler exploring nature and culture, Mount Abu promises unforgettable experiences. Truly, it is Rajasthan’s crown jewel of hill tourism.