Devbhumi Dwarka, nestled on the westernmost edge of Gujarat, India, is a legendary city drenched in divinity and mythology. It is believed to be the ancient kingdom of Lord Krishna, making it one of the most important spiritual destinations in India. Known as the “City of Gold” in the Mahabharata and one of the Char Dhams of Hinduism, Dwarka is a beacon for millions of pilgrims and travelers.
This comprehensive guide will take you through Dwarka’s history, religious significance, tourist places, travel tips, and more. Whether you’re a devotee, history buff, or casual traveler, Devbhumi Dwarka promises a soul-stirring experience.
📜 The History and Mythology of Dwarka
Dwarka is not just an ancient city—it is eternal. As per Hindu scriptures, Lord Krishna established this city over 5,000 years ago after leaving Mathura. He built a kingdom for the Yadava clan and ruled here for over 100 years.
The name “Dwarka” comes from two Sanskrit words—“Dwar” (door) and “Ka” (Brahma or Moksha)—together meaning the “Gateway to Salvation.”
Several texts including the Mahabharata, Bhagavata Purana, and Skanda Purana describe the grandeur of Dwarka, claiming it was a city made of gold, adorned with palaces, lakes, and gardens. After Lord Krishna’s departure, the city is believed to have been submerged under the Arabian Sea—a theory supported by recent underwater archaeological explorations.
🙏 Religious Importance of Devbhumi Dwarka
Dwarka holds a sacred position among:
- Char Dham Yatra (along with Badrinath, Rameswaram, and Puri)
- Sapta Puri – Seven most sacred cities in Hinduism
- Dwarka Peeth – One of the four mathas established by Adi Shankaracharya
For Hindus, visiting Dwarka is a once-in-a-lifetime pilgrimage. It is also a part of the Pancha Dwarka Yatra, which includes:
- Dwarkadhish Temple (Dwarka)
- Bet Dwarka
- Nathdwara
- Dakor
- Shrinathji
🏛️ Famous Tourist Places in Devbhumi Dwarka
Dwarka is a blend of spirituality, coastal beauty, and historical charm. Below is a list of must-visit tourist attractions:
1. 🛕 Dwarkadhish Temple (Jagat Mandir)
The crown jewel of Dwarka, this temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna as the “King of Dwarka”. Built over 2,000 years ago and rebuilt in Chalukya architectural style, this 5-storied temple stands on 72 intricately carved pillars.
- 🕰️ Timings: 6:30 AM – 9:30 PM
- 🎉 Special Days: Janmashtami, Holi, Diwali
- 👣 Must Do: Attend the morning Mangala Aarti and evening Shringar Aarti
2. 🌊 Gomti Ghat
Located behind the Dwarkadhish Temple, Gomti Ghat is where the Gomti River merges with the Arabian Sea. Pilgrims believe that bathing here cleanses sins.
- 💡 Legend: One of the few places where a river meets the sea at a holy city
- 🛶 Nearby: Sudama Setu (pedestrian bridge with panoramic views)
3. 🏝️ Bet Dwarka Island
Also called Shankhodhar Island, Bet Dwarka is believed to be the original residential place of Lord Krishna. Reachable via a short boat ride from Okha, this island is home to many temples.
- 🚤 How to reach: Ferry from Okha Port (approx 30 mins)
- 🌟 Must Visit: Krishna Temple, Hanuman Dandi, Radhaji Temple, Mahaprabhuji Bethak
4. 🔱 Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple
Located 17 km from Dwarka, this temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. The large 80-ft Shiva statue at the entrance is awe-inspiring.
- 🕉️ Belief: Protects devotees from all poisons and negativity
- 🧘 Must See: Nageshwar Mahadev Cave (nearby spiritual retreat)
5. 🧂 Rukmini Devi Temple
Dedicated to Rukmini, the principal queen of Krishna, this temple is located around 2 km from the main city. It features beautiful carvings and showcases the separation of Rukmini and Krishna due to a sage’s curse.
- 💧 Ritual: Offer water here to symbolize the union of Krishna and Rukmini
- 📷 Ideal spot for photography
6. 🌊 Bhadkeshwar Mahadev Temple
A unique Shiva temple located in the Arabian Sea, submerged during high tide. Devotees can walk to it during low tide.
- 💧 Ocean surrounds the temple—feels surreal
- 🌅 Best time: Early morning or during sunset for peaceful vibes
7. 🏖️ Dwarka Beach
Clean, less crowded, and spiritual in atmosphere, Dwarka Beach is a serene location for travelers who wish to relax after a day of temple visits.
- 🐚 Collect sea shells, meditate, or take beautiful sunrise/sunset photos
- 🐠 Dolphin sightings are common offshore
- 🌁also visit Shivarajpur Beach
8. 🛤️ Sudama Setu
A suspension bridge connecting Dwarkadhish Temple to Panchkui Tirth. It offers stunning views of the Gomti River merging with the Arabian Sea.
- 🌁 Best for panoramic photos
- 🎟️ Ticketed entry (nominal charge)
📅 Best Time to Visit Devbhumi Dwarka
| Season | Months | Weather | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winter | Oct – Feb | Pleasant (12–25°C) | Ideal for sightseeing & darshan |
| Summer | Mar – Jun | Hot (25–40°C) | Wear light clothes, stay hydrated |
| Monsoon | Jul – Sep | Humid & Rainy | Temple is open; fewer tourists |
🛕 Major Festivals Celebrated
- Janmashtami – Grandest celebration of Krishna’s birth; temple is decorated with flowers and lights.
- Holi – Played with natural colors; spiritual songs sung in temples.
- Diwali – Dwarka lights up with lamps and temple rituals.
🚗 How to Reach Dwarka
By Air:
- Nearest Airport: Jamnagar Airport (137 km)
- Regular flights from Ahmedabad, Mumbai, and Delhi
By Train:
- Dwarka Railway Station is well connected to all major cities
- Direct trains from Ahmedabad, Rajkot, Vadodara, and Mumbai
By Road:
- Excellent highways from Jamnagar, Porbandar, Somnath, and Rajkot
- GSRTC buses and private cabs available
🏨 Where to Stay in Dwarka
Dwarka has a wide range of accommodation options:
Budget:
- Shree Gita Bhavan
- Hotel Gomti
- ISKCON Guest House
Mid-Range:
- Hotel Dwarkadhish Lords Eco Inn
- The Dwarika Hotel
- Meera Hotel
Luxury:
- Lemon Tree Premier (Dwarka Beach Road)
- VITS Devbhumi Hotel
🍽️ What to Eat
Most eateries serve pure vegetarian Gujarati and North Indian food. Must-try local dishes include:
- Farsan (Dhokla, Khandvi)
- Gujarati Thali
- Khichdi & Kadhi
- Street-side Jalebi-Fafda (especially during festivals)
🧳 Travel Tips
- ✅ Carry your ID proof; temple security is strict
- ✅ Dress modestly inside religious premises
- ❌ Avoid photography inside temples
- ✅ Keep cash for small shops; ATMs are available but limited
- ✅ Sunrise/Sunset photography is a must at Sudama Setu and Dwarka Beach
- ✅ Book ferry tickets early if visiting Bet Dwarka during peak season
💡 Lesser Known Spots Around Dwarka
- Gopi Talav: 20 km from Dwarka, known for the sacred yellow clay used by gopis to play with Krishna.
- Chakratirth Beach: Believed to be the spot where Krishna used Sudarshan Chakra.
- Mukti Dham: A peaceful cremation ghat where many saints attained moksha.
🌍 Why Devbhumi Dwarka Should Be on Your Bucket List
Devbhumi Dwarka is not just about temples—it is about connection, energy, and transformation. From its ancient legends to the sound of conch shells at dawn, the city echoes the timeless call of faith, peace, and eternal love.
Whether you seek divine blessings, architectural beauty, or coastal serenity—Dwarka has it all.
