The
only hill station of hot and humid Rajasthan, Mount Abu is located in the
southwestern end of the state at an altitude of 1220 metres above sea level.
As sultry weather conditions makes life miserable for people in the rest of
the state, Mount Abu's pleasant climate attracts tourists all throughout the
year. But that is not Mount Abu's only claim to fame. The exquisite Dilwara
temples of the place also makes Mount Abu a revered pilgrimage destination
of the Jain community. Historical texts say that Lord Mahavira had also
visited Mount Abu during his lifetime and blessed the place. The Dilwara
temples are also regarded as some of the most attractive temples of the
country. The summer retreat also holds many other attractions for tourists.
The
Dilwara Jain temples exhibit arguably the best temple carvings in marble.
The temples have been built between the 11th and 13th century AD and
dedicated to various Jain Tirthankaras. The group of temples have been built
exclusively of marble. The oldest of the group is Vimal Vasahi temple
dedicated to the first Jain Tirthankara. The meticulously done carvings on
the walls makes this temple highly attractive. Another very attractive
temple of the group is Lun Vasahi Temple, dedicated to the 22nd Tirthankara.
A specimen of excellent craftmanship, door casings, pillars and sculptures
on porticos are the best attractions of this temple.
The
Adhar Devi temple may not be in the same category as Dilwara temples, yet
the temple deserves mention for being one of the few rock cut temples of the
country. This temple has been very carefully chiseled out of a huge rock.
Devotees have to climb 360 stairs to reach the temple.
The
most beautiful spot of Mount Abu, Nakki lake is surrounded by scenic hills,
colourful parks and some unique rock formations. Tourists come to the place
in large numbers to enjoy the beauty of the place. It is believed that this
lake was scooped out by God using his nails. Situated close to Nakki lake is
a temple dedicated to Shri Raghunathji. |
Shopping in Mount Abu:
Shopping is another popular pastime
of tourists coming to Mount Abu. The markets of Mount Abu remain full of
Rajasthani handicraft and handloom products. This includes traditional
textile varieties, gold and silver jewellery, carvings in wood, marble
and metal, Rajasthani paintings, leather articles and stone crafts. The
shops around Nakki lake constitute the main shopping centre of the
place. The shops remain full of curious in marble, sandalwood and
sandstone, saris, bangles and linen with Sanganeri prints. To buy
handicraft and handloom products, Rajasthali-the Government emporium is
the best place. All the items here are fixed priced. |
|
Maharajahs of Rajasthan ruled the
land with bejewelled fists and bequeathed it a legacy of forts that are
the best speakers of time. |
Palaces or the erstwhile
residences of the Maharajahs of yore create a milieu that's inescapably
attracting. Come and experience. |
The wildlife in Rajasthan is
perhaps as exotic as its culture. Be it birds, mammals or reptiles,
you'll see varieties you'll lose count of. |
As you finish your hunt with
forts, palaces and wildlife, get ready to soothe your souls at places
like Pushkar, Ajmer Sharif, Dilwara etc. |
|
Copyright © Rajasthan
Tour Package |