Rajasthan's only hill station, Mount Abu, is famous for its cool weather and crowded tourist spots — but away from the usual rush lies a route that drops nature and wildlife lovers right into the heart of the forest. Set inside the hill station's wildlife sanctuary in Sirohi district, this natural trail runs for about 8 kilometres and is known to locals and visitors as the Tiger Path.
A Name That Says Tiger, a Forest Full of Leopards
The name leads most people to assume tigers roam here, but that is not the case. There are no tigers in Mount Abu's forest. The leopards found along this stretch simply resemble tigers so closely — in their build and the markings on their bodies — that the path ended up being named after the bigger cats they mimic. According to Mount Abu travel guide Chintu Yadav, this is the longest of all the natural trails in the area, and it earned its name because of the large leopards seen here.
Where the Trail Begins and Ends
The route starts near St Mary's School and finishes close to Sitavan Arna. To explore it, visitors must take permission from the forest department and travel by jeep, accompanied by a trained guide. Along the way you can spot wild animals such as leopards, bears and grey langurs, along with several other forest creatures and birds — making the outing feel every bit like a jungle safari.
Monsoon Greenery — and Some Caution
During the rains, the entire area is wrapped in greenery and striking scenery on all sides. That said, the season also calls for a few precautions. With the paths turning slippery, it is best to wear shoes with a good grip, and carrying a water bottle and some food along is advisable too.
Golden Horn: A Window Over the Whole Valley
This same trail also leads to one of Mount Abu's well-known viewpoints, the Golden Horn. The spot takes its name from a hillock that glows golden in the morning light and is shaped like an animal's horn. It is also home to the largest natural chimney in the area — so narrow that no one has ever managed to descend very deep into it. The panoramic view of Mount Abu's valleys from here is the kind that leaves every traveller wanting to return.
