The Raj period
approached Mount Abu as a relaxation place to rewind along with the royalties
and semi royalties. The flora and fauna enjoys the adulation of the tourist to
the fullest. The tribes still conducting there authentic life styles in
the wake of 21st century is rather interesting and so is the collection of various
monuments of different religious sects like the famous shrines of Jainism.
Sight
Seeing of Mount Abu
Dilwara Temple
 | The
Dilwara temple is famous for architectural genius. The intricate carving on the
marble stone is simply mesmerizing leaving the senses spell bound with its neat
structuring. A cluster of Hindu temples also marks the land with their historical
past.The Brahmkumari Ashram is another world famous religious community center.
|
Sunset
Point
It provides a lovely
view of the setting sun, South-West of Nakki lake, where the sun gradually drowns
itself in the azure sky between two mountain peaks, steps lead up to high terrace
which offers an awe inspiring view of the setting sun.
Nakki Lake
The lake is picturesquely set amidst hills and is believed to have
been carved out by the Gods with their nails. It is popular spot for boating and
the only artificial lake in India that is 1200 mts. above sea level. The surrounding
hills have several area of interest.
Mount
Abu Wildlife Sanctuary
The sanctuary comprises the oldest mountain
ranges - The Aravali. It was declared as a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1960. The
rocks are igneous and due the weathering effect of wind and water, large cavities
are common the rocks. This feature is typical of Aravali and particularly of Mt,
Abu. Toad Rock in Mount Abu is one such example.Mount Abu has a very rich floral
biodiversity starting with xenomorphic subtropical thorn forest at the foot hills
to subtropical evergreen forest along water courses and valleys at higher altitudes.
Mount Abu is the only place in Rajasthan where one can observe a variety of orchids.
The place is also rich in bryophytes and algae. Three species of wild roses and
16 species of feras some of which are quite rare have also been reported from
here. The South-West part of the Sanctuary is rich in bamboo forests. A variety
of fauna Including highly rare, threatened and endangered species are found in
this sanctuary. Presently the Panther is the apex predator. Other animals found
here are Sambhar, Jungle Cat, Small Indian Civet, Wolf, Hyaena, Jackal, Indian
Fox, Common Langoor, Wild Boar, Pangolin, Rate!, Common Mongoose, Indian Hare,
Porcupine, Hedgehog, etc. The sanctuary provides an ideal habitat for Sloth Bear,
The population of Sloth Bear is increasing regularly as it can be seen while going
through the forests or motoring on the road.
Achalgarh
( 8 km)
Medieval monument of
Mt Abu, is the Achalgadh fort commissioned by Rana Kumbha, who was responsible
for dozens of gigantic fortresses in southern Rajasthan, with massive battlemented
walls and a situation on a mountain peak offering great views. A steeply winding
path leads up to the 15th century fortress and the temples within the fortified
walls, great for a view of the countryside.The carved Jain temples are a 10 minute
climb, worthwhile for the view and the sculpture. Below the path is the Achleshwar
temple, with a Nandi said to be made of the five metals-gold, silver, copper,
brass and zinc, called Panchadattu, and weigh more than 4 tons. The temple is
believed to have been built in the 9th century around a toe print of lord Shiva,
with a hole claimed to reach the netherworld, a natural Shivalinga and idols of
a crystal like stone, which looks opaque, but when a candle is placed behind it
sparkles like crystal. Nearby is the pleasant looking Mandakini lake, enclosed
by rocky hills, with images of a Rajput king and buffaloes. According to legend,
the tank was filled with ghee and the watering hole of demons disguised as buffaloes
until they were shot by Raja Adi Pal.
