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Places to Visit

10 Interesting Places to Visit Near Udaipur

Done watching the lakes and palaces of Udaipur? Depending on how much time you have, there are various destinations to explore around Udaipur that make fantastic day expeditions. Here are some of our favourites.

Top 10 Places to Visit Near Udaipur

Udaipur is on the “must-see lists” of most voyagers and is one of the most popular vacation spots for both Indians as well as international travellers. This city is a perfect blend of hill stations, hiking places, and animal reserves. There are multiple destinations in and around Udaipur that are an ideal weekend getaway for both relaxed tourists and adrenaline-fueled junkies. Let us walk you through the 10 most interesting places to visit near Udaipur that highlight the city’s charm and provide an excellent vacation experience.

1.) The Chittorgarh Fort

BestPlaces to Visit Near Udaipur: Chittorgarh

Chittorgarh, the most significant fort of the Mewar dynasty, was the capital of their empire for almost 800 years until it was seized by Mughal Emperor Akbar in 1568. Its history dates back to the 7th century when local Mauryan rulers began making it. In June 2013, Chittorgarh was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a large fort, and the monuments are conveniently accessible by car. There are historic palaces, temples, towers, a pond (with feedable fish) and a royal cremation site inside the fort. The Victory Tower provides spectacular views of the fort and town. There is a music and light show in the evening time, that tells the narrative of the fort (but in Hindi only.)

Location: Approx. 110 Km North-East towards Udaipur- Chittorgarh Road.

Timings: 10:00 AM – to 5:00 PM daily

2.) The Ranakpurji Jain Temple

Places to visit near Udaipur: Ranakpurji

Jain temples are reputed to be the most magnificent in India and the temple in Ranakpur proves it all. It is simply one of the most mesmerizing Jain temples across India. It’s the country’s largest and most important Jain temple, dedicated to the first Tirthankar (saviour and spiritual teacher) Rishabh Dev Ji. Chaumukh Mandir, the principal temple, was constructed in the 15th century and was built out of white marble featuring 1444 carved pillars, 29 halls, and 80 domes! It will take you around an hour to admire its heritage beauty and construction. Both men and women must dress appropriately (legs and shoulders covered) to visit the temple and must not carry any leather items (including belts), shoes, food, and cigarettes with them. Menstruating women are also not permitted to enter the temple. It is feasible to visit Kumbhalgarh, which is close by, from Ranakpur. You can also explore the Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary which is quite nearby Ranakpur.

Location: 93 Km Northwest of Udaipur, which will take approx. 2 hours to reach this place.

Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Non- Jains are also allowed to visit the temple)

3.) Mount Abu:

Places to Visit Near Udaipur- Mount Abu

Mount Abu- the only hill station of Rajasthan, is located in the Aravali range. The Dilwara temple- a stunning piece of architecture, is located in Mount Abu and is definitely a must-visit tourist place. Travellers may enjoy peaceful and relaxing boating on the Nakki Lake, as well as enjoy the view of the sun setting from vista spots. Enjoy the local cuisine at the restaurants and cafés with fantastic locations. Guru Shikhar, the tallest mountain in the Aravali Range, is also located in Mt. Abu. Mount Abu Forest Sanctuary is another highlight of this place, with its diverse flora and animals.

The Dilwara temple’s incredibly ornate design is the major attraction of this place, and you may spend hours and hours admiring how these temples were created over two centuries, about 1000 years ago. The temples were intentionally made simple from the outside, or deter the burglars.

Location: 161 Km from Udaipur (takes about 3 hours via road to reach this place).

Timings: Anytime

4.) The Pushkar Lake

Places to Visit Near Udaipur- Pushkar

Pushkar Lake is a recognized pilgrimage place in Pushkar, Rajasthan, that attracts worshipers and spiritual individuals from all across the globe. In the evening, one may either watch the evening aarti on the ghats of this magnificent lake or take a plunge in the afternoon to wash away their sins. Whatever you do, you’ll find that this lake is one of the most gorgeous spots in Pushkar and one of the calmest tourist destinations located near Udaipur.

Location: 277 Km from Udaipur takes approx. 4.5 hours to reach this place.

Timings: Anytime.

5.) Kumbhalgarh Fort

Places to Visit near Udaipur- Kumbhalgarh 

Situated 85 Km towards the Northwest of Udaipur amid the beautiful Aravali hills, is the Kumbhalgarh Fort, which is the second most significant fort in Rajasthan. There are a series of temples built inside the Fort by The Mauryas. Badal Mahal, which is also the most magnificent part of the fort, should not be overlooked.

Kumbhalgarh’s amazing vistas of the surrounds are a visual feast, and its breathtaking grandeur makes it one of the most popular tourist destinations near Udaipur.

Location: Approx 85 Km Northwest of Udaipur, which takes about 2 hours to reach this destination.

Timings: 9 AM- 5 PM

6.) The Ekling Ji Temple

eklingji-temple-udaipur-indian-toursim-

If you’re looking for a spiritual experience, visit the Shri Eklingji Temple. The temple is made out of marble and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Large, colourfully painted statues of Lord Shiva’s Nandi Bull may also be found there. Bapa Rawal, the founder of the Mewar Dynasty, designed this temple. Every Monday, the head of the royal family of Mewar visits the temple and worships Lord Shiva by performing the Grand Aarti. Please do not carry your smartphone or camera as photography is prohibited inside the temple. Take a stroll around the back of the temple to get a spectacular perspective of the lake. You can also visit the ancient Saas Bahu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu located nearby the temple.

Location: Kailashpuri, about 21 Km away from Udaipur and takes approx. 30 Min. To reach this place.

Timings: 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM and 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM

7.) The Shrinath Ji Temple

shrinath ji temple nathdwara

If you continue driving towards the north on the National Highway 8 for about 45 minutes till you reach the little holy town of Nathdwara. This temple was built in the 17th century for the worshippers of Lord Krishna and has a beautiful idol of Shreenathji. Traditional Pichwai paintings depicting incidents from Lord Krishna’s life are very interesting and can be seen on the walls of buildings all across town. They’re repainted every year right before Diwali, giving Nathdwara a unique site to enjoy the Indian celebration. There is also a captivating market Near the Shrinathji Temple, where you can find almost everything, from jewellery to bags to colourful clothing. It truly is a shopper’s paradise.

Location: NH 8 Nathdwara is about 45 Km away from Udaipur, and takes about 1 hour to reach this place.

Timings: Morning 4:30 AM – 7:00 AM and 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM

Evening: 5:00 PM – 7:30 PM

8.) Jawai 

leoprd safari in jawai

Located approx. 170 km away from Udaipur in the Pali region is the Jawai Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to a variety of wild animals, including leopards, Crocodiles to name a few. Jawai is also known as “Leopard Hills,” There are many luxury camps in its close proximity, and you can also go on a jungle safari to see these leopards.

Location: Approx. 170 km away from Udaipur in Barawal Village, Pali.

9.) Mahi Dam

mahi dam banswara

Dams are among the most intriguing tourist attractions around Udaipur since they allow visitors to view not only the greatest artistry but also the surrounding natural wonders. And Mahi Dam is one such Dam near Udaipur that you must visit. Inspired by the name of Shri Jamnala Bajaj this dam is also known as Mahi Bajaj Sagar Dam. It is the second-largest dam in Rajasthan and is located on the Mahi River. Moreover, it is also a very important source of water and hydroelectricity for Rajasthan state. The dam’s gates are open during the monsoon season, and visitors may see the spectacular vistas of water flowing out furiously through the 16 gates in full force. inspired the name.

Location: Approx 172 km away from Udaipur in Banswara district, and take around 3.5 hours to reach this place.

Timings: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

10.) Haldighati

haldi ghati udaipur

Haldighati is a mountain range in the Aravali Hills around 50 kilometres away from Udaipur. Its name is inspired by the soil’s golden colour. The Battle of Haldighati fought here in 1576 between the army of the third Mughal emperor, Akbar, and the ruler of Mewar, Maharana Pratap Singh, is historically significant. The Chetak Horse Memorial and the Maharana Pratap Museum are also worth visiting.IT perhaps is one of the most essential destinations to visit near Udaipur for all those history buffs out there.

Location: Approx 65 Km away from Udaipur and takes around 1.5- 2 Hrs to reach this place.

Timings: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM

If at all heaven on earth exists, it perhaps is in, and around 200 km diameter of Udaipur. Unleash the traveller inside you and come visit Udaipur. Also, feel free to drop your suggestions at info@udaipurblog.com.

Categories
History and Culture

Dilwara Jain Temples: Visions To Cherish

Source: William Carpenter

When inspiration strikes, the artists swear to their art, that every inch of their creation will manifold history. Dilwara Jain Temples are such examples. It’s unique in every sense of the word. It first came into construction somewhere in the 11th century and after ages of diligent construction, destruction, and reconstruction, five such temples came into existence. Each with its own set of antiquities is molded out of milky marble.

Mount Abu Online

While the formation of these temples was in action, the Chalukya Dynasty was in power. What went down in the centuries that saw the plight of these monuments, is intense history. The year 1311 saw the darkest unfolding. Allaudin Khilji laid destruction on all five temples and left them mangled in ruins. All that eloquence now resounded in pieces. Then amidst the 14th century, began the reconstruction. Donations and reparations came from many devotees from all over India. One of the people who contributed to repairs were, Bijag and Lalag from Mandore. Currently, the temples are administered by the Seth Kalyanji Parmanand Ji Pedi.

Source: kamit.jp

Now, to write about its intricate interiors, every inch of all five temples is etched with unique carvings. Little details are as great as a legend. India’s artistry is well reflected in the Dilwara Temples. All the craftsmanship scribed on the wall is always telling a story in these great temples. The manuscripts were written with a chisel on marble.

The first temple, The Vimal Vasahi Temple

This Vimal Vasahi is dedicated to the Tirthankara, Adinatha Ji. This one was sculpted entirely out of white marble. Even more detailed statues of the other Tirthankaras are present here. From the ceiling to pillars and grand doors, nothing resembles the definition of the plain. It was built in 1032 by Vimal Shah, the Chalukya King of Gujarat.

The second temple, The Luna Vasahi Temple

The Luna Vasahi is dedicated to The Tirthankara Neminath Ji. The beauty inside Luna Vasahi even surpasses that of Vimal Vasahi. The space inside welcomes sunlight so delightfully that it highlights even the most minute explanation of the temple. The Hathi Shala here is what is called magnificent. This temple also showcases the most delicate stone-cutting there could be. It was built in 1230 by Porwad Brothers; Vastupal and Tejpal, ministers of Virdhawal.

The third temple, The Pittalhar Temple

It is in the name; a colossal statue of the first Tirthankara, RishabhDev Ji, is crafted with five different kinds of metal. The metal used among the five others in the highest quantity is Brass, hence the name Pittalhar, as Pittal is a Hindi translation of brass. With 107 images instilled inside this temple, it stands tall with its individualism. Built by Bhima Shah, Minister of Sultan Begada. The construction of the temple dates between 1316-1432 AD.

The fourth temple, Shri Parsvanatha Temple

It’s believed that masons urged to put in use, the remaining bricks from the previous three temples, as this was the fourth temple in order of dates. It’s a three-story grand religious building. Standing as the tallest one in all of the five temples, grey sandstone can be seen in the building. Sangvi Mandlik and his family took under the construction of this one in the year 1458-59.

The fifth temple, Lord Mahavira Temple

Decorated with a number of beautiful paintings, it’s the smallest of the five temples. It’s adorned with gorgeousness. Although smaller in size, its craftsmanship is relatively modern with new elements. It was built in the year 1582.

The timings for the Dilwara temples are; the temples open for the public from 12 pm and close at 5 pm. These Svetambara Jain temples are situated 2 and a half km away from the Hill station, Mount Abu, Sirohi District of Rajasthan.

Source: Wikipedia
Categories
Festivals

Celebrate winters in the land of sand- Winter Festival at Mount Abu!

29th and 30th December 2018 will mark the celebration of an amazing and different festival organized at the ‘hill station’ of Rajasthan- Mount Abu Nr. Udaipur. This festival is known as the Winter Festival in Mount Abu. This festival pays tribute to the astounding culture and heritage of the state of royals, Rajasthan. So, without any further delay let us get to know this ‘much-talked’ about festival of Rajasthan.

winter festival at Mount abu, Udaipur
Source: Rajasthan Tour Planner

Winter Festival at Mount Abu:

The festival is an eclectic amalgamation of a unique effervescence of the culture of Rajasthan. It houses awe-striking handicrafts, folk dance performances including Daph, Ghoomar, Gair and authentic food options contributed by craftsmen and performers from every corner of the state. The festival will commence on 29th of December and will conclude on 30th December 2018- this two-day fest brings together the spirit of Rajasthan.

winter festival at Mount abu, Udaipur
source: Gets Holidays Blog

Besides the aforementioned, the Winter Festival at Mount Abu or Mount Abu Festival also hosts sports and other entertainment activities like kite flying, boat rowing and some creative activities like poetry reading sessions and many more.

A noteworthy point about the festival is that it is the only festival in Rajasthan where cricket has been introduced as a part the festival.

The commencement and culmination of the Winter festival:

A lavish procession through the city marks the beginning of the Mount Abu Festival. It ends at the very famous Nakki Jheel with a ceremony in the evening called the Deepdan.

winter festival at Mount abu, Udaipur
Source: rajasthandirect

In this Deepdan ceremony, hundreds of ‘Deep’ or Diya (earthen lamps) are let to float in the waters of Nakki Lake. The sight of these buoyant diyas is amazing to watch. The festival also highlights a series of processions organized by the local authorities.

How to reach Mount Abu:

The Udaipur Airport is the closest and is located 175 kilometers away from Mt Abu. You can also take a bus, cab or local transport to reach Mt Abu from Udaipur.

winter festival at Mount abu, Udaipur
Source: AbuTimes

Undoubtedly, these fair, festivals and processions make Rajasthan one of the richest state in terms of culture and heritage. So, if you are in Udaipur in the same time span, then you must visit the Winter Festival at Mount Abu or Mount Abu Festival and enjoy the glistening beauty and season of winter in Rajasthan. Trust me! It is truly incredible!!

If you like this piece of information or you wish to add more information to this article do mention your thoughts in the comment section below or drop a mail at fouzia@udaipurblog.com, I would be glad to hear from you!

Categories
Festivals

All you need to know about the Summer festival in Mount Abu

Mount Abu, popularly known as the summer capital of Rajasthan is a hill station in the Aravalli ranges of the Sirohi district located in western Rajasthan. Blessed with steep rocks, picturesque backdrop, pleasant lakes, pleasant flora and fauna and favorable climate, Mount Abu is a paradise for visitors. The popular hill station attracts millions of tourists throughout the year. Although monsoon and winters are the best time to visit Mount Abu the ambiguous road to Mount Abu catches the eyes every single time when a visit is made.

One can visit mount Abu in summers too especially to witness the Summer festival organized by Rajasthan government, held every year in April month during the occasion of Buddha Poornima. The summer festival is basically celebrated to honor the local people, their rich hospitality, colorful life and their sweet gesture towards all the visitors.

source: Noble house tours

The three-day occasion commences with ballad singing which begins from RTDC Hotel Shikhar and gathers a the exotic Nakki Lake. The audience witnesses the Rajasthani and Gujarati folk dances and music.

Day two and three includes various competition like horse racing, tug of war, CRPF band show, skate race, Panihari Matka Race, Ghoomar and various other fun activities. The most exciting boat race also takes place in the exotic Nakki Jheel which always leads to a nail-biting finish.

Shaam-e-Kawaali

Evening activity includes a Shaam-E-Qawwali musical performance that is enjoyed by the tourists. Festival is closed by a series of dazzling fire workers in the sky that looks stunning.

Other major attractions of Mount Abu:

1. Dilwara temple-

Dilwara temple in Mount Abu

Famous for: Architecture, history, and pilgrimage

Visiting hours: 10 am to 5 pm.

 2. Guru Shikhar-

source: Traveltriangle.com

Famous for: photography, trekking, viewpoint.

Visiting hours: 8 am to 6:30 pm.

 

3. Nakki Lake-

Nakki Jheel Udaipur

Famous for: boat riding, Zorbing, and photography.

Visiting hours: 9:30 am to 6 pm.

 

4. Sunset point-

Sunset point in Mount Abu

Famous for: Viewpoint, photography.

Visiting hours: Sunrise to Sunset.

 

5.  Wildlife Sanctuary-

Wildlife sanctuary in Mount Abu

Famous for: Jeep Safari and Birdwatching.

Tickets: 300 INR for Jeep Safari (per person).

Visiting hours: 9 am to 5:30 pm.

 

Mount Abu is a small yet beautiful hill station and the summer festival is a must visit for everyone. It is a perfect getaway destination for every Udaipurite. So, what are you waiting for? Let the planning begin.

Have you witnessed the summer festival in Mount Abu yet? Tell us about your experience in the comment section below? We would love to hear from you.

Categories
Places to Visit

Weekend getaways near Udaipur

Talking about getaways, it is quite ironic as Udaipur itself is a popular weekend getaway destination for people living in nearby cities because unlike other metropolitan cities, Udaipur is a relaxed and joyous place to be, still, sometimes the repetitive and tedious schedule gets to your nerves. Hence, it becomes necessary to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and make a quick escape to relax your bones. Surrounded by the magnificent Aravalli hills, there are plenty of weekend getaways from the city.
Here we present you a list of popular getaways from the city of lakes within a distance of 200 km.

1. Mount Abu-

source: The Indian Wire

The most popular travel destination for localities as well as travellers, Mount Abu is the only hill station located in the Sirohi district of the deserted state of Rajasthan. The hill station definitely deserves a visit, especially in this scorching heat season.

Distance from Udaipur: 163.3 km (2 hr 46 min)
Ideal weekend duration: 2 days
Popular Attractions: Nakki lake, sunset point, Dilwara Jain temples
Accessible by: Taxi and Bus

2. Kumbhalgarh-

Source: V resorts
Kumbhalgarh Fort

Kumbhalgarh also is known as ‘the great wall of India’ is a perfect getaway destination for people who love history and art. The gigantic fort is said to be the birthplace of Maharana Pratap and will leave you awestruck.
Distance from Udaipur: 102.5 km (2 hrs 12 min)
Ideal weekend duration: 1 day
Popular Attractions: Kumbhalgarh fort, Badal Mahal, Wildlife sanctuary.
Accessible by: Bike, Taxi and bus

3. Ranakpur-

This is probably the most popular destination; bike riders have got up their sleeves. The eye-catching view of the Jain temples made with white marble architecture is beyond description.
Distance from Udaipur: 93.5 km (1 hr 55 min)
Ideal weekend duration: less than 1 day.
Popular Attractions:  Ranakpur Jain temple, Surya Narayan temple, Muchhal Mahavir temple.
Accessible by: Bike, Taxi and Bus.

4. Chittorgarh-

Chittorgarh Fort

Erstwhile the Capital of the Mewar Queen, Padmavati, Chittorgarh stands as the reminiscent of the Royal Mewar period and depicts the valour and bravery of Rajputs. If you are a history buff, then you will have a great time here and it is actually one of the surreal places to be in Udaipur.
Distance from Udaipur: 113 km (2hr 8min)
Ideal weekend duration: less than 1 day.
Popular Attractions: Chittorgarh Fort, Rana Kumbha Palace, Padmini Palace.
Accessible by: Bike, Train, Taxi and Bus.

5. Nathdwara-

Nathdwara

Built in 12th century, in the honour of Lord Krishna, Shreenath Ji is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus. People from all over the world fly down to this pious place to seek blessings of the Lord. This is a must visit place.
Distance from Udaipur: 52 min. (45.4 km)
Ideal weekend duration: Less than a day.
Popular attractions: Shreenath Ji temple, The Dwarkadheesh temple, Charbhuja.
Accessible by: Bike, Taxi and Bus

6. Jaisamand-

Jaisamand Lake

Being a native of Udaipur, if you still desire to explore more lakes, then this place is definitely for you. The calm place is every photographer’s paradise. Interesting fact, Jaisamand lake is also the largest artificial lake in Asia.
Distance from Udaipur: 1hr 4min. (41 km)
Ideal weekend duration: less than a day.
Popular attractions: Jaisamand lake, Jaisamand sanctuary and Jaisamand lake resort.
Accessible by: Bike, Taxi and Bus.

This was a list of major and the most popular travel getaways near Udaipur. How many places have you visited? Do share it with us. We would love to hear from you.

Categories
Places to Visit

Here’s a list of places to go when you are at Mount Abu

Mount Abu is better known as the ‘Hill Station’ of Rajasthan and is among the only places that have a contrasting topography as compared to other parts of the state. Situated in the Sirohi district of Rajasthan, Mount Abu is a rocky plateau that stretches 22 km by 9 km and boasts of some big lakes, rivers, and evergreen forests. Its highest point at 1,722 m (5,650 ft) above the sea level is Guru Shikhar.

Mount Abu is filled with breathtaking places and age-old temples that are awe-inspiring. Being at a very high altitude, Abu has a lot of scenic spots, sunset points, and other places that offer a wondrous view of the Aravalli ranges.

It’s really tough to sit idly here as there are plenty of places to go to. Here’s a list of some of the major ‘must visit’ places while you are at Mount Abu. Plan an interesting itinerary in advance and get ready to be thrilled!

1. Guru Shikhar

Here's a list of places to go when you are at Mount Abu
Source – Mountabuonline.in

Guru Shikhar forms the highest peak of Abu and stands almost 5,650 ft above the sea level. Guru Shikhar is situated approximately 15 km from Mount Abu and offers a scintillating view of the Aravalli ranges. There’s also a cave at the pinnacle that houses a temple dedicated to Guru Dattatreya, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. There is no entry fee as well.

2. Dilwara Jain Temples

Here's a list of places to go when you are at Mount Abu
Source – Remote Traveler

Built between the 11th and 13th centuries, Dilwara Jain temples are situated 2.5 km from Mount Abu. The five marble temples of Dilwara are considered sacred for Jains and have beautiful marble carvings and inlay works. The temples have facilities for bathing before performing Puja and do not have an entry fee.

3. Nakki Lake

Here's a list of places to go when you are at Mount Abu
Source – India.com

It derives its name from the fact that it was dug out by Gods using their nails (Nakh) to protect themselves from a wicked Demon Bashkali. But there are several other stories that exist too. Nakki Lake is a great place for picnics, boat riding, taking a stroll, etc. While there is no fee, boat rides are surely chargeable.

4. Sunset Point

Here's a list of places to go when you are at Mount Abu
Source – TripAdvisor

The best point to watch the Sun as it sets behind the majestic Aravalli ranges, for the day s from the highest peak of Rajasthan. Hundreds of people visit this place every day with their near and dear ones to watch the titillating view and click pictures. There is no entry fee whatsoever.

5. Achalgarh Fort and Temple

Here's a list of places to go when you are at Mount Abu
Source – Mount Abu

Built by the Paramara dynasty and later renamed as Achalgarh by Maharana Kumbha, Achalgarh fort is situated 11 km away from Mt. Abu. This fort is of religious and historical significance. The fort was in a bad condition but recent restoration efforts have brought back some glory to it. Just outside is the Achaleshwar Mahadev Temple that has an idol of Lord Shiva and a brass Nandi. The fort is accessible without any entry fee.

6. Trevor’s Tank

Here's a list of places to go when you are at Mount Abu
Source – TripAdvisor

Trevor’s Tank is named after the British Engineer, Trevor, who built it. It is situated 5 km away from Abu and one can find man-made tanks that are used to breed crocodiles and a lot of different viewing stations to witness a variety of birds and animals in their natural habitat. Entry to this place is at a nominal cost of Thirty Rupees.

7. Toad Rock

Here's a list of places to go when you are at Mount Abu
Source – Goibibo

Evidently, it gets its name from the resemblance of its shape with that of a Toad. The Toad Rock overlooks the Nakki Lake and provides a beautiful view of the surrounding landscape. It is a great place for tourists, adventure junkies, and photographers. There is no entry free here.

8. Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary

Here's a list of places to go when you are at Mount Abu
Source – TripAdvisor

It is located in the Aravalli ranges and was declared as a wildlife sanctuary in 1980. It prides itself with over 250 species of birds and is a favorite place for bird watchers. Green Avadavat is commonly sighted here. The major animals seen here are leopards, sambar, jungle cat, hyena, sloth bear, etc. The wildlife sanctuary has a rich variety of flora too. Jungle safaris are chargeable, otherwise, there is no entry fee as such.

9. Brahma Kumaris Spiritual University

Here's a list of places to go when you are at Mount Abu
Source – Brahma Kumaris, Pune

This University is spread across a sprawling campus and helps explore issues of the Hindu culture and more significantly, bigger issues like the relation between the body and soul, afterlife, etc. The Universal Peace Hall, or the Om Shanti Bhawan of the Mount Abu campus ie, Madhuban, is visited by nearly 8000 people daily in search of spiritual peace and inner joy. The entry is free of cost.

10. Mount Abu Bazaars

Here's a list of places to go when you are at Mount Abu
Source – thrillophilia.com

Any trip to anywhere in the world is incomplete without buying the local items and souvenirs. The markets in Mount Abu are vibrant and colorful and filled with handicrafts, Kashmiri textiles, ayurvedic products, Khadi products and a horde of other items to choose from! You can easily spend half a day here shopping all kinds of stuff.

We hope you have a wonderful and fun-filled stay at Mount Abu. 

Tell us how your trip was in the comments below. We would love to hear from you!

Categories
News

धार्मिक कट्टरता ने एक और ‘शंभूलाल’ को जन्म दिया, माउंट आबू की घटना

धार्मिक कट्टरता का शिकार हुए ‘अफराजुल’ की निर्मम हत्या को अभी तक देश भुला नहीं पाया है और ठीक वैसी एक और घटना दोहराई गयी है। माउंट आबू से 30 किलोमीटर दूर एक और ‘शंभूलाल’ ने जन्म लिया।

सूत्रों की माने तो विजय मीणा नाम के शख्स ने एक बुजुर्ग मुस्लिम आदमी को पीट पीटकर ‘जय श्री राम’ बुलवाया, और उसका वीडियो बनाया। ये वाक़या तब सामने आया जब उसी के द्वारा बनाया गया ये वीडियो वायरल हो गया। लोकल पुलिस ने एक्शन लेते हुए 18 वर्षीय विजय मीणा को धार्मिक भावनाएं आहत करने और शांति भंग के आरोप में गिरफ्तार कर लिया है। विजय मीणा ने ये वीडियो सोमवार रात को बनाया और खुद ने ही सर्कुलेट भी किया।

इस तीन मिनिट के वीडियो में विजय मीणा 45 साल के मोहम्मद सलीम को मार मारकर ‘जय श्री राम’ बुलवाते हुए साफ़ दीख रहा है। जवाब में मोहम्मद सलीम बार बार ये कहते सुने जा सकते है कि, “परवरदिगार सबसे बड़ा है।”

मुस्लिम लीडर्स ने FIR दर्ज करवाई फिर विजय मीणा को पकड़ लिया गया। ये जानकारी पुलिस ऑफिसर ओम प्रकाश ने बताई।

The Muslim Man who was forced to say Jai Shri Raam

माउंट आबू राजस्थान के सबसे फेमस टूरिस्ट डेस्टिनेशन में गिना जाता है और वहां पर ऐसी घटना का होना प्रश्न उठाता है कि आखिर माउंट आबू, राजसमन्द जैसे छोटे शहर के युवा क्यों इस क़दर इन सब गतिविधियों में शामिल हो रहे है? इसका जवाब भी ‘शंभूलाल’ के केस में सामने आया ही था। व्हाट्सएप्प, फेसबुक के जमाने में तब जब इनटरनेट इतना सस्ता हो चला है। कोई भी कैसे भी पोस्ट, वीडियो को बना कर इस पर डाल सकता है और सर्कुलेट कर सकता है। ये बात भले ही चुभे लेकिन सच भी है कि बेरोज़गारी के इस दौर में आज का युवा अपना ज्यादातर समय सोशल साइट्स पर ही निकलता है। बिना जांचे परखे मैसेज फारवर्ड कर देता है। उसके परिणाम बहुत बुरे होते है। ‘शंभूलाल’ इसका उदाहरण था और अब विजय मीणा का भी उदाहरण बनना इस बात की गवाही देता है। मुझे नहीं लगता कि पढ़े लिखे लोग चाहेंगे कि ऐसे उदाहरण हमारे समाज में बढ़ते रहे।

ये सब पढ़ने सुनने के बाद सआदत हसन मंटो की एक लाइन याद आती है जिसमें वो कहते थे, ” ये समाज पहले से नंगा है उसे कपड़े पहनाना मेरा काम नहीं है, वो तो एक दर्जी का है। मैं तो बस उसे आईना दिखा रहा हूँ।”

ये घटनाएं हमारे लिए आईने का ही काम कर रही है अब भी हम नहीं संभले तो अगले विजय मीणा या सलीम मोहम्मद कहीं हम खुद ही ना हो, और मेरे जैसा कोई और फिर यही सब कुछ लिख रहा हो।

https://youtu.be/vS6GhP0eZgk