Overview
About Mount Abu
Mount Abu is Rajasthan's only hill station, perched on a rocky plateau at the southern end of the Aravalli range, close to the Gujarat border. While the deserts and plains below bake in the heat, the town stays noticeably cooler, which has made it a favourite summer retreat for families from Rajasthan and Gujarat for generations.
Its greatest treasure is the Dilwara group of Jain temples. Plain from the outside, they reveal astonishingly intricate white marble carving within, from lace-like ceilings to delicate pillars and doorways, and are counted among the finest examples of temple craftsmanship in India. The town is also sacred to Hindus, with ancient shrines dedicated to Shiva and the goddess Arbuda.
Beyond the temples, Mount Abu is a gentle, easy-going place. Visitors boat on Nakki Lake, gather at Sunset Point in the evenings, drive up to Guru Shikhar, the highest peak of the Aravallis, and walk through forested hills that form part of a wildlife sanctuary. Two or three days is enough to see it without hurrying.
- Dilwara Jain temples
- Nakki Lake
- Guru Shikhar
- Sunset Point
- Rajasthan's only hill station
Sightseeing
Best Places to Visit in Mount Abu
Temples
Dilwara Temples
A group of Jain temples built between the 11th and 13th centuries, renowned for some of the most intricate marble carving in the world. Photography is not allowed inside.
Adhar Devi Temple
A shrine to the goddess Arbuda set inside a natural cave, reached by a long flight of steps through the rocks.
Achaleshwar Mahadev Temple
An ancient Shiva temple at Achalgarh known for its large brass Nandi and a revered toe-print of Lord Shiva.
Guru Shikhar
The highest peak of the Aravalli range, crowned by a small temple to Guru Dattatreya and offering panoramic views over the plateau.
Lakes & Viewpoints
Nakki Lake
The heart of Mount Abu, a lake ringed by hills and odd-shaped rocks, where boating and lakeside strolls are the main evening pastimes.
Sunset Point
A popular viewpoint where crowds gather every evening to watch the sun sink over the hills and plains.
Toad Rock
A large rock near Nakki Lake shaped like a toad about to leap, reached by a short climb with good views of the lake.
Honeymoon Point
Also known as Anadra Point, it overlooks green valleys and plains and is a quieter spot for sunset.
Forts & Nature
Achalgarh Fort
The ruins of a hilltop fort associated with Rana Kumbha of Mewar, near the Achaleshwar temple.
Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary
A forested sanctuary covering much of the plateau, home to sloth bears, leopards and a variety of birds and plants.
Trevor's Tank
A small reservoir in the forest that is popular with birdwatchers and for quiet forest walks.
Experiences
Top Things to Do in Mount Abu
- 1
Admire the Dilwara carvings
Spend time inside the Dilwara temples, ideally with a guide, to appreciate the detail in their marble ceilings and pillars.
- 2
Go boating on Nakki Lake
Hire a pedal or rowing boat on the lake, then walk along its banks and browse the nearby shops.
- 3
Watch the sunset
Join the evening crowd at Sunset Point or head to Honeymoon Point for a quieter view.
- 4
Drive to Guru Shikhar
Make the short drive and climb to the summit for sweeping views, combining it with Achalgarh on the way.
- 5
Birdwatch and hike
Explore nature trails in the wildlife sanctuary and around Trevor's Tank with a local guide.
Weather
Best Time to Visit Mount Abu
The best time to visit Mount Abu is October to March. Here is what each season is like.
Summer
April to June
23°C to 34°C
Warmer than many hill stations but far cooler than the surrounding plains, so this is a busy season with families escaping the heat.
Monsoon
July to September
20°C to 28°C
The hills turn green, streams flow and mist often drifts over Nakki Lake. Rain is moderate and the town has a fresh, quiet feel.
Winter
October to March
5°C to 24°C
The most pleasant season for sightseeing, with sunny days and chilly nights. Pack warm clothes for December and January evenings.
Getting there
How to Reach Mount Abu
By Air
Maharana Pratap Airport in Udaipur, about 170 km away, is the nearest airport, with flights from Delhi, Mumbai and other major cities. Ahmedabad's Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, roughly 225 km away, offers more connections. Taxis are available from both.
By Rail
Abu Road, about 28 km below the hill station, is the nearest railway station and lies on the Delhi–Ahmedabad line. Buses and taxis run from the station up the ghat road to Mount Abu.
By Road
Mount Abu is about 225 km from Ahmedabad and about 170 km from Udaipur, linked by good highways and a winding ghat road from Abu Road. Rajasthan and Gujarat state buses and private coaches run regularly.
Taste of the city
Famous Food of Mount Abu
Dal baati churma
Baked wheat balls served with spiced lentils and a sweet crumble of wheat, ghee and jaggery, the signature Rajasthani meal.
Gatte ki sabzi
Gram-flour dumplings simmered in a tangy yoghurt-based curry.
Gujarati thali
A balanced spread of dal, kadhi, vegetables, rotis and sweets, widely available thanks to the town's many Gujarati visitors.
Rabri
A rich, thickened sweetened milk dessert, often served chilled.
Ker sangri
A traditional desert dish of dried berries and beans cooked with spices.
What to Buy in Mount Abu
- Rajasthani handicrafts and puppets
- Bandhani textiles
- Marble and soapstone items
- Silver and tribal jewellery near Nakki Lake
Travel Tips for Mount Abu
- Check the Dilwara temples' visiting hours for non-Jain visitors before you go, and follow their dress code.
- Leather items, cameras and phones may not be allowed inside the Dilwara temples.
- Reach Sunset Point early in peak season, as it can get very crowded.
- Carry a light jacket in winter, as nights can turn cold.
FAQs
Mount Abu Travel FAQs
What is the best time to visit Mount Abu?
October to March is the best time to visit Mount Abu for pleasant sightseeing weather, while summer is popular as an escape from the heat of the plains.
How many days are enough for Mount Abu?
Two to three days is enough to see the Dilwara temples, Nakki Lake, Guru Shikhar, Achalgarh and the main viewpoints.
What is Mount Abu famous for?
Mount Abu is famous for the marble Dilwara Jain temples, Nakki Lake, Guru Shikhar and for being the only hill station in Rajasthan.
Which is the nearest railway station to Mount Abu?
Abu Road, about 28 km away on the Delhi–Ahmedabad line, is the nearest railway station.
Is photography allowed in the Dilwara temples?
No, photography is not permitted inside the Dilwara temples, and visitors should dress modestly.
Is Mount Abu good for a family trip?
Yes. Gentle sightseeing, boating on Nakki Lake, temples and short drives make Mount Abu a relaxed choice for families.
