Ancient Dwaraka sank in the sea and hence is an important archaeological site. The first clear historical record of the lost city is dated 574 A.D. and occurs in the Palitana Plates of Samanta Simhaditya. This inscription refers to Dwaraka as the capital of the western coast of Saurashtra and still more important, states that Sri Krishna lived here.
Under the guidance of Dr. Rao, a great marine archaeologist, a team consisting of expert underwater explorers, trained diver-photographers and archaeologists was formed.
The Marine Archaeological Unit (MAU) of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) conducted a second round of excavations in 1979 under the supervision of Dr S. R. Rao (one of the most respected archaeologists in India). An emeritus scientist at the marine archaeology unit of the National Institute of Oceanography, Rao has excavated a large number of Harappan sites including the port city of Lothal in Gujarat. He found a distinct pottery known as lustrous red ware, which could be more than 3,000 years old. Based on the results of these excavations, the search for the sunken city in the Arabian Sea began in 1981. Scientists and archaeologists have continually worked on the site for 20 years.
Top 10 Tourist Places in Dwarka
1. Dwarkadheesh Temple
Undoubtedly the most significant amongst places to see in Dwarka, the Dwarkadheesh temple also known as Jagat Mandir is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is believed to be built originally by his grandson Vajranabh. While the architectural beauty of the temple will leave you spellbound, its spiritual vibes bring solace to the soul of every devotee paying a visit. The majestic 5-story main shrine with a 78-m high spire is supported by 72-pillars and has two entrances (the main North entrance called Moksh Dwar). The intricately carved temple complex is also one of the char Dhams or the four cardinal Mathas(seats of knowledge) founded by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century.
2. Nageshwar Jyotirlinga
Believed to be the first amongst the 12 powerful Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Nageshwar Jyotirlinga is one of the most prominent religious places to visit in Dwarka. The sacred shrine complex also houses a majestic 80-foot Shiva statue inspiring awe and reverence in the thousands of devotees and tourists thronging the temple every year. It is a beautiful place for quiet contemplation, exuding serenity and spirituality owing to the divine presence. A 25-30 minute drive outside the city, a visit to the holy shrine can be clubbed with your Beyt Dwarka trip
3. Beyt Dwarka: The Abode Of Krishna
Part of the ancient city believed to be the real abode of Lord Krishna, this sacred island off the coast of Gujarat is a must-visit for pilgrims and tourists alike and one of the most beautiful places to see in Dwarka. Along with the holy temple, the scenic ferry ride to reach the temple from the Okha jetty is also an experience to remember. The beautiful island is home to many shrines and temples, the prominent one dedicated to Lord Krishna being the Keshavraiji temple said to be built 500 years ago by Vallabhacharya. Endowed with white sandy beaches and corals, Beyt Dwarka is also amongst the best tourist places in Dwarka for water sports, dolphin spotting, camping and picnics.
4. Rukshmani Devi Temple: An Architectural Masterpiece
Located just 2 Kms outside the city this beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Krishna’s wife Rukmini, is an architectural masterpiece that must be included in your list of places to visit in Dwarka. You can marvel at the exquisite carvings and panels of this 12th century temple while listening to the interesting story narrated by the priest. It is believed that Rukmini Devi earned the ire of the great sage Durvasa and was cursed by him to be separated from her husband Krishna. Thus her temple is built away from the Dwarkadheesh temple.
5. Gomti Ghat
If you are looking for a calm and peaceful place to spend a few hours after your hectic Dwarka sightseeing trip then the Gomti Ghat is the perfect place to visit. Located right behind the Dwarkadheesh temple, it is believed that you must take a dip in the holy waters before visiting the shrine. Watching the confluence of the Gomti River and the Arabian Sea and witnessing the sunset is a magical experience.
6. Bhadkeshwar Mahadev Temple: For Peace And Tranquility
This small and serene temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is one of the must-visit places in Dwarka for its scenic setting and tranquil vibes. Overlooking the Arabian Sea, the temple is surrounded by blue waters, golden sand, and a calming breeze all day long. The evening aarti at the temple, with the sound of the crashing waves, is a humbling and soothing experience. Located very close to the Dwarka beach, you can easily walk to the charming temple from the coast except during high tide when the path gets submerged in water.
7. Sudama Setu: For Panoramic Views Of The City
Bridging the two shores of the Gomti River, the Sudama Setu is a relatively new pedestrian suspension bridge that allows easy access to the beach and other interesting places to see in Dwarka across the river like the Panch Pandav. It’s a wonderful experience to stroll along the bridge that allows panoramic views of the river, temples, and the ocean. You can visit the Laxmi Narayan temple and panch Pandav kund across the river or simply soak in the scenic beauty from the benches placed along the river. Just 200 meters away is the pristine beach and the confluence of the river and sea, a perfect location for some memorable photographs.
8. Dwarka Beach & Lighthouse
Not far from the Dwarkadheesh temple is the pristine Dwarka beach stretching along the Arabian Sea coast visiting which will make your Dwarka sightseeing experience great. The breathtakingly beautiful setting with golden sands and clean water is amongst the nicest places in Dwarka for a rejuvenating break from visiting the tourist sites and temples. It is the perfect spot for a refreshing morning stroll or an evening visit to witness the sunset hues, with the lighthouse & temples juxtaposed against the mottled sky. Also fascinating is the lighthouse located at the end of the beach, completing the perfect setting for a stunning beach click.
9. Dunny Point
This untouched paradise at the end of Beyt Dwarka is an exceptional choice for places to visit in Dwarka, especially for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Surrounded by sea on all three sides, this ecotourism site is the ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, bird watching and camping. Adventure companies and Gujarat tourism organize night camping by the sea with lots of exciting activities like night trekking, dolphin watching and exploring the corals and marine biodiversity. Spending a few nights here in basic tents with no electricity and a mobile network is an unforgettable experience.
10. Gita Mandir
This simple, beautiful and serene temple stands out as much for its marble structure, as for the message it carries and is one of the Dwarka places to visit you can’t miss. Located close to the sunset point and Bhadkeshwar Mahadev temple, this humble shrine is dedicated to the holiest and wisest Indian texts, the Bhagavad Gita. Constructed by the Birla group to preserve and propagate the teachings and values extolled in the Gita, the temple walls are inscribed with verses from the holy book.
