And then every place silently brags about the stories that were created on its territorial land. A famous personality who might had visited, a major historical event that had occurred, a miracle it had encountered or the birth of a legend it had seen.
When we try listening and feeling the sounds of past, spaces start unfolding themselves beautifully, layer by layer. This charismatic charm remains hidden when you visit a place as a tourist and try completing your check list as a priority. The pixie dust only encircles your aura when you become a traveler and look out for the soul of a space rather. Some moments of peace, some time for stories and some imagination to believe: this is all what makes your travels worthy.
Mount Abu is one such worthy travel destination. So when you plan to trod its paths, don’t carry a check list but make sure you have traversed its soul. It is the most picture-perfect and only peak in Rajasthan and hence is nurtured with all the special love, care and attention. Similar to that of a single child who is most loved and is the whole world for his parents.
A journey towards Mount Abu, 28 kms from the Abu road, is an enthralling ride passing through the thick forests on one side and clouds floating over the other. The pleasant chill of the breeze starts pricking with the raising altitude. Lined up beautiful accommodations with wooden hut architecture, the greens of parks and lawns fill up the heart with immense delight.
Once you decide where to stay and get ready for some Mount Abu exploration, make sure you pay a traveler’s visit to these places:
1 ) Dilwara Temple
An extravagant and a heart pleasing sight is what this Jain temple is famous for. The intricate carvings over the beautiful white marbles turn it into nothing less than a masterpiece. Every corner, every pillar and each gate has such magnificence associated to it that taking off your eyes no longer remains an option. Blessed with peace and divine aura, there are 5 ornamental temples in total spread over different floors.
General tips:
Cameras, mobile phones, belts etc. are not allowed inside the temple. There is a cloak room outside to keep your belongings.
Avoid wearing shorts/skirts above knees.
Guides are available to take you around for free.
Timings: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
2 ) Nakki Lake
The tranquil and cheerful lake is an ideal destination for those who enjoy nature’s surroundings the most. A wide expanse of calm waters and activities like boating and horse riding across the river side makes it a relaxing spot. The lake is surrounded by hills and there lies a Toad rock over the hill, needless to say, it is in the shape of a Toad. One can visit the rock by climbing over the hill.
General Tips:
Avoid visiting on weekends as it remains overcrowded.
Stay away from the verge of hill heights over Toad rock.
Timings: 8am-6pm
3 ) Sunset Point
The sky and clouds dripping with the warm orange and yellow hues of the sun setting through the horizon, being kissed by the dawn surroundings is the most mesmerizing and addictive sight which only a nature lover can understand. Sunset point promises to offer you such spellbinding views. The magical dusk and dawn unfolds into a picturesque trivia leaving your eyes glued to the marvels of the nature.
General Tips:
Try reaching the place before the sunset time to find a good spot to enjoy the mesmerizing view.
Timings: Sunrise to sunset
4 ) Brahmkumaris Ashram
Brahma Kumaris is the largest spiritual organisation in the world led by women. It is a worldwide spiritual movement dedicated to personal transformation and world renewal. The university they have in Mount Abu is their spiritual headquarters. The place is huge and emits positive and peaceful vibes. From the grand entry gate, you will be redirected towards the Hall where they give spiritual lectures. Soothing peace is maintained inside the hall. Some volunteers preach about the good’s and bad’s of the life for around 15-20 minutes which guides your mind towards liberating thoughts. You can also meditate, introspect and know more about their lifestyle and rules of life.
General Tips:
It is important to follow the rules of the centre.
Don’t talk loudly.
Don’t take kids along as peace is to be maintained.
Timing: 08:00 am – 11:00 am
04:00 pm -7:30 pm
5 ) Achalgarh Fort
The fort is located 11 kms from Mount Abu and is an offbeat location. So if you enjoy peace and places of historical and religious significance, Achalgarh fort should be on your list. There is a famous Lord Shiva temple located just outside the fort and various Jain temples inside it. The ancient place is ideal for photo lovers but also needs some serious attention towards maintenance.
General Tips:
Wear comfortable footwear for walking
Photography is allowed inside the fort but not inside the Jain temple
Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
How to reach Mount abu
Nearest airport: Udaipur, 160 kms from Mount Abu
Nearest railway station: Abu road, 25 kms from Mount Abu
By road: Regular Volvo buses ply from all the major cities to Mount Abu
Originally posted at: http://letusgoto.com/
Picture Credits: tourMyIndia, TripHills.com, MountAbu.com, AbuTimes, The photography blogger, TheIndia, Adventures365.com, free press journal