3 Best Sights in Mount Abu, Rajasthan

The magnificent, awe-inspiring Dilwara Temples are a complex of five buildings made of marble between the 11th and 13th centuries, and have made Mount Abu a major pilgrimage center for Jains. Enter for free and admire (but do not photograph) the stunning intricacy of the carving that covers every inch of the temples, from doorway to dome. Each temple is dedicated to a different thirthankar (enlightened ascetic). The 13th-century Luna Vasahi and the 11th-century Vimal Vasahi temples are of special note. The highlight of the Luna Vasahi is its ceilings, covered with interconnected marble carvings; the Vinak Vasahi, with its beautiful white-marble columns and dome, is equally splendid. Non-Jains can visit between noon and 6 daily.

Cameras are not allowed in the temple; nor are leather items (bags, shoes, etc.)

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Past Peace Park, on Guru Shikhar Road, is Guru Shikhar, the highest point between South India's Nilgiri Hills and the Himalayas, in the north. From here you can enjoy excellent views of the countryside. It takes half an hour to reach here from the town of Mount Abu. From the parking lot, you must climb a few hundred stairs to reach the top, and in high season it can be quite crowded.

Don't venture this way after dark—the winding forest roads make for hazardous driving.

The sacred Nakki Lake, resting between green hills, is said to have been carved out by the gods' fingernails. Several types of boats ply the lake; rides cost approximately Rs. 300--Rs. 400 for half an hour. Around the shores of the lake are stalls selling local handicrafts. At Sunset Point, just southwest of the lake, you can take in a romantic Mount Abu sunset—but don't expect peace and quiet in the tourist high season. This is a major beauty spot, and you'll likely be joined by plenty of others.