Guru Shikhar is the highest peak in the Aravalli Range and is located in Mount Abu, a popular hill station in the state of Rajasthan, India. Rising to an elevation of approximately 1,722 meters (5,650 feet) above sea level, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
The name "Guru Shikhar" translates to "the peak of the guru," and it holds significant religious importance as it is believed to be a sacred site for followers of the Jain religion. At its summit, there is a temple dedicated to Dattatreya, a combined form of the Hindu deities Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. The temple attracts both devotees and tourists seeking spiritual solace and awe-inspiring vistas
"Guru Shikhar is the highest peak in the Aravalli Range and is located in Mount Abu, a popular hill station in the state of Rajasthan, India. Rising to an elevation of approximately 1,722 meters (5,650 feet) above sea level, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
The name 'Guru Shikhar' translates to 'the peak of the guru,' and it holds significant religious importance as it is believed to be a sacred site for followers of the Jain religion. At its summit, there is a temple dedicated to Dattatreya, a combined form of the Hindu deities Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. The temple attracts both devotees and tourists seeking spiritual solace and awe-inspiring vistas.
The journey to Guru Shikhar involves a scenic trek or a drive through winding roads that cut through lush green forests and scenic valleys. The mountain's natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere make it an ideal destination for nature lovers, trekkers, and those looking to escape the bustle of city life.
At the top, visitors are rewarded with a breathtaking view of the sun rising and setting, casting a golden hue over the surrounding terrain. The gentle breeze and serene environment provide a perfect backdrop for meditation and reflection.
Guru Shikhar is not only a place of religious significance but also an enchanting spot that captivates travelers with its captivating beauty, making it a must-visit destination in Mount Abu, offering an unforgettable experience for all who venture to its peak."
Highlights
• Hike on the highest peak of the Aravalli range, the Guru Shikhar and witness astounding panoramic views.
• Spot several wild animals such as Indian leopard, wild boar, hare, fox and parakeet during your hike.
• Get a chance to closely observe some of the widely used medicinal plants like Aloe Vera, Guduchi, Bhringraj and Amla.
• Set up your camp and spend the night lighting a bonfire or enjoying stargazing with your loved ones.
• Offer your prayers at nearby temples such as Guru Dattatreya Temple, Achaleshwar Mahadev Temple and Adhar Devi Temple.
How To Reach
By Road: Guru Shikhar is located around 15 km from the city centre of Mount Abu. You can reach the summit in approximately 50 minutes via the Guru Shikhar Road. You can take a local taxi or your own private vehicle to reach the summit.
Best Time To Visit
Guru Shikhar is a beautiful tourist attraction which can be visited all around the year.
Best Season: You can visit the mountain between October and March to experience cooler temperatures and pleasant weather conditions.
Best Day of the Week: Visit the mountain on the weekdays instead of the weekends to avoid crowds and explore peacefully.
Best Time of the Day: You can plan your visit to the mountain during the late afternoon so that you can witness the gorgeous sunset from the summit.
Other Essential Information
- Wear sturdy shoes and dress in layers to comfortably adjust to the change of weather conditions.
- Carry essentials like a first aid kit, insect repellent, sunglasses, hat, water bottle, light snacks and sunscreen.
- Stick to designated trails which will be marked with small flags to avoid getting lost.
- Avoid getting too close to the wild animals or offering them any kind of food item for your own safety.
- Dress modestly covering your knees and shoulders if you plan to visit the temples.
- Carry your own equipment for camping and pack sufficient food for your picnicking.
Go hiking
Guru Shikhar is an ideal spot for all adventure seekers, offering numerous exciting hiking trails. To make your journey more enjoyable, you can also choose to hike to Guru Shikhar all the way from Mount Abu which is approximately a 3-hour journey. However, if you are looking for shorter and easier hiking trails then you can try Shergaon Loop, Ishan Bheru Temple and Peace Park. These hiking trails take you through the dense jungle of the mountain and offer unparalleled views of the nearby towns and mountains.
Visit the temples
There are several prominent temples in and around Guru Shikhar, the nearest being Guru Dattatreya Temple. This temple is located at the summit of Guru Shikhar and is dedicated to Guru Dattatreya who is believed to be an incarnation of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. Some other nearby temples that you should definitely visit are Achaleshwar Mahadev Temple, Adhar Devi Temple, Dilwara Jain Temples and Gaumukh Temple. Another popular temple is the Raghunath Temple which you can visit while starting your journey from Mount Abu or coming back from Guru Shikhar.
Spot flora & fauna
Guru Shikhar is a paradise for nature enthusiasts as it is home to a wide range of flora and fauna. During hikes, you will get to see several plants like the Babul tree, Jujube, Boswellia and Dhok trees. Some common flowers include Bougainvillea, Crown flower and Golden Shower. There are also a bunch of medicinal plants like Aloe Vera, Guduchi, Bhringraj and Amla. Additionally, you can spot various species of fauna like langur, hare, Indian Grey Hornbill, Rufous Treepie and Indian fox.
Enjoy outdoor activities
Guru Shikhar is also a fantastic destination for outdoor activities like camping, picnicking, stargazing and astrophotography. There are camps at the base of Guru Shikhar if you wish to remain closer to shops and food stalls. However, for a more tranquil ambience, you can set up your own camp at the summit. You can also pack your dinner to enjoy picnicking and lighting a bonfire with your loved ones. Additionally, the reduced pollution makes it an excellent spot for stargazing.
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