Places to Visit and Stay in Dwarka, Gujarat

Dwarka is one of the most ancient and sacred cities in India. It is believed to be the abode of Lord Krishna, the supreme deity of Hinduism. Dwarka is also one of the four holy places (char dham) that every Hindu pilgrim must visit in their lifetime. Dwarka is located on the western coast of Gujarat, overlooking the Arabian Sea. It is a city of temples, beaches, islands, and history. If you are planning to visit this divine destination, here are some of the best places to see and stay in Dwarka.

Dwarkadhish Temple

The Dwarkadhish Temple, also known as Jagat Mandir, is the main attraction of Dwarka. It is dedicated to Lord Krishna, who is worshipped here as the king of Dwarka (Dwarkadhish). The temple is a magnificent structure, built of limestone and sandstone, with a five-storey tower and a flagpole that rises to a height of 78 meters. The temple has two entrances: the main one facing the Gomti River, and the other one facing the sea. The temple has a rich history and legend, dating back to over 2500 years. It is said that the original temple was built by Lord Krishna's grandson, Vajranabha, and later renovated by various dynasties. The temple is also one of the 12 jyotirlingas, the most sacred shrines of Lord Shiva. The temple is open from 6:30 am to 9:30 pm, and the best time to visit is during the aarti (prayer) times, when the temple is illuminated with lamps and chants. Book Dwarka Tour Packages to witness the glory of this temple.

Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple

Another important temple in Dwarka is the Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, located about 17 km from the city. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is worshipped here as Nageshwar, the lord of snakes. The temple is also one of the 12 jyotirlingas, and is said to be the place where Lord Shiva killed a demon named Daruka. The temple has a unique feature: a huge statue of Lord Shiva, sitting in a meditative pose, facing the sea. The statue is 25 meters tall and can be seen from a distance. The temple also has a serene pond, where devotees can feed the fish and turtles. The temple is open from 5 am to 9 pm, and the best time to visit is during the Shivaratri festival, when the temple is decorated with flowers and lights.

Bet Dwarka

Bet Dwarka, also known as Beyt Dwarka, is an island off the coast of Dwarka, accessible by a 15-minute boat ride. Bet Dwarka is believed to be the original residence of Lord Krishna, where he lived with his family and friends. The island has several temples, dedicated to Lord Krishna, his consort Rukmini, and his friend Sudama. The island also has a white sand beach, where you can relax and enjoy the view of the sea. The island is also a popular spot for birdwatching, as it attracts many migratory birds, such as flamingos, pelicans, and gulls. The island is open from 8 am to 6 pm, and the best time to visit is during the Janmashtami festival, when the island is crowded with devotees and festivities.

Dwarka Beach

Dwarka Beach is a beautiful beach, located near the Dwarkadhish Temple. The beach is a great place to enjoy the sunset, as the sky turns into a palette of colors. The beach is also a good place to take a dip in the sea, as the water is clean and calm. The beach is also a good place to shop for souvenirs, as there are many stalls selling handicrafts, shells, and religious items. The beach is open throughout the day, and the best time to visit is in the evening, when the beach is lively and vibrant.

Rukmini Devi Temple

Rukmini Devi Temple is a small but elegant temple, located about 2 km from the Dwarkadhish Temple. The temple is dedicated to Rukmini, the chief consort of Lord Krishna. The temple is said to be the place where Lord Krishna and Rukmini got married, after eloping from her kingdom. The temple is a fine example of 12th-century architecture, with intricate carvings and paintings. The temple also has a well, called Rukmini Kund, which is said to have water from the Ganga River, brought by Lord Krishna. The temple is open from 6 am to 12 pm and from 4 pm to 9 pm, and the best time to visit is during the Rukmini Vivah festival, when the temple is adorned with flowers and lights.

Dwarka Lighthouse

Dwarka Lighthouse is a modern lighthouse, located near the Dwarka Beach. The lighthouse was built in 1962, and has a height of 43 meters. The lighthouse offers a panoramic view of the sea and the city, especially during the sunset. The lighthouse also has a museum, where you can learn about the history and functioning of the lighthouse. The lighthouse is open from 4 pm to 6 pm, and the best time to visit is in the evening, when the lighthouse is illuminated with colorful lights.

Places to Stay in Dwarka

Dwarka has a range of accommodation options, from budget to luxury, to suit your needs and preferences. Some of the best places to stay in Dwarka are:

• Hotel Vandana: This is a budget hotel, located near the Dwarkadhish Temple. The hotel offers two, three, and four-bedded AC and non-AC rooms, with basic amenities. The hotel also offers meals and parking facilities. The hotel charges Rs. 800 per night for a double room.
• Hotel Radhe Krishna: This is a mid-range hotel, located near the Dwarka Bus Stand. The hotel offers two-bedded AC rooms, with modern amenities. The hotel also offers CCTV cameras, Wi-Fi, and laundry services. The hotel charges Rs. 2240 per night for a double room.
• Hotel Gopal: This is a luxury hotel, located near the Dwarkadhish Temple. The hotel offers two, three, and four-bedded AC and non-AC rooms, with elegant interiors and facilities. The hotel also offers a restaurant, a garden, and a conference hall. The hotel charges Rs. 1680 per night for a double room.

How to Reach Dwarka

Dwarka is well-connected by road, rail, and air, from various parts of India. The nearest airport is Jamnagar Airport, which is about 137 km from Dwarka. You can take a taxi or a bus from the airport to reach Dwarka. The nearest railway station is Dwarka Railway Station, which is about 2 km from the city. You can take a rickshaw or a taxi from the station to reach your destination. Dwarka is also connected by state and private buses, from cities like Ahmedabad, Rajkot, Surat, and Mumbai. You can also drive to Dwarka, as the roads are well-maintained and scenic. Gujarat Tour Packages can help you plan your trip to Dwarka, and other destinations in Gujarat.

Dwarka is a place where you can experience the divine presence of Lord Krishna, and the rich culture and heritage of Gujarat. It is a place where you can witness the beauty of nature, and the charm of history. It is a place where you can find peace and bliss, and create memories for a lifetime. So, what are you waiting for? Book your Dwarka tour packages today, and get ready to explore this holy city.
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