
For devout Hindus, a trip to the holy temple town Dwarka in Gujarat is no mere journey, but a yatra, a spiritual pilgrimage. One of the seven sacred cities or ‘Sapta Puris’ as well as one of the four ‘dhams’ - supreme pilgrim centres -- it was once the capital of Lord Krishna’s kingdom. A land of myth and legends, coveted since antiquity for its spirituality, Dwarka has been attracted great saints and pilgrims including Adi Shankaracharya, Narsinh Mehta, Mirabai, Kabir and Nanak. The place is home to numerous temples, the prime amongst them being the Dwarkadhish Temple with its stunning architecture. Dwarka, which finds numerous mentions in myths, legends and sacred and ancient texts, has the distinction of being rebuilt six time after being swallowed by the sea.
Tourist Spots
The sacred city Dwarka is widely known all over the world for the magnificent Jagat Mandir whose presiding deity is Shri Krishna known as Dwarkadhish. Standing majestically on the north bank of the Gomti Creek the imposing edifice is supported by 60 pillars and has a plinth area of 1,800 square feet.
How to Reach
Road |
Motorable roads connect Dwarka with major cities and places in Gujarat.
Rail |
Dwarka is a railhead on the Western Railway, directly connected with Ahmedabad, Jamnagar, Mumbai, Porbander and Rajkot.
Air |
Jamnagar is the nearest airport linked with major cities of India.
NearBy Places
One of the prominent Jyotirlingas, the famous Naagnath (Shiva) Temple, also known as Nageshwar Mahadeo Temple, is located in the Dwarka forest.
The temple is situated at bottom of Koyla Hill. Harsidhi Matatji is also known as Ambica Mataji and Kalki Mataji. The local people call her Harshad Mata.
For the history lovers, the place is a great draw and is identified with Kankavati, the seat of the Maitrak power in the 5th century AD. Vasai is home to a sun temple and other ancient ruins.
A place of religious importance it draws spiritual seekers. It is located near the island and further ahead lies Dwarikavan or forest of Dwarka.
The Shankhoddar Island known as Bet Dwarka or Dwarika isle or Ramandip, this island is supposed to be the place where Lord Krishna and his family lived. Dwarika isle is also believed to be the spot where Lord Vishnu slew the demon Shankasura. It is 5 km away by sea from Okha. There are regular ferry services from Okha Port to Bet Dwarka. The temple of Ranchhodrai stands on the island, as does the Matsyavatar Temple.