Abu Road is a town situated at the base of Mount Abu, Rajasthan's only hill station, located in the Aravalli Range in the southern part of Rajasthan. While Mount Abu is the well-known hill station itself, Abu Road serves as the gateway for tourists traveling to the hill station, and the two places are closely linked in terms of accessibility and tourism.
Overview of Abu Road and Mount Abu:
- Mount Abu is a popular hill station known for its cool climate, scenic landscapes, and historic attractions such as Dilwara Temples and Nakki Lake.
- Abu Road, located approximately 28 kilometers from Mount Abu, acts as the starting point for travelers heading to the hill station. It is a town that connects Mount Abu to the plains and has become an important transit hub for visitors.
Reaching Mount Abu from Abu Road:
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By Road: Abu Road serves as a gateway to Mount Abu, with a well-maintained road connecting the two. You can easily hire a taxi or use local buses to travel from Abu Road to Mount Abu. The drive takes about 45 minutes and offers scenic views as you ascend the hill.
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By Train: Abu Road has a railway station that is well connected to major cities in Rajasthan and other parts of India. The Abu Road Railway Station is a key railway station that handles numerous trains connecting Mount Abu to cities like Delhi, Jaipur, Ahmedabad, and Mumbai. From Abu Road station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Mount Abu.
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By Bus: There are several bus services that run between Abu Road and Mount Abu, operated by the Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) as well as private operators. The buses are frequent, affordable, and offer a comfortable journey.
What to See and Do in Abu Road & Mount Abu:
While Abu Road itself doesn’t have as many tourist attractions as Mount Abu, it does offer some interesting places to explore before heading up the hill.
In Abu Road:
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Raghunath Temple:
- Located in Abu Road, Raghunath Temple is a sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Rama. The temple is an important religious site for the locals and visitors passing through the area.
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Guru Shikhar:
- Although not located in Abu Road itself, Guru Shikhar, the highest peak of Mount Abu, is accessible from here. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding region and is home to a small temple dedicated to Guru Dattatreya. It is located about 15-20 km from Abu Road.
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Local Markets and Cuisine:
- Abu Road has a variety of local markets where you can shop for handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs. You can try local Rajasthani cuisine like dal baati churma and ker sangri at small eateries and dhabas.
In Mount Abu:
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Dilwara Temples:
- One of the most significant attractions in Mount Abu, the Dilwara Jain Temples are renowned for their exquisite marble architecture and intricate carvings. The temples are dedicated to Jain Tirthankaras and offer an insight into the art and culture of the region.
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Nakki Lake:
- Nakki Lake is a serene and picturesque lake at the heart of Mount Abu, surrounded by hills. It is a popular spot for boating and relaxing by the shore. The lake is dotted with small temples, and the surrounding hill views make it an ideal spot for tourists.
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Sunset Point:
- Located on the southern side of Mount Abu, Sunset Point offers breathtaking views of the sun setting behind the hills. It’s a popular spot among visitors who want to experience the beauty of the desert landscape.
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Guru Shikhar:
- The highest point in Mount Abu, Guru Shikhar, offers panoramic views of the surrounding plains and hills. Visitors often visit the temple of Guru Dattatreya located at the peak.
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Achalgarh Fort:
- Located around 8 km from Mount Abu, Achalgarh Fort is a historic site with impressive architecture, temples, and ruins. The fort provides a glimpse into the region’s history and offers scenic views of the surrounding areas.
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Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary:
- For nature lovers, the Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary is a great place to explore. It’s home to diverse flora and fauna, including species like the leopard, sambar deer, and various types of birds. The sanctuary also has some trekking trails.
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Trevors Tank:
- A scenic spot located about 5 km from Mount Abu, Trevors Tank is an artificial lake surrounded by lush green forests. It is a peaceful place to visit, ideal for photography and nature walks.
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Brahma Kumaris Headquarters:
- Located in Mount Abu, the Brahma Kumaris is a spiritual organization that offers meditation sessions and has a peaceful campus that is open to visitors. It’s a great place for those interested in spirituality and meditation.
Best Time to Visit Abu Road and Mount Abu:
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Winter (October to March): The best time to visit Abu Road and Mount Abu is during the winter months when the weather is cool and pleasant. The temperature ranges from 10°C to 28°C, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
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Monsoon (June to September): The monsoon season can be enjoyable, with lush greenery, but it is advisable to avoid traveling during the peak monsoon months, as heavy rains can cause landslides and disrupt travel.
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Summer (April to June): The summer months can be quite hot in Abu Road, with temperatures soaring above 40°C. However, Mount Abu enjoys a milder climate, and if you’re heading there for a cool respite, it can be bearable.
How to Reach Abu Road and Mount Abu:
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By Train: The nearest railway station to Mount Abu is Abu Road Railway Station, located about 28 km from Mount Abu. It is well connected to major cities in India, including Delhi, Jaipur, Mumbai, and Ahmedabad. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Mount Abu.
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By Road: You can drive from major cities like Udaipur, Jaipur, or Ahmedabad to Abu Road. The town is well-connected by road and offers scenic views as you drive towards Mount Abu.
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By Air: The nearest airport to Mount Abu is the Maharana Pratap Airport, located about 165 km from the hill station in Udaipur. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Mount Abu.