|
|
Rajasthan
Destinations
Mount Abu
Nakki Lake :
The
lake is picturesquely set amidst hills and is believed to have
been carved out by the Gods with their nails. It is popular
spot for boating and the only artificial lake in India that is
1200 mts. above sea level. The surrounding hills have several
area of interest.
Achalgarh
:
Medieval
monument of Mt Abu, is the Achalgadh fort commissioned by Rana
Kumbha, who was responsible for dozens of gigantic fortresses
in southern Rajasthan, with massive battlemented walls and a
situation on a mountain peak offering great views. A steeply
winding path leads up to the 15th century fortress and the
temples within the fortified walls, great for a view of the
countryside.
The
carved Jain temples are a 10 minute climb, worthwhile for the
view and the sculpture. Below the path is the Achleshwar
temple, with a Nandi said to be made of the five metals-gold,
silver, copper, brass and zinc, called Panchadattu, and weigh
more than 4 tons. The temple is believed to have been built in
the 9th century around a toe print of lord Shiva, with a hole
claimed to reach the netherworld, a natural Shivalinga and
idols of a crystal like stone, which looks opaque, but when a
candle is placed behind it sparkles like crystal. Nearby is
the pleasant looking Mandakini lake, enclosed by rocky hills,
with images of a Rajput king and buffaloes. According to
legend, the tank was filled with ghee and the watering hole of
demons disguised as buffaloes until they were shot by Raja Adi
Pal.
Gurushikhar
:
The
highest peak on the mount (1722 mts above the sea level)
allows a bird eye view of the sylvan surroundings of Mount
Abu.
A
small shrine and a temple of Dattatreya standing on the
shikhar are worth a visit.
Gaumukh Temple (Vashistha Ashram) :
My
sages and sheers had their retreats on Mt. Abu, the most
famous being sage Vashistha. To regenerate the human race, he
performed a yagya or magic fire from which were born the
agnikula clans of Chauhan, Solankis, Pannars and Pratihars. A
natural spring that flows that through a sculpted cow's head,
gives the shrine its name. Nearby is the marble image of Nandi
who was rescued by the mighty serpent 'Arbuda'. Carved out of
a rock, the hill temple of Arbuda lies against a picturesque
back drop. It is accessible by car or jeep up to 3 km, from
where a descent of 750 steps has to be covered on foot.
Back
courtesy - rtdc
|
|
