Dwarkadhish Temple –Kingdom of Lord Krishna
Dwarka, the city of Lord Krishna, stands as a timeless symbol of divinity, devotion, and dharma. At the heart of this ancient city lies the Dwarkadhish Temple, also known as the Jagat Mandir, a magnificent structure dedicated to Lord Krishna, the “King of Dwarka”.
Mythology: The Divine Kingdom of Krishna
According to Hindu mythology, Dwarka was the kingdom established by Lord Krishna after leaving Mathura to protect his people from constant invasions. It is believed that Vishwakarma, the divine architect, built the city in a single day on Krishna’s request.
The Dwarkadhish Temple is said to be originally built by Krishna’s grandson, Vajranabh, over the Hari-Griha (Lord Krishna’s residential place). Legends say the original city submerged in the sea after Krishna left the Earth for Vaikuntha, and remnants of that city are believed to lie beneath the Arabian Sea.
🏛️ History: A Temple That Withstood Time
- The current temple structure dates back over 2,500 years and has been renovated and enlarged by various rulers like Adi Shankaracharya, the Gujarat Solanki Kings, and Goswami Tulasidas.
- The main shrine is a 7-storey sandstone structure built on 72 pillars.
- Despite invasions and destruction (especially by Mahmud Begada in the 15th century), the temple has been restored and continues to be a beacon of devotion.
📍 Location
- City: Dwarka
- State: Gujarat
- On the banks of: Gomti River
- Nearest Airport: Jamnagar (approx. 130 km)
- Railway Station: Dwarka Railway Station
- Dwarka is a part of the Char Dham Yatra, one of the four most sacred pilgrimage sites for Hindus.
👗 Dress Code for Darshan
- To maintain sanctity inside the temple premises:
- Men are advised to wear traditional attire like kurta-pajama or dhoti.
- Women should wear sarees, salwar kameez, or long skirts. Avoid sleeveless tops or short dresses.
- Modesty and cleanliness are expected before entering the temple.
🎉 Major Festivals Celebrated
- Janmashtami
Celebrated with grand fervor as Krishna’s birthday.
Devotees from across the globe participate in night-long bhajans, aarti, and dahi handi celebrations.
- Annakut / Govardhan Puja
The temple is decorated with a mountain of food (bhog) offered to the deity.
Symbolizes Krishna lifting Govardhan Hill to protect the people.
- Rath Yatra
Celebrates Krishna’s journey with a grand procession of decorated chariots.
- Holi and Diwali
Celebrated with colorful rangoli, lights, and festive bhajans.
🌟 Mysteries & Unique Facts
🏳️ The Magical Temple Flag
One of the most special things about the Dwarkadhish Temple is its huge flag that flies on top of the temple.
- This flag is changed five times a day, every single day!
- Each flag is made from 52 yards of cloth, and it represents the 52 families (clans) of the Yadavas, Lord Krishna’s own dynasty.
- It is said that offering the flag or sponsoring it is a very holy act and brings blessings from Lord Krishna.
🌊 The City Under the Sea
According to legends, after Lord Krishna left the earth, his city Dwarka sank into the ocean.
- For years, this was just a myth.
- But underwater exploration by scientists near the coast of modern-day Dwarka revealed stone structures, walls, and artifacts, deep under the sea.
- These findings support the ancient belief that Lord Krishna’s golden city really existed and was washed away by the sea after his departure.
🌉 Sudama Setu – A Bridge of Friendship
Just beside the temple, there is a beautiful bridge called Sudama Setu.
- It is named after Sudama, Lord Krishna’s childhood friend who once visited him in Dwarka.
- This bridge connects the temple to the beach across the Gomti River.
- Devotees and tourists walk across it to enjoy scenic views, visit nearby temples, and relax by the ocean.
Travel Tips
Ideal Time to Visit: October to March
Temple Timings:
Morning Darshan – 6:30 AM to 1:00 PM
Evening Darshan – 5:00 PM to 9:30 PM
Photography is not allowed inside the temple.
✨ Conclusion: Kingdom of Divine Love
The Dwarkadhish Temple stands as an eternal reminder of Lord Krishna’s divine presence and teachings. A visit here is a journey into the heart of devotion, history, and the mysterious depths of Sanatan Dharma.