|
MOUNT ABU
 The
only hill station in Rajasthan, Mount Abu huddles among the
rocks on a 1,220-m granite table mountain at the far
southwestern end of the Aravalli hills. It is built around a
lake and is surrounded by forested hills. According to a
legend, the place derives its name from Arbuda, a serpent
who descended to the spot to rescue Shiva¿s bull, Nandi.
Besides having all the features of a pleasant hill resort,
Mount Abu is also well known for the famous Dilwara temples
and many more archaeological remains. There are interesting
treks and picnic spots, romantic royal retreats of the
various erstwhile families of bygone Rajputana and some
relics of the Raj period. The scenic landscapes include
gigantic blocks of rocks in weird shapes, an array of
coniferous trees, flowering shrubs, lovely lakes and the
cool climate much in contrast to the arid environs of the
state.
Prime Attractions of Mount Abu
Dilwara Temples
This complex consisting of five marble Jain temples is one
of the finest in Rajasthan, worth braving the queues and
ferocious guards. These beautifully carved temples built
between 11th & 13th century AD are sheer elegance in marble,
dedicated to the Jain Tirthankaras. The Vimal Vasahi Temple
is the oldest of these, dedicated to the first Tirthankara.
Built in 1031 AD (by Vimal Shah- a merchant and
representative of the then Gujarat ruler), it is a superb
example of temple architecture.
Gaumukh Temple
Dedicated to Rama, this small temple (the cow¿s mouth) is
centred on a spring gushing from the mouth of a marble cow.
In the Hindu creation myth, the world is formed by a cow,
licking salt; the source of the Ganges has the same name.
This is said to be the site of the ancient 'agnikund' fire
rituals. It is 4 kms south of Mount Abu. Open, free access,
down 700 very steep steps.
Govt. Museum - Mount Abu
The museum was set up in 1962 within the premises of Raj
Bhawan to preserve the archaeological wealth of the region.
Mandakini Kund
The watersupply for Achalgarh fort and a sculpture of Parmar
Daravarsh are situated close to the Achaleswar Mahadev
temple.
Nakki Talav
This holiday centre of Mount Abu, is virtually in the heart
of the town. This sparkling blue artificial lake is said to
have been gauged from the earth by the gods, using their
fingernails ('nakh' means nail). Nearby is the 14th century
Raghunath Temple. On the western edge of the town centre,
Nakki Lake Road circles the entire lake. Rowing boats are
available for hire from the jetty by Gandhi Park.
|
