1. Celebrate India – Winter Festival with Yatra.com
The term ‘one of a kind’ is thrown around quite often these days for things that do
not actually deserve that kind of a distinction. However, an oasis in the middle of a
desert and too one as large and green as Mt. Abu in Rajasthan is unquestionably
one of a kind. Filled with lush green forests, waterfalls and a huge lake in the center,
Mt. Abu is remarkably unique. Even with an annual tourist footfall of over 3 million, it
remains a quaint little town. However, it comes alive during the 3 day Annual Winter
Festival held in December. And, like I have said before, there is no better time to
visit a new destination than during one of their local festivals.
The showcase of Rajasthan’s cultural heritage is at its peak during this festival. I
personally enjoy these kinds of festivals because they offer a lot under the same
umbrella. It felt like I saw the whole of Rajasthan within just 3 days. With all the
cultural dance & music performances by the local troupes of various neighboring
states too, I felt the traditional vibe take over me during the festival. In addition
to that, the local art & craft mixed with the sightseeing tours offered an excellent
blend. I am personally a little biased towards this festival because I met a lot of
interesting fellow travellers from around the world during my visit, curious & lone
travellers like me!
I was alone with only 3 days and so much to do so I hired a bike (Rs. 500/- Max.
daily rental). I am of the opinion that a bike really compliments one’s sense of
freedom. I sure as hell put the bike to damn good use. I GOT LOST……. ON
PURPOSE…….. FOR IT’S THE BEST WAY TO TRAVEL. I observed the local way
of life; ate at cheap Dhabas, talked to complete strangers (especially the ones with a
backpack larger than mine), bought useless souvenirs. Well, that’s just the way I go.
Since this is not everyone’s’ piece of cake, I’ll make some suggestions about stuff
you can do and places you can see. I started with the cultural procession that marks
the beginning of the festival (it starts from Shikhar Hotel) and ends at the Nakki Lake
Chowk. That is where I witnessed the troupe performances and rowing competitions
in the nearby lake. I am sure boating was also available for tourists.
The next day I visited a few nearby places of interest like the 11th century Dilwara
Temple famous for its white marble carving. I personally enjoyed the scenic beauty
of Guru Shikhar (the highest peak of Aravali mountain range). If you haven’t seen a
fort it’s like you haven’t seen Rajasthan at all. So, I headed next to the 14th century
Achalgarh Fort. Last but not the least was The Brahma Kumari’s Universal Peace
Hall and University. It is a spectacular campus spread over an extremely large area
and offers the perfect kind of space and ambience that one requires for some
spiritual healing and quiet introspection. There are a lot of other tourist spots to be
visited but I guess these will more than suffice for your first visit.

2. The closing of the festival is marked by a spectacular fireworks show on the evening
of the third day which is a definite do-not-miss. Since there are not many
opportunities to shop around, you are likely to end up doing more or less the stuff I
just mentioned above. But I am sure your adventure appetite will be more than filled
at the end of this wonderful cultural extravaganza.
This is Joy signing off until next time
Wishing you a happy and safe travelling experience
Ciao