Mount Abu Tourism, Rajasthan
About Mount Abu
Mount Abu is a popular summer resort situated amidst lush green forested hills on the highest peak of Aravalli Hills. Earlier known as Arbudaanchal, Mount Abu is located in the Sihori district (58 km from Palanpur). Located at an elevation of 1220 meters, it is the only hill station in Rajasthan, famous for the natural scenic beauty and world famous Dilwara Jain Temples. It has been a popular retreat from the heat of Rajasthan and neighboring Gujarat state. According to the legends, Mount Abu was also the home of many saints and sages in ancient times. It is believed to be home to 33 crore Gods and Goddess. The name Abu means son of Himalayas (or Ar-Booda, "the hill of wisdom"), it is believed that Abu derives its name from Arbuada - the powerful serpent, which rescued Nandi the sacred bull of Lord Shiva.
History of Mount Abu
Historians believe that the original residents of Mount Abu were Gurjars. These Gurjars migrated from Arbuda mountain region as early as sixth century A.D and set up themselves in many parts of Rajasthan and Gujarat. During the British rule in India, Mount Abu was leased by the East-India Company from the Maharaja of Sirohi and used as a sanatorium for troops.
Mythology says that there is a mention of the region called ‘Arbudaranya’ ("forest of Arbhu") in the Puranas, and 'Abu' is supposed to be a tiny form of this ancient name. As per mythological belief, Mount Abu is believed to be the place where sage Vasishtha retired due to his differences with sage Vishvamitra. Another legend is related to a serpent named "Arbuda" who saved the life of Nandi - Lord Shiva's bull. The mountain, where the incident was happened, was called "Arbudaranya; after this incident ‘Arbudaranya’ gradually became Abu. Mount Abu used to be the home of many saints and sages (including Jain Thirthankaras) in the old times. Lord Mahavir, the 24th Jain Tirthankar was also believed to be visited Mount Abu and blessed the city.