Nakki Lake lies right in the centre of Mount Abu town, ringed by promenades, rocky hill edges and small temples. Pedal boats and shikaras dot the water, while cafés, gardens and viewpoints frame the shore. At sunset, reflections of hills and buildings shimmer on the lake’s surface, and the atmosphere becomes almost festive with families strolling, eating snacks and taking boat rides. It’s also surrounded by features like Toad Rock on one side and the market area on another, so for most visitors Nakki Lake becomes the natural “centre point” of their Mount Abu experience.
About this place
History & highlights
Nakki is often described as India’s first man-made lake, and it is wrapped in legends. According to one story, the gods themselves dug the lake with their nails (nakh) to protect themselves from the demon Bashkali, which is why it is called Nakki (from nakh). Another popular legend tells of Rasiya Balam, a local hermit or sculptor, who dug the lake overnight with his nails to win the hand of a princess, as promised by her father; when the queen later refused the match, a temple was built to commemorate the tragic lovers. Historically, the lake has served as a crucial water source for the hill station, especially after the British developed Mount Abu as a summer retreat in the 19th century. Embankments, ghats and gardens were added over time, turning it from a purely utilitarian reservoir into the scenic heart of the town and a focal point for tourism.
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