Prime
sites
Gaumukh Temple: A natural spring flowing through a sculpted
cows head gives the shrine its name. The famous yagna of Sage Vashishtha
was performed here. A beautifully sculpted hill temple of Arbuada the mighty
serpent, stands against the beautiful backdrop. Nearby is the magnificent marble image of
Nandi, the celestial bull rescued by Arbuada.
Nakki
Lake: A tiny lake, picturesquely set amid hills. The lake is dotted with several
islets approachable by a boat. Of particular interest are strange rock formations around
the lake. Especially notable is the Toad Rock which looks like a real toad about to jump
into the lake. Others are Nun Rock and Nandi Rock etc. Set in the heart of the town, the
lake gets its name from the legend that it was scooped out by the gods with their finger
nails or Nakh. It is the only artificial lake in India that is 1200mts. above
sea level.
Adhar Devi Temple: The temple is chiselled out of a huge rock
reached by a flight of 360 stairs. A favourite tourist spot.
Sunset Point: Spectacular sight of the setting sun when the
hills are covered in the golden glow can be viewed from here.
Honeymoon: Also known as Anadra Point, it offers an enchanting
view of the verdant plains and valleys. The place looks most beautiful during the dusk
hours.
Delwara
Jain Temples: These beautifully carved temples built between 11th and 13th
century A.D. are sheer elegance in marble, dedicated to the Jain Tirthankaras.The Vimal
Vasahi temple is the oldest of these dedicated to the first Tirthankaras. Built in 1031
A.D. (by Vimal Shah a merchant and representative of the then Gujarat ruler), it is
a superb example of temple architecture. The central shrine has an image of Rishabhdev and
large courtyard with 52 small shrines, each housing a beautiful statue of tirthankaras
with 48 elegantly carved pillars form the entrance to the courtyard. The Lun Vasahi
Temple, dedicated to the 22nd Tirthankaras Neminath, was built in 1231
A.D. by two brothers Vastupal and Tejpal, Ministers of Raja Vir Dhawal, a ruler of
Gujarat belonging to the Porwal Jain community.With door casings. pillars,
architraves, and sculptures on porticos, the temple is a fine specimen of craftsmanship.
Shri Raghunathji Temple: Situated near the Nakki
lake is the temple dedicated to Shri Raghunathji with a beautiful image of the deity
that was placed here in 14th century A.D. by Sri Ramanand the famous
Hindu Preacher.
Gardens and Parks: Beautifully laid parks and gardens are
interspersed throughout the hilly paradise. Ashok Vatika, Gandhi Park, Municipal Park,
Shaitan Singh Park, and Terrace Garden are some of the noteworthy gardens.
Museum and Art Gallery: Located at the Raj Bhawan, it has a
collection of archaeological excavations dating back to 8th -12th
century A.D. It also has Jain bronze carvings, brassworks etc., for viewing.