Dwarka
( Gujarat )
Introduction
Dwarka, located on the western coast of Gujarat, is one of the most sacred cities in India and one of the Char Dham and Sapta Puris (seven holy ancient cities). Known as the legendary kingdom of Lord Krishna, the city is filled with timeless temples, ancient stories, coastal beauty, and divine energy.
The magnificent Dwarkadhish Temple, the sacred Gomti River, the peaceful beaches, and the legendary Beyt Dwarka create a spiritual and scenic experience for devotees. Dwarka is where mythology meets history, devotion meets nature, and every corner echoes the stories of Krishna’s life.
It is truly a city where faith flows like the ocean and divinity touches every traveler.
Quick Info Box
| Info | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Devbhumi Dwarka District, Gujarat |
| Temple Timings | 6 AM – 1 PM & 5 PM – 9:30 PM |
| Best Time to Visit | October – March |
| Ideal Duration | 2–3 Days |
| Famous For | Dwarkadhish Temple, Beyt Dwarka, Krishna Legends |
| Nearest Airport | Jamnagar Airport (131 km) |
| Nearest Railway Station | Dwarka Railway Station |
| Languages | Gujarati, Hindi, English |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Photography | Not allowed inside temples |
| Dress Code | Modest traditional/modest wear recommended |
Temple Overview
Dwarka is believed to be the kingdom where Lord Krishna ruled after leaving Mathura. According to legends, the city was built by Vishwakarma and later submerged into the sea after Krishna’s departure. Archaeological studies have discovered underwater structures near the coast that connect to this mythology.
Today, Dwarka is a blend of devotion, coastal views, heritage sites, and peaceful temple vibes. The famous Dwarkadhish Temple stands tall as the heart of the city, while Beyt Dwarka, Nageshwar Jyotirlinga, and Gomti Ghat attract devotees throughout the year.
Pilgrims from across India come here to seek blessings, walk through sacred ghats, visit holy islands, and explore the spiritual strength of Krishna’s kingdom.
Top 11 Attractions in Dwarka
1. Dwarkadhish Temple (Jagat Mandir)
Famous For: Main temple of Lord Krishna, Char Dham
Timings: 6 AM – 1 PM & 5 PM – 9:30 PM
Expanded Description:
A grand 5-storied temple built of limestone and sand with intricate carvings and a spectacular black idol of Lord Krishna as “King of Dwarka.” The evening Aarti and flag-changing ceremony are must-see.
Tips:
• Visit early morning for darshan
2. Gomti Ghat
Famous For: Sacred ghats by the Gomti River
Timings: Open 24 Hours
Expanded Description:
Pilgrims take a holy dip here before entering the Dwarkadhish Temple. The river flows quietly into the Arabian Sea.
Tips:
• Evening diya offering looks beautiful
3. Beyt Dwarka (Bet Dwarka Island)
Famous For: Krishna’s ancient home & sea journey
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM (ferry timing)
Expanded Description:
Located 30 km from Dwarka, Beyt Dwarka is believed to be Krishna’s residence. Visitors must take a ferry ride to reach the island.
Tips:
• Try to visit before noon to avoid ferry rush
4. Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple
Famous For: One of the 12 Jyotirlingas
Timings: 6 AM – 9 PM
Expanded Description:
A powerful Shiva temple located between Dwarka and Beyt Dwarka. The massive Shiva statue is a key attraction.
Tips:
• Less crowded early morning
5. Rukmini Devi Temple
Famous For: 2,500-year-old temple devoted to Krishna’s consort
Timings: 6 AM – 9 PM
Expanded Description:
Beautiful carvings, peaceful atmosphere, and a history tracing back to ancient legends.
Tips:
• Combine with Nageshwar visit
6. Sudama Setu Bridge
Famous For: Walkway to panoramic views & a beach
Timings: 7 AM – 7 PM
Expanded Description:
A cable bridge behind Dwarkadhish Temple that connects to the Panchkui Beach area.
Tips:
• Great spot for sunset photography
7. Dwarka Beach
Famous For: Clean coastline & peaceful vibes
Timings: Open 24 Hours
Expanded Description:
Relax near the Arabian Sea with calm waves, golden sands, and a serene coastal view.
Tips:
• Perfect for morning walk
8. Lighthouse Beach (Dwarka Lighthouse)
Famous For: 360° sea view from lighthouse
Timings: 4 PM – 6 PM
Expanded Description:
A scenic place offering stunning views of the coastline.
Tips:
• Visit during sunset for best views
9. Gita Mandir
Famous For: Temple dedicated to Bhagavad Gita
Timings: 7 AM – 8 PM
Expanded Description:
Walls engraved with verses from the Gita, with calm and spiritual ambiance.
Tips:
• Spend some time reading inscriptions
10. Bhadkeshwar Mahadev Temple
Famous For: Temple surrounded by sea water
Timings: 6 AM – 9 PM
Expanded Description:
During high tide, the temple appears to float in the sea — a mesmerizing sight.
Tips:
• Check tide timings before visiting
11. Gopi Talav
Famous For: Krishna’s mythical play spot
Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
Expanded Description:
A sacred pond believed to be where Krishna played with Gopis. The soil (Gopi Chandan) is considered holy.
Tips:
• Buy only authentic Gopi Chandan
Best Cafés & Local Eateries
1. Govinda’s Restaurant
Pure veg meals, thalis, Gujarati dishes.
2. Amrutras Bhojnalaya
Popular for unlimited Gujarati thali.
3. Prasad Dining Hall
Simple, clean, affordable food.
How to Reach
3-Day Itinerary
Day 1
• Dwarkadhish Temple Darshan
• Gomti Ghat
• Sudama Setu
• Dwarka Beach
• Evening Aarti
Day 2
• Beyt Dwarka ferry trip
• Nageshwar Jyotirlinga
• Gopi Talav
Day 3
• Lighthouse Beach sunset
• Rukmini Devi Temple
Budget Breakdown (Approx.)
| Category | Cost (INR) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | 800–2500/night |
| Food | 300–700/day |
| Local Transport | 200–600 |
| Ferry to Beyt Dwarka | ₹20 – ₹30 (one-way) |
| Temple Offerings | Donation-based |
| Misc | 200–500 |
Hidden Gems of Dwarka
1. Samudra Narayan Temple
Small but powerful temple where Gomti meets the sea.
2. Chakratirth Beach
Clear water, fewer crowds, great for peace.
3. Shri Krishna’s Cowshed Stories Walk
Local guides narrate ancient Dwarka tales.