Introduction
Mount
Abu, the only hill station in Rajasthan, has been both a summer refuge and a
pilgrimage centre for ages. The whole Hindu pantheon is said to have visited
the sacred spot. Not only Hindus, but the Jain community too holds the site
in high regard. Lord Mahavira, the 24th tirthankar, also spent some time
here. Myths and legends permeate the landscape all over. From the Rajput
kings to the British officials, Mount Abu was always a much favoured
destination to escape the sultry summer.
Mount Abu sets forth a salubrious climate with a spiritual aura hovering
around. The Summer Festival of Mount Abu puts together the cultural essence
and the scenic charm of the city and its surroundings. During June every
year, tourists and vacationers from all around flock to the hill town to
soak in the myriad hues of culture and enjoy the healthy environs. There are
multiple options to feel relaxed and pampered. While comforting yourself in
the coldest part of Rajasthan during summer, you can feast your eyes upon
the picturesque lakes and the rocky terrain.
Celebrations
The Summer Festival of Mount Abu falls during Aashadh (According to the
Hindu calendar). As per the Georgian calendar, it is the month of June.
While everywhere else in Rajasthan, the summer scorches the cities and
towns, Mount Abu happens to be the coldest part. A perfect time for the
commencement of the Summer Festival. Crowds continue to swell as the
festivities begin with the singing of a ballad, making everyone around feel
nostalgic.
Folk artists from all over the state arrive here to show their creativity
and skills. Folk tunes fill the air all around as traditionally attired
dancers move rhythmically to the the soulful tunes. The festival is also
seen as an opportunity for tribal folks to interact with one another. Women
can be seen dressed in waist-long blouse and pleated skirt. Men are seen in
Kurtas, pyjamas with colourful turbans comfortably settled on their heads.
As evening approaches, the festive mood turns even more spectacular. Folk
dance forms like Gair, Ghoomar and Chari are a sight to behold.
A Shaam-e-Qawwali adds to the gaiety all the more. Qawwals (traditional
singers) gather from all over to perform to the best of their skills. The
scene gets livelier as the singers sing in their characteristic high-pitched
tone. People, both young and the young at heart, attend to the jamboree with
all interest and enthusiasm. Each day seems to a special day in itself.
Besides the dance and music performances, there are even water sports in
store for tourists. Visitors can indulge themselves in boating along the
Nakki Lake. The calm environs and the engaging sights are treat for
everyone's eyes. The grand finale comes to an end with the display of
fireworks.
Other Attractions
While in Mount Abu, you can also visit some of the most famous tourist
attractions here. Even you can indulge yourselves in various adventure
activities such as trekking, boating, horse riding etc. Sunset views from
here are also a fine option for tourists.
» Dilwara Jain Temples
» Nakki Lake
» Guru Shikar
Reaching Options
The closest airport from Mount Abu is the Udaipur Airport (185 km). From
the airport, you can hire taxis or can take a bus to reach the hill station.
Abu Road, at a distance of 29 km, is the nearest railhead. There are regular
trains connecting to places like Ahmedabad, Delhi, Jaipur and Jodhpur. By
road route, Abu is linked with Udaipur (185 km), Ahmedabad (221 km) and
Jodhpur (326 km).
