Rajasthan is endowed with an extraordinary topography that, time permitting, is best seen and savoured on long, unhurried drives. It also hosts a state-wide network of excellent highways that trumps all arguments to the contrary. And even though the drive to Mount Abu from Udaipur is a mere three hours, thanks to a well-tended (mostly) four-lane highway, it is the only one in the state that affords road-trippers an experience of both flatland and hill driving. Ending it quickly, therefore, would be to disrespect the picturesque terrain it splices–rolling farmlands, green valleys, and the odd shrine-crowned Aravalli butte. We recommend adding a few pit-stops along NH 27 en route to Mt Abu and comfortably stretch the trip into a memorable day-long outing.
Gogunda: This historically-significant yet little-known town shows up roughly 40 km into your drive after exiting Udaipur. Turn left off the highway about 5 km short of the toll bridge ahead to arrive at Maharana Pratap Raj Tilak Sthal within a few minutes. Walled public grounds host a statue of the celebrated king, beyond which the ruins of an ancient baori, edged by neem and babool trees, are visible. Beside it sits a Shiva temple, its ancient stone shikhara and mandap columns lost to layers of paint. This is where, in 1572, Mewar coronated its 13th and most iconic ruler following the death of his father Maharana Udai Singh II. This site is at a short distance from Gogunda Palace, the erstwhile forest-engulfed refuge of Mewar royalty following the siege of Chittorgarh, and also the staging point of the Battle of Haldi Ghati. It is presently a privately owned heritage hotel, and can be considered for a quick meal before heading out to your next stop.
Sei Dam: Categorised as an Important Bird Area, the Sei Dam will show up to your right near Loharcha another 40 km on from Gogunda. Before that you will traverse through one of the most beautiful stretches of this trip, featuring heaving hills, broad forested valleys, and the distant glimmer of water bodies. Continuing via tunnels at Ukhaliyat and Khokharia Nal respectively, not more than a couple of kilometres apart, and both carved out of solid quartzite, look out for signage for Sei Dam as you close in on the Pindwara toll bridge, turn right and follow the narrow country road to park beside an Inspection Hut. The Sei reservoir is said to attract thousands of migratory birds in the winter months, while the -thorn forest around it is considered an important habitat of the Pied Tit and Green Munia. Bar-headed Geese and Black-headed Ibises have also been spotted occasionally, but not in substantial numbers.
Mount Abu: At just over 4000 feet above mean sea level, Mount Abu is 87 km from Sei Dam and Rajasthan’s only hill station. It serves as an all-season destination, especially for visitors from neighbouring Gujarat, and is home to numerous points of interest – the renowned Dilwara Temples, Mt Abu Wildlife Sanctuary, as well as Guru Shikhar, the highest (5,650 feet) peak of the Aravalli range. The ascent to Mt Abu begins near Pandoori, where a cluster of eateries provides an opportunity to snack or rest awhile before negotiating the winding 18 km stretch to the top. As you climb, take delight in the fast-changing views of the valley fading away below you from conveniently located shoulders. Keep in mind that large numbers of langurs are likely to keep you company at these viewing points, please do not feed them.
Alternate Routes
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Option 1: Consider a visit to Kumbhalgarh from Gogunda, return to NH27 via Haldi Ghati (short detour from Lausing) to take in three prominent landmarks associated with Maharana Pratap. If time permits, also visit the Shreenathji Temple at Nathdwara, merely 15 kms ahead of Haldi Ghati.
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Option 2: Drive straight to Kumbhalgarh from Udaipur via Haldi Ghati. Explore the fort and continue to the famous Jain temples of Ranakpur before heading on to Mount Abu. Please note this option will add more mileage and hours to your day, do acquaint yourself well with the route before setting out.
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Udaipur to Mount Abu Distance: 163 km via NH27
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Gas Stations: Udaipur, between Swaroopganj and Abu Road, Mount Abu
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Dos & Don’ts
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Ensure vehicle is roadworthy
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Tank up before you commence drive
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Carry water and light snacks
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Ensure first-aid box is up-to-date