At 1200 meters, Mt. Abu is the highest point of the Aravalli Ranges passing through Rajasthan. The only hill resort of Rajasthan, it is built around a lake and is surrounded by forested hills. According to a legend, the place derives its name from Arbuda, a serpent who descended to the spot to rescue Shiva’s bull, Nandi. Besides having all the features of a pleasant hill resort, Mount Abu is also a centre of pilgrimage for Jains on account of the famous Dilwara Temples. There are interesting treks and picnic spots, romantic royal retreats of various erstwhile royal families, and some relics of the Raj period.
Breath taking Dilwara temples, among the finest examples of Jain architecture with their superb marble carving are one of the most important Jain pilgrimage sites in India. The complex consists of five temples built between the eleventh and thirteenth century. The intricate ornamental carvings here represent the great heights reached in stone decoration. Nakki Lake, the beautiful waterbody is a popular recreational spot and has strange rock formations around it including a Toad Rock. The Achalgarh fort has the famous Achaleshwar temple and also provides superb views of the area.
