Dwarka is known as the ‘gates of heaven’, the ancient kingdom of Lord Krishna. With millions of devotees visiting every year, Dwarka is one of the major pilgrimage centers for Hindus. It is located on the banks of River Gomti in the northwestern Indian state of Gujarat. It has a vast history of over 2,500 years and has many stories to tell. It is also one of the important parts of Char Dham Yatra for Hindus and holds great spiritual significance. Apart from its religious importance and centuries-old temples, Dwarka is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant local markets, luxury hotels, and a lot more.
The city of Lord Krishna is known to preserve India’s most prominent religious architecture. Here is the selected list of the top 10 places to visit in Dwarka for spiritual and joyous experiences. Check them out!
1. Dwarkadheesh Temple – A Beauty To Behold
Fondly called Jagat Mandir, dedicated to Lord Krishna, Dwarkadheesh Temple is one of the major attractions in Dwarka city. According to Hindu mythology, it is believed that the temple was created by the grandson of Lord Krishna, Vajranabha. Talking about its architecture, then the temple is elegantly constructed as per the Chalukya style of architecture using high-quality limestone. The temple has five stories and two main gates. The main entrance gate (north) is called “Moksha Dwar” whereas the south entrance is called “Swarga Dwar”, the paradise gateway.
Temple remains open from 6:00 am to 1:00 pm and from 5:00 pm to 9:30 pm. Dwarka temple is the heart of faith for Hinduism.
2. Nageshwar Jyotirlinga – Seek Blessings
One of the 12th and most powerful Jyotirlinga temples in India. Nageshwar Jyotirlinga is located about a short distance of 17 km from Dwarka city. The temple is constructed with pink stone and dedicated to Lord Shiva, which is also called Darukavane Nagesh. According to the Shiva Puran, the temple signifies protection from all types of poisons, it is one of the best places to visit in Dwarka. Outside the premises of the temple, there is a huge statue of Lord Shiva, which is about 85 feet high. The statue is very attractive and can be seen from a far distance. A large number of pilgrims visit the Nageshwar Jyotirlinga.
3. Bet Dwarka – Check Out Dolphins
Shankhodara or Bet Dwarka is an island located in the Gulf of Kutch (a bay of the Arabian Sea along the west coast of India). Bet Island is located 34 km away from Dwarka city. It is believed that the family of Lord Krishna lived here. There are several temples and shrines located on this beautiful Island, which make it worth visiting. The most prominent temple, Keshavraiji temple, which is dedicated to Lord Krishna is believed to be more than 500 years old. Enjoy the scenic boat ride and make your trip to Dwarka a memorable one. Apart from that, you can enjoy several watersports, and other recreational activities such as picnic, dolphin spotting, and camping.
4. Dwarka Beach – Pristine Waters
Located near Dwarkadheesh temple, spend some golden evening on the beach along with the fresh breeze of the Arabian Sea. Give a visual treat to your eyes with beautiful sunset views. Dwarka Beach is very famous amongst local people and outsiders too. Here you can enjoy a picnic, photography and other recreational activities. Visit here to relax and rejuvenate in the serene surroundings.
5. Rukmini Temple – Imposing Structure
This 12th-century temple is one of the excellent pieces of architectural marvel dedicated to the wife of Lord Krishna, Rukmani. Located about 2 km away from the Dwarkadheesh Temple. According to Hindu mythology, the great sage Durvasa cursed Rukmini Devi for provoking his anger, so he separated her from his Husband, and from that time her temple is built away from the Dwarkadheesh temple. You can observe the fine carvings on the wall of the temple.
Read also: Top 31 Famous Temples in India
6. Gomti Ghat – For a Spiritual Experience
This holy ghat is placed behind Dwarkadhish Temple. It is the place where the Gomti River meets the Arabian Sea. It is believed that taking a bath here effaces all the sins and also said, it is good to take a blissful dip before visiting the shrine. You can find the temple of Lord Shri Krishna, Shri Ram, and Shiva on the banks of the ghat. After the river Ganges, the Gomti River also holds a major significance in the Hindu religion. The ghat is on the banks of the Arabian Sea, hence the water of the ghat is saline.
7. Sudama Bridge – Bond of Affection
Built-in the name of Sudama, the greatest friend of Lord Krishna. This bridge is built above the Gomti Ghat. The purpose behind making this bridge was to connect the Jagat Mandir of mainland Dwarka and Panchnad or Panchkui Tirth. Panchnad is located on the southeast at the other end of the Gomti Ghat. This pedestrian suspension bridge is 166 meters long and 4.2 meters wide. You can enjoy the beautiful sunset view from this bridge.
Also read: Most Famous Hindu Temples in Gujarat
8. Bhadkeshwar Mahadev Temple – Beauty At Its Peak
Located on a hillock overlooking the Arabian Sea, it is believed that about five thousand years ago, Shivling manifested itself in the Arabian Sea, and thus the place became famous and fondly called Bhadkeshwar Mahadev Temple. It is one of the best places to visit in Dwarka. Due to the small size of the Sanctorum, only a limited number of devotees are allowed for Jalabhishek. The temple is located close to Dwarka beach and offers amazing scenic views. The most famous festival of the temple is Maha Shivaratri, a grand fair is organized in and around the temple on the day of Shivaratri.
9. Swami Narayan Temple – Peaceful Spot
Swami Narayan Temple is situated near Dwarkadhish Temple on the Arabian seashore. The temple is elegantly constructed and one of the must-visit places in Dwarka. This temple is dedicated to the Swami Narayan, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Many travelers come here to admire its beauty. The serene surroundings of the temple add more appeal to this religious site.
10. Dwarka Lighthouse – Ancient Architecture
Enjoy the best sunset view ever from the Dwarka Lighthouse viewpoint. Located about a distance of 2 km away from Dwarka city, this 43-meter long tower was constructed in 1962 on the westernmost portion of Saurashtra Coast also known as Rupen Creek. However, visitors are not allowed to enter the lighthouse but can rejuvenate your senses by soaking in the tranquil environment and of course the beautiful sunset view!
Dwarka has many enchanting places to visit, with everything from beautiful beaches to ancient temples. Experience the best of this pious land and explore the untouched destinations. If you are looking for an exceptional site, then plan for a trip to Dwarka and admire its beauty as well as soak in the spiritual vibes.
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Anand Raj
Anand is a content writer and developer, with 2+ years of experience in creating content for several industries. His zeal for helping the readers and providing authentic information arises from his former experience in journalism. Exploring new places, learning new things, trying out amazing cuisines, and blogging about them are few things that keep Anand fascinated.
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