Mount Abu

Hill station, 160 km from Udaipur

should-see attraction

Visit duration: People typically spend 1 day here

Places to visit at Mount Abu

About Mount Abu Hill Station

Mount Abu, often referred to as an oasis in the desert, is a hill station in the Aravalli Range in Rajasthan’s Sirohi. The mountain with its rocky plateau feature is 22 km long and 9 km wide with the highest elevation being Guru Shikhar at 5650 feet above sea level.

The lush green mountain houses rivers, lakes, waterfalls, evergreen forests and various tribal communities of the arid state. Mount Abu also offers a sanctuary to animals like langur, leopards, sambar and wild boar. With its cool climate and peaceful ambience, Mount Abu is the perfect destination to escape the summer heat.

History of Mount Abu

Mount Abu was initially known as Arbudaanchal which translates to the forest of Arbuda according to the Puranas, ancient Indian literature.

Rao Lumba of the Deora-Chauhan dynasty conquered Mount Abu in 1311 and marked the end of the reign of the Parmars at Mount Abu. Rao Lumba shifted the capital city to Chandravati in the plains but in 1405, Rao Shasmal made Sirohi his headquarters again.

Later during the British Raj, the East India Company leased the mountain from the then Maharaja of Sirohi to use it as the headquarters and as a sanatorium for armies. The Rajputana also utilised Mount Abu as the headquarters until 1947.

Mythological Legends of Mount Abu

The mountain was the abode for numerous sages and saints of ancient India. It can be evident from several inscriptions and epigraphs including Tilakamanjari of Dhanapala. The land of the gurus, Gurdhara got fouled with time and became Gurjara.

Legend chronicles, sage Vashistha withdrew to the southern part of Mount Abu following his disparities with sage Vishvamitra.

Also, Sage Vashistha once conducted a Yajna, a Hindu ritual with a fire-altar, at the mountain's peak. He was seeking provision from gods to defend morality on the earth. A youth sprung out of the Yajna, the first Agnivamsha Rajputs and answered his prayers.

Another story narrates the tale of a serpent, Arbuda who rescued Nandi, a bull of Lord Shiva and so the mountain was named after the serpent.

Facts and tips about Mount Abu

• Since 1965 Mount Abu has been declared a prohibited area. The complete area of Mount Abu is 328 sq.km but the officially protected area is 112.98 sq.km. Mount Abu has a Wildlife Sanctuary that is long and narrow and spreads at the top into a panoramic plateau.


• Despite being in the arid state of Rajasthan, the weather around the hill station is cool and comfortable which can be enjoyed at its best with warm attire.

Sleeping at Mount Abu

Mount Abu hill station had served as the destination of leisure for the royal family. The lodges are a blend of British-style royal bungalows built in regal style.

Hotel Wordsworth Lodge

It is a boutique hotel near Mini Nakki lake which was constructed by the initiative of William Wordsworth's descendant, Diana Wordsworth. Buckle up to enjoy the experience of living in a forest with the assistance of modern amenities. The lodge is settled in the heart of the forest surrounded by an aesthetic view of a mountain, garden, and a little stream blended with comfortable luxurious rooms at an expensive price. This lodge is a treasure trove for nature lovers.

Hotel Aradhana

Hotel Aradhana is situated near St. Mary's Road and it offers high-budget accommodation. The lodging reflects contemporary architecture that is decorated with man-made gardens, swings and lounging areas to sit back and relax during the vacation. The accommodation ranges from basic family rooms to super deluxe rooms.

Hotel Hillock

Hotel Hillock is located less than a kilometre away from Nakki Lake. The luxurious hotel has a multi-cuisine restaurant, a well-stocked bar, an outdoor pool and a play area for children. Hotel Hillock has a palm tree garden to lounge in and to enjoy the hill station to its best. The cost of accommodation in this lodging is expensive.

See more hotels at Mount Abu 

Eating at Mount Abu

The restaurants and eateries at the hill station are amazing to savour local food and relax. The green field, the cool breeze and some delicious dishes paint the perfect vacation scenario.

Chacha's Cafe Restro Bar

The restaurant is located near the Chacha Museum. It has a combination of pocket-friendly dishes to fine-dining delicacies. The cuisine covers Indian, Chinese, Pizza and fast food which is also vegetarian friendly. The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating for you to enjoy the starry nights.

Mulberry Tree Restaurant

The restaurant is located near Hotel Hilltone. The cuisine covers international dishes along with Indian cuisine. The menu includes vegetarian and vegan-friendly food. Mulberry Tree Restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating along with buffet and table services. The restaurant offers an al-fresco dining experience during favourable weather.

Sher-E-Punjab Bar & Restaurant

The restaurant is located opposite ChaCha Museum, near the Vegetable Market. It is open from 10:00 am to 11:00 pm. The menu majorly offers Indian dishes. Sher-E-Punjab Bar & Restaurant offers the most authentic Punjabi cuisine in town. The dishes available are pocket-friendly and consist of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.

Other cities near Mount Abu

• Udaipur - 160 km
• Ranakpur - 160 km
• Jodhpur - 268 km

FAQs about Mount Abu

1. How many days will be sufficient to tour Mount Abu?

The duration of the tour depends on you. You can complete visiting all the tourist spots in one day or you can take your time, relax and extend it to two to three days.

2. Can we go fishing in the lake at Mount Abu?

There is only one lake in the mountain but fishing is restricted as there are snakes present in the lake.

3. What is Mount Abu famous for except for being the only hill station in Rajasthan?

Mount Abu is famous for its religious history. It is a sacred place to Jains and Hindus filled with rich folklore and holy incidents.