Dwarka is one of seven holy sites according to Hindu beliefs. The legendary town of Lord Krishna has many ancient legends associated with it. Being one of the four most visited Krishna Pilgrimages, there are many places to visit in Dwarka. Located overlooking the Arabian Sea, this town enjoys remarkable importance in Hindu lore. For this reason, millions of pilgrims and visitors have come here over the centuries. Today, the present city of Dwarka is settled at the western tip of the Saurashtra peninsula by the banks of the Gomti River on the Arabian Sea. It is renowned for the notable historical and religious sites.
Here are the top 7 Places to visit in Dwarka:
Dwarkadhish Temple
The Dwarkadhish Temple has a history of over 2500 years. A visit to Dwarka is considered incomplete if one does not pay obeisance to the lord at this temple. Dwarkashish temple is built in the Chalukya style of architecture and it is dedicated to Lord Krishna. The five storied shrine is magnificent and inspires reverence in all visitors. The superb black idol of Lord Krishna appears to be thriving with divine powers. In the Temple, devotees can feel the presence of the lord.
There are many other shrines in temple devoted to Subhadra, Balarama and Revathy, Vasudeva, Rukmini and many others. Devotees enter the temple premises through the Swarg Dwar after a dip in the Gomti River. The eve of Janmashtami is the most special occasion here. The decorations are simply out of the world. Experience bliss in the divine ambiance.
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Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple
Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple in Dwarka is a popular site for pilgrimage and also one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. The temple houses various myths about its origin. The beautiful and artistic 25m tall statue of a sitting Lord Shiva mesmerizes tourists and pilgrims alike with its aesthetic appeal.
The Temple of Nageshwar Mahadev and attracts thousands of pilgrims all-round the year. This powerful Jyotirlinga represents protection from all poisons. It is said that even Lord Krishna used to perform Rudrabhisheka here. Beyond the temple is a large garden with a pond where visitors can soak the serenity. On the eve of Shivaratri devotees turn up in enormous numbers.
Rukmani Temple
Rukmani Temple is an important shrine which is dedicated to Krishna’s beloved consort, Rukmani Devi. The architectural masterpiece dates back to the 12th century. Not only majestically gigantic, this shrine is an architectural masterpiece in itself. The exteriors are richly carved. It has a panel of sculpted human figures and elephants at the base. The Garbha griha (inner sanctum) has a platform seat on which the image of Rukmini, wife of Lord Krishna, was worshipped.
Gomti Ghat
The Gomti River flowing through Dwarka, according to the holy Hindu scriptures, is none other than the Ganges descending directly from heaven. The Gomti Ghat is a revered site in the holy town. One cannot miss this spot while visiting Dwarka.
The Gomati Sangam Ghat is spot where the river merges with the sea. The water is saline yet valued to go for a holy dip. A bath in these waters is believed to purge the soul. The Ghat is dotted with innumerable shrines dedicated to Saraswati, Lakshmi, Samudra (God of the Sea), Lord Krishna, Lord Shiva and Sudama. The river thrives with life as everyone comes here to be blessed with divine.
Gopi Talav
Gopi Talav is another attraction in Dwarka associated with Lord Krishna. The small pond is enveloped by yellow color sand which resembles sandal labeled as Gopi Chandan. This site is linked to the stories of Lord Krishna’s childhood. The Lord shared a very loving bond with the Gopis in Vrindavan. According to legends, when he moved to Dwarka, the Gopis could not bear the separation. They united with their Lord at the Gopi Talav, on the night of Sharad Purnima (full moon). The Gopis gave their lives to the soil and turned into yellow clay, known as Gopi Chandan.
The Talav is one of the top places to visit in Dwarka. The sand is considered sacred by all devotees visiting the site.
Gita Temple
Gita Temple is one of the best places to visit in Dwarka. It was built by the industrialist family of the Birlas in 1970. The temple is unique as that the values of holy book Bhagavad Gita were the inspiration behind this marvelous structure. Not only artistically elegant, the temple is positively divine. Made of marble, the walls are lavishly carved and ceilings are beautifully embellished. The well-known hymns of Bhagavad Gita are inscribed in the interiors. Another fascinating feature is that any sound made in this hall is echoed.
Accommodation for pilgrims is available within the temple premises.it is one of the unmissable places to visit in Dwarka. The serene ambiance is perfect for your spiritual cleansing.
Dwarka Lighthouse
Dwarka Lighthouse is a 43m tower situated on the shore of the Arabian Sea. It was inaugurated on 15th July 1962 and offers a panoramic view of the sunset. One can visit the light house between 4 PM and 6 PM with the permission of the attendant. Even today it is a landmark for the sailors. Do not miss to witness the spectacular sunset. It will certainly be one of the cherished memories of Dwarka.
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