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Mount Abu
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Mount Abu is an oasis of green in the midst of
barren desert. It is Rajasthan’s only hill station with an
array of exquisite temples, rich flora and wooded hills. A curve
road characterized by arid regions dotted with huge rocks in weird
shapes and high velocity winds leads you to the most tranquil and
picturesque Mount Abu. The place owes its soothing climate to its
rich and varied vegetation covering the entire hillside. Nestled
amidst spectacular surroundings with the magnificent Aravali range
around, this erstwhile summer capital of the British and Rajput
royalty commands an important place in the tourist circuit.
Legend has it that this former retreat of erstwhile meditating saints
is home to millions of Hindu gods and goddesses. The Rajputs believed
that it was the place of the sacred fire pit ‘Agni Kunda’,
from where 36 warrior clans emerged. Mount Abu became an important
pilgrimage center of the Jains by the 11th century. During this
period the place witnessed the erection of many spectacular Jain
temples. Later in the 15th century these hills were conquered by
Rana Kumbha of Mewar, who built a fortress here. Eventually, with
the advent of the 19th century, Mount Abu was developed as a summer
capital under the aegis of British Raj.
The presence of intricately designed Dilwara Jain Temples makes
Mount Abu somewhat more special than just a mountain retreat. These
magnificent temples evoke sheer elegance in marbles and flaunt exquisitely
carved pillars, beautiful courtyards, and lively sculptures.
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