History of Mount Abu
Once a part of the powerful Chauhans and serving as the summer retreat for the royals, the history of Mount Abu dates back to several centuries. Later it was leased to the British and in no time Mount Abu became the favourite getaway for the British officers posted in Rajasthan.
But more than history, it's the legends that make up the present Mount Abu. According to Hindu belief, once home to all the 330 million Hindu gods and goddesses, Mount Abu is one of the most sacred destinations in the country. Legends also say that famous sage Vasisth performed a huge yajna (sacrificial worship) and created four Rajput clans to protect the earth from demons.
There is also an interesting legend saying that Vasisth's cow Nandini was once trapped in gorge and as the sage made an appeal to Lord Shiva, he sent a divine stream to flood and eventually the cow floated up. To avoid such mishap in the future, Vasisth asked the youngest son of the king of mountains to fill up the gorge that he did with the help of mighty snake Arbud. It is said that Mount Abu got its name from Mount Arbud.
History also tells that the 24 th Jain Tirthankara and Lord Mahavira once visited Mount Abu and hence the place is greatly revered by the Jain pilgrims.
Mount Abu Shopping
Besides being a serene hill station and a pilgrimage destination, Mount Abu also offers numerous chances to shop also. The shops around Nakki Lake are famous for housing curios in marble, sandalwood and sandstone artifacts and you will have a great time while shopping here.
In Mount Abu, you may buy for some beautiful Kota saris, linen with Sanganeri prints and bangles for yourself and your near and dear ones back home. You can also shop for some exquisite Rajasthani handicrafts at the Rajasthan Government Handicrafts Emporium and the Khadi Bhandar. Ethnic jewelry, undoubtedly, offer the best shopping experience in Mount Abu and you are sure to go back home with a basket full of colourful memories.
Mount Abu Tourist Attraction
A green lush valley spread amidst the rustic terrain of Rajasthan makes an excellent milieu of the nature. The only hill station of Rajasthan, Mount Abu enjoys the immense greenery of the Aravalli ranges. Cherishing a huge rainfall throughout the year Mount Abu is an ideal destination for honeymooners and nature loving tourists. The extraordinary Dilwara Jain Temple built in the 1031 A.D is another attraction of the tranquil city that brings a huge number of tourists to Mount Abu.
The Sites You Should Not Miss in Mount Abu
Dilwara Temples
Dilwara Temple, Mountabu Tours
Built by the Solanki dynasty of Gujarat, Dilwara group of temples stand apart with their spectacular architecture and ornate carvings. The fine artistry by human hands has attained a new height in the walls and pillars of Dilwara temples. Dedicated to the first Jaina Tirthankara Adinath, Vimala Vasahi is the oldest temple in the complex, which needs a careful look. Neminath temple built in 1231 is another marvelous architectural splendour in the complex.
Nakki Lake
Just located in the heart of the city, Nakki Lake has emerged out of legends and myths. According to the age-old legends, the lake was formed by God by scooping the earth by his nail or nakh in local langu
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