This Mount Abu travel guide takes you to Rajasthan’s only hill station, a serene retreat amidst the desert state’s arid landscapes. Nestled in the Aravalli Range, Mount Abu offers breathtaking views, lush greenery, and a pleasant climate year-round. Explore the iconic Dilwara Temples, trek to Guru Shikhar, or enjoy a serene boat ride on Nakki Lake. The town’s vibrant markets and peaceful sunsets make it an ideal getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Let’s dive into the best attractions and activities this hill station offers!
Location
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Mount Abu is situated in Rajasthan, India’s Sirohi district. It lies at the southwestern tip of the Aravalli Range, at an elevation of about 1,220 meters above sea level. The hill station is approximately 165 km from Udaipur, the nearest major city, and around 222 km from Jodhpur. Abu Road, the nearest railway station, is 28 km away, ensuring smooth connectivity for visitors from across the country.
How To Reach
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Nestled in the Aravalli Range, this hill station is reachable by air, train, and road, with various options to suit your preferences.
By Air: Maharana Pratap Airport in Udaipur, which is 165 km distant, is the closest airport. There are buses and taxis available for the subsequent trip. Ahmedabad Airport (263 km) is another convenient option.
By Train: Abu Road railway station, 28 km from Mount Abu, is the closest railhead. It is connected to places like Delhi, Jaipur, and Mumbai by regular trains.
By Road: Mount Abu is accessible via well-maintained roads. Private taxis, state-run buses, and self-drive options make it a smooth journey from nearby cities like Udaipur, Ahmedabad, and Jaipur.
Places To Visit Around Mount Abu
Complete your exploration of Rajasthan’s offerings with a stop at these serene places to visit around Mount Abu:
1. Achalgarh Fort
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Achalgarh Fort is a historic fortress offering stunning views of the surrounding hills. Built by the Paramara dynasty and later renovated by Maharana Kumbha, it houses the famous Achaleshwar Mahadev Temple. The fort’s imposing entrances and sturdy walls narrate tales of its illustrious past. Visitors can explore the ruins that hint at the grandeur of Rajput architecture. The nearby Mandakini Lake adds to the charm, providing a peaceful retreat for nature lovers.
Entry Fees: Free entry
Distance From Mount Abu: 9 km
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Major Attractions: Achaleshwar Mahadev Temple, ancient Jain temples
2. Guru Shikhar
Photo: Tejaspatel1 / Wikimedia Commons
Guru Shikhar, the highest peak of the Aravalli Range, offers breathtaking views of the region. It is home to the Guru Dattatreya Temple and a peaceful observatory. The climb to the peak involves a short trek, which rewards visitors with cool breezes and stunning vistas. The peak is ideal for sunrise and sunset views, making it a favorite for nature lovers. Nearby tea stalls serve hot beverages, adding to the experience.
Entry Fees: Free
Distance From Mount Abu: 14.1 km
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
Major Attractions: Panoramic views, Dattatreya Temple
3. Peace Park
Photo: STA3816 / Wikimedia Commons
Peace Park is a serene garden maintained by the Brahma Kumaris. It combines scenic beauty with a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and meditation. The park features beautiful rock formations, shady trees, and colourful flower beds. Visitors can participate in guided meditation sessions or simply enjoy the calm ambience. The spiritual vibe and well-planned layout make it a unique attraction.
Entry Fees: Free
Distance From Mount Abu: 7.9 km
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Major Attractions: Well-manicured gardens, meditation huts
Things To Do At Mount Abu
Engage in the following activities to get the most out of your trip to Mount Abu:
1. Boating At Nakki Lake
Photo: Sanyam Bahga / Wikimedia Commons
Enjoy a serene boating experience on Nakki Lake, surrounded by lush hills and unique rock formations. This picturesque lake, steeped in mythology, is perfect for couples and families. It is also one of the most popular Mount Abu tourist places. Paddle and shikhara boats are available for hire. The sunset view from the lake is magical, creating a tranquil escape from the hustle.
2. Exploring Dilwara Temples
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Marvel at the architectural brilliance of the Dilwara Temples, renowned for their intricate marble carvings. These Jain temples, built between the 11th and 13th centuries, showcase unparalleled craftsmanship. A guided tour offers insights into their historical and spiritual significance. The peaceful surroundings make it an enriching cultural experience. Ensure to dress modestly and respect the sanctity of the temples during your visit.
3. Hiking At Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Sampa Guha Majumdar / Wikimedia Commons
Explore the Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary, a haven for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. Hike through its lush trails, surrounded by diverse flora, including rare orchids. The sanctuary is home to leopards, sloth bears, and over 250 bird species, making it a treat for photographers. Early morning hikes offer a peaceful atmosphere and chances to spot wildlife. The scenic viewpoints along the trails provide breathtaking panoramic views.
Where To Stay
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Mount Abu offers a range of accommodations to suit every budget. Luxury seekers can enjoy upscale resorts like the Palace Hotel – Bikaner House, offering royal heritage and stunning views. Mid-range travellers can opt for cosy hotels such as Hotel Hillock, known for its excellent service and central location. Budget-friendly options like guesthouses and homestays are also available, providing basic amenities and a warm, local experience.
Where To Eat
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Mount Abu boasts a variety of dining options catering to diverse tastes. For authentic Rajasthani cuisine, visit Arbuda Restaurant, known for its dal baati churma and gatte ki sabzi. Sher-E-Punjab offers delicious North Indian dishes, while Jaipur Palace serves hearty thalis. Foodies craving global flavours can try Café Shikibo for Italian and Chinese delicacies. For a pocket-friendly bite, the street food at Nakki Lake Road is a must-try. Don’t miss piping-hot kachoris, chaats, and refreshing rabri.
Best Time To Visit
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The best time to visit Mount Abu is during the cooler months, from November to March. During this period, the weather is pleasant, with daytime temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The summer months, from March to June, can be quite hot, with temperatures soaring above 35°C, making it less favourable for travellers. The monsoon season, from July to September, brings heavy rains, which can disrupt outdoor plans but make the surroundings lush and green for nature lovers. For a comfortable experience, winter is the peak season.
Other Factors To Consider
Here are some important factors to keep in mind when planning a trip to Mount Abu:
- Carry light clothes for the day and warm layers for the evenings. In winter, woollens are necessary.
- The hill station is well connected by road, but driving can be challenging due to steep and narrow roads.
- Hindi and Rajasthani are commonly spoken, but English is widely understood, especially in tourist areas.
- Respect local customs, especially at religious sites like temples, where modest attire is required.
- Visit early in the morning to avoid large crowds, especially at popular sites.
This Mount Abu travel guide highlights the charm of Rajasthan’s only hill station, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventure. Whether you’re trekking through scenic trails, exploring ancient temples, or simply relaxing by Nakki Lake, Mount Abu has something for every traveller. The pleasant weather, unique attractions, and peaceful surroundings make it an ideal getaway year-round. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the serene beauty of Mount Abu – a destination that promises unforgettable memories. Get the adventure started today with TripXL!
Cover Photo: Dhaval 00 / Wikimedia Commons