Nakki Lake is a popular tourist attraction in Mount Abu located at a distance of 15 km from the main city. The lake is about 20 to 30 feet depth with a length and breadth of 800 and 400 meter respectively. A Toad shaped rock which appears to be ready to jump into the lake is a major attraction for the tourists. Tourists can go up to the rock by trekking through rocky hills or use the steps provided. The sun set point, Maharaja Jaipur Palace and Raghunath Temple are located nearby. Facilities of horse riding and boating are also available in the lake premises. The Nakki Lake is famous for various reasons like it is the largest manmade lake located at a highest location. It is a sacred lake for the Garacia community who assemble here during shukla Paksha in April month for their annual festival.

It is a symbol of love and commitment for honeymoon couples arriving here. Further, the ashes of the father of nation Mahatma Gandhi were immersed in this Holy Lake.

History

There are two mythological stories prevalent in this part of the place regarding origin of this ancient Lake. As per a popular legend, the lake earned its name from the fact that it was dug by Gods using their nails (‘Nakh’ in local language means nails). The purpose of digging it out was to protect them from a wicked demon by name Bashkali. The second story is related to the romantic story between the popular aged sculptor Rasia Balam and teenager Kunvanri Kanya. The father of Kunvari Kanya who was the king of that time put up a condition that in order to marry his daughter, the sculptor has to dig a lake with his nails overnight. But In spite of achieving this rare feat, they were not allowed to get married by the queen. Tourists can see the temples of Kunwari Kanya and Rasiya Balam in the Dilwara Temple.

Attractions

Dilwara Jain Temples

It is one of the world famous Jain temples popular for its excellent architecture and marvelous marble stone carvings.

Achal Garh

It is one of the beautiful medieval monuments. The construction of this fort was commenced during the period of Rana Kumbha who has the credit of building numerous forts and building in Rajasthan.

Gurushikhar

It is the highest peak of Mount Abu providing a breathtaking panoramic view of the complete Aravalli mountain ranges and the city itself.

Adhar Devi Temple

It is a popular religious tourist destination in Mount Abu. This temple can be reached by climbing up 365 stairs carved into the mountain.

Trevor’s Tank

A picturesque location named after the popular British engineer who built it is located 5 km away from Mount Abu.

Gaumukh Temple

It is a popular religious destination and nice place to hold family picnics and excursion.  This temple is dedicated to the Vedic Guru Saint Vashishth.

Climate and Best time to Visit

Mount Abu experiences winter season between November to February, when the maximum temperature remains under 28°C. This period is the time for honeymoon couples. Summer season extends from April to June and weather remains pleasant at day and nights are cool. This is the ideal time for tourists as they can escape from the scorching sun in other parts of the country and enjoy the pleasant Mount Abu weather. During the rainy season between July to September, the nature is at its best, lush green places with flowers and waterfalls enhance the beauty of Mount Abu. Nature and scenic beauty lovers should visit during this period. Overall, it can be said that Mount Abu is a place which can be visited round the year.

How to Reach

Mount Abu is a popular hill station and favorite holiday destination. Hence, it is well connected with all three means of transport.

By Train

The nearest railway station to Mount Abu is Abu Road located at a distance of 28 km from main city. This is an important railway station of the western railways, well connected with major stations like Jaipur, Delhi, Mumbai and Ahmedabad. There are regular buses from the railway station to Nakki Lake which is located at a distance of 15 km from Mount Abu City. Tourists can also hire Taxis.

By Air

Udaipur is the nearest airport located at a distance of 185 km. However, the Ahmedabad airport located at a distance of 221 km from Mount Abu in Gujarat has better connectivity. Several low fare airlines operate regular flights to all the metros and other important cities in India. Both these airports have good connectivity with Mount Abu by means of bus and taxi services.

By Road

NH-14 running between Bewar in Rajasthan and Radhanpur in Gujarat passes 24 km away from Mount Abu. This makes the city well connected with all important destinations in Rajasthan, neighboring Gujarat and rest of the country.