About Summer Festival (June)

Take a Tour to Summer Festival

The Summer Festival is held every year in the month of Aashadh (June). The romantic hill resort of Mount Abu provides a welcome respite from the heat of Rajasthan in summer. A great time to visit is during this annual festival, with its rich tribute to Rajasthani tribal life and culture.). The steep rocks, tranquil lakes, picturesque locations and the pleasant climate of Mount Abu make it an ideal location for the festival.

» The History of Mount Abu : The history of Mount Abu is as diverse as the city itself. It was once a part of the Chauhan kingdom of Rajasthan and served as a summer resort for the Rajput kings of the region. After that, it was leased by the British government from the then Maharaja of Sirohi for use as the headquarter of the resident to Rajputana (another name for Rajasthan). During the British rule in India, it was the favorite summer destination of the British, who came here to escape the dusty, dry heat of the plains particularly Rajasthan. It also served as a sanatorium for the troops. The small huts and cottages here tell stories of those times even today.

» Activities : The three-day festival opens with the singing of a traditional ballad, which is followed by performances of folk and classical music plus the captivating Gair, Ghoomar and Daph folk dances. Sporting events such as the boat race on the Nakki Lake add to the fun, while the grand finale is a suitably noisy firework display.

The Sham-e-Qawwali is a much-awaited musical extravaganza, as renowned qawwals regale the audience. The grand finale of the festival is a display of dazzling fireworks, which adds to the tourist's delight.

» The Rowing Competition : Other gripping events include a boat race on the Nakki Lake and roller skating race. The grand finale of the festival is a display of dazzling fireworks. Refresh yourself in the tranquil surroundings of Nakki Lake.

It is believed that the Gods formed the lake-bed by digging it with their fingernails - 'nakh' - hence the name nakki lake. Other places worth visit, include : Dilwara, Jain Temples, Adhar Devi Temple, Gaumukh Temple, Sunset Point and Honeymoon Point.

Getting there

» By Air : Udaipur is the nearest airport to Mount Abu, 185 km away. Tourists can easily opt for various road transport facilities available at the airport for reaching Mount Abu. A number of domestic airlines have their scheduled flight to Udaipur, which connect the city to the major cities in the country.

» By Road : Mount Abu is well-connected by roads, as it is in close proximity to National Highway No 8 and 14. A small roadway connects the city to National Highway no 8, which in turn connects it to major cities like Jodhpur and Delhi. There is also a good network of roads making it accessible to other important places in the state. With good road conditions you can also travel by private car/taxi.

» By Rail : The railway station at Abu Road is a two-hour drive from Mount Abu and is well-connected to the rest of the country through a number of trains. It is a major stoppage for a number of important long-distance trains of the Western and Northern Railways.