Shankar Math: A Spiritual Haven in Mount Abu, Rajasthan

Amidst the serene hills of Mount Abu, Rajasthan's only hill station, lies the tranquil and sacred Shankar Math. A place of great spiritual significance and natural beauty, Shankar Math is not just a temple or a math (monastery); it is a haven for peace-seekers, pilgrims, and those who appreciate the deep-rooted history and culture of Rajasthan.

In this article, we are going to explore the attraction of Shankar Math Mount Abu, its history, architectural beauty, and why it should be a must-visit destination for any traveller to Mount Abu.

What is Shankar Math?
Shankar Math is a religious and spiritual centre located in Mount Abu, which is famous for its pleasant climate and scenic beauty. The math is a serene retreat dedicated to Lord Shiva, where the calm surroundings give visitors a peaceful space for contemplation and devotion. Besides being a center for spiritual activities, the Shankar Math in Mount Abu is also known for its stunning architecture, beautiful surroundings, and peaceful ambience, which makes it a popular spot for those seeking a break from their routine lives.

The temple and math complex were constructed with high accuracy and great regard for traditional architecture while amalgamating the Rajput, Hindu, and modern designs. The calm ambience, combined with the site's spiritual and historical importance, makes it an inevitable stop while touring Mount Abu.

The History of Shankar Math
Shankar Math Mount Abu has a very mystical and legendary history. It is not clear how the math was established, but it is said to have been formed a few centuries ago by ascetics and spiritual leaders who selected the site of Mount Abu due to its closeness to nature and the serene environment. For many centuries, Mount Abu, being a hill station, has been a sacred place for meditation and spiritual introspection.

The name “Shankar” is derived from Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism. According to many accounts, Shankar Math was built to honour Lord Shiva and serves as a place for meditation and spiritual healing. Over the years, the math has become a centre for devotees from across the country, especially those who come seeking blessings or spiritual tranquillity.

Shankar Math Mount Abu: An Architectural Marvel
Shankar Math at Mount Abu was a beautiful architecture merged with nature and spirituality. The math is situated upon a slope to provide the complete view of all the surrounding hills and valleys. Inside this math is located a temple where Lord Shiva is worshipped, designed richly with elaborate carvings and sculptures from traditional Rajasthani art.

The peaceful and sacred atmosphere of the temple is enhanced by its lush gardens, large courtyards, and tranquil surroundings, which make it an ideal place for meditation and relaxation. Visitors can walk through the beautiful gardens, spend time by the pond, or simply sit and enjoy the serenity of the place. The architectural style of Shankar Math Mount Abu is in a different category altogether. Ornate stone carvings, grand arches, and beautiful frescoes adorn the walls of Shankar Math Mount Abu. Such beauty and serenity fill out every visitor, in keeping with a lasting long impression.

The Spiritual Experience at Shankar Math
For the spiritual seeker, Shankar Math offers much more than a beautiful building. It offers a serene abode to get in touch with one's inner self, to meditate, and to seek divine blessings. The math encourages spiritual growth in the environment, and many visit Shankar Math in Mount Abu solely for prayer and meditation.

The math also provides a deep sense of serenity, with the sound of temple bells and mantras ringing in the air. Devotees and visitors often participate in the morning and evening aarti (prayers) at the temple. These rituals help connect people to the divine and offer a sense of renewal and inner peace.

Shankar Math is more of a spiritual center, but it is also an excellent place for yoga, where many practitioners come to meditate and indulge in spiritual practices. The cool, fresh air of Mount Abu combined with the serene environment of the math makes it an ideal place for those looking to rejuvenate their mind, body, and spirit.

Nearby Attractions to Visit Along with Shankar Math
Shankar Math Mount Abu is a place of peace and spiritual enrichment, but there are other attractions in Mount Abu that you can visit to make your trip even more memorable. Here are some nearby places to consider visiting along with Shankar Math:

1. Dilwara Temples
The Dilwara Temples, a short distance of around a few kilometers from Shankar Math, is one of the most famous sights in the location. The temple is known for its beautiful marble carvings and architecture. They are dedicated to Jain Tirthankaras, which is also a fine specimen of ancient Indian temple architecture.
2. Nakki Lake
Nakki Lake is another attraction that can be seen within Mount Abu. It is thought to be the world's highest lake located at an elevation of 1,200 meters. Boating facility is also provided here while visiting this place as one can see panoramic views of surrounding hills.

3. Guru Shikhar
The highest point in Mount Abu, Guru Shikhar, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the region. It is a sacred spot with a temple dedicated to Guru Dattatreya and is one of the popular trekking spots for adventure enthusiasts.

4. Achalgarh Fort
Achalgarh Fort is an ancient fort located about 11 km from Mount Abu. The ruins date back to the 14th century. It is a historical site that gives a glimpse of the region's royal past and is a great place for history lovers.

5. Sunset Point
As the name suggests, the best spot to witness a glorious sunset in Mount Abu is at Sunset Point. It is at a distance from the town center and gives a wonderful view of the setting sun behind the hills, which gives the valley a golden hue.

Why Visit Shankar Math in Mount Abu?
Visiting Shankar Math in Mount Abu offers a unique opportunity to escape from the modern world and immerse yourself in a tranquil, spiritual environment. Here are a few reasons why Shankar Math should be on your list of places to visit:

Peaceful Environment: The calm and serene atmosphere of the math makes it an ideal place for relaxation and spiritual reflection.

Adds spirituality to the stay by dedicating a temple of Lord Shiva, which could encourage meditation, reflection, and one's connection to the inner self.

It reveals part of traditional Rajasthani art and culture within the architecture and design of Shankar Math. The math sits in a place of great picturesque beauty with many hills and vastness of green surrounding it, giving it an advantage as a very good location for nature lovers as well as a photographer's place.

The vicinity of Shankar Math is in very close proximity with other cultural, spiritual, as well as natural attractions in Mount Abu.

Prerequisites For Visiting Shankar Math
Best Time for Visit: For visiting Shankar Math, one should visit here during the relatively cooler months-October to March. The season is pleasant here and ideal to enjoy outdoor sports.

Dress Modestly: As Shankar Math is a religious and spiritual site, it is advised to dress modestly and respectfully.

Carry Water: The terrain around the math can be hilly, and it’s essential to carry water to stay hydrated during your visit.

Conclusion
Shankar Math in Mount Abu is not a religious site alone but a peaceful abode that offers a rare opportunity to connect with nature and spirituality. The serene environment, beautiful architecture, and serene ambiance make it a must-visit destination for spiritual seekers and nature lovers alike.

If it's a divine benediction that you seek, if it's a respite from the daily din, or if you're looking to pray and recharge in serene surroundings, Shankar Math offers the setting. Located at Mount Abu within picturesque hills, this promises an experience that no one will forget for long time after leaving this place. So, the next time you are in Mount Abu, make sure to visit this tranquil haven, where peace, spirituality, and nature come together in perfect harmony.