| Sightseeing Highlights
The most important attraction here is the temple of Dwarkadheesh, also known as Jagat temple. This five-storied temple, built more than 2000 years ago, rests on 60 pillars and many intricate carvings. Thousands of devotees come here everyday to pay their respects.
Another must see is the temple of Nageshwar Mahadev about 12 kms from Dwarka. It is counted as one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in the country. You must visit the 1600-year-old Rukmini temple, about 12 km from Dwarka.
In addition to its temples and legends, Dwarka is also known as the seat of Adi Shankaracharya, who established four sacred maths or seats in four different directions of the country. Research work in Sanskrit is carried on at the Sharada Peetha. This is an important center of learning for the students of Indian culture and archaeology.
You may also visit the Sharda Peetha Math museum and the lighthouse on the shore.
Janmashtami or the birthday of Lord Krishna, which is celebrated in the month of August/September, is a major festival of Dwarka.
Other Activities
Tourists can visit the island of Shankhoddar, also known as Bet Dwarka, by boat or steam launch. It is at a distance of 32 kms from Dwarka. The temple of Ranchhodrai stands on the island, as does the Matsyavatar Temple.
A visit to Porbandar can also be made. It is situated south of Dwarka, on the western coast and is an old seaport associated with the birth of Mahatma Gandhi.
Located at the Saurashtra peninsula on the Arabian Sea, Dwarka
is mentioned as a golden city in many ancient Hindu texts like the Gita
and Puranas. The city is built on the right bank of Gamut creek. Dwarka
is an important pilgrimage center. It is steeped in legends, being
associated with the life of Lord Krishna. In olden times, present-day
Dwarka was known as Kushasthali or Dwaravati and enjoyed pride of place as the most important spot on the Saurashtra coast. |
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