The short answer
Nakki Lake: what visitors should know first
Yes, it is the social heart of Mount Abu. A paved lakeside promenade makes it accessible for all ages. The lake itself is not dramatic, but the bazaar around it, the evening crowds, and the temple views are enjoyable. Plan an afternoon or evening walk.
Useful facts
Nakki Lake facts at a glance
- Location
- Central Mount Abu
- Type
- Landmark
- Time needed
- 1–2 hours for a walk; longer if you sit and linger
- Best time
- Late afternoon into evening, especially October to March; mornings are quieter
Why it matters
Why Nakki Lake is worth your time
Nakki Lake is Mount Abu's oldest inhabited site and was possibly created by a natural spring, though legend attributes it to an ancient ascetic who dug it with a fingernail—'nakki' means fingernail. The spring-fed water never dries up, even in summer, which made the location sacred for centuries.
The lake is not a heritage monument, but it is the anchor of Mount Abu's social life. Seeing it at dusk, with families walking, temples lit up, and shops busy, gives you a sense of how Mount Abu functions as both a pilgrimage site and a retreat for city dwellers from Gujarat and Rajasthan.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Come in the late afternoon. The sun is lower, the light is warm on the water, and families come out for walks. Park at one of the lots near the bazaar entrance and walk the paved promenade that circles the water. You can go left or right; both directions are pleasant.
The bazaar is lined with shops selling toys, clothes, souvenirs and snacks, and small temples dot the edges. The main temple, Gauri Kund, stands at the water's edge and is busy in the evening. Stop at one of the cafés facing the lake, order chai or a snack, and watch the light change on the water. In winter, migratory waterfowl arrive, and the light on the water is excellent for photography.
If you are here with children, they often enjoy the boat rides, which are short and simple. The water is murky from algae, so do not expect pristine swimming.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Come in the late afternoon or evening for the best atmosphere and light
- The shops close around 8 pm, so plan accordingly
- Monkeys are present; keep snacks secured
- Photography is excellent at dusk from the western side of the lake
- The bazaar can be crowded on weekends and holidays
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Central Mount Abu
- Time needed
- 1–2 hours for a walk; longer if you sit and linger
- Best time
- Late afternoon into evening, especially October to March; mornings are quieter
- Walking level
- Easy
- Senior comfort
- The lakeside promenade is level and paved, with benches at intervals and cafés with seating. The water is shallow at the edges, so falls are unlikely. A car can drop you right at the entrance to the bazaar.
- Tickets and access
- No entry fee to the lake or promenade. Boat rides are available for a small fee. The bazaar shops and cafés have their own pricing.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Nakki Lake
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
The lakeside promenade is level and paved, with benches at intervals and cafés with seating. The water is shallow at the edges, so falls are unlikely. A car can drop you right at the entrance to the bazaar.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
Is Nakki Lake clean enough to swim in?
The water has algae and is not recommended for swimming, despite being spring-fed. The promenade is for walking and sitting, not bathing.
Are the boat rides safe?
Yes, they are simple, short rides on small boats. Lifejackets are usually available for children.
When is Nakki Lake most lively?
Late afternoon through early evening, especially on weekends and holidays. Mornings are quieter.
Is there food at the lake?
Yes. Cafés and snack vendors line the bazaar. Expect simple local fare like samosas, chai and ice cream.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
