Winter Festival Mount Abu [27/12/ 2019.]

Winter Festival Mount Abu 27 Dec 31 December 2019

Winter Festival December 2019

The Winter Festival has kicked off today. 2 days before previous years. 

Time Table of events 

Time Table of events 

28 December 2019.

Temperature update MT Abu

Last night, the temperature fell below zero.  I'm posting a few photographs sent as a per favour by my neighbour Govind.

The frozen stream in our area

Frozen water pots

Some ice for your drinks!

Beer bottles are left out in the garden, so the next day one is treated to chilled beer pre-lunch

Cheers from Mount Abu.

Weather update Mount Abu.;[ 27/12/2019 ]

Weather update Mount Abu.

Abuites woke up to a frosty morning. Last night was chilly and the chilly winds made it worse. A wonderful time to sit out in the garden and bask in the hot sun.

I recorded the temperature at 6:45 a.m. this morning.

Harry, sent a few photographs from Kumarawsda. 

Harry, holding a sheet of ice, formed in the water pot for birds.

Merry Christmas from the Abode of the Gods. [ 25/12/2019 ]

Celebrating Christmas in Mount Abu.

This is an excellent time of the year to be on Mount Abu. The weather is delightful during the day and chilly at night. Holidaymakers enjoy touring Abu donned in their woollies.

WELCOME TO MOUNT ABU to celebrate the holiday season

Oh to be in Abu when the Frost is here.[ 17/12/2019 ]

WELCOME TO A COLD AND FROSTY MT ABU

Mount Abu Temperature at 6.45 am

 Embracing Mount Abu’s Chilly Charm

A cold spell, with the temperature at a brisk 1°C, had descended upon Mount Abu’s picturesque landscape by 6:45 a.m. A breathtaking sight greeted Abuites this morning—fields frosted over, a sparkling sign that winter has arrived. It’s the scene that draws winter lovers from near and far, offering a magical atmosphere that’s hard to resist.

The temperature dip has already attracted visitors from Gujarat, eager to experience the hill station’s signature chill. Mount Abu is bracing for a tourist boom as the holiday season, encompassing Christmas and New Year’s, approaches. Expect increased competition for lodging as visitors converge on this charming spot to embrace the winter atmosphere.

Adding to the festive charm, Nakki Lake has introduced a new “I LOVE MT ABU” selfie spot, a fun and vibrant addition to the area’s attractions this year. The upcoming Mount Abu Winter Celebrations, set to kick off on December 29th, promise to light up the hill station with performances from artists all over the country. As part of the celebrations, organizers will turn the streets of Abu into a sparkling wonderland, creating a cheerful ambiance for all to enjoy.

In my next post, I’ll share a detailed guide to the Winter Celebrations, so you won’t miss out on this exciting event!

For now, I’m off to bask in the winter sun and capture some moments of my feathered friends. Stay tuned for more updates, and let’s continue to explore the frosty beauty of Mount Abu together!

Mounr Abu Winter the place for holidaying and trekking [ 09/12/2019 ]

Embracing the Winter Chill: A Frosty Mount Abu Welcome in December.

Mount Abu, wrapped in the snowy embrace of December, welcomes travellers to a frigid haven as the year comes to a close. The hill station's winter has arrived with a biting touch, with daytime temperatures ranging around 15-20 degrees Celsius and evenings dropping below the 10-degree level. Prepare for temperatures to drop to -3 degrees Celsius, bringing in the bewitching presence of frost that transforms the environment into a winter wonderland.

Temp at 5 am Mount Abu 

Our season's first frost 

December 7, 2019: 

Mount Abu emerges from the cloud cover to show its coldest night of the season. On December 7, 2019, the temperature dropped to a bone-chilling 2.4 degrees Celsius at night. Even when the clock approached 8 a.m., the temperature stayed stable at approximately 3 degrees. Winter's icy fingers have left their imprint, gracing the town with a fine layer of frost, heralding the entrance of the coldest season. We greet Mount Abu with wide arms and send a warm welcome.

The chilly air and frost-kissed surroundings create a tranquil and magical environment as we experience the winter chill in Mount Abu. Whether you're a native or a visitor looking for the attraction of snowy vistas, Mount Abu in December guarantees a memorable experience. So wrap up warm and be ready to enjoy the beauty of frosty mornings and frigid evenings in this scenic hill town. Welcome to Mount Abu, where winter weaves its spell, leaving you with fond recollections of a well-embraced season.

Mount Abu municipal elections results [ 19/11/2019.]

Congress wins with a clear majority.

The victors A Big Congratulations

The congress in the municipal local elections today secured a clear majority over its political rivals here in Mount Abu. Out of the 25 seats, Congress secured 18 seats. The BJP got 6 seats and one seat went to the account of independents.

To see the details of the elected representatives click on the link below

WATCH EXCLUSIVE Mt. Abu Local Election 

Mount Abu Post Deepavali Holiday: A Tourist Hotspot [ 30/10/2019 ]

Oh, to be a part of Abu when the sky is clear

Mount Abu a Tourist Hotspot

Oh, to be in Mount Abu When the Skies Are Clear

There’s something magical about Mount Abu when the skies are clear, the crisp air filled with the subtle scent of pine and the promise of the holiday season. As the Diwali lights fade, this hill station transforms into a bustling retreat, radiating warmth and charm. It’s a perfect time to visit, but if you’re planning a post-Diwali getaway, be warned: hotels may be fully booked and accommodation prices may soar if you don’t make reservations.

Thousands of holidaymakers are making their way up the winding roads of Mount Abu, day and night, eager to bask in its cool climate and festive spirit. The energy is apparent as if the hills expect a flurry of activity. Local authorities are working to ensure a smooth experience for all, especially after last year’s traffic snarls that left some visitors stuck for hours. This year, they’ve put measures in place to avoid a repeat, with hopes for a smoother and quicker journey. Fingers crossed!

For those planning to drive into the heart of the town, parking remains one of the biggest challenges. But don’t let that dampen your spirits! I’ve compiled a handy list of paid parking spots where you can leave your vehicle and dive into the festivities worry-free:

Paid Parking Locations in Mount Abu:

1. Kitchen Garden

2. Delwara

 3. Ashok Vatika

 4. Shivaji Nagar

 5. Arya Samaj

 6. Skating Ring

 7. Roadways Bus Stand

 8. Kamla Nehru Udhyan

9. Herbal Garden

10. Polo Grounds (Seasonal Parking)

So, pack your bags, confirm your reservations, and prepare to experience Mount Abu at its post-Diwali best. Whether exploring its natural beauty, soaking in the festive atmosphere, or enjoying the warm hospitality, this serene hill station promises an unforgettable holiday.

Happy travels, and may your time in Abu be as bright and joyous as the Diwali lights that once illuminated its skies.

St.Mary's High School All set for their Annual Sports [ 24 October 2019 ] Mt.Abu

Wishing all the students ALL THE BEST 

Look and observe 

The parents' week has begun. Wishing all parents and students all the best.

Wishing All

"A PROSPEROUS AND HAPPY DEEPAWALI"

Paddy's bridge St. Mary's High School Mount Abu [ 20/10/20190 ]

Facelift to Ole Paddy's Bridge.

Paddy's Bridge  

माउंट आबू ( नि सं ) ब्रिटिश काल के दौरान सेंट मैरी स्कूल जाने वाले मार्ग पर आवाजाही के लिए पेडिज ब्रिज का निर्माण किया गया था। क्योंकि इस ब्रिज के माध्यम से माउंट आबू के सबसे बड़े जलाशय लोअर कोदरा डैम तक जाने का मार्ग यहीं से गुजरता है । ब्रिटिश काल के दौरान यहां पर स्कूल संचालित की जाती थी जो अब सेंट मेरी स्कूल के नाम से जानी जाती है। वहीं इसी के पास सीता वन कच्ची बस्ती स्थित है। यहां के लोग भी इस ब्रिज से ही आवाजाही करते हैं और बारिश के समय यह ब्रिज पानी में डूब जाता है। जिसकी वजह से लोगों को परेशानी का सामना करना पड़ता है। ऐसे में नगरपालिका माउंट आबू ने इस ब्रिज के कायाकल्प का बीड़ा उठाया और शनिवार को इस कार्य का विधिवत शिलान्यास किया गया। शिलान्यास कार्यक्रम के दौरान नगरपालिका अध्यक्ष सुरेश थिंगर , भवन निर्माण समिति के अध्यक्ष सुनील आचार्य, भाजपा मंडल अध्यक्ष ईश्वरचंद्र डागा ने भूमि पूजन कर कार्य की विधिवत शुरुआत की। इस मौके पर कई गणमान्य लोग मौजूद रहे।

The translated version of the above via Google Translate

During the British period, they constructed the Paddy Bridge in Mount Abu (Ni) for movement on the route leading to St. Mary's School. Because through this bridge, the route to Mount Abu, the largest reservoir of Mount Abu, passes here. During the British period, the school was run here which is now known as St. Mary's School. Sita Forest Kutchi Basti is located near it. People here also move from this bridge itself and during the rains, this bridge sinks in water. Because of this people have to face trouble. In such a situation, the municipal Mount Abu undertook the rejuvenation of this bridge and on Saturday, they duly laid the work. Municipal Chairman Suresh Thinger, Building Construction Committee President Sunil Acharya, and BJP Divisional President Ishwar Chandra Daga duly started the work by doing Bhoomi Pujan during the foundation stone laying program. Many dignitaries were present on this occasion.

To View, my Mount Abu Birds click the link below

October Big Day, 19 October 2019.

St. Mary's High School Parents Week [ 16/10/ 2019 ] Mount Abu

Notice Parents week St. Mary's High School

Parents planning to spend the Holidays here in Abu should be aware that night temperature dip to around 15 degrees and below. 

St. Mary's High School celebrating [ 90 Glorious years ] Mount Abu

St. Mary's High School celebrating 90 Glorious years

The SMS motto: Promite Vires — Put Forth Thy Strength!

How time flies, St. Mary’s High School came into existence 90 years ago. They have designed the logo above for this event being celebrated this year.

They will hold the Annual School Variety Entertainment for the parents on the 23 October 2019

Annual Sports & Drill Display (9:00 AM) 24-Oct-2019

Holidays for sports week and Deepawali will start after sports. The holidays will end on 3 Nov 2019. All Boarders to Return (by 3:30 PM).

To be updated on events, you can click on the link below 

EVENT CALENDAR 

Birds of Mount Abu Birds in [ October 2019 ] mountabubirds.blogspot.com

Birding in October 2019. Mount Abu.

To see the birds of Mount Abu

Click below 

Birds of Mount Abu. 

Mount Abu Boulder landslide early this morning.[ 03/09/2019 ]

Continuous drizzle has caused some heavy boulders to get dislodged.

Click on the picture to see the video 

Early this morning, on the main road going down to Abu Road, a few heavy boulders got dislodged near Sathgoan Mount Abu and crashed onto the road. Thankfully, the complete road did not get blocked also there was not any mishap. The authorities immediately began clearing the road with their JCB machine and rock crackers. Abu has had its share of landslides over the years and has been fortunate that no major catastrophe has taken place.

Huge Boulder crashed onto the main road Of Mount Abu [ 17/08/2019 ]

Fortune favoured the oncoming tourist traffic.

An enormous boulder crashed onto the main road of Mt.Abu

Yesterday's heavy rain caused a boulder and a tree to fall on the main road to Mount Abu. Luckily, there was no traffic, and, and no one got hurt. The authorities immediately rushed to the spot to clear the road as the traffic coming up was tremendous.

Gauge Report, Mount Abu 

 17.08.19 Saturday.

🌧 Rain fall = 5.4 inch

🌧 Total Rainfall = 55.3 inch 

Lower Kodra Dam = 54'/59'

Upper Kodradam=24'5"/33'

Nakki =11.95/12.25 meter

Gauge Report, Mount Abu 

 18.08.19 Sunday.

🌧 Rain fall = 4.00 mm

🌧 Total Rainfall = 55.4 inch 

Lower Kodra Dam = 55’/59'

Upper Kodradam=25’/33'

Nakki =12.00/12.25 MTR

Mount Abu rains update: Mt Abu receives continuous rainfall from yesterday [ 16/08/2019 ]

Mount Abu's first monsoon casualties 

The road going to Gurushikar 

Barricade set up en-route Gurushukar

Owing to the continuous and incessant rain, a part of the road going up to Gurushikar near Veerbapji Mandir collapsed. Luckily, no vehicle was plying at the time or there could have been a mishap. They shut the road down to traffic to determine the extent of the damage. After putting up safety barricades, the authorities allowed the traffic to continue via the safer side. 

A car that was heading towards Abu Road shot off the road near Chippaburry and plunged into the valley below. They rushed the police and ambulance services to the spot. They then rushed the five victims to the hospital, some in sad shape. Will keep you all updated as events unfold here at Mount Abu. 

The car that plunged into the valley 

Lower Kodra Dam at 2 pm today 

per favour  Ms Meera

Lower Khodra Dam

Mount Abu Gears up to enforce its Anti plastic Drive. 15 August 2019

Plastic controls Mount Abu. Meet your apocalyptic
They littered each additional resolution with the will to follow up.
WISHING ALL A JOYOUS INDEPENDENCE DAY!

To learn more about the plastic ban, click the links below.

Anti-Plastic Drive, Mount Abu.

A complete ban on plastic items 

A flashback to my take on the plastic menace 

Monsoon update 9 August 2019 Mount Abu

Mount Abu is glad the rain gods have smiled down on the Abode.

First Monsoon for Macy watching the rising water

Water gushing down our main valley (snap via WhatsApp)

The video received per kind favour Raman 

Yesterday all evening, there was a buildup of heavy clouds. Late at night, it began raining and by early morning it poured. Streams of Abu began gushing, and the waterfall was a delight to see. The much-awaited nectar of life brought relief to the Abuites, and the trees swayed, beckoning the falling rain. 

Gauge Report Mount Abu 09.08.19, Friday.

🌧 Rain Fall = 5.4 inches.

🌧 Total Rain Fall = 37.7 inches

Just received some snaps via per favour, Ms Trina from the school.

Level Lower Kodra Dam 42 feet 

The dam picture was sent by Ms Trina.

Update water levels 11 August 2019. Abu

Per favour Raman 

Gauge Report Mount Abu 11.08.19, Sunday.

Rainfall = 3 inches

Total Rainfall = 42.2 inches

LK Dam = 44'6"/ 59'

UK Dam = 19'/ 33

Nakki Lake =10.50/12.25M

14 AUGUST 2019

14 AUGUST 2019
Gauge Report Mount Abu 15.08.19, Thursday
Rain Fall= 1.1 inch.
Total Rain Fall=45.1 inch
Upper KodraDam=21'5"/33'
Lower Kodra Dam=47'/59'
Nakki Lake=10.72/12.25M


15 Aug 2019

Gauge Report Mount Abu 16.08.19, Friday.
Rain Fall= 4.7 inches.
Total Rain Fall=49.8 inch
Shaileshabu

The Rain Gods opened the floodgates around midnight Mount Abu

Abuites Rejoice, for there is the sound of the gushing and roaring of heavy showers. 

Go out and dance to the rain dance.

The rain gods have come to a calling. 

Last night, the rain fell in torrents after midnight. The steam within two hours became a roaring and raging mini river in spate. We had to move our bikes from the garden to the road because of heavy rain and overflowing water. At 2:30 am we had some hot chai to celebrate the event of the gods giving this place the water of life.

It's Friendship Day. I wish all from this oasis in the desert a Thrilled FRIENDSHIP DAY.

Southwest monsoon is finally active over Mount Abu.

Last night, until this morning at 8 am Mount Abu, had 7 inches of rain.

Gurushikar Mount Abu

Last night it rained steadily, with heavy showers on and off. All the streams in Abu flowed, and it was a breathtaking sight. Abuites from all parts of Abu clicked snaps, took videos of the surroundings and posted them on shared media like YouTube, Instagram, Facebook and WhatsApp. On the way to Gurushikar, there was a landslide, and thankfully, it wasn’t very serious. The car itself got battered. 

At the moment, Abu is overcast, and the mist is heavy. The visibility later in the evening can be daunting, tourists driving up the hill drive carefully. 

Landslide this morning on the way to Gurushikar 

Photographs received via WhatsApp

Photographs received via WhatsApp

Special Cover released on the 90 anniversary of the St.Mary's High School Mount Abu.

St. Mary's High School Mount Abu Celebrating its 90th year under the Christian Brothers.

Special Cover on the Heritage Building of St. Mary's High School Mount Abu Rajasthan

Department of Post released this Special Cover on the Heritage Building of St. Mary's High School Mount Abu Rajasthan. Special credit goes to Maharaj Daivat Singh (Batch of '72) and Noel de Sá '79. To read more about the event, I've attached the brochure. 

The cover depicts a photograph of the school and the logo of the school.

St Mary's High School 

St Mary's High School 

Another Angle 

BROCHURE

Screenshots

ST MARY"S HIGH SCHOOL

The local tribal shifted for comprehensive treatment to Ahmadabad

The brutal attack on a local Tribal by a bear on 20 July 2019 moved to Ahmedabad for treatment. 

Sloth Bear Conflicts on the Rise in Mount Abu: A Call for Practical Measures

In recent years, human-wildlife conflicts in Mount Abu have escalated, with sloth bear encounters becoming a pressing concern. Once elusive creatures of the forest, these bears are now straying into human habitation, leading to tragic and life-altering incidents. On July 20, 2019, a young tribal man was brutally attacked, resulting in disfigurement and the loss of an eye. The young tribal man is currently being treated at the Civil Hospital in Ahmedabad, and this encounter has forever transformed his life, as well as the lives of many others.

These unsettling incidents shine a spotlight on a critical need for Mount Abu to develop comprehensive strategies aimed at minimizing human-bear conflicts. While eliminating these encounters may be unrealistic, practical solutions can reduce the risk.

One of the key factors contributing to these conflicts is the encroachment of human settlements into forested areas and the resulting disruption of the bear's natural habitat. As Mount Abu grows in popularity as a tourist destination, increased foot traffic, waste disposal issues, and habitat fragmentation drive sloth bears closer to populated zones in search of food.

For any meaningful change, a coordinated effort between local authorities, conservationists, and the public is essential. Implementing basic safety guidelines is a critical first step. Educating residents and tourists about bear behaviour, especially during the monsoon season, when they are more active, can save lives. Warning signs and awareness campaigns need to be visible in vulnerable areas, reminding people to avoid trekking at dawn or dusk, when bear activity peaks.

Proper waste management also plays a pivotal role in reducing bear visits to human settlements. Sloth bears are opportunistic feeders, and the improper disposal of food waste only invites them to urban areas. By establishing designated bear-proof garbage zones, both residents and businesses can reduce the likelihood of attracting bears.

Another important consideration is creating safe zones and wildlife corridors, ensuring that sloth bears have sufficient habitat away from human encroachment. This can involve designating areas that are off-limits for human activity, especially near known bear habitats, and implementing stricter regulations on new constructions that may disturb these sensitive areas.

Mount Abu stands at a crossroads. The region has two options: either deal with more conflicts between humans and bears or take proactive and practical steps to create a safer future for both wildlife and people. While sloth bears are an essential part of the local ecosystem, preserving their place within the landscape requires us to create a harmonious coexistence. With collective action, education, and practical steps, Mount Abu can protect its community while respecting the natural world that defines it.

Lower Kodra Dam Adjacent to ST Marys High School Mt Abu

Mount Abu waiting in keen anticipation for the monsoon rain   

Abu waiting in anticipation for the Met report, which has predicted heavy to very heavy rainfall between 25 July to the end of this month. Hopefully, the rain gods shower their blessing at the moment the abode is overcast, and the temperature has fallen making the place very pleasant. I'm posting a few snaps sent to me by Mohan on 24 July 2019.

Panoramic shot of Lower Koda Dam. 

Looks like the heavens have sent a Ray of Hope 

The level of the dam went down to under 14. feet

Lower Koda Dam on 24 July 2019

Big Pitch exposed.

This playing field brings back nostalgic memories.