Dilwara Temple
These remarkable Jain temples are Mount Abu's main attraction
and among the finest examples includes two temples in
which the art of carving marble reached unsurpassed heights.
The older of the temples is the ' Vimal Vasahi ',
built in 1031 and dedicated to the first tirthankar,
Adinath. In the front of the temple stands the
' House of Elephants ', with figures of elephants
marching in procession to the temple entrance. The later
' Tejpal temple ' is dedicated to Neminath, the
22nd tirthankar, and was built in 1230
by the brothers Tejpal and Vastupal. The
carving is so fine that, in places, the marble becomes
almost transparent. |
 |
Kesar Bhawan Palace
Kesar Bhawan Palace is one of the oldest places in Mount Abu,
built in 1868. The Kesar Bhawan was used as a guest
house for visiting dignitories. For 100 years now several
Maharajas and royal guests from the west have been entertained
in Kesar Bhawan. Built to suit the climatic conditions of Mount
Abu which has an average rainfall of 150 inches annually, the
palace has closed corridor running around the building providing
it protection from rain. Each bedroom has its own private balcony
which provide a panoramic view of the surrrounding hills and
valleys.
Sunrise Palace
Situated on one of the highest points in Mount Abu is the summer
palace of the Maharaja of Bharatpur. Now it is called the Sunrise
Palace, provides a breathtaking panoramic view of lush green
Aravallis surrounding it. The 80 years old palace has a fairy
tale charm to it and is build like a typical british-style mansion.
It has large spacious rooms, which have been done tastefully
and provides all possible comforts to the guests. It is popular
with honeymooners as well as those looking for a peaceful holiday.
Vimala Vashi Temple
It is the oldest temple, built in 1030 by Vimala Shah, a minister
of Solanki ruler of Gujarat. The temple is said to have involved
a work force of 2700 men, and taken total fourteen years to
complete. Made of white marble, it is an outstanding example
of Jain temple architecture.
Jain Community
The fine specimen of workmanship , as seen in its carvings and
pillars, this temple is dedicated to Neminath - the twenty second
Jain thirthankara. A lot of inspiration and encouragement went
into the construction of this temple. Built in the
' Solanki ' style of architecture, this temple has a breaktaking
marble pendant hanging like a shandelier from the central dome
of the porch.
Luna Vashi Temple
Built in 1232 by two wealthy brothers. Its carved ornamentation
is even richer, denser and more delicate. In some places, the
marble carving is so fine. The doorways of the temples are framed
by ornate pediments and plasters; the columns are magnificiently
carved.
 Nakki Lake
Nakki Lake is virtually in the heart of Mount Abu and is a big
attraction with tourists. The lake takes its name from the legend
that it was scooped out by a god, using only his nails, or nakh.
It's a pleasant stroll around the lake - look for the strange
rock formations. On the lake there is a dilapidated concrete
boat-shaped snack bar.
Gomukh Temple
Down on the Abu road side of Mount Abu, a small stream flows
from the mouth of a marble cow, giving the shrine its name.
There is also a marble figure of Nandi, Shiva's vehicle. The
tank here, ' Agni Kund ', is said to be the site of the sacrificial
fire made by the sage Vasishta, from which four of the great
Rajput clans were born, An image of Vasishta is flanked by figures
of Rama and Krishna.Gomukh Temple contains images of Lord Rama
and Lord Krishna.
Connaught House
Connaught House in Mount Abu was the official summer residence
of Sir Donald Field, Chief Minister of the Jodhpur and now it
is available to tourists and holiday makers. Connaught House
is in a very good condition. New rooms have been added to the
old cottages. The location of the cottage gives it a complete
privacy and allow the tourist to enjoy a quiet and peaceful
holiday. The main market place and the famous Nakki Lake are
with walking distance.
Achalgarh Fort
This fort was built by the warrior King Rana Kumbha, who conquered
Mount Abu from its Chauhan rulers. It lies 5 miles from Mount
Abu. Nearby there are several ancient temples. Of these, the
most interesting is the 15th century temple of Lord Shiva.
Guru Shikar
The peak of Guru Shikhar, the highest point in Rajasthan, lies
about 2 miles beyond Achalgarh. It commands a bird eye view
of Abu and the surrounding areas. Temples located in this area
are the ' Mira temple ' and ' Chaumundi temple '.
Adhar Devi Temple
Three kilometres north of town, some 365 steps lead to this
' Durga temple ' built in a natural cleft in the rock. You have
to stoop to get through the low entrance to the temple. There
are fine views over Mount Abu from up here. This temple is one
of the favourite tourist spots of Mount Abu. It is believed
that the image of the goddess was originally hanging in mid-air,
hence the name is ' Adhar Devi '.
Contact Tourism
India For India Tour & Travel arrangements With
hotel Booking in India |
|
| |
|
|
