Here are some nearby places to visit from Mount Abu that first-time visitors might enjoy:
Kumbhalgarh Fort:
Distance: Approximately 85 km from Mount Abu.
Details: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kumbhalgarh Fort is renowned for its impressive wall that stretches over 36 km, making it the second-longest continuous wall in the world. The fort offers panoramic views and is a great spot for history enthusiasts.
Travel Tip: It’s best to visit early in the day to avoid the heat and to fully explore the fort’s extensive grounds.
Sariska Tiger Reserve:
Distance: About 120 km from Mount Abu.
Details: This wildlife sanctuary is known for its Bengal tiger population and offers jeep safaris to spot wildlife. Besides tigers, you can see leopards, deer, and various bird species.
Travel Tip: Book safari tickets in advance and consider hiring a local guide to enhance your wildlife viewing experience.
Ranakpur:
Distance: Roughly 90 km from Mount Abu.
Details: Famous for the Ranakpur Jain Temple, an architectural marvel with intricate marble carvings and 1,444 pillars, each uniquely carved. The temple is a major pilgrimage site and showcases exquisite craftsmanship.
Travel Tip: Dress modestly as it is a sacred site, and visit early to avoid crowds.
Gondal:
Distance: Around 150 km from Mount Abu.
Details: Known for its heritage sites like the Navlakha Palace and the vintage car collection at the Gondal Royal Palace. Gondal offers a glimpse into royal life and history.
Travel Tip: Allocate enough time to explore the palaces and museums at a leisurely pace.
Ajmer:
Distance: Approximately 200 km from Mount Abu.
Details: Ajmer is famous for the Ajmer Sharif Dargah, a significant pilgrimage site for Muslims. The city also has the Ana Sagar Lake and various historic sites.
Travel Tip: Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting the dargah.
Pushkar:
Distance: About 200 km from Mount Abu.
Details: Known for the Pushkar Camel Fair and the sacred Pushkar Lake. The town has a vibrant market, several temples, and a unique atmosphere.
Travel Tip: If visiting during the Camel Fair (October/November), book accommodations early due to high demand.
Chittorgarh:
Distance: Roughly 180 km from Mount Abu.
Details: Home to the Chittorgarh Fort, one of the largest forts in India, with attractions like Vijay Stambh, Kirti Stambh, and the fort’s historical palaces and temples.
Travel Tip: Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the extensive fort grounds.
Sirohi:
Distance: About 110 km from Mount Abu.
Details: A town known for its scenic beauty and the Sirohi Fort. It’s a quieter alternative to the more tourist-heavy destinations.
Travel Tip: A good spot for a peaceful getaway with fewer tourists.
Jalore:
Distance: Around 130 km from Mount Abu.
Details: Known for its Jalore Fort and historic architecture. The fort provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Travel Tip: Visit early in the day to avoid the midday heat and enjoy the views.
Udaipur:
Distance: Approximately 165 km from Mount Abu.
Details: Famous for its lakes and palaces, Udaipur is a picturesque city with attractions like the City Palace, Lake Pichola, and Jag Mandir.
Travel Tip: Plan a full day or overnight stay to explore the city’s highlights.
These nearby destinations offer a variety of experiences, from historical forts and wildlife reserves to serene lakes and temples, enhancing your visit to Mount Abu.
Mount Abu, the only hill station in Rajasthan, is surrounded by a plethora of interesting places worth visiting. Here are some notable spots around Mount Abu along with relevant details:
1. Dilwara Temples
Distance: 2.5 km from Mount Abu
Details: Renowned for their stunning marble architecture and intricate carvings, these Jain temples date back to the 11th and 13th centuries. The main attractions include Vimal Vasahi and Luna Vasahi temples.
2. Nakki Lake
Distance: 1 km from Mount Abu
Details: A serene and picturesque lake surrounded by hills, perfect for boating. It has historical significance and is associated with the legend of being dug out by gods using their nails.
3. Guru Shikhar
Distance: 15 km from Mount Abu
Details: The highest peak in the Aravalli Range, offering panoramic views. There’s a temple dedicated to Guru Dattatreya at the summit.
4. Achalgarh Fort
Distance: 11 km from Mount Abu
Details: An ancient fort with historical and religious significance. Inside the fort, there is the Achaleshwar Mahadev Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
5. Peace Park
Distance: 8 km from Mount Abu
Details: Managed by the Brahma Kumaris, this park offers a peaceful environment with lush greenery, beautifully landscaped gardens, and meditation spots.
6. Trevor’s Tank
Distance: 5 km from Mount Abu
Details: A man-made crocodile breeding site and a bird-watching paradise. The area is surrounded by dense forests, making it a great spot for nature lovers.
7. Sunset Point
Distance: 3 km from Mount Abu
Details: A popular spot offering breathtaking views of the sunset over the Aravalli Range. It’s an ideal place for evening strolls.
8. Honeymoon Point
Distance: 2.5 km from Mount Abu
Details: Also known as Anadara Point, it offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular spot for couples.
9. Adhar Devi Temple
Distance: 3 km from Mount Abu
Details: A temple dedicated to the Hindu goddess Durga, located inside a cave. It requires climbing 365 steps to reach, offering a panoramic view of Mount Abu.
10. Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary
Distance: 3 km from Mount Abu
Details: Spanning over 288 square kilometers, the sanctuary is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including leopards, sloth bears, and over 250 bird species.
11. Raghunath Temple
Distance: 1 km from Mount Abu
Details: Dedicated to Lord Raghunathji, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, this temple is located on the shores of Nakki Lake and is known for its religious significance.
12. Toad Rock
Distance: 1.5 km from Mount Abu
Details: A large rock formation resembling a toad. It is a popular spot for rock climbing and offers a panoramic view of Nakki Lake and the surrounding area.
Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit: October to March is ideal due to the pleasant weather.
Accommodation: Various hotels and guesthouses are available in Mount Abu, ranging from budget to luxury.
Transport: Local taxis, auto-rickshaws, and rental bikes are available for getting around. The nearest railway station is in Abu Road, 28 km away.
With these diverse attractions, a visit to Mount Abu and its surroundings can be both culturally enriching and visually captivating.
Mount Abu, Rajasthan’s only hill station, is surrounded by several beautiful destinations that are great for short trips and sightseeing. Here are some of the popular tourist spots near Mount Abu:
1. Ambaji Temple (Ambaji)
Distance: ~50 km from Mount Abu
Highlights: One of the 51 Shakti Peethas in India, dedicated to Goddess Amba. Known for its white marble architecture and vibrant ambiance during Navratri.
Activities: Pilgrimage, exploring nearby temples, attending local fairs and festivals.
2. Ranakpur Jain Temple (Ranakpur)
Distance: ~150 km from Mount Abu
Highlights: Famous for its stunning architecture, this 15th-century Jain temple is made entirely of marble and has 1,444 uniquely carved pillars.
Activities: Sightseeing, photography, exploring other smaller temples in the complex.
3. Kumbhalgarh Fort (Kumbhalgarh)
Distance: ~170 km from Mount Abu
Highlights: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this massive fort is known for its long wall (second only to the Great Wall of China) and is an iconic piece of Rajput military architecture.
Activities: Exploring the fort, trekking, and enjoying light and sound shows.
4. Nathdwara (Shrinathji Temple)
Distance: ~185 km from Mount Abu
Highlights: Known for the Shrinathji Temple, an important pilgrimage site for Krishna devotees. The temple is famed for its 7.5-foot idol of Lord Krishna.
Activities: Pilgrimage, shopping for local handicrafts, exploring nearby temples.
5. Udaipur
Distance: ~165 km from Mount Abu
Highlights: Known as the “City of Lakes,” Udaipur is famous for its stunning palaces, lakes, and vibrant markets. Key attractions include Lake Pichola, City Palace, Jag Mandir, and Fatehsagar Lake.
Activities: Boating, sightseeing, shopping, enjoying cultural performances.
6. Sirohi
Distance: ~60 km from Mount Abu
Highlights: Known for its temples, including the Sarneshwar Mahadev Temple, and its scenic beauty. Sirohi is a lesser-known but peaceful destination.
Activities: Temple visits, nature walks, and exploring the local culture.
7. Jessore Sloth Bear Sanctuary
Distance: ~70 km from Mount Abu
Highlights: A wildlife sanctuary home to the sloth bear and a variety of other flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Activities: Wildlife spotting, trekking, birdwatching.
8. Palanpur
Distance: ~80 km from Mount Abu
Highlights: Known for the Balaram Mahadev Temple and old havelis. The town has a rich cultural heritage and scenic landscapes.
Activities: Visiting temples, exploring heritage sites, and sampling local cuisine.
9. Jalore Fort (Jalore)
Distance: ~140 km from Mount Abu
Highlights: One of the oldest forts in Rajasthan, Jalore Fort offers panoramic views and a deep historical significance.
Activities: Exploring the fort, photography, and enjoying the rustic charm of Rajasthan.
10. Adalaj Stepwell (near Ahmedabad)
Distance: ~180 km from Mount Abu
Highlights: A stunning stepwell near Ahmedabad, known for its intricate carvings and historical importance.
Activities: Exploring the architecture, photography, and understanding the historical significance of stepwells in India.
These destinations around Mount Abu offer a diverse mix of culture, history, spirituality, and natural beauty, making them excellent for day trips or short excursions.