Guru Shikhar is the highest peak of the Aravalli Range in Mount Abu, Rajasthan, and the most popular tourist destination. If you are travelling to Mount Abu, visit this place to capture stunning pictures of the Mount Abu city and Aravallis range. Guru Shikhar, standing at a whopping height of 5650 feet, promises to offer breathtaking views of the lush green Aravalli range and Mount Abu city. Apart from its natural beauty, it is also famous for its sacred Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Dattatreya, who is, according to the legends, an incarnation of the Divine Trinity- Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. Read this article to learn more about Guru Shikhar and why this is a must-visit place among tourists and pilgrims in Mount Abu.
Guru Shikhar: The Highest Peak Of the Aravalli Range
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Being the highest peak of the Aravalli Range, Guru Shikhar promises a breathtaking view of the range and Mount Abu’s hill station. Located 15 km from Mount Abu, Guru Shikhar means ‘the peak of the guru’ and was named after Guru Dattatreya, who is believed to have lived on the peak during his monk days. A cave on top of the peak used to be converted into a temple dedicated to Guru Dattatreya. It also houses the Mount Abu Observatory.
Once you reach the foothill of the Guru Shikhar, you need to trek a little to reach the top of the peak. Hence it is advisable to visit this place during the winter season, especially in October and November, as the weather is pleasant in Mount Abu. The major attraction at the top of the peak is an age-old bell with the words ‘1411 AD’ inscribed on it, and all visitors who hike up to the top ring that bell to announce their arrival.
Also Read: Things To Do In Mount Abu In May
Mythological Stories Of Guru Shikhar
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There is a famous mythological story associated with guru Shikhar, and it goes like this- Goddess Anusuya wanted to have a son like Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh, and this became the reason for the stress among the wives of the three Gods, Saraswati, Lakshmi and Parvati. After hearing Goddess Anusuya’s wish, all three Gods took her examination, after which she obtained the infant form of Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh. When Goddess Anusuya took the three infants back to her husband, all three infants turned into one child with three heads and six hands.
Worried for their husbands’ return, the three Goddesses, Saraswati, Lakshmi and Parvati visited Goddess Anusuya and urged the couple to return their husbands. Tridev was impressed by the kind nature of Anusuya and her husband Atri and blessed them with a son. This child had one body but three heads and six arms and was named as Dattatreya who is believed to be an embodiment of the three Gods.
The temple atop Guru Shikhar’s peak is dedicated to Guru Dattatreya, who is believed to be an incarnation of the trinity—Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Shiva.
Top Places To Visit Near Guru Shikhar
Look at some of the top places to visit near the Guru Shikhar for the captivating views.
1. Nakki Lake
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If you get tired after hiking up to the top of Guru Shikhar, you can come down and unwind at Nakki Lake, situated in the Aravalli ranges in Mount Abu. The first man-made lake in India, at a height of more than 1200m from sea level, Nakki Lake is popular among the locals as the Nakki Jheel. A paradise for nature lovers, this lake has a depth of around 11,000 metres and a width of a quarter of a mile. Nakki Lake is strategically located in the centre of Mount Abu, surrounded by lush greenery, mountains, and strangely shaped rocks. You can also enjoy boating on Nakki Lake. As you sail through the lake’s waters, you can witness Mount Abu’s life unfold before you.
Location: 14.5 km away from Guru Shikhar
Timings: 9:30 am to 6:00 pm
Related Post: Gaumukh Temple Mount Abu
2. Achalgarh Fort
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After spending quality time at Nakki Lake, if you wish to explore the history of Mount Abu, you should start with the most important historical site, Achalgarh Fort, located in the Sirohi district. This is one of the prominent tourist places to visit in Mount Abu. An essential part of Indian history, this fort has witnessed many battles, and its walls are a testament to them. Apart from historical significance, this fort also holds religious value among devotees as several temples are inside the fort’s premises. Achalgarh Fort in Mount Abu dates back to the 14th century when it was built to protect Mewar from possible Gujarat attacks. The fort is nestled amidst the dense green forests of Mount Abu.
Location: 9 km away from Guru Shikhar
Timings: 5:00 am to 7:00 pm
3. Sunset Point
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If you are wondering what to do in Mount Abu in the latter half of the day after exploring the peak, head out to Sunset Point just before sunset, and you will catch a breathtaking view. Sunset Point in Mount Abu is the most-visited tourist place, and you get some stunning views of the sun going down the horizon of the sky. This is also a popular picnic spot in Mount Abu, where families and friends spend quality time together amidst nature. Located just 1.2 km from Mount Abu city, this location is famous for its shops selling sandalwood idols, marble statues, and wooden toys as souvenirs.
Location: 17 km away from Guru Shikhar
Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
Related Post: Places To Visit In Mount Abu
Tips To Consider While Visiting Guru Shikhar
- The timings of Guru Shikhar are from 8:00 am to 6:30 pm
- Guru Shikhar remains open for visitors throughout the year. However, the best time to visit this place is from October to November when the weather is pleasant and cloudy
- Wear comfortable and sturdy shoes, as you need to hike a little to reach the top of the peak.
- While there are small shops selling refreshments around the place, you should carry water, snacks, and other essentials with you.
- The stairs might get slippery during the monsoon season, so be careful when climbing up.
- There is a bell at the top of the peak that visitors ring and make a wish
- You can also visit the observatory near the temple atop the peak
You May Also Like To Read: Homestays In Mount Abu
A must-visit tourist destination in Mount Abu for tourists, pilgrims and nature lovers, Guru Shikhar promises a perfect blend of natural beauty, spiritual significance and adventure activities. It is an excellent place in Mount Abu for gazing at stars, trekking, and enjoying the panoramic views of Mount Abu. So, make sure next time you include Guru Shikhar on your trip to Mount Abu to explore the history, legend and culture of Mount Abu and Rajasthan.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Guru Shikhar
Why is Guru Shikhar so popular in Mount Abu?
Located at a height of 1722 metres, Guru Shikhar is the highest peak of the Aravali mountains and this makes it so popular in Mount Abu. At the top of the peak, you get to witness stunning views of the Aravallis and Mount Abu city. The famous Dattatreya Temple is also located at the top of the Guru Shikhar.
What is the other popular name of Guru Shikhar?
Guru Shikhar is also popularly known as 'the peak of the guru'. It got this name after Dattatreya, an incarnation of the Trinity- Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Shiva. There is a temple at the top of the Guru Shikhar dedicated to Lord Dattatreya along with another temple dedicated to his mother, Anasuya, wife of sage Atri.
What are the timings for visiting Guru Shikhar?
The timing for visiting Guru Shikhar is from 8:00 am to 6:30 pm. For the best view of the Aravallis and Mount Abu city, make sure you reach the top of the peak early in the morning.
Which is the nearest railway station to Guru Shikhar?
The nearest railway station to Guru Shikhar is Abu Road railway station, located just 40 km from the location. The railway station is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Jaipur, Ahmedabad and Mumbai.
Which temple is situated in Guru Shikhar?
Guru Dattatreya Temple is situated in Guru Shikhar. The main deity Lord Dattatreya is believed to be an incarnation of Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva.
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