One of India’s oldest and most beautiful cities, Dwarka, is located in the state of Gujarat. This city, which is noted for having a rich cultural history, is situated along the banks of the Gomati River. There are several stories about Lord Krishna and his youth across the entire city of Dwarka. Here, Lord Krishna is referred to as Dwarkadeesh. Due to the Jyotirlingas’ presence, Dwarka is one of many other holy, revered sanctuaries for Hindus in India.
When we talk about Dwarka as a tourist place, it has an important place in Gujarat tourism. Other than the holistic view, Dwarka has prominent reasons to visit. It has Cultural, Historical, and Locational benefits including many tourist places you can’t miss in your itinerary.
In this blog, we will take a 360-degree look at Dwarka as a prominent Tourist Place in Gujarat Tourism. Let’s begin the journey.
Cultural Importance of Dwarka
Due to its connection to Lord Krishna, who is regarded as one of the most significant deities in Hindu mythology, Dwarka, a city in the Indian state of Gujarat, is one of the country’s most culturally significant places.
Hindu legend holds that the god Vishwakarma is credited for building Dwarka, which was Lord Krishna’s kingdom’s capital. It is claimed that Lord Krishna left his physical form in this city and then returned to his spiritual abode after spending more than a century living in Dwarka.
Together with Badrinath, Puri, and Rameshwaram, the legendary Dwarkadhish Temple, which is located in Dwarka and is devoted to Lord Krishna, is regarded as one of India’s four holiest temples. The temple draws thousands of pilgrims from all over India each year because of its exquisite carvings and elaborate architecture.
Dwarka is famous for its extensive cultural history in addition to its religious significance. The city has a lengthy and fascinating history, and it has long served as a major hub for trade and business. Bandhani (tie-dye) and embroidery, which are still produced by local artists, are two other well-known traditional crafts.
The Dwarkadhish Temple, Bet Dwarka Island, and the Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple are just a few of the cultural and historical sites that make up Dwarka one of the most popular tourist destinations in Gujarat, India.
Historical Importance of Dwarka City
Dwarka is one of the most known historical places in Indian mythology connected to Lord Krishna and civilization during the Mahabharat times or Dwapar yuga. The city was a major harbor for the marine trade of the Indus Valley Civilization in antiquity and had a sizable trading presence.
The historical importance of Dwarka is closely tied to its association with Lord Krishna, who is said to have established his reign here. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Krishna journeyed from Mathura to Dwarka, where he built a magnificent city that served as the center of his dominion. The city was said to have been a thriving center of trade and culture under Lord Krishna’s dominion.
When to Plan the Dwarka Trip? – Best Time to Visit Dwarka
The perfect time to visit Dwarka is in the winter, between October and March, when the temperature is mild and agreeable.
Although they should dress for the hot and muggy weather, tourists can also travel during the summer to experience the busiest travel season.
How to Reach Dwarka? – Best Transportation Options for Dwarka
Dwarka is a city in the Indian state of Gujarat, in the west of the country. It has excellent transportation options to other cities throughout the nation via air, rail, and road.
By Air:
The Jamnagar Airport, which is situated 137 kilometers away from Dwarka, is the closest airport. The best ways to get to Dwarka from the airport are by bus or taxi.
By Rail:
The Dwarka Train Station, which is situated inside the municipal limits, is the closest railway station to Dwarka. Dwarka Railway station is connected to a number of significant Indian cities, including Mumbai, Delhi, and Ahmedabad, by railroads.
By Road:
Dwarka has excellent road connections to other Gujarati cities and nearby states. To get to Dwarka, you can take a bus or a taxi from significant cities like Ahmedabad, Rajkot, and Vadodara. Taxis, autorickshaws, and buses are all available for local transportation. The city is easily reachable by car thanks to its connection to the national highway system.
8 Best Tourist Places to Visit in Dwarka, Gujarat
When you arrive at Dwarka, you can explore the numerous locations the city has to offer, such as the Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, the Bet Dwarka Island, and the Dwarkadhish Temple. Let’s learn more about tourist places near Dwarkadhish temple in Gujarat.
1. Dwarkadhish Temple
The main attraction in Dwarka is this shrine. This temple, which honors Lord Krishna, is thought to have been constructed about 2500 years ago. A large, five-story main shrine flanks the Chalukya-style building. You will be astounded by the beauty of the black stone Krishna statue that is housed inside the shrine. There are further shrines honoring Krishna’s friends Subhadra, Balaram, Vasudeva, Rukmini, and Revathy.
Janmashtami is the ideal occasion to feel this temple’s holy spirit. Here, Krishna’s birth celebration is fervently celebrated.
2. Nageshwar Jyotirlinga
Nageshwar Temple, one of India’s 12 Jyotirlingas, is a place of worship for Lord Shiva that is situated between Bet Dwarka and Gomati Dwarka. Nagnath Temple is another name for the structure. The Shiva Purana claims that those who pray at the Nageshwar Jyotirlinga are liberated from all types of toxins in their lives.
The 80-foot-tall statue of Lord Shiva that faces south is the main attraction of this temple. The fact that this temple is the first of India’s 12 Jyotirlingas gives it significance to Hindu pilgrims. The temple experiences a tremendous celebration during the Maha Shivratri festival and attracts worshippers from all over the world.
3. Shree Rukmini Temple
Shree Rukmini Devi is Shree Krishna’s consort and the queen of Dwarka. Lakshmi is thought to have taken on the avatar of Rukmini during the Dwapara Yuga. The same way that Lord Vishnu and the Goddess Lakshmi took on the forms of Rama and Seeta in the Treta Yuga, and Krishna and Rukmini in the Dwapara Yuga.
Rukmini temple is About two kilometers away from the Shri Dwarkadhish, is a stunning architecture with exquisite carvings in Dwarka. According to legend, Sage Durvasa was once invited to Rukmini and Krishna’s home. With one caveat, the sage Durvasa consented. He wanted the Dwarka royal couple to draw the chariot that would carry him.
After agreeing, the Holy duo of Shree Krishna and Rukmini began to draw the chariot. On way to the royal palace, Rukmini felt an unbearable thirst. In response to her anguish, Krishna conjured water from the Ganga for her to drink using his divine and miraculous abilities. Without giving it a second thought, she drank the water without even offering it to Sage Durvasa. The sage, who was renowned for his rage, got upset and angry at this disrespect and cursed Rukmini, causing her to be separated from her devoted Krishna for a while. That is the exact location of the Rukmini Devi temple.
4. Beyt Dwarka
You will reach Beyt Dwarka, a little island at the mouth of the Gulf of Kutchh, which is about 30 kilometers from the main town dwarka. This island was thought to serve as the region’s principal port. Ancient temples, white sand beaches, and coral reefs dot the island, adding to its allure. The Hanuman Dandi Temple, one of many temples in this sacred place, is devoted to Lord Hanuman and his son, Makaradhwaja. Several shrines exist that are devoted to Shiva, Vishnu, and Devi.
Beyt Dwarka is well-known for water sports, maritime adventures, and pilgrimage.
5. Gomti Ghat
Dwarka stands on the banks of the holy Gomti River. It should be noted that this is unrelated to the river Gomti, an outflow of the Ganga, in Uttar Pradesh. With numerous temples erected on its banks, the Gomati Ghat in Dwarka is a particularly holy location. The Gomti Ghat’s numerous temples remind you of the Varanasi ghats.
The Dwarkadhish temple is one of the temples that line the Gomati ghat, and one can take a boat ride there to see them all from a distance. The two temples, dedicated to Shiva and Sudama, have remained there for more than a century and have drawn pilgrims to their doors. Lord Rama, among others.
6. Sudama Setu
Sudama Setu is a bridge located in the city of Dwarka. The bridge holds the name Sudama in honor of Lord Krishna’s childhood companion, who is believed to have resided in the city of Dwarka. The bridge, which links the Dwarkadhish Temple and the Rukmini Devi Temple, provides a breathtaking view of the Arabian Sea.
A beautiful sea view may be found at the Sudama Setu, a well-liked tourist destination in Dwarka. Tourists can stroll across the bridge and take in the stunning scenery and nice sea wind. The bridge is a well-liked location for photography, particularly at sunrise and sunset when the colors of the sky and sea create a wonderful mood.
7. Gopi Talav
A modest but noteworthy lake called Gopi Talav can be found near Dwarka City. Hindus believe that Lord Krishna danced with the gopis there, therefore they place a great deal of spiritual significance on this serene body of water. A number of minor temples dedicated to Lord Krishna and his consorts surround the lake, with the most well-known of them being the Gopinath Temple. The holy waters of the lake are ideal for a holy bath, and visitors can pray at local temples while savoring the tranquility of the lovely surroundings.
8. Shivrajpur Beach
Just 12 kilometers separate Shivrajpur Beach from Dwarka in the Indian state of Gujarat. The beach is well-known for its calm atmosphere, beautiful sand, and crystal-clear waters. It’s the ideal getaway spot for anybody looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Shivrajpur Beach is special because it is home to the critically endangered Olive Ridley Turtles, making it a protected area for their conservation. Visitors can see the turtles coming to the coast to lay their eggs during the breeding season. The beach is the perfect location for swimming, water sports, relaxation, and meditation due to its clear seas and peaceful surroundings. Shivrajpur Beach is a must-see location for anyone wishing to explore Gujarat’s breathtaking coastline due to its natural beauty and distinctive features.
9. Okha Bet-Dwarka Sudarshan Setu
If you’re heading to Dwarka, Gujarat, don’t miss the chance to see the Okha Bet-Dwarka Sudarshan Setu, also known as the Signature Bridge. This massive bridge stretches over 2320 meters and is a marvel of modern engineering built by SP Singla Construction with a whopping investment of Rs 962.43 crore since its start in October 2017.
Besides its sheer size, this bridge stands out because its design caters to vehicles and pedestrians. With a 27.2-meter expansive deck, it has enough room for cars and a 2.5-meter walkway for people to stroll, making it perfect for everyone. Plus, it’s got a solar-powered roof that gives you shade and shows how much we’re trying to use clean energy. The bridge’s tall pylons, reaching 150 meters, add to its majestic look. With spans that stretch far and wide and approach roads connecting Okha to Bet Dwarka, the entire project spans about 3.73 kilometers, making it not just a bridge but a landmark worth checking out.
Nearby Activities and Places to Explore During Your Dwarka Tour
Somnath:
The Somnath Temple, located around 250 kilometers from Dwarka, is one of India’s most well-known and historic temples. It is devoted to Lord Shiva and is claimed to have undergone multiple reconstructions over the years.
Porbandar:
Around 100 kilometers from Dwarka is Porbandar, a gorgeous coastal town renowned for its beaches, temples, and historical sites. It is the location of various memorials and museums dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi’s life and achievements.
Jamnagar:
Located about 150 kilometers from Dwarka, Jamnagar is a thriving city known for its magnificent palaces, museums, and temples. Not only that, Jamnagar is also known for the Marine National park is listed as the heaven for those visitors who admire the wild-life
Gir National Park:
When we talk about Gir National Park, everyone knows we are talking about unforgotable Asiatic Lions, It is 300 kilometers away from Dwarka. It is listed as the top vacation spot for people of all age groups and wildlife safari fans. This national park offers you an unforgettable Jungle safari that lets you watch beautiful animals and many of bird species.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dwarka
1. Where is Dwarka located?
Dwarka is located in Gujarat. Dwarka is situated on the banks of the Arabian Sea opposite the Gulf of Kutch. To reach Dwarka, visit Ahmedabad or Rajkot, the nearest city.
2. What are the top attractions to visit in Dwarka?
Lord Dwarkadhish Temple, Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, Beyt Dwarka Island, and Gotmi Ghar & Shivrajpur Beach are the most tourist attractions places to visit in Dwarka.
3. What is the famous of Dwarka?
Dwarka City is famous for being one of India’s ancient and sacred cities. It is known for its association with Lord Krishna and is believed to be where he established his kingdom. Dwarka is a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus and is renowned for its historic temples, including the Dwarkadhish Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna. The city also holds cultural and archaeological importance, attracting tourists and devotees worldwide.
4. Is 2 days enough for Dwarka?
Yes, 2 days are enough for visiting Dwarka. On the first day, you can visit Dwarkadhish temple, Gomti Ghat, Sudama Setu, and explore the local places in Dwarka city. On 2nd day, plan your visit to Beyt Dwarka, where you can hire a Boat to reach Beyt Dwarka. The ticket price is about 10 to 20 Rs. per person. Also, you can do some water activities & Dolphin Exploration during the Beyt Dwarka visit. You can visit Shivrajpur Beach to enjoy the evening with your family at the beach. Shivrajpur Beach is around 12 kilometers away from Dwarka city.
5. Is Dwarka Underwater?
No, Dwarka is not underwater. The current Dwarka, located in the western Indian state of Gujarat, is an inhabited city situated on the shore of the Arabian Sea. However, there are references and legends about the ancient city of Dwarka that is believed to have submerged under the sea. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Krishna’s city of Dwarka was said to have been submerged by the sea after he departed from Earth. Archaeological explorations have revealed the presence of an ancient site off the coast of present-day Dwarka, suggesting the existence of a submerged city. Some consider this underwater site to be the remains of the legendary ancient city of Dwarka.
In short,
Whether you believe in God or not, visiting Dwarka can always open your eyes. Others notice this location’s magnificent architecture and scenic beauty, while the devotees look for confidence and higher consciousness. In either case, this is a fulfilling and motivating tourist location in Gujarat tourism for everyone.
