Wednesday, November 5, 2008

Hill Station in Rajasthan

General Information :

Area : 342,239 Sq Km

Population : 56, 473, 122 (2001)

Capital: Jaipur

Languages : Rajasthani, Hindi

Introduction :

Rajasthan is a large state in northwestern India. It is the homeland of the Rajputs, who are known for their chivalry, valor and heroism. The capital is Jaipur and other large cities are Ajmer , Jodhpur , Bikaner , Kota , and Udaipur. Rajasthan has a total area of 342,239 sq. km.

Rajasthan is among the richest states in the country as far as the field of arts and crafts is concerned. Stone, clay, leather, wood, ivory, lac, glass, brass, silver, gold and textiles are given the most brilliant forms. Some of the popular crafts are, Meenakari, Jewelry, Ivory, Lac and Glass, Sandalwood and Wood, Stone, Hand Printing fabrics, mirror work costumes etc. The exotic and vividly colorful state of Rajasthan India is synonymous with majestic forts, stately palaces, lakes, sand dunes, camels and people dressed in brightly-colored costumes.
Mount Abu, in Rajasthan, is both a hill resort and a pilgrimage site. This mountain lies at the southern extremity of the Aravalli Range. Surrounded by forests, rich in flora and fauna, the town appears as an oasis. The drive uphill along Abu Road, overlooks an arid region, strewn by huge rocks with smooth surfaces, and weird shapes, fashioned by high velocity winds. The altitude of this plateau (1220 m), and the abundant vegetation have blessed Abu with a pleasant climate.

Abu, according to legend, stands for the son of Himalaya. Many sages and seers had their retreats on Mt. Abu, the most famous of them being, sage Vashistha. Mt Abu was dedicated to Lord Shiva, before it became a Jain pilgrim centre. The greatest attraction of Abu are the grand Dilwara temples.


Mount Abu hill station
Mount Abu is the sole hill station of the desert state of Rajasthan. The nearest of the great Rajasthani tourism centers, Udaipur, is 185 kilometres (ll5 miles) away and Abu remains slightly off the foreign tourist route. Its visitors are mainly Indians and during the season it is well patronized, especially by honeymoon couples.Mount Abu has been a pilgrimage site and its most remarkable attractions are its beautifully carved Jain temples, nearly a thousand years old.