Dwarka, Gujarat, India

The Devbhumi Dwarka is one of those char dham in India with very high pilgrimage importance amongst Hindus not just in India but in the entire world. It also has a very strong historical presence and is considered one of the oldest cities in India. 

The whole city of Dwarka has several stories to narrate about Lord Krishna and his youth. Ruler Krishna here is called by the name, Dwarkadeesh, and a famous temple known as Jagat mandir is located in Dwarka which attracts millions of tourists every year. 

Road Trip to Dwarka is also popular among pilgrims and travelers due to the scenic beauty and cultural significance along the way. Dwarka is located 450 km from Ahmedabad and is very well connected with roads, Rail, and Air from major parts of the country.

Dwarka is not just famous for its temple but it is also famous for marine life, coastal area, and the diverse ecosystem around it.

Tourist Places to Visit in Dwarka:

There are all different types of places you can visit during your tour to Dwarka which includes but are not limited to:

1. Dwarkadhish Temple:

The first place to visit in Dwarka is Dwarkadhish Temple; the main temple at Dwarka is situated on the bay of the Gomti River. It is also known as Jagat mandir which means (universal shrine). The original structure of the temple was believed to be constructed by Vajranabh, the great-grandson of Lord Krishna, more than 2500 years ago.

2. Shivrajpur Beach:

Shivrajpur Beach is a famous beach near the Shivrajpur village on the Arabian Sea in the Devbhumi Dwarka district. Recently, the Shivrajpur Beach also received Blue Flag certification. The iconic Blue Flag is one of the most recognized charitable awards in the world for beach, sea, and sustainable sailing tourism operators. It is one of the best places to visit in Dwarka.

3. Nageshwar Jyotirlinga:

Nageshwar Temple is located in Dwarka. It. It is a famous Jyotirlingas in India. It is located on the route between Gomati Dwarka and Bait Dwarka Island on the Gujarati coast of Saurashtra. Additionally, some of time it is also known as Nagnath Temple, the primary god here is Lord Shiva, otherwise called Nageshwar Mahadev.

4. Gomti Sangam Ghat:

Gomati Sangam Ghat is a consecrated place where the Gomati River streams. This ghat is stretched by moving down 56 steps from the Swarga Dwar of the Dwarkadhish Temple. The Gomati River is a Dwarka famous place which is known as the tributary of the Ganges, which meets the ocean at the Chakratirtha Ghat.

5. Gopi Lake:

Gopi Talav is the best Dwarka tourist place situated around 20 km from Dwarka on the route to Bet Dwarka. Gopi Talav is supposed to be one of the most wonderful vacation locations in Surat. You can appreciate numerous sporting and fun exercises close to the lake including the wellspring. The lake is additionally encircled by many children's zones where children can play and have a great time.

6. Hanuman Dandi Temple:

The temple close to Bet Dwarka is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and his son Makardhwaj. You can find both Hanuman and his son worshipped together in very few Indian temples. It’s a place with very little noise, recognized mostly by spiritual people.

7. Sudama Setu:

It is a footbridge constructed across the Gomti River for people to walk over. The bridge allows visitors to go from the mainland near Dwarkadhish Temple to Panchkui Tirth which is known for peace and spirituality. The area is ideal for a calming walk and is especially good for photo lovers, especially when the sun is rising or setting.

8. Bet Dwarka:

Bet Dwarka is about 30 km away from Dwarka. It can be accessed by a short trip on a boat from the Okha port. Many say that Krishna first lived here. The temple is also built to honor him and has silver and golden idols inside. It offers a calm and beautiful setting outside main tourist areas.

9. Dunny Point:

Dunny Point is situated quietly on Beyt Dwarka Island, only a few miles from Dwarka. The spot is ideal for nature lovers who like to camp, spot birds, and watch the sun go down. This spot is sustainable, not too busy, and perfect to enjoy by the water.

10. Rukmini Temple:

Rukmini Temple in Dwarka is dedicated to Rukmini, Krishna’s wife and is just 2 km from Dwarkadhish Temple. The temple has detailed carvings on the walls, even though it is quite small. This area is known for a unique water donation ritual because of its history.

11. Bhadkeshwar Mahadev Temple:

Bhadkeshwar Mahadev Temple is a beautiful seafront temple. The temple is on a little rock near the water and when the tide is high, it appears partly in the sea. It’s a wonderful sight from up here, especially before sunrise and the sun goes down.

Festivals Celebrated in Dwarka:

1. Janmashtami
2. Rath Yatra
3. Diwali
4. Holi
5. Annakut / Govardhan Puja
6. Makar Sankranti

Street Foods to Try at Dwarka:

1. Khaman Dhokla
2. Jalebi Fafda
3. Dabeli
4. Gathiya
5. Pav Bhaji
6. Khakhra
7. Dhokla Sandwich
8. Pani Puri
9. Undhiyu
10. Bhel Puri
11. Gujarati Thali

Stay Options at Dwarka:

Dwarka offers many options for staying, suitable for all budgets:

1. Luxury Hotels: Lords Eco Inn, The Fern Residency
2. Mid-range: Hotel Shree Darshan, Hotel Vrundavan
3. Budget: Guest houses and dharamshalas near the temple area

Places to Visit Near Dwarka:

Somnath:

Famous for the Somnath Jyotirlinga Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. It’s around 236 km from Dwarka and offers a peaceful beach, sound and light show at the temple, and historical spots.

Porbandar:

This is the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi, just 102 km away. Visit Kirti Mandir, the house where Gandhiji was born, and enjoy the Porbandar beach.

Marine National Park:

Located about 31 km from Dwarka, it’s India’s first marine sanctuary. You can see coral reefs, colorful fish, starfish, octopus, and sometimes even dolphins. Best time to visit is during low tide.

Travel Tips for Dwarka Visitors:

1. Dress modestly, especially while visiting temples.
2. Footwear is not allowed inside temples.
3. Morning and evening aartis at Dwarkadhish Temple are not to be missed.
4. Carry cash, as some small shops may not accept cards or UPI.
5. Bet Dwarka requires a short boat ride, so plan accordingly.
6. October to March is the best time to visit due to the pleasant weather.