Isn't it a surprise to see a hill station
in the state, which is popularly considered, as the desert region?
Situated at an altitude of 1,220 metres above sea level, Mt. Abu is
the only hill station that you can hope to see in Rajasthan.
Mount Abu is
located around 264 km away from Jodhpur, the second biggest city of
Rajasthan, and 509 km away from Jaipur, the state capital.
Mount Abu is
one of the most famous pilgrimage sites of the Jains and known for
its grand Dilwara Jain Temples. Besides the temples and sites of
historical importance, Mt. Abu is also rich in natural scenic
beauties.
In the medieval times, Mt. Abu was a part of
the Chauhan kingdom. Later it was later leased to the British by
then Maharaja of Sirohi for use as the headquarters of the resident
to Rajputana (another name for Rajasthan).
Mount Abu was one of the favorite summer
destinations of the British who drove to this hilly retreat to
escape the dusty, dry heat of the plains.
According to the folklores, Mt. Abu was also
the home of many saints and sages in ancient times. According to the
legends, all the three hundred and thirty million gods and goddesses
of the Hindu pantheon used to visit this holy mountain.
This place is held in reverence by Jains since
Lord Mahavira, the 24th Jain Tirthankara (spiritual leader), visited
Mt. Abu and blessed the city. |