DWARKADHISH TEMPLE
MYTHOLOGICAL STORY & SPIRITUAL SIGNIFICANCE
The Dwarkadhish Temple, also known as Jagat Mandir, is located in Dwarka, Gujarat—believed to be the ancient kingdom of Lord Krishna, who ruled here after leaving Mathura. The city finds mention in sacred texts like the Mahabharata, Skanda Purana, and Bhagavad Gita.
Mythological Origins:
- Lord Krishna is believed to have established the kingdom of Dwarka after defeating Kansa in Mathura.
- It was a flourishing kingdom built by divine architect Vishwakarma on land reclaimed from the sea.
- Krishna ruled here for over 100 years and finally departed for his heavenly abode, leading to the submergence of the original city beneath the Arabian Sea.
- The current temple is said to stand where Krishna’s palace once stood, making it one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites in Hinduism.
Dwarka is believed to be one of the seven most ancient and holy cities (Sapta Puri) in India.
ARCHITECTURAL BEAUTY AND HISTORY OF DWARKADHISH TEMPLE
Temple Architecture:
- The current temple is a magnificent 5-storied limestone structure supported by 72 intricately carved pillars.
- Atop the sanctum is an 84-foot high spire, crowned by a 52-yard long flag, which is changed five times daily and can be seen from 20 km away.
- The main sanctum houses the idol of Lord Krishna (Dwarkadhish), made from black stone in a striking form of Tribhanga (three-bend posture).
Key Structures Inside:
- Nij Mandir (inner sanctum): Contains the original idol of Lord Krishna.
- Sudama Setu: A pedestrian suspension bridge across the Gomti River offering panoramic views.
- Gomti Ghat: Sacred bathing ghats behind the temple where pilgrims take holy dips.
Historical Development:
- Believed to be originally built by Vajranabh, Krishna’s grandson, over 2,500 years ago.
- The current structure dates back to the 15th–16th century, with periodic restorations by Gujarat rulers and devotees.
- Recognized and protected by the Archaeological Survey of India.
TOURISM & NATURAL BEAUTY AROUND DWARKA
Dwarka is a blend of coastal charm, spiritual serenity, and ancient grandeur.
Scenic Aspects:
- Located on the Arabian Sea coast, the town offers beautiful sunsets over the ocean, clean beaches, and coral-rich waters.
- Bird watching, boat rides on the Gomti, and strolls by the Sudama Setu are popular among tourists.
HOW TO REACH DWARKADHISH TEMPLE
Dwarka is well-connected by air, rail, and road from major cities in India.
Nearest Airport:
- Jamnagar Airport (JGA) – Approx. 130 km from Dwarka
- Connected to Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and Delhi.
- Taxis and buses are available for onward travel.
Nearest Railway Station:
- Dwarka Railway Station (DWK) – Approx. 2 km from the temple
- Direct trains from Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Delhi, Rajkot, and Vadodara.
By Road:
- Well connected via NH-947 and NH-51
- GSRTC and private buses operate from cities like Rajkot (225 km), Jamnagar, Porbandar, and Ahmedabad (440 km).
BEST TIME TO VISIT
Season | Months | Highlights |
Winter (Ideal) | October to March | Pleasant weather for pilgrimage |
Monsoon | July to September | Lush greenery and occasional rain |
Summer | April to June | Hot but less crowded |
Season | Months | Highlights |
Winter (Ideal) | October to March | Pleasant weather for pilgrimage |
Monsoon | July to September | Lush greenery and occasional rain |
Summer | April to June | Hot but less crowded |
Janmashtami is the most celebrated festival, drawing thousands of devotees for grand rituals and cultural programs.
LOCAL EATERIES & FAMOUS FOOD IN DWARKA
Must-Try Dishes:
- Gujarati Thali – Rotla, dal, kadhi, bhakri, khichdi, and sweets
- Fafda-Jalebi – Popular breakfast
- Khaman Dhokla, Thepla, and local desserts like Basundi
Popular Eateries:
- Charmi Restaurant – Veg Gujarati cuisine
- AmrutRas Bhojnalaya – Affordable thali meals
- Patel Dining Hall – Authentic home-style food
- Hotel Damji – Clean, family-friendly with tasty options
Local Markets & Souvenirs
- Dwarkadhish Temple Market – Idols, religious items, souvenirs
- Gomti Ghat Stalls – Beaded jewelry, sacred threads, Rudraksha, conch shells
- Handcrafted Bandhani fabrics, Patola sarees, and local handicrafts
WHERE TO STAY IN DWARKA
Budget Dharamshalas:
- Jay Ranchhodji Mandir Trust Dharamshala
- Gita Mandir Dharamshala
- Bhalka Tirth Dharamshala
- Charges range from ₹200 to ₹600/night
Mid-Range Hotels:
- Hotel Roma Kristo
- Goverdhan Greens Resort
- ₹1000 – ₹2500/night with decent facilities
Luxury Options:
- Lords Eco Inn Dwarka
- Cygnett Lite Dwarka
- Offer sea views, concierge, and upscale comfort (₹3000+)
NEARBY TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
Place | Distance | Highlights |
Bet Dwarka | 30 km | Island temple believed to be Lord Krishna’s abode |
Nageshwar Jyotirlinga | 17 km | One of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Shiva |
Rukmini Devi Temple | 2 km | Dedicated to Lord Krishna’s consort |
Gopi Talav | 20 km | Sacred lake where Gopis met Krishna |
Okha Port | 30 km | Gateway to Bet Dwarka, scenic coastal views |
Place | Distance | Highlights |
Bet Dwarka | 30 km | Island temple believed to be Lord Krishna’s abode |
Nageshwar Jyotirlinga | 17 km | One of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Shiva |
Rukmini Devi Temple | 2 km | Dedicated to Lord Krishna’s consort |
Gopi Talav | 20 km | Sacred lake where Gopis met Krishna |
Okha Port | 30 km | Gateway to Bet Dwarka, scenic coastal views |