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Mount
Abu
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MOUNT ABU:
A unique destination for Adventure and eco tourism The Raj
period approached it as a relaxation place to rewind along with
the royalties and semi royalties. The place sways in an
interesting contrast of British style bungalows, the holiday
lodges of the royals (Thikhana) along with the presence of the
various communities of the tribals located amidst the thick lush
of the forest on the hills surrounding the region.
The flora and fauna enjoys the adulation of the tourist to the
fullest. Among the flourishing ranges is the highest point of
the Aravalli is the 'Gurushikhar' with a vast sanctuary that
shelters a number of species like langur, wild boars, Sambar,
leopards and many more along with a number of flowering trees
thus enhancing the whole scenario. This glorious ambience suited
mainly to the likes of sages and tribals and both made a great
impact in the history of the region. |
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The tribes still conducting there authentic life styles in the wake of
21st century is rather interesting and so is the collection of various
monuments of different religious sects like the famous shrines of Jainism.
The Dilwara temple is famous for architectural genius. The intricate
carving on the marble stone is simply mesmerizing leaving the senses spell
bound with its neat structuring. A cluster of Hindu temples also marks the
land with their historical past.
The Brahmkumari Ashram is another world famous religious community center.
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Dilwara Temples
Mount Abu was an important Vaishnava and Shaivite
pilgrim center up to the 11th century. Today, it is
recognized the world over for it's magnificent Jain temples.
No visit to Abu can be complete without a trip to the famed
Dilwara temples. These temples are the greatest draw of Abu,
apart from its salubrious clime. Half hidden by mango groves
their sober exterior belies the wealth of their interior
ornamentation. Wondrously carved in marble, the Dilwara
temples enshrine various Jain tirthankaras, saints. Built
between the 11th and 13th century, are famous for their
superb carvings in marble.
Vimal Vasahi is the oldest temple, was built by Vimal Shah,
Minister of Solanki ruler |
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of Gujarat in 1031 A.D. It is dedicated to Adinath, the
first of the Jain tirthankaras. Constructed out of white
marble from Arasoori Hill, near Ambaji, 23 km from Abu Road,
It is an outstanding example of Jain temple architecture.
The central shrine has an image of Rishabhdev and large
courtyard with 52 small shrines, each housing a beautiful
statue of thirthankaras with 48 elegantly carved pillars
from the entrance to the courtyard.
The Vasahi Temple, dedicated to me 22nd tirthankara. -
Neminath was built in 1231 A .D by two brothers - Vastupal
and Tejpal, Minister of Raja Virdhavala, a ruler of Gujrat
belonging to the Porwal Jain community.The door casings,
friezes, architraves, pillars, the sculptures of porticos,
are astonishing in their workmanship.Rewards in the from of
silver and gold equivalent to the weight of marble covered,
were offered to the laborer. A great deal of inspiration,
devotion, love and encouragement was involved in the
construction of this temple.
The most striking feature of this Jain temple built in the
Solanki style of architecture is the marble pendant in the
dome of the porch. It drops from the ceiling like an
enchanting cluster of half-open lotuses with cups so finely
carved that they appear to be transparent. |
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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. |
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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. |
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