Dwarka is an ancient city located in the northwestern part of Gujarat, India. It is a significant Hindu pilgrimage destination, believed to be one of the sacred Char Dham sites. The city’s most famous attraction is the Dwarkadhish Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna. This temple features a beautifully carved entrance, a tiered main structure, and a striking black-marble idol of Krishna.
Visitors can also enjoy the peaceful Dwarka Beach and the nearby Dwarka Lighthouse, both offering scenic views of the Arabian Sea. To the southeast, the Gaga Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a variety of migratory birds and rare animals, including the Indian wolf.
places to visit in Dwarka
Dwarkadhish Temple
Also called Jagat Mandir, the Dwarkadhish Temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna, worshipped here as the King of Dwarka. It is one of the most sacred temples for Hindus, known for its grand architecture and spiritual significance.
Beyt Dwarka (Bet Dwarka)
Located about 30 kilometers from Dwarka town, Beyt Dwarka is an island believed to be the original home of Lord Krishna and his family. The island features ancient temples, coral reefs, and peaceful white-sand beaches.
Somnath Temple (Dwarka)
This Jyotirlinga shrine of Lord Shiva is known as the “shrine eternal” due to its repeated destruction and reconstruction over centuries. Though the main Somnath is in Prabhas Patan, it is often linked with Dwarka’s spiritual circuit.
Gopi Talav (Gopi Talab)
This sacred pond is surrounded by yellowish clay called Gopi Chandan, which pilgrims use to apply tilaks (holy marks) on their foreheads. It is believed to be connected with the Gopis (milkmaids) who were devoted to Krishna.
Rukshamanee Temple
Dedicated to Rukmini, the chief consort of Lord Krishna, this temple is known for its wall paintings that tell stories of Krishna and Rukmini. It holds a special place among devotees who revere Rukmini as an ideal companion.
Dwarka Lighthouse
Built in the 19th century, the Dwarka Lighthouse offers a breathtaking view of the Arabian Sea and is a great spot to watch the sunset. It stands as a modern attraction amidst the city’s ancient spiritual landmarks.
Samudra Narayan Temple
Located near the Gomati Sangam Ghat, behind the Dwarkadhish Temple, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Gomati, and marks the meeting point of the river with the sea. It’s a peaceful site often visited for rituals and prayers.
Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple
This temple, also known as Nagnath Temple, lies on the outskirts of Dwarka and is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. It’s a major pilgrimage site mentioned in the Shiva Purana and features a huge Shiva statue.
Gomati Sangam Ghat
This holy ghat is where the Gomati River is believed to merge into the sea. Pilgrims reach it by descending 56 steps from the Swarg Dwar (Gateway to Heaven) of the Dwarkadhish Temple to take a sacred dip.
Best time to visit Dwarka
The best time to visit Dwarka is during the winter months from October to February, when the weather is cool and pleasant. This season is perfect for temple visits and sightseeing. Summers are warm but still manageable for travelers. Monsoons bring moderate rain and greenery, adding charm to the surroundings.
