The Heart of a Hill Station
For American travelers venturing beyond India’s “Golden Triangle” of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, the state of Rajasthan often conjures images of desert forts and sprawling palaces. Yet, nestled in the Aravalli Range is Mount Abu, the state’s only hill station—a
cool, green respite from the heat of the plains. And the undeniable centerpiece of this town is Nakki Lake. It isn't a vast, imposing body of water like Lake Tahoe, but a serene, intimate jewel box of a lake. It functions as Mount Abu’s social and spiritual hub, a place where morning walkers, honeymooning couples, and spiritual pilgrims converge. The promenade that encircles it is a ribbon of activity, lined with food stalls, souvenir shops, and hotels, all humming with a gentle, relaxed energy that defines the town’s character.
A Lake Dug by Gods
What makes Nakki Lake more than just a pretty spot is its deep-seated place in Hindu mythology. The name ‘Nakki’ comes from the word ‘nakh,’ meaning nails, and legend holds that the lake was dug out by the gods themselves using only their fingernails to create a sanctuary from a demon. This origin story elevates it from a mere reservoir to a sacred site, or ‘tirtha.’ For Hindus, a dip in its waters is considered holy. This sacredness gives the lake an atmosphere that transcends simple tourism. You feel it in the air—a sense of reverence that coexists peacefully with the cheerful splashing of paddleboats. It’s a place where ancient belief isn’t just a historical footnote; it’s a living part of the landscape.
The Simple Joy of Boating
The main event at Nakki Lake is, without question, getting on the water. The options are delightfully old-fashioned: brightly colored paddleboats (pedalos) shaped like swans and simple rowboats for hire. There are no roaring jet skis or high-speed motorboats to shatter the peace. Instead, the experience is slow, deliberate, and personal. Gliding across the calm surface offers the best views of the surrounding scenery: the rugged, boulder-strewn hills, the pristine white facade of the Raghunath Temple, and the dramatic rock formations that dot the landscape. One of the most famous is Toad Rock, a massive stone structure that, from the right angle, looks uncannily like a toad about to leap into the water. The simple, unhurried pleasure of a boat ride is the lake’s main draw, a throwback to a simpler era of vacationing.
Beyond the Water's Edge
While the lake is the main attraction, the area immediately surrounding it is full of its own charms. The paved path around the lake is perfect for a leisurely stroll, especially in the early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft. Along the way, you’ll pass by Gandhi Ghat, a memorial to Mahatma Gandhi, whose ashes were immersed here. The nearby markets are a vibrant maze of stalls selling everything from Rajasthani textiles and silver jewelry to soft-serve ice cream and roasted corn on the cob, a local favorite. For the more adventurous, a short, steep climb up the hill to Toad Rock rewards you with a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire lake and town. These peripheral activities aren’t distractions; they are extensions of the lake’s tranquil ecosystem.
