The Dwarkadhish Temple, also known as the Dwarka Temple, is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna in his form as Dwarkadhish, the “King of Dwarka.” It is located in the city of Dwarka in the western Indian state of Gujarat. The temple holds immense historical and religious significance and is considered one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites for Hindus. The Mahabharata, one of the ancient Hindu epics, mentions the city of Dwarka and its association with Lord Krishna. It describes the magnificent city, its opulent palaces, and the presence of Lord Krishna as the ruler. Over time, Dwarka submerged into the sea, and the temple was believed to be lost. However, in the 15th century, the temple was reconstructed by Vallabhacharya, a prominent philosopher and devotee of Lord Krishna. Vallabhacharya established the temple and the religious practices associated with it. Dwarka is one among the popular 108 divya deshams with mangalasasanams sung by:

• • • Periyalwar – 5 Paasurams
    • Andal – 4 Paasurams
    • Thirumangai Alwar – 2 Paasurams
    • Thirumazhisai alwar – 1 Paasuram
    • Nammalwar – 1 Paasuram

Here is more information about the city and its temples:

1. 1. 1. Dwarkadhish Temple: The Dwarkadhish Temple, also known as the Jagat Mandir, is the main temple in Dwarka dedicated to Lord Krishna. It is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage centres established by Adi Shankaracharya and holds immense religious importance for devotees. The temple’s architecture is a mix of Chalukya and Solanki styles, and it features intricate carvings and sculptures. The flag of the Dwarkadhish Temple in Dwarka, Gujarat, is known as the “Dhawaja” or “Dhwaja.” It is traditionally made of of 52 yards cloth or silk and bears symbols associated with Lord Krishna, such as the Sudarshana Chakra and Shrivatsa. The flag, hoisted on a tall mast, represents the presence of Lord Krishna in the temple and initiates various rituals. It is predominantly blue, symbolizing Lord Krishna’s divinity. The flag holds religious significance and is changed during special occasions and festivals like Janmashtami. 

      2. Rukmini Devi Temple: Situated approximately 2 kilometers away from the Dwarkadhish Temple, the Rukmini Devi Temple is dedicated to Rukmini, the consort of Lord Krishna. As per puranas, 
         Lord Krishna & Rukmani wanted to invite Durvasa Maharshi to their place and seek his blessings. Maharshi agreed to fulfill their wish with a condition that he would travel in the Chariot pulled by lord Krishna and Rukmani. When they reached the place where the temple is situated,  Rukmani devi felt tired and thirsty. So Lord Krishna with his bow brought water from the earth to quench her thirst. Durvasa Maharshi got angry for not taking his permission and cursed that there would be a scarcity of drinking water for a few miles around Dwarka and Lord Krishna & Rukmini Devi would be separated from each other for a period of 12 years. Even today we can notice that the area surrounded by temple is deserted and Rukmani devi’s idol is not seen next to Dwarkadish. One can donate money for the temple to buy water and supply to the people.

      3. Gomti Ghat: Gomti Ghat is a sacred bathing ghat located near the Dwarkadhish Temple. According to puranas, it is believed that Lord Krishna’s consort, Rukmini, had brought the holy Gomti River to Dwarka. Devotees take a holy dip in the Gomti River at this ghat as a form of purification.

      4. Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple: Situated around 16 kilometers from Dwarka, the Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas (sacred lingams) dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed to be the place where Lord Krishna performed penance to obtain the Darshan of Lord Shiva. According to puranas, a demon named Daruka troubled the devotees of Lord Shiva. To protect them, Lord Shiva manifested as Nageshwar and defeated the demon. The temple of Nageshwar Jyotirlinga is said to have been built at the spot where Lord Shiva appeared in his divine form.

      5. Beyt Dwarka: Beyt Dwarka, also known as Bet Dwarka, is an island located near the coast of Dwarka. It is believed to be the place where Lord Krishna resided with his family. The island has several temples, including the famous Rukmini Temple, and is accessible by boats from the mainland. In Beyt Dwaraka, the moolavar is Dwarakanathji, who is found along with Shanku and Chakaram  with Sri Lakshmai devi in his heart. There are separate sannadhis for Kalyanarayar Krishnan, Thiruvikrama moorthy, Sri Lakshmi Narayanar, Devaki, Jambavathi and Rukmani.

      6. Sudama Setu: Sudama Setu, also known as Sudama Bridge, is a bridge constructed over the Gomti River in Dwarka. It is named after Sudama, who was a dear friend of Lord Krishna. The bridge connects the mainland with the pilgrimage site of Beyt Dwarka.

      7. Bhadkeshwar Mahadev Temple: Located on a hillock near the Dwarkadhish Temple, the Bhadkeshwar Mahadev Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It offers a panoramic view of the Dwarka coast and the Arabian Sea.

      8. Samudra Narayana Temple: Situated on the outskirts of Dwarka, the Samudra Narayana Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his form as Samudra Narayana (Vishnu reclining on the ocean). The temple overlooks the sea and offers a serene atmosphere for worship.

      9. Gopi Talav: Gopi Talav is a historic tank located in Dwarka. According to legends, it is said to be the place where Lord Krishna used to play with the Gopis (cowherd girls). The tank is considered sacred, and devotees visit it as a place associated with Lord Krishna’s divine leelas (pastimes).

Dwarka and its temples attract millions of devotees and tourists every year. The city is not only a religious destination but also a place of immense cultural and historical importance, preserving the ancient stories and traditions associated with Lord Krishna.

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