The city of Dwarka is located on the western edge of the Saurashtra peninsula in Gujarat, and it holds deep-rooted historical and religious significance as one of India’s ancient cities. It is also known as Dev Bhumi Dwarka and it stands out as a city that is a part of both the Chardham as well as Sapta Puris, mentioned in Hindu mythology. Dwarka is associated with the ancient Kingdom of Lord Krishna which adds to its significance and it houses the famous Nageshwar Jyotirlinga temple which is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. Apart from this, there are many other temples in Dwarka that are worth exploration. Let’s take a moment and have a look at these temples and their significance. 

Dwarkadhish Temple   

Dwarkadhish temple, also known as Jagat Mandir exemplifies Chalukya-style architecture and is dedicated to Lord Krishna. It has its roots in the Mahabharata. The five-storied mandir, which is constructed of limestone and sand is believed to be have built over the reclaimed land from the sea by Lord Krishna himself. The complex sculpting of the temple and the black idol of Lord Krishna is what attracts devotees from far and wide. The devotees perform a ritual of taking a dip in the Gomti River before entering the temple through the Swarga Dwar, which translates to the gate of heaven. This further adds to the spiritual experience, especially during the celebrations of Janmashtami festivities. 

Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple 

The Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is between Gomati Dwarka and Bait Dwarka Island. This temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, where devotees seek liberation from worldly attachments, sins and even snake bites. This temple houses an 80-foot-tall statue of Lord Shiva and the Linga facing towards the South. Devotees flock here during the festivities of Shivratri and Mahashivratri to seek blessings from the divine.  

Rukmani Temple   

Rukmani Temple is located about 1.5 km. away from the city centre and this ancient temple narrates the story of Rukhmini Devi and Lord Krishna. As per the Hindu mythology, Rukhmini Devi was separated from Lord Krishna due to a curse. This temple dates back to the 12th century and has intricate carvings and architectural style that serve as a reminder of their eternal bond. 

Gita Temple  

The Gita temple is dedicated to preserving the teachings of Bhagavad Gita and was built by the Birla family in the 1970s with white marble. Various verses from the Gita have been engraved onto the temple walls adding to its charm and beauty. This provides the devotees with a serene and soothing atmosphere for spiritual reflection and self-awakening. 

ISKCON Temple  

ISKCON is a famous temple that is established all over India to promote Krishna consciousness and this temple in Dwarka houses idols of Lord Krishna and Radha Rani. The temple is constructed entirely of stone, and it serves as a centre for Vedic culture and education and offers spiritual programs and guidance to the devotees. 

Bhadkeshwar Mahadev Temple  

The Bhadkeshwar Mahadev temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and features a self-manifested shivling that was found in the Arabian Sea. This sample is over 5000 years old and is usually submerged during the monsoon season. However, the temple emerges as a sacred site during other times of the year and attracts a lot of devotees seeking spiritual sense.  

Samudra Mahadev Temple  

This Samudra Mahadev temple honours Goddess Gomati and features shrines dedicated to various deities and is situated at the meeting point of the Gomati River and the Arabian Sea. This temple is also a renowned tourist spot, and the serene ambience and picturesque surroundings make it a popular destination for all seekers of spirituality. 

Gayatri Shaktipeeth  

The Gayatri Shaktipeeth is dedicated to Maa Gayatri and it holds significance during the Dham Yatra pilgrimage. The Annukat ceremony is celebrated here annually and it involves offering vegetarian dishes to Maa, as a gesture of gratitude, reflecting the devotee’s admiration and devotion.