The Dwarkadhish Temple is a prominent temple of Hindu devotee, which is dedicated to the Lord Krishna. Lord Krishna is worshipped popularly by the name of Dwarkadhish or also called the King of Dwarka. Located at Dwarka, in Gujarat, this temple is known to have been constructed after the legendary Dwarka city, also called the Kingdom of Shri Krishna, which got submerged into the ocean following the Mahabharata war.

Known as Ninja Madir or Jagat Mandir, this temple is believed to be approximately 2500 years old. The main shrine of this temple has 5 stories that are supported by 72 pillars. Since Dwarkadhish Temple is acknowledged as Pushtimarg temple, it follows the culture, rituals, and guidelines which were created by Shree Vitheleshnathji and Shree Vallabhacharya.

Significance of the Temple

The Dwarka town of Gujarat has immense significance and a strong history that dates back to many centuries ago. This temple is mentioned as Dwarka kingdom in the Mahabharata. Constructed on the banks of River Gomti, this city is notable for being the capital city of Lord Krishna’s kingdom. The ancient city Dwarka, was submerged in the raging sea waters 8 times, however the remains have been discovered in underwater during excavation by the archeologist.

Constructed by the grandson of Lord Krishna, Vajranabhji, this temple was built around 400 BC, but the present structure was constructed during the sixteenth century in a particular Chalukyan style of design.

Architecture of Temple

The exquisite temple of Dwarkadhish rises as high as 51.8 meters. The temple has two Shikhar, while is also called the Jagat Mandir. The Nij Shikhar symbolizes the place where deity of Lord Krishna is installed. The exquisitely built temple has 60 beautifully carved pillars together with different sculptures which are a testimony of influence of assorted dynasties like the chavdas, Pallavas and the Guptas that ruled over Dwarka for many years.

The main entrance of the temple is from the north, called the Moksha Dwar, however the other entrance is from south, called the Swarg Dwar. A series of steps shall take the individual down to banks of River Gomti. The deity of Lord Krishna which is made of sparkling black stone is approximately around 2.25 ft in height.

Time to Visit

The Dwarkadhish Temple located in Dwarka, Gujarat must be visited during the months from October to March. You can visit the temple from 7am to 12.30pm and then from 5pm to 9.30pm.

Nearby Places

Gomati Ghat Temples

The Gomati Ghats is the place where the River Gomati meets the ocean, while is considered to be a very special holy place where people bath. It is believed that by taking a dip in this holy water, one can easily reach nirvana. The Samudra Narayan Temple, at the Gomati Ghats is a huge temple structure which houses an idol of Goddess Gomati. It is said that the idol was brought from heaven by a sage called Vasistha.

Rukmani Devi Temple

Located 1.5 kilometers from the north of the town, Rukmani Temple is devoted to consort of Lord Krishna, Rukmani. Constructed in 12th century, this architectural masterpiece is unique with exquisite paintings together with intricately carved walls. As per the legends, Rukmani was cursed by a sage Durwasa so that she gets separated from Lord Krishna. Owing to this, the temple of Rukmani is situated outside the city, while the temple of Lord Krishna is located inside.

Bet Dwarka

Located at a short distance from city Dwarka, Bet Dwarka is actually a small island that has assorted ancient temples. Having impeccable beach with extensive animals and water plants, the east end of the island is simply worth visiting. The beach is considered as a stranded place, hence is considered best to visit to get away from the busy city life.

Gopi Talav and Nageshwar

This is a well known lake which is known for Ramdev peer on its bank. It goes down the stairs called gabarusha peer. A fair is held in the months of Shravan. The next place here is Nageshwara which has one of the jyotirlinga. The place is considered to be worth seeing as it is very peaceful and nice. This temple is nearly 15 kms away from Dwarka. Gopi is another holy place which is 23 kilometers away from Dwarka.

How to Reach the Temple

• Through Air – Jamnagar is considered as the nearest airport from city, Dwarka while Rajkot is alternative option to access Dwarka by air.
• Through Road – Having an excellent network of highways, one can reach Dwarka by boarding local buses or interstate buses that connect Dwarka to other cities.
• Through Railways - Dwarka has a railway station of its own which has trains that connect it to other major cities of the country. Regular trains from Jamnagr, Ahmadabad, and Rajkot run to and from Dwarka Railway Station.