Dwarkadhish Temple

Dwarka, located on the western tip of the Kathiawar Peninsula, is a place of great religious and historical significance. The Dwarkadhish Temple, also known as Jagat Mandir, is the main attraction for tourists and pilgrims alike. Here are some key points about the place:

1. Dwarkadhish Temple (Jagat Mandir):

• Established over 2500 years ago by Lord Krishna’s great grandson, Vajranabh.
• The temple has undergone renovations over the centuries, with notable imprints from the 16th and 19th centuries.
• Situated on a small hill, accessible by more than 50 steps.
• Heavily sculptured walls surround the sanctum, housing the main Krishna idol.
• The walls are adorned with intricate carvings of mythical characters and legends.
• The temple features a 43 m high spire topped with a flag made from 52 yards of cloth.
• Two doors, named swarg and moksh, serve as the entry and exit points of the temple.
• Sudama Setu, a bridge at the base of the temple, leads across the Gomti creek towards the beach.

2. Brief History:

• Dwarka is considered one of the holiest sites in India, part of the Char Dhams along with Badrinath, Puri, and Rameshwaram.
• According to belief, Lord Krishna came to Dwarka to establish the city, and the temple was founded by his grandson.
• The city is located at the confluence of the Gomti River and the Arabian Sea.
• Dwarka is said to have been submerged under the sea six times, with the current city being its seventh incarnation.
• The original temple structure was destroyed by Mahmud Begada in 1472 and later rebuilt in the 15th-16th century. It was also praised by Adi Shankaracharya.

3. Best Time to Visit:

• The ideal time to visit Dwarka is between November and February when the weather is pleasant.
• Janmashtami, the celebration of Lord Krishna’s birth, is grandly observed in Dwarka and is another excellent time to visit.

4. Visiting Hours:

• The Dwarkadhish Temple is open from 7 am to 12:30 pm and from 5 pm to 9 pm.