Mount Abu is considered to be the only hill station located in the beautiful and royal state of Rajasthan and is visited by tourists from not only the country, but also from all over the world. In every aspect, this place can be stated to be a real traveller’s paradise. Located amidst the lap of the majestic and stunning Aravalli Mountain, bordering the states of Gujarat and Rajasthan, tourists can enjoy refreshing views of the landscape and enjoy its picturesque views. There is indeed plethora of activities to engage in during the visit which is sure to spoil you to crave for more.
Right time to visit
Since the region enjoys pleasant climate all through the year, you can travel at any point of time. Summer months of April and June are quite comfortable and pleasant, with temperatures being around 23 to 33 degree Celsius. During monsoon season from July to October, you can get to experience the rain here and relish its luxuriant natural surroundings.
Perhaps, winter is the best time to visit and explore the scenic and mesmerizing hill station between November and February. Weather during this time is quite soothing, with fluctuating temperature between 12 degrees and 30 degrees Celsius.
Some interesting things to do
1Nakki Lake
You can go for boating sessions in this lake and delve in its beauty. It is also called the Nakki Jheel and is popular for shikhar, row boats and paddle boats available for ride for a period of 30 minutes to 1 hour. You can sail through the expansive water-body, check out its lush greenery, forests and marine life. Besides boating, you can also indulge in horse riding and zorbing on the lake’s banks or simply take a stroll. It is open from 8am – 6pm.
2Guru Shikhar
It is claimed to be Aravalli Mountain’s highest peak and you can enjoy trekking here, if this activity fascinates you. From Mount Abu, this peak is located about 15 kms away, at an elevation for around 1,722m. Taking a trek to this stunning spot is definitely a great way to enjoy its beauty. Along the road, you can come across the well-known Guru Dattatreya temple. The trek can be moderately challenging and thrilling. However, on reaching the top point, you can get a bird view of the whole of Mount Abu as well as its surroundings. Trekking starts at 9am and completes at 5pm.
3Camping & Trekking in the Aravalli
You can go camping and trekking in the Aravalli mountains. The hotspot for undertaking this activity is however, Mount Abu. Several camping grounds and trekking trails can be found around Mt. Abu Wildlife Sanctuary. It is perhaps an adventure trip for those who love to dare new things. You can also get to indulge in rappelling and rock climbing. Do take along trekking shoes, appropriate apparels and necessary camping equipment.
4Mt. Abu Wildlife Sanctuary
If nature and wildlife is what interests you, then visiting this sanctuary will allow you to spot exotic wildlife, birds and other interesting things. This sanctuary covers an area of about 290 sq. km. and is a paradise for wildlife and bird lovers. You can trek through the jungle and spot jungle cat, leopards, sloth bear, hyena, jackal, wild boar, sambhar and wolves. There are over 250 bird species found here including the rare grey jungle fowl. It is open between 9:30am and 5:30pm.
5Bailey’s Walk
You can seek an engaging and relaxing trail to enjoy the luxuriant surroundings by choosing Bailey’s Walk in Mt. Abu. The trek starts from Nakki Lake and ends at Sunset Point that involves zigzag roads, hilly trails and several stairs to ascend. Wear the right type of footwear to have a trouble-free and comfortable hike. Time is from dawn to dusk.
6Sunset Point
Located close to Nakki Lake at a distance of about 3km. taking moderately steep ascend is sure to take you to this amazing Sunset Point, where you can take pictures of the setting sun. Peace seekers and nature lovers do find this place enthralling. From Nakki Lake, you can take a cab to this point, ride horseback or hike uphill.
7Caving
There are several hill caves here in Mt. Abu that you can explore and get adventure. If you are not interested in camping or trekking, you can always engage in adventure caving or spelunking. You can check out Champaa Caves and explore the region, take a hike, photographs and capture the memories to share them back at home. Those attempting spelunking for the first time will find this place to be the perfect spot to try.
8Trevors Tank
Bird and Crocodile watching is popular here. This man-made reservoir has been named after a well-known British engineer who had constructed it. This reservoir is infested with fishes and crocodiles and also is popular for bird watching. You can come across partridges and peacocks. This place is situated on Guru Sikhar Rd. and is enclosed by rocky outcrops and verdant forests, providing tourists with overwhelming serenity and amazing views. It is open from 9am – 5pm.
9Nakki Lake Market
If you are interested to buy souvenirs to gift relatives, neighbours and colleagues, then this is the perfect place. There are shops surrounding the lake offering varieties of items including local delicacies and specialties. You can find wide range of Gujarati and Rajasthani handicrafts, dye and tie textiles, bangles, linen having Sanganeri print, Jaipur quilt and decorative items created from wood, sandstone and marble. It is open from 8am – 8pm.
10Achalgarh Fort
You can find ancient architecture here and it was built during the Paramara dynasty rule. Back in those olden days, this fort had served as watchtower for keeping keen eye on intruder movements. It is constructed on a peak top and can be reached easily by climbing an equally easy trail. Located close-by is the Mandakini Lake that is simply gorgeous and stunning.
You need to book your choice of hotels in Mount Abu much in advance to avoid the rush that is witnessed here throughout the year.
