Dwarka

A land of different spiritual beliefs and mores, Dwarka is among the seven pious cities of India where lots of festivals are being relished every year by thousands of devotees thronging from different parts of the world. Moreover, beautiful temples and impressive cultures inspire the folks in the charming city of spiritual enlightenment. A great religious place with much historical significance, it is tantamount with Lord Krishna and the city has achieved honors as the door to the much treasured liberation. No surprise, the place has its mention in Mahabharata and Skanda Purana. According to devout scriptures, Dwarka is one of the sacred sites that grant salvation since Lord Krishna created his earthly empire here. Its finest temples exhibits flamboyant architecture and connection with Lord Krishna, so don't forget to pay a visit to these holy shrines offering a wholesome experience to cherish forever. Apart from this, the city is home to some of the tempting beaches where sparkling waters and salubrious climate allures the bystanders with its matchless charisma.

History

Dwarka is steeped in myths. It was known by the name of Kushasthali in ancient times. Being the most important center on the Saurashtra coast, it is deemed that after slaughtering Kansa, Dwarakadeesh left his home in Mathura. Lord Krishna moved with his complete Yadava community and arrived at the Saurashtra coast and discovered a place called Swarandwarika. As per the legends, when he was breathing his last breath, Lord Krishna requested his followers to get away from Swarnadwarika because it could be swallow up by the sea. After the death also, the city soaked in the water, destroying the whole Yadav family. Excavations have shown that the presence of well-planned spots on the coasts of the River Gomati, bestowing evidence of this celebrated faith.

Attractions

Dwarakadeesh Temple: Devoted to Lord Krishna, Dwarakadeesh Temple has 2500 years old history to reveal to its devotees. It is certainly a monument with wonderful words. The idol of Lord in black with a height of 2.25 ft appears so charming that the devotees can't take their eyes off him. Some of the other temples are addressed to Revathy, Devaki, Satyabhama Devi, Jambavati Devi and Rukmani Devi. Superb architectural exquisiteness of this temple allures the devotees with its graceful charm.

Somnath Temple: One of the 12 jyotirlingas of Lord shiva, Somnath Temple has been devastated six times and restructured six times. It is a 4 hours drive from the beautiful city of Dwarka in the state of Gujarat. According to the legends Soma God constructed the temple in gold, Lord Krishna constructed in wood and Brahmarakshasa King of Lanka, Ravana constructed in silver.

Gita Mandir: Erected during 1970 by Birlas, Gita Mandir stands proudly at the western part of the town. Its well engraved walls and embroidered ceilings are decorated with the famous religious songs of Bhagavad Gita. Lodging facilities are also available for devotees inside the temple.

Rukshmani Mandir: Experience the story of affection and separation at the most significant temple devoted to Lord Krishna's companion Goddess Rukmini. It is a must visit for its great architectural exquisiteness and magnificence, chiefly the pictures of her life with the Lord dating back to 12th century.

Beyt Dwarka: Positioned about 20 miles from the town, Beyt Dwarka is deemed to be the dwelling of Lord Krishna and his relatives. It is enclosed by coral reefs, pristine beach, renowned illustrious temples and lavish greenery alluring the visitors with its lovely tranquility. The beach is famous for its picnics, camping and water sports activities.

Getting there

By Air: The closest airport is located at Jamnagar, about 137 km away. From there one can hire a taxi to make it to the Dwarka city.

By Rail: Dwarka is nestled on the Ahmedabad-Okha rail route connecting to the other main railheads. One can get on the trains from Mumbai (Saurashtra Mail), Bangalore (Vivek Express), Madurai (Vivek Express), Guwahati (Dwarka Express) and Ahmedabad (Gorakhpur Express) to reach the holy city of Lord Krishna.

By Road: Dwarka is easily accessible by road from the following destinations:
Ahmedabad - 481kms
Rajkot - 217 km
Gandhinagar - 481 km
Jamnagar - 148 kms