Dwarka Visit

Dwarka Visit

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Steeped in Hindu mythology, Dwarka is said to have been capital of Lord Krishnas empire in the age of the epic Mahabharata. Shri Krishna founded the city after taking his subjects from Mathura, a city in Northern India due to severe pressing problems. Shri Krishna is acknowledged as an Avatar or Incarnation of God Vishnu. The Vaishnava community among Hindus deifies Vishnu, the preserver or sustainer among the Holy Trinity of Brahma (Creator), Vishnu (Preserver) and Shiva (Destroyer).

Today this golden city of the ancient times is still one of the most sacred pilgrimage places for the Hindus. It is amongst the four major dhams of the Vaishnava sect of Hindus, the others being Badrinath in the North, Jagannath Puri in the East and Rameshwaram in the South. Dwarka is situated in the Jamnagar district on the west coast of the state of Gujarat and lies on the shore of the Arabian Sea. Another town by the same name is a fast developing satellite suburb of Delhi, noted specially for its new housing schemes.

Known as Kushasthali or Dwaravati in the Hindu holy books of the Gita and Puranas, Dwarka today continues to attract visitors and devotees from far and near for its historical, archaeological and mythological importance. When this place was excavated, it was found that there were five cities which existed here, all of which were later submerged in water. In connection with this, it is said that when Lord Krishna was dying, he asked his people to vacate the place, as he knew the sea would engulf the land. Even today, some relics of the old Dwarka city are found under the sea. Most visitors come to this place during the months of November, December, January and February as the weather then is most pleasant.

As far as attractions go, most of the popular tourist places here are religious spots. The main attraction is the Jagat Mandir, more known as the Dwarkadheesh Temple situated on the north bank of the Gomti River. The temple has five storeys and there is a conical spire which rises more than 150 feet above the ground. For those who love history, the temple is a delight to visit as it dates back to more than 2500 years! Then there is the Rukmini Devi temple dedicated to Rukmini, an incarnation of Lakshmi. The temple is rich with architectural masterpieces of 12th century.

While in Dwarka, another place to be visited is Beyt Dwarka. This place has some beautiful coral formations near its beaches along with temples and several shrines of Lord Krishna and his consorts.

Dwarka is best visited during the festival of Janmashtmi, when the city turns into a big fair ground with thousands of visitors, lights, kirtans and sermons. This is the birth day of the Lord and he is worshipped in his infant form.

As far as lodging goes, there are plenty of hotels to choose from. Whether you are looking for a budget hotel or a luxury property, you are sure to find something to match with your taste, preferences and budgets.


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