Mount Abu Tourism | Places to Visit | Things To Do

Mount Abu is the only hill station in Rajasthan, offering a refreshing escape from the arid desert landscape. Located in the Aravalli Range, it is known for its cool climate, lush greenery, and scenic beauty. The town is also renowned for its historic temples, beautiful lakes, and vibrant cultural heritage.

For centuries, Mount Abu has served as a retreat from the heat. Maharajas, British officials, and anyone who could would come here to rest in the summer months. Mount Abu is a place of peace, or retreat. It’s no surprise that the best activities here are leisurely. If you’re tired from travel, why not spend the days reading by the lake, sipping lattes in cafes, maybe going out on a boat or trekking up to sunset point. For those that want to sightsee, there are sights to see, a fort, temples, and a wildlife sanctuary.

Travelers looking for more activities in Mount Abu can try the archeological museum.  Several items at the museum date back to around the eighth century AD. Being the only hill station in Rajasthan, Mount Abu’s green scenery provides a contrast to the heated red and amber hues of the Rajastani landscape. Be careful when walking in the hills, stick to the paths and allow enough time to return home before dark. Those trekking or visiting the wildlife sanctuary can employ a guide for greater safety.

Try some of the ice cream being sold around Nakki Lake, or simply stroll the rows of restaurants waiting for a smell or menu item to catch your taste buds. For shopping, head to Nikki Lake Market. There is an array of leather items as well as many Rajastani handicrafts. There are no trains here, but you can catch the train to Abu Road, from where you can find a bus or taxi. For a direct connection, get the tourist bus from Jaipur (475 km), Udaipur (185 km), Delhi (711 km) or Jaisalmer (620 km).

Best Time to Visit

• October to March: This period is considered the best time to visit Mount Abu due to the pleasant weather and cooler temperatures. Daytime temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C, and nights can be chilly.
• April to June: Early summer months can be warm but still relatively cooler compared to other parts of Rajasthan.
• Monsoon Season (July to September): While the monsoon brings some relief from the heat, it also brings heavy rainfall which may affect travel plans.

Getting There

• By Air: The nearest airport is Maharana Pratap Airport in Udaipur, approximately 165 km away. Udaipur has domestic flights connecting major cities. From Udaipur, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Mount Abu.
• By Train: The nearest railway station is Abu Road, about 28 km from Mount Abu. Abu Road is well connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Jaipur. From the station, you can take a taxi or bus.
• By Road: Mount Abu is well-connected by road to cities like Udaipur, Jaipur, and Ahmedabad. State-run and private buses regularly operate to Mount Abu from various cities. Road travel offers the advantage of enjoying scenic views of the Aravalli Range.

Accommodation

Mount Abu offers a range of accommodation options, from budget hotels to luxury resorts. Popular areas to stay include:

• Near Nakki Lake: Offers convenient access to the lake and main attractions.
• Near Sunset Point: Provides a serene environment and stunning views.
• Main Bazaar Area: Budget-friendly options with easy access to local markets and restaurants.

Recommended Hotels:

• Hotel Hilltone
• Cama Rajputana Club Resort
• Hotel Savera Palace
• The Fern Ratan Villas

Top Attractions

• Nakki Lake: A picturesque lake surrounded by hills, ideal for boating and leisurely strolls. The surrounding area has cafes and shops.
• Dilwara Temples: Famous for their exquisite marble architecture and intricate carvings. The temples are a significant pilgrimage site and showcase Jain artistry.
• Sunset Point: A popular spot to witness breathtaking sunsets over the hills. It can get crowded, so arrive early to secure a good view.
• Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary: A protected area with diverse flora and fauna. It’s a great place for nature enthusiasts and offers opportunities for trekking and wildlife spotting.
• Guru Shikhar: The highest point in the Aravalli Range, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. It is also home to the Guru Dattatreya Temple.
• Achalgarh Fort: A historic fort with ruins and stunning views of the surrounding region.
• Raghunath Temple: Known for its architecture and historical significance.

Activities

• Boating on Nakki Lake: Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the lake.
• Trekking and Hiking: Explore trails in Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary and around Guru Shikhar.
• Shopping: Visit local markets for souvenirs like handicrafts, textiles, and jewelry.
• Cultural Experiences: Attend local festivals and events to experience Rajasthani culture and traditions.

Local Cuisine

• Traditional Rajasthani Dishes: Try local specialties like Dal Baati Churma, Gatte ki Sabzi, and Ker Sangri.
• Popular Eateries:
  • Chacha Cafe: Known for its casual atmosphere and variety of snacks.
  • Rajasthani Restaurant: Offers traditional Rajasthani meals in a cultural setting.
  • The Redio: Famous for its Indian and continental cuisine.

Travel Tips

• Weather Preparedness: Carry light layers as temperatures can vary between day and night.
• Footwear: Wear comfortable walking shoes for exploring temples and hiking trails.
• Hydration: Stay hydrated, especially if you’re not used to the dry climate.
• Local Etiquette: Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites.

Nearby Destinations

• Udaipur: Known for its stunning palaces, lakes, and vibrant culture, Udaipur is a popular nearby destination.
• Kumbhalgarh: Famous for its massive fort and scenic surroundings, Kumbhalgarh is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Local Transport

• Auto-Rickshaws and Taxis: Easily available for local travel.
• Rental Cars/Bikes: Can be rented for more flexibility in exploring the region.

Mount Abu Travel FAQs

1. What is Mount Abu known for?

• Mount Abu is known for its cool climate, scenic beauty, lush greenery, and historic temples. It is the only hill station in Rajasthan and offers a refreshing escape from the desert heat.

2. When is the best time to visit Mount Abu?

• The best time to visit Mount Abu is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. The summer months (April to June) can be warm, and the monsoon season (July to September) brings heavy rainfall.

3. How can I reach Mount Abu?

• By Air: The nearest airport is Maharana Pratap Airport in Udaipur, about 165 km away. You can take a taxi or bus from Udaipur to Mount Abu.
• By Train: Abu Road is the nearest railway station, approximately 28 km away. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from Abu Road.
• By Road: Mount Abu is well-connected by road to cities like Udaipur, Jaipur, and Ahmedabad. State-run and private buses are available, and you can also drive or hire a taxi.

4. What are the accommodation options in Mount Abu?

• Mount Abu offers a range of accommodation options including budget hotels, mid-range hotels, and luxury resorts. Popular areas to stay include near Nakki Lake, Sunset Point, and the Main Bazaar Area.

5. What are the must-see attractions in Mount Abu?

• Nakki Lake: A picturesque lake ideal for boating.
• Dilwara Temples: Famous for their exquisite marble carvings.
• Sunset Point: Offers stunning sunset views.
• Guru Shikhar: The highest point in the Aravalli Range with panoramic views.
• Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary: A haven for nature enthusiasts.
• Achalgarh Fort: Historic ruins with scenic views.

6. Are there any entry fees for attractions in Mount Abu?

• Nakki Lake: Boating fees apply (around ₹100-₹200).
• Dilwara Temples: Entry is free, but donations are welcomed.
• Sunset Point: There is usually a nominal fee (around ₹30).
• Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary: Entry fees vary; generally around ₹50 for Indians and ₹200 for foreign tourists.

7. What is the local cuisine like in Mount Abu?

• Mount Abu offers a variety of Rajasthani and North Indian cuisine. Local specialties include Dal Baati Churma, Gatte ki Sabzi, and Ker Sangri. You can find these dishes in local restaurants and eateries.

8. What are some good places to eat in Mount Abu?

• Chacha Cafe: Known for its casual ambiance and snacks.
• Rajasthani Restaurant: Offers traditional Rajasthani meals.
• The Redio: Famous for its Indian and continental cuisine.

9. What activities can I do in Mount Abu?

• Boating: On Nakki Lake.
• Trekking and Hiking: In Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary and around Guru Shikhar.
• Shopping: Local markets for souvenirs and handicrafts.
• Cultural Experiences: Visit local festivals and events.

10. Is Mount Abu safe for tourists?

• Yes, Mount Abu is generally considered safe for tourists. As with any travel destination, it’s important to follow standard safety practices, be aware of your surroundings, and keep your belongings secure.

11. What should I wear when visiting Mount Abu?

• Comfortable Clothing: Light, comfortable clothing for daytime and warmer layers for cooler evenings.
• Footwear: Comfortable shoes for walking and exploring.
• Modest Clothing: When visiting temples or religious sites, dress modestly.

12. Are there any health precautions I should take?

• Carry any personal medications you may need and be cautious with street food to avoid foodborne illnesses. Stay hydrated and use sunscreen.

13. Can I use public transport in Mount Abu?

• Yes, you can use local auto-rickshaws and taxis. Public buses are also available, but may not cover all tourist spots conveniently.

14. Are there any nearby destinations worth visiting?

• Udaipur: Known for its lakes and palaces.
• Kumbhalgarh: Famous for its impressive fort and scenic beauty.

15. How do I handle currency and payments in Mount Abu?

• Most hotels, restaurants, and shops accept credit and debit cards. However, it’s a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments and local markets.

16. Are there any special events or festivals in Mount Abu?

• Summer Festival: Held in May, showcasing local culture and traditions.
• Diwali: Celebrated with special events and festivities.
• Holi: The festival of colors is celebrated with enthusiasm.

17. What are the local transportation options within Mount Abu?

• Auto-rickshaws and taxis are readily available. Rental cars and bikes are also an option for exploring the area.

18. Where can I find tourist information in Mount Abu?

• There are local tourist information centers and kiosks that can provide maps, guidance, and details on attractions and services.