Take an overnight or early train from Jaipur to Abu Road (book sleeper/3A to keep costs low); Abu Road is the railhead for Mount Abu, ~27 km away. Arrival in the morning saves a full day for sightseeing.
Catch a shared cab or state bus from Abu Road station to Mount Abu town (approx 45–60 minutes). Shared cabs are frequent and cheapest when split between 4–5 people.
Budget-friendly breakfast at a local dhaba near the bus stand or at the guesthouse; expect chai, aloo paratha or poha — quick and economical before checking in.
Stroll around Nakki Lake, rent a paddle/row boat for scenic views and a relaxed first introduction to Mount Abu; good for photos and people-watching. Boating typically runs through the day (morning–evening).
Eat a simple thali or rajma-chawal at lakeside eateries or small restaurants near Nakki Lake — cheap, filling and close to sights (open roughly 9:00am–10:00pm).
Head to Sunset Point (a short walk or tuk-tuk) for panoramic sunset views over the hills; it’s free and best about 4:30–6:00pm. Great for group photos and an easy first-day highlight.
Dine at a budget-friendly lakeside restaurant (many open until 10:00–11:00pm); try simple Indian curries, rotis and rice — reserve if arriving on a holiday weekend.
Visit the famous Dilwara Temples — renowned for exquisite marble carvings; typically open in two sessions (morning and afternoon) and can close during midday for cleaning, so plan for morning timing. Photography inside is restricted; modest dress required.
Short tuk-tuk ride to Honeymoon Point and Toad Rock for more cliff-edge views and photo spots; these are outdoor and open all day with minimal or no entry fee.
Mount Abu is lively on New Year's Eve near Nakki Lake — local performances, lights and small gatherings. For a low-budget plan, join public festivities by the lake rather than costly events.
Book a lakeside restaurant in advance (many offer set menus on NYE); pick an affordable fixed-price menu so the group can celebrate without overspending. Restaurants typically serve until 11:30pm–12:30am on NYE.
Leave early for Guru Shikhar (the highest peak in the Aravalli range) to catch sunrise and cooler morning weather; public jeeps or shared taxis run early or arrange a pooled taxi the night before.
Visit Guru Shikhar temple and viewpoint — panoramic views over the Aravallis and a spiritual atmosphere; the temple area is generally open in the early morning to evening.
Short hikes to viewpoints like Toad Rock if you missed earlier or want different lighting; simple outdoor activity without entry fees and flexible timing.
Visit Achalgarh Fort and the ancient Achaleshwar Mahadev temple (known for its Shiva linga atop a hill); the site is open during the day and offers hilltop views. Entry is normally free though small fees/donations may apply.
Keep this afternoon flexible: rest at the guesthouse (cheap), buy souvenirs in the market, or do a short guided walk around the hills depending on energy and budget.
Take the train from Abu Road to Jaipur; choose a daytime express or an afternoon/night train as per booking—trains are frequent but book early for New Year return dates.