The state of Rajasthan does beckon travelers from all over the world to visit it at least once in their lifetime. This state does boast of having a rich culture, heritage, history and the people here are quite friendly and welcoming. One such place in Rajasthan that is in itself a great place to visit and has plenty of interesting activities around is Mt. Abu. This scenic hill station is without a doubt among the most visited places in the country. It boasts of having a cool atmosphere and lush greenery all around, something that is really amazing, given the fact that Rajasthan is more of a desert state.

Interesting places to visit

Dilwara Temples: It is an important pilgrimage center for the Jains and is also an enchanting site that draws tourists from all religions. This beautifully decorated temple is the effort of Vastupal Tejpal and was built between 11th & 13th There has been used marble liberally and the temple is adorned with intricate carvings. You can come across amazing designs that are etched upon the temple columns, walls, and roofs. There are 5 temples in this temple complex, namely, Mahavir Swami Temple, Vimal Vasahi, Pittalhar, Luna Vasahi, and Parsavanath. It is located 2km from the city and is visited throughout the year.

Brahma Kumari World Spiritual University: It is a spiritual and international organization established by the great Dada Lekhraj Kripalani. You can find yogis in large numbers visiting this place from everywhere. It also houses the meditation place of Dada Lekhraj and is referred to as the ‘Baba’s hut’. Here, you can learn Raja Yoga meditation. The university boasts of having a worldwide following of 8,500+ centers spread across 100 countries globally. It is located 5 km away from the city and is of great interest to spiritual pursuits. You can visit this university at any time of the year.

Universal Peace Hall: It is also called Om Shanti Bhawan. Built within the Brahma Kumari Spiritual University, it is the main hall here, established in 1983 to accommodate 5,000 people at any point in time. there are conducted transactions in about 16 languages simultaneously, as numerous functions are held at this hall. It is presently declared as a tourist place and also is a venue to hold international and spiritual conferences. It is located about 1km away from the city and is quite ideal for those who are spiritually inclined. It is better visited during the monsoons between November & March.

Gaumukh Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and requires the devotees to climb 700 stairs to reach it. from the top, you will be able to have a glimpse of the beautiful valley. Numerous meditation and pilgrimage sessions take place at this temple throughout the year. Gaumukh along with the figurine of Nandi is the main attraction here. Besides Nandi are the idols of Rishi Vashishta, Lord Rama and Lord Krishna. The water stream falling from marble bull’s mouth is sure to mystify you and is dedicated to the sacred bull of Lord Shiva named Nandi. This temple is 2km away from the city and can be visited at any time of the year.

Sri Raghunathji Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is located on Nakki Lake’s banks. A huge number of devotees belonging to the Vaishnav sect come to this temple to seek blessings and prosperity. There is an ancient belief that people of this region were once saved by Sri Raghunathji from challenges and calamities. You can find beautiful carvings, paintings, and inscriptions on its walls. The main idol is a major attraction here. This temple is located 1km away from the city and is best visited between the months of November & March.

Arbuda Devi Temple: This temple is dedicated to Arbuda Devi, considered to be Katyayani Devi’s incarnation. It also showcases Rajasthan’s opulent architectural heritage. Some historians claim that it was from an ‘Agnikund’ at Mt. Abu that the Parmar rulers had originated. Hence, the Parmar Kshatriyas consider Arbuda Devi to be their ancestral deity and pray to her. There is a well inside the temple that is claimed to have some divine powers and also is revered as Kamadhenu (holy cow) form. It is a fabulous example of Rajasthani rock-cut architecture. It is located just 1km away from the main city and you are sure to enjoy visiting during the Navratra season.

Toad Rock: It is a symbol that is said to represent Mt. Abu and is among the most visited place. you get to see fabulous views of the surrounding lush green hills and the lake that is near the spot. It is located 1.5km away from the city and is sure to be enjoyed by nature enthusiasts. You can visit it throughout the year.

Achalgarh Village: It is a scenic village visited for its temple and fort. The latter is constructed on top of a mountain peak. There is a Nandi at the temple that is claimed to be created using 5 metals. It is 5 km away from the city and can be visited throughout the year. this place is meant for those who are religious and interested in heritage and history.

Trevor’s Tank: It was a crocodile breeding professional named Trevor who had designed this tank to serve as their natural habitat. From this tank, you can get to see the beautiful surroundings. It is also a popular picnic spot frequented by locals and tourists alike. this tank is 5km distance from the city and is perfect for bird watching. It is best visited between November and March.

Guru Shikhar: It is Aravalli Range’s highest peak of 1,722m above sea level. You can find here Guru Dattatreya cave temple and Mt. Abu Observatory on reaching the peak. The observatory houses a 1.2m infrared telescope. It is located 15km away from the city and is best visited during the months of October & November.

You can find budgeted cheap hotels in mount Abu and sure to enjoy your stay here and explore the place.