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MOUNT ABU |
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FORTS & MONUMENTS -
Dilwara Temples(3
km) |
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Mount
Abu was an important Vaishnava and Shaivite pilgrim
center up to the 11th century. Today, it is recognized the world
over for it's magnificent Jain temples. No visit to Abu can be
complete without a trip to the famed Dilwara temples. These
temples are the greatest draw of Abu, apart from its salubrious
clime. Half hidden by mango groves their sober exterior belies
the wealth of their interior ornamentation. Wondrously carved in
marble, the Dilwara temples enshrine various Jain
tirthankaras, saints. Built between the 11th and 13th
century, are famous for their superb carvings in marble.
Vimal Vasahi is the oldest temple, was built by Vimal
Shah, Minister of Solanki ruler of Gujarat in 1031 A.D. It is
dedicated to Adinath, the first of the Jain tirthankaras.
Constructed out of white marble from Arasoori Hill, near
Ambaji, 23 km from Abu Road, It is an outstanding example of
Jain temple architecture.
The central shrine has an image of Rishabhdev and large
courtyard with 52 small shrines, each housing a beautiful statue
of thirthankaras with 48 elegantly carved pillars from the
entrance to the courtyard. |
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The Vasahi Temple, dedicated
to me 22nd tirthankara. - Neminath was built in 1231 A .D
by two brothers - Vastupal and Tejpal, Minister of
Raja Virdhavala, a ruler of Gujrat belonging to the Porwal
Jain community.
The door casings, friezes, architraves, pillars, the sculptures
of porticos, are astonishing in their workmanship.
Rewards in the from of silver and gold equivalent to the weight
of marble covered, were offered to the laborer. A great deal of
inspiration, devotion, love and encouragement was involved in
the construction of this temple.
The most striking feature of this Jain temple built in the
Solanki style of architecture is the marble pendant in the dome
of the porch. It drops from the ceiling like an enchanting
cluster of half-open lotuses with cups so finely carved that
they appear to be transparent.
Timing : 1200 to 1500 hrs for Tourists entry free.
Photography not allowed. |
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Gurushikhar(15 km) |
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The
highest peak on the mount (1722 mts above the sea level)
allows a bird eye view of the sylvan surroundings of Mount Abu.
A small shrine and a temple of Dattatreya standing on the
shikhar are worth a visit. |
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Toad
Rock |
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Overhanging
the Nakki Lake, so called because of its likeness to
gigantic toad about to leap into the water. |
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Sunset Point |
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It
provides a lovely view of the setting sun, South-West of Nakki
lake, where the sun gradually drowns itself in the azure sky
between two mountain peaks, steps lead up to high terrace which
offers an awe inspiring view of the setting sun. |
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