Achalgarh is a primary destination for travelers visiting Mount Abu, the only hill station in Rajasthan. Located just 5 kilometers from the main town of Mount Abu, this area is widely celebrated not only for the remnants of the ancient Achalgarh Fort but also for several other significant landmarks. These sites are rich in fascinating legends, often narrated by local residents and guides who have passed down these tales for generations. Beyond the main fort situated on the hilltop, there is a lower fort known as Raja Bhartrihari's Fort, where legends say King Gopichand and Bhartrihari once performed intense penance.
The Mysterious Statues of Buffaloes
Upon entering Achalgarh, visitors encounter a pond that was historically used for rainwater harvesting and was once considered a sacred site. At the edge of this pond stand the stone statues of three buffaloes. According to local lore, these creatures were once demons who disrupted the prayers of sages. When King Dharavarsh discovered this, he struck them with his arrows, turning them into stone statues forever.
Achaleshwar Mahadev: A Unique Temple
The Achaleshwar Mahadev Temple is renowned across India as the only temple where, instead of a traditional Shivalinga, a toe of Lord Shiva is worshipped. Devotees believe that Lord Shiva supports the Aravalli range on his toe. Inside the temple, there is a deep cavity that never fills up, regardless of how much water is poured into it, which remains a source of wonder for all who visit.
The Nandi and the Mughal Army Legend
This ancient temple houses a massive Nandi statue made of five metals. Local belief states that when a Mughal army once attempted to plunder the temple, they struck the Nandi's leg. Instantly, thousands of hornets swarmed the soldiers, forcing them to abandon their weapons and retreat. These very weapons were later melted down to forge a massive trident that stands at the site today.
Sawan Bhado Pond and Meera Bai's Penance
In the upper reaches of the Achalgarh hills lies a large water body known as the Sawan Bhado Pond. Beside it stands a small hut believed to be the place where Meera Bai performed penance for 12 years. It is widely held that the pond was formed from the tears shed by her during her long meditation.
Gopichand Cave and Goddess Kali
Located on the hillside is a cave known as the Gopichand Cave, which contains a temple dedicated to Goddess Kali. Legends say that when the king was performing penance here, he discovered a sacred idol of Kali, which was installed on the spot. Ever since that time, devotees from far and wide have traveled to this site to seek the blessings of the Goddess.
