Having journeyed far and wide, I’ve learned that a trip’s essence often lies not merely in the place itself, but in the connections forged and experiences encountered. Mount Abu, the solitary elevated retreat of Rajasthan, offered me precisely this and exceeded my expectations.
The Hill Station That Breaks Stereotypes
Typically, “Rajasthan” evokes images of vast sandy expanses and majestic palaces. However, Mount Abu presents a delightful contrast—a verdant and refreshing hill station within the Aravalli Range. Therefore, this isn’t the desert landscape one might expect. Actually, my exploration began amidst flourishing flora and a gentle wind.
A Quiet Morning at the Rose Garden
Our initial destination was the Rose Garden. We arrived ahead of schedule—its visiting hours are 1–3 PM and 5–8 PM. Yet, this didn’t deter our exploration of the surroundings. Moments after stepping onto the grounds, I was met by colorful blooms and… a canine companion. Not just any dog—Tiger, the garden’s amiable (and somewhat imposing) guardian, whose role, it seems, is to ward off monkeys.
Although the garden initially appeared compact, we quickly discovered it stretched considerably further than anticipated. We found pathways, swings, uplifting messages painted on the walls, and even a tiger sculpture, reminiscent of my trip to Sanjay Gandhi National Park (you can find the vlog about it in my playlist!).
The children enjoyed the swings, and I couldn’t help but participate—although my role shifted to pushing them rather than swinging myself. I have absolutely no regrets. Their joyful sounds made the experience truly rewarding.
From Roses to Ripples: Welcome to Nakki Lake
Our next stop was the celebrated Nakki Lake, often considered the gem of Mount Abu. Our route took us through a lively local market, brimming with keepsakes, quick bites, and even a seller offering Shilajit (an item that also piqued my curiosity).
Upon arriving at the lake, I felt instantly captivated. Encircled by hills and vibrant energy, it’s clear why Nakki Lake holds the esteemed position as the central hub of Mount Abu. Families enjoyed boat rides, pairs posed for photographs, and the air vibrated with cheerful excitement.
The Legend Behind the Lake
A compelling local story surrounds Nakki Lake. I was traveling with Bharat and Ritesh—two outstanding individuals I encountered during this adventure. Bharat recounted that the lake was created by a divine being named Rasiya Balam, who excavated it using only his fingernails (or “nakh” in Hindi).
The narrative unfolds with Rasiya Balam receiving a divine boon that extended his nails to an extraordinary length, enabling him to excavate a complete lake within a single night. His motivation was to marry a goddess’s daughter.
However, the scheme took an unexpected turn due to trickery, and the union was prevented. The tale concludes somberly, with Rasiya Balam transforming into stone—his likeness now stands guard over the lake, even now.
New Friends, New Memories
This expedition transcended mere sightseeing; it was equally about the individuals I encountered. I met Ritesh, a fellow explorer from Kalyan, Maharashtra. A dedicated content creator (you can find his work on Instagram: @riteshavhad_), he was traversing Rajasthan with his backpack and camera in tow. We connected immediately, and together with Bharat, we continued the remainder of our Mount Abu exploration.
Concluding Reflections
Mount Abu offered an unexpected delight. I anticipated a brief sojourn in the hills but discovered a wealth of experiences—ancient stories etched in stone, roses flourishing quietly, and unexpected bonds of friendship.
Should you plan to visit Rajasthan, do not overlook this hidden treasure. Remember that the true enchantment often lies in the location, the individuals you meet, and the narratives you collect during your travels.
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