Mount Abu

माउंट आबू

Rajasthan's only hill station, Mount Abu offers cool climate, scenic beauty, and the spectacular Dilwara Jain Temples carved from white marble with extraordinary detail. The lush hills, Nakki Lake, and escape from desert heat make it a unique Rajasthani destination.

Things to do

• Dilwara Jain Temples — Explore five intricately carved white marble temples dating from the 11th to 13th centuries, renowned for their delicate lattice work and ornate interior ceilings.
• Nakki Lake — Take a boat ride or walk around this scenic freshwater lake surrounded by rocky hills, believed to be hand-dug by a Jain saint.
• Guru Shikhar Peak Trek — Hike to Rajasthan's highest point at 1,722 meters for panoramic views of the Aravalli range and surrounding landscape.
• Sunset Point — Visit this popular viewpoint in the evening to watch the sun dip below the hills while enjoying cool mountain breezes.
• Achalgadh Fort — Explore the ruins of this ancient hilltop fortress offering views of the town and surrounding valleys.
• Honeymoon Point — Trek through forest paths to this secluded hilltop viewpoint ideal for quiet moments and nature walks.

Food to try

• Dal-Baati-Churma — A traditional Rajasthani dish of spiced lentils served with baked wheat rounds and sweet crushed wheat, hearty and filling.
• Gatte ki Sabzi — Gram flour dumplings cooked in a yogurt-based curry, a signature Rajasthani preparation commonly found in local eateries.
• Jain Thali — A vegetarian meal featuring multiple dishes without onion or garlic, reflecting Mount Abu's significant Jain population and their dietary practices.
• Ker Sangri — A desert vegetable curry made from dried beans and berries, showcasing Rajasthan's traditional plant-based cuisine.
• Rabri — A sweetened condensed milk dessert infused with cardamom and dry fruits, a beloved post-meal treat in Rajasthan.

Local customs & good to know

• Temple Etiquette — Remove footwear before entering the Dilwara temples, dress modestly, and maintain silence to show respect in these sacred spaces still actively used for worship.
• Jain Community Influence — Mount Abu is deeply significant to Jains; visitors may encounter strict vegetarian practices and should be mindful not to consume non-vegetarian food in the town's main areas.
• Cool Climate Clothing — Pack warm clothes even in summer as Mount Abu stays significantly cooler than surrounding Rajasthan; temperatures can drop noticeably at night.
• Local Festival Timing — Visit during Jain festivals like Diwali and Mahavir Jayanti to experience the town's spiritual atmosphere, though accommodations book quickly during these periods.