Located in the heart of Mount Abu, the only hill station in the state of Rajasthan, Nakki Lake is a popular tourist destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. This picturesque lake is surrounded by lush greenery and rock formations that date back millions of years, making it a must-visit attraction for anyone looking to explore the natural beauty of this region.
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The Nakki Lake is a beautiful and famous attraction in Abu Mount. The lake is surrounded by hills, many wonders, hotels, and restaurants. It is said to be the first known largest man-made lake at such a height of 1100 metres on Aravalli Range.
Nakki Lake History: A Fascinating Tale of Myths, Legends, and Royalty
Nestled in the quaint town of Mount Abu in Rajasthan, Nakki Lake is a picturesque lake that has been drawing visitors for centuries. Its crystal clear waters and tranquil surroundings make it a popular spot for tourists looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. But did you know that the history of Nakki Lake dates back to ancient times? In this article, we delve into the fascinating history of this iconic lake.
According to local folklore, the name “Nakki” is derived from the Hindi word “nakh,” which means nails. It is believed that the lake was dug out by the gods using their nails, hence the name Nakki Lake. Another legend associated with the lake is that it was formed by a snake god who dug it out with his nails.
Apart from these legends, there is also a historical significance to the lake. It is said that the Raja of Sirohi, Ratan Singh, built a dam across the river to create the lake in the 12th century. The lake was used to store water for the town of Mount Abu and the surrounding areas.
The lake was later renovated and expanded by Maharaja Jaswant Singh of Jodhpur in the 18th century. During the British era, Nakki Lake became a popular spot for the British residents of Mount Abu. They built several cottages and bungalows around the lake, which are still standing today.
Over the centuries, Nakki Lake has undergone several renovations and restorations. The most significant restoration was carried out in 2006, when the lake was facing the threat of pollution and encroachment. The restoration project was undertaken by the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation and involved the cleaning of the lake and the removal of encroachments. The project also included the renovation of the surrounding area and the development of several tourist facilities.
Nakki Lake Myths and Legends
The history of Nakki Lake is shrouded in myths and legends that have been passed down through generations. According to one such legend, Nakki Lake was dug out by gods using their nails, which is where it gets its name from (Nakh meaning nails in Hindi). Another legend has it that a snake god dug the lake with his nails.
Apart from these myths, there are several other stories associated with Nakki Lake. It is said that the lake is home to several holy spots, including the Rishi Ashram and the Brahmin Kumari Temple. It is also believed that the waters of the lake have healing properties and can cure ailments.
Attractions at Nakki Lake
Apart from the tranquil surroundings and the crystal-clear waters, Nakki Lake has several attractions that make it a popular spot for tourists. Boating is one of the main attractions at the lake. Visitors can rent a paddleboat or a rowboat and explore the lake at their leisure. The lake also has several restaurants and cafes that offer a wide range of cuisine, from traditional Rajasthani dishes to continental cuisine.
The Toad Rock is another popular attraction at Nakki Lake. This rock formation resembles a toad and is a favorite spot for visitors to take pictures. The lake is also home to several temples and shrines, including the Raghunath Temple, the offerings at the temple.
Apart from the temple and ashram, there are also several viewpoints around the lake that offer panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. To reach these viewpoints, visitors can either take a short trek or hire a pony.
Boating on Nakki Lake
Boating on Nakki Lake is a must-do activity for visitors to Mount Abu. The lake is surrounded by hills and rock formations, making it a unique boating experience. Visitors can hire paddle boats, row boats or motor boats and explore the lake at their own pace.
Boating timings are from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM, and the cost varies depending on the type of boat and duration. A paddle boat for two people costs around INR 100 per half an hour, while a motorboat costs around INR 300 per half an hour.
Restaurants and Accommodations
Nakki Lake is surrounded by several restaurants and eateries that serve a variety of cuisines. From street food to fine dining, there is something for everyone here. Some of the popular restaurants around the lake include Arbuda Restaurant, Mulberry Tree Restaurant, and Jaipur House.
There are also several hotels and resorts around the lake that offer comfortable accommodation to visitors. Some of the popular ones include Hotel Hillock, Hotel Palanpur Palace, and Hotel Royal Palace. These hotels offer a range of amenities such as swimming pools, spas, and outdoor activities.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Nakki Lake is from November to February, when the weather is cool and pleasant. The monsoon season, from June to September, is also a good time to visit as the lake is full and the surrounding hills are lush green. However, it is advisable to avoid visiting during the summer months (April to June) as the temperatures can soar to uncomfortable levels.
How to reach
Nakki Lake is located in the heart of Mount Abu and is easily accessible by road. The nearest airport is in Udaipur, which is about 185 km away. The nearest railway station is in Abu Road, which is about 28 km away. From there, taxis and buses are available to reach Mount Abu.
Read also » Best places to visit Sterling Mount Abu
Conclusion
Nakki Lake is a beautiful and serene oasis in the Aravalli Range of Mount Abu. Its rich history, myths, and legends make it a unique and fascinating tourist attraction. Visitors can enjoy boating, sightseeing, trekking, and exploring the many cultural and religious spots around the lake. With several restaurants and accommodations around the lake, it is the perfect place to relax and unwind in the lap of nature. A visit to Nakki Lake is a must for anyone traveling to Mount Abu.
