The history of Mount Abu is as diverse as the city itself. It was once a part of the Chauhan kingdom of Rajasthan and served as a summer resort for the Rajput kings of the region. After that, it was leased by the British government from the then Maharaja of Sirohi for use as the headquarter of the resident to Rajputana (another name for Rajasthan).

During the British rule in India, it was the favorite summer destination of the British, who came here to escape the dusty, dry heat of the plains particularly Rajasthan. It also served as a sanatorium for the troops. The small huts and cottages here tell stories of those times even today.

Mount Abu was the home of many saints and sages in the old days. Legend has it that all the 330 million gods and goddesses of the Hindu pantheon used to visit this holy mountain. It is also the place where the great saint Vashishth lived and performed a yagna (sacrificial worship on a fire pit) to create four Agnikula (four clans of fire) to protect the earth from demons. The yagna was supposed to have been performed near a natural spring, which emerged from a rock shaped like a cow's head.

According to another legend, once sage Vashishth's cow Nandini was trapped in a deep gorge and could not free herself. The sage appealed to Lord Shiva for assistance. The Lord sent Saraswati, the divine stream, to help flood the gorge so that the cow could float up. Vashishth then decided to ensure that such mishaps did not occur in future. He asked the youngest son of Himalaya, the king of mountains to fill the chasm permanently. This he did with the assistance of Arbud, the mighty snake. This spot came to be known as Mount Arbud and was later changed to its present form - Mount Abu.

This place is held in reverence by Jains as well since Jain scriptures record that Lord Mahavira, the 24th Jain Tirthankar (spiritual leader), also visited Mount Abu and blessed the city.

Visit Site:

The Dilwara Temple -
The Dilwara Temple of Mount Abu is a stunning example of ancient divine. It is one of the popular pilgrimage spot for Jains.
Hot Tour Packages - Heritage Tour with Heritage Hospitality
This holiest shrine of Jainism is amongst the finest illustration of Jain architecture in India. It is a cluster of temple, which include two main shrines, superbly curved in a white Marble, which was built around 11th to 13th century A.D.


Adhar Devi Temple-
Other attraction include Adhar Devi Temple, which is located 3 km in the north of town. This ancient Durga temple is chiselled out of a huge rock, which is reached by a flight of 365 stairs. It is one of the most believed holiest grounds for tourists and pilgrims across India. The temple allows panoramic views over the old mountain valley of Mount Abu.

Nakki Lake-
Another most interesting sight to visit in Mount Abu is Nakki Lake. This mesmerizing lake is located in the heart of the valley and according to legends, the moral philosophy says that it was scooped by god by only using his nail. Some of Hindu patrons believe that its a holy lake, hence most of the pilgrims pay a holy dip into the water. This splendid lake is surrounded by rugged hills, green gardens and solid rocks. Tourist visiting this lake also pay homage to the religious grounds of Raghunath Temple, that stands beside the Lake. Number of palaces and lavish mansions are build around the lake, which were once used by the royal families as a summer palace. Beside lake there are scores of comforts like the bustling small shops, coffee day, bars, tea shops, balloon vendors, ice cream palours and lot more to quench. One can also take the charm of horse safaris around the lake, which is available since from the morning to late evening.

Brahma Kumaris Spiritual University and Museum-

The university's stated aim is the establishment of universal peace through the impartation of spiritual knowledge and training of easy raja yoga meditation. To attend one of these residential courses, contact your local branch and arrange things in advance. There is no charge- the organization is entirely supported by donations, as is the accommodation.

Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary: - 8 km.
One of the most enthralling attraction in the heart of mountains is This heart throbbing sanctuary is 290 sq km long and is home to many animals and colour feathered birds. The tourist can spot panthers, bears, foxes, wild boars and migratory birds inside the park. Another fascinating attraction inside Sanctuary is Trevor's Tank, which was named after the British engineer who constructed it, Trevor's Tank allows delightful views to birdwatchers.

Guru Shikhar: - 15 km
Beside this, a tourist must visit Guru Shikhar, it is one of the highest peak in the Sirohi District, stretched out to be 1722 m high. At the top you can see Atri Rishi Temple, from where a bird eye view of the mountain valley can be seen.

Another attraction is Achalgarh: - 11 km,
Another attraction is Achalgarh in the north of Mount Abu is a cluster of temples, Amongst which Achaleswar Mahadev Temple is noteworthy, build around 1412 A.D and the Kantinath Jain Temple, build around 1513 A.D. This alluring complex was build around 14 century by great warrior Rana Kumbha of Mewar. Beside this, a tourist must visit Gaumukh Temple. According to legends, Sage Vasishta performed "Yagna" here, from which four Rajput clans were born. Here one can also see marble cow, figure of Nandi " Shiva Vehicle" and Agni Kund. These are some of the thrilling experience you are going see before your eyes, once you are in the mountain valley of "Mount Abu".