Dwarka Dham: The Sacred City of Lord Krishna
Dwarka, also known as Dwarka Dham, is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in India. Located in the western state of Gujarat, this ancient city holds a special place in Hindu mythology as the kingdom of Lord Krishna. It is one of the Char Dham (Four Sacred Abodes) and Sapta Puri (seven most ancient religious cities in India), making it a must-visit destination for spiritual seekers and history lovers alike.
Dwarka is believed to have been established by Lord Krishna himself after he left Mathura. According to Hindu legends, he ruled here for over a century. It is said that the original city was submerged under the sea, and the current Dwarka stands near the ruins of the ancient city.
Spiritual Significance of Dwarka
The name Dwarka comes from two words: Dwar meaning door and Ka referring to Brahma, symbolizing a gateway to salvation.
Top Places to Visit in Dwarka
1. Dwarkadhish Temple
- Also known as Jagat Mandir, this 2000+ year-old temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna, worshipped here as the “King of Dwarka”.
- The temple’s five-story structure is supported by 72 intricately carved pillars.
- It is built from limestone and sand and stands on the banks of the Gomti River.
2. Rukmini Devi Temple
- Located about 2 km from the main Dwarkadhish Temple, this temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna’s consort Rukmini Devi.
- It’s an architectural beauty with elaborate carvings and mythological legends attached.
3. Gomti Ghat
- This sacred ghat on the banks of the Gomti River is where devotees take a dip before visiting the temple.
- Several shrines and smaller temples are scattered along the ghat.
4. Bet Dwarka
- An island located around 30 km from Dwarka, believed to be the original residential place of Lord Krishna.
- You can reach Bet Dwarka via boat ride from Okha port.
- It houses a temple established by Guru Vallabhacharya.
5. Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple
- One of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, located between Dwarka and Bet Dwarka.
- It has a towering statue of Lord Shiva and a serene spiritual ambiance.
How to Reach Dwarka
- By Air: The nearest airport is in Jamnagar (around 130 km away). Regular taxis and buses are available from there.
- By Train: Dwarka is well-connected by train to major cities like Ahmedabad, Rajkot, and Mumbai.
- By Road: You can also reach Dwarka by road via state-run or private buses from Gujarat’s major cities.
Where to Stay
Dwarka offers a range of accommodations:
- Budget: Dharamshalas, lodges, and small hotels near the temple.
- Mid-range to Luxury: Hotels like Lords Eco Inn, Hawthorn Suites, and Fern offer comfort with proximity to temples.
Best Time to Visit
- October to March is the most pleasant time to visit.
- Avoid peak summer (April-June) due to high temperatures.
- Janmashtami, Lord Krishna’s birthday, is a grand celebration in Dwarka—an ideal time to witness the city at its spiritual peak.
Travel Tips
- Dress modestly while visiting temples.
- Keep some cash handy as digital payments may not work everywhere.
- Try local Gujarati cuisine in eateries around the temple area.
- Don’t miss the evening Aarti at Dwarkadhish Temple—an unforgettable spiritual experience.
The Mystery of Submerged Dwarka
Marine archaeologists have discovered submerged structures off the coast of Dwarka, adding credibility to the legend of the ancient city swallowed by the sea. These findings make Dwarka not only a spiritual hub but also a site of historical intrigue.
Final Thoughts
Dwarka Dham isn’t just a place—it’s an experience that connects you with faith, mythology, architecture, and the divine presence of Lord Krishna. Whether you seek blessings, history, or peace, Dwarka welcomes you with open arms.