Gujarat Temples

Bala Hanuman Temple Jamnagar Guide – Timings, Poojas, and History

February 14, 2023, Sasidhar Darla Leave a Comment Filed Under: Dwarka Somnath Temple, Gujarat Temples Tagged With: Hanuman Temples

Bala Hanuman Temple Jamnagar, Gujarat is famous for its spectacular design. The temple has earned its place in the Guinness Book of World Records because of the chanting of ‘Sri Ram Jai Ram Jai Jai Ram’. Devotees also believe that it is one of the oldest temples built in Jamnagar. It is on the south-eastern part of the Ramnal Lake.

Bala Hanuman Temple in Jamnagar, Gujarat is also included in our exciting Dwarka Somnath Tour Packages and our Panch Dwarka Temples List.

Facts About Bala Hanuman Temple

Opening and Closing Timings	6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Entry Fee	No fee
Time taken for Darshan	30 minutes to 1 hour
Diety	Hanuman
Nearest Airport	Jamnagar Domestic Airport
Location	Jamnagar, Gujarat

What are the timings of Bala Hanuman Temple Jamnagar?

Here are the timings of Bala Hanuman Temple Jamnagar:

Timings	From
Morning	6:00 AM
Evening	10:00 PM

Which rituals are performed at Bala Hanuman Temple Jamnagar?

The Arti (daily worship) takes place in the mornings but it is the Akhand Ram Dhun that attracts devotees all over the world. This nonstop act of devotion can be witnessed to be at its peak during the evening. Devotees flock and contribute at this more enduring hours.

Take a look at some of the special weekday rituals in the temple –

Weekdays	Timings
Mangla darshan (Sundays)	6:00 AM
Shangar Darshan (Mondays)	6:30 AM
Mangala arti (Tuesdays)	7:00 AM
Raj Bhog (Wednesdays)	12:00 PM
Utthapan (Thursdays)	4:30 PM
Sandhya arti (Fridays)	7:00 PM
Shayan Darshan (Saturdays)	10:00 PM

What is the significance of Bala Hanuman Temple Jamnagar?

The significance of the Bala Hanuman Temple Jamnagar is that the great deeds of Lord Hanuman have led to the constant chanting of the “Ram Dhun” in the temple that captivates all devotees visiting the place. This relentless chanting is played out by priests and devotees.

The temple complex is on the periphery of Jamnagar’s central lake. It remains open throughout the night so that those who want to contribute to the good work can do so at any point in time.

The temple is in honour of Lord Hanuman, Ram-Laxman and Janakji. Their idols are in the middle and Hanuman Ji resides on one side. There is also a big framed photo of Shri Prembhiksinji Maharaj on the second side.

What is the history of Bala Hanuman Temple Jamnagar?

The history of the Bala Hanuman Temple Jamnagar is that Shri Prembhikshuji Maharaj established the Bala Hanuman temple in the years 1963-64. In many places, the “ram dhun” is chanted in the name of Shri Prembhikshuji Maharaj. This temple is one of the oldest ones that he built.

Jamnagar itself has an intriguing history that dates back to 1540 A.D. Jamnagar is often termed as “Nawanagar” which means “new city”. Shri Jam Raval built it. Jam Raval was a descendant of Jam Halla who was one of the heirs of Lord Krishna. Jamnagar also has many temples like Sidhnath Mahadev Temple, Bhid Bhnajan temple, Khileswar Temple and many others. This city has a beautiful design with good roads and intricate gardens and was once famous as the “Jewel of Kathiyawad”.

Shri Prembhikshuji became a sannyasin. He started the tradition of Akhand ( non-stop) chanting of Ram Nama at Jamnagar and then gradually spread this tradition at Dwarka, Porbandar, Rajkot, Junagadh and other places.
The Bala Hanuman temple venerated a lot of devotion throughout the years. It’s the atmosphere of purity and sanctity that attracts pilgrims all over the world.

Visit the temple website for the latest news and to watch exciting temple videos.

About the architecture of the Temple

The architecture of the temple is moderately modern. It is built on the south-eastern portion of the Ramnal lake. The temple’s structure also portrays intricate architecture that consists of ethnically designed pillars and amazing carvings. There is also a common saying that goes around the area that the temple endured natural calamities like cyclones, earthquakes and even cross border invasions.

How to reach Bala Hanuman Temple Jamnagar?

Here’s how to reach Bala Hanuman Temple Jamnagar:

Road- The bus passes through the Bedi gate before reaching its stand so you can also get off at Bedi gate.
Air- Jamnagar Domestic Airport is the nearest airport to Bala Hanuman. It is 11.2 km away from the temple.
Rail- The Hapa railway station is 28 km away that people often prefer while travelling.

Where to stay nearby?

Here are some places where you can stay near Bala Hanuman Temple:

The Hotel Regency– This hotel at Pandit Nehru Marg, Valkeshwari is a pretty reasonable place to stay. The place also has spacious rooms and delicious eatables.
Hotel Hanuman– This hotel in Belgaum also offers well-suited accommodation. It welcomes bookings for its soothing atmosphere and advantageous position that helps to visit places well known nearby.
Hotel Vraj Inn– This is another place for a reasonable stay at Jamnagar. It has excellent services and impeccable room qualities.

What are some temples nearby?

Some of the places near Bala Hanuman Temple Jamnagar are:

The Bhidbhanjan temple– It is a popular place to visit once you visit the Bala Hanuman Temple at Jamnagar. It is a divine place to pay your visit to Lord Shiva and other Gods and Goddesses. It shows architecture made up of western influences.
The Dwarkadhish temple– It is another place of worship and pilgrimage to pay a visit. Here one gets the darshan of Lord Dwarkadhish. This temple is for Lord Krishna. It is also famous as Jagat Mandir. Moreover, it has a peaceful atmosphere where one can achieve divinity through peace offerings.
The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan temple– This temple at Indira Marg is another famous spot to visit. Here the management is effective. The preparation of the daily meal also takes place in a hygienic atmosphere. People visit here often to see it’s wonderful structure and intricate workings.

If you have any questions about Bala Hanuman Temple in Jamnagar, please leave a comment below, and we will get back to you within one hour.

Jalaram Bapa Mandir Virpur Guide – Timings, Poojas, and History

September 30, 2019, Sasidhar Darla 24 Comments Filed Under: Gujarat Temples Tagged With: Other Temples

Jalaram Bapa Mandir is a renowned temple which is located at Virpur in Gujarat. This place has become famous owing to the birth of Sri Jalaram Bapa, a much-revered saint. There have been many events that had happened in this saint’s life at Virpur and people from all over come to visit this holy shrine.

a tour of Jalaram Bapa Mandir Virpur

Jalaram Bapa Mandir Temple Facts-

Deity	Shree Jalaram Bapa
Location	Virpur, Rajkot in Gujarat
Significance	The temple has original danda and Jholi which Jalaram Bapa was using
Built-In	19th century
Best time to Visit	October to March
Darshan timings	7:00 AM to 12:00 PM \|\| 4.00 PM to 8:30 PM
Architecture	Hindu Temple Style
Entry Fees	No Entry fee
Aarti Timing	7:30 AM to 7:30 PM
Photography	Not allowed inside the temple, allowed outside the temple
Visit Duration	1 hour
Festivals	Jalaram Jayanti
Main Attraction	The portrait of Jalaram Bapa and original photo of Jalaram Bapa
Official Website	Jalaram Bapa Mandir

Jalaram Bapa Mandir Temple Darshan Timings

Here are Jalaram Bapa Mandir Temple Darshan timings –

Timings	From	To
Morning Darshan	07:00 AM	12:00 PM
Temple Closing Noon	12:00 PM	04:00 PM
Evening Darshan	04:00 PM	08:30 PM
Temple Closing Night	08:30 PM	07:00 AM

Poojas and Rituals at Jalaram Bapa Mandir

Rituals	Timings
Mangla Aarti	07:30 AM
Shangar Aarti	09:00 AM
Sandhya Aarti	7:30 PM
Sundar Kand from Ramayana	04:00 PM to 05:30 PM Every Sunday
Sri Satyanarayan Bhagwan’s Katha	08:00 PM only on Purnima

Aarti and Bhajan are regularly held in this temple airing both morning and evening.
A pilgrim can contribute Rs 251 and host the arrangement of Sri Satyanarayan Bhagwan’s Katha on every Purnima or full moon day.
One can hear bhajans that are held after Aarti every month.
There are many eminent saints and Kathakars who talk about spiritual lectures and preaching’s during festivals that are commemorated by people in this temple.

Jalaram Bapa Mandir Prasadam Timings

This famous pilgrimage destination is popular for charity and feeding the poor and needy people. Food is offered to people after 12 P.M. and around 8 P.M.
This temple has seen no visitor returning home without food. Devotees are provided with Prasad twice a day without any cost.
Every person in this ‘Darbar of God’ irrespective of him being rich or poor is treated as equal. They are also offered the same Prasad when they sit in the same row.
The Prasad comprises ‘Ganthiya’, ‘Bundi’ and ‘Sabji’ in the morning and ‘Khichadi-Kadi’ and ‘Deshi Ghee’ in the evening.
The food is served in a traditional dish of leaves.

The symbolism of the deity in Jalaram Bapa Mandir

The Idol of Jalaram Bapa Mandir Virpur — The divine Idol of Baba Jalaram in the temple comparing adorned in all white.

The idol of Jalaram Bapa is shown as a smiling man holding a stick.
His idol adorns a white Paghadi and white dhoti-kurta.
The idols of his patron deities Rama, Sita, Lakshmana, and Hanuman are also mostly found along with his idol.

Significance of Jalaram Bapa Mandir

In 1978, the Jalaram Bapa Temple on the Dharmaj-Tarapur highway was built.
The auspicious Sri Jalaram Bapa shrine comprises of the actual house complex where this great saint lived during his lifetime.
There are many belongings of Jalaram Bapa, most important being the deities of Rama, Sita, Lakshmana and Hanuman that were worshiped by him.
The main attraction of this place of worship is the portrait of Jalaram Bapa. Pilgrims can see a black and white picture of Bapa that has been taken one year before his death.
The idol of Jalaram Bapa is displayed as a smiling man holding a dandaand wearing often a white turban and a white dhoti-kurta.
One of the most distinguishing factors of this temple refers to the fact that it does not accept any offerings from February 9, 2000. This is the world’s first temple to not accept any money.
Jalaram Bapa had adopted his daughter i.e. Jamnaben’s grandson, Harirambahi to be his direct descendant. Giridhar Bapa and now his son Jaisukhram Bapa is now in charge of this popular shrine of Gujarat.
The ‘Samadhi’ of Sri Jalaram Bapa lies at the feet of Lord Sri Ram Chandra. This had entranced just on the left side of the Big Gate of the ‘Dela’.
The “Jholi-Danda” is duly preserved in a transparent cupboard and Sri Hanumanji’s idol is also kept near the ‘Samadhi’ as well.
The Temple has two trusts that function on a daily basis. The ‘Jalaram Satsang Seva Mandal’ is responsible for looking out for all aspects relating to the temple like maintenance of the Mandir, Atithi Griha, and Gaushala. The ‘Shree Jalaram Janseva Trust’ on the other hand handles services relating to education, healthcare, rehabilitation, and water plant.
Shree Dr. Rasikbhai V. Patel is the President for both the trusts.
This temple has three giant copper pots that were given by the Goddess Ganga duly filled with the holy waters of Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati rivers. The water from these pots never dries up and there has been no instance of a person getting sick from drinking this water.
Additionally, the King of the Dhrangdhra provided a pair of large wheels to Sri Jalaram Bapa for grinding the wheat in the temple.

The dieties of Jalaram Bapa Mandir Virpur — The patron deities of Gods and Goddesses with Baba Jalaram situated in the temple complex.

History of Jalaram Bapa Mandir

‘Jalaram Pradhan Thakar’ or Jalaram Bapa was born in Virpur, near Rajkot in Gujarat on 14^th November 1799 to his father Pradhan Thakkar and mother Rajbai Thakkar. His mother was very fond of saints and sadhus and no saint could go from Virpur without receiving the hospitality of Rajbai.
Saint Raghuvirdasji had told Bapa’s mother, Rajbai Thakkar that her son would become a famous person preaching the importance of duty, devotion and good actions. Being a very religious lady herself, Bapa learned to respect, patience, self-sacrifice, duty, and grace from his mother.
When Bapa was young, a visit from a saint was recognized as from his previous life and little Jalaram was spiritually inspired and started to chant ‘Sita Ram’ rhymes and devoted his life to God.
Jalaram married Virbhai, daughter of Thakkar Pragji Somaija at the age of sixteen. Although he was reluctant, his wife extended her support in his work for the poor. At the age of eighteen, he set out for a holy pilgrimage with his wife and had accepted Bhojalaram. Bapa’s guru had started ‘Sadavrat’ which is a place where every poor will be provided with free food. Both of them worked hard on the field to grow grains and one day when they were run out of stock for grains, Virbhai was happy to sell her wedding jewelry in order to provide food for the pilgrims.
Haraji was a tailor who was suffering from acute stomach pain and eventually came to Bapa for a cure. The great saint prayed and cured his disease. The tailor was surprised and fell at Bapa’s feet addressing him as ‘Bapa’. It is then that people started calling him as Jalaram Bapa. Devotees irrespective of their religion became his disciples.
Lord Rama disguised himself as an old man and appeared before Jalaram Bapa. He complained of his age and wanted someone to look after him. Bapa sent for his wife who gladly accompanied the old man on his journey. The two travelers came to a river and the old man gave a stick and a bag to Virbhai to hold. Soon, Lord Rama disappeared and Jalaram could hear a voice back home saying to him that he can fetch his wife as it was Lord Rama who wanted to test his goodness. This stick and the bag are still on display in the Jalarambapa Ashram in Virpur.
Devotee’s belief that the food given by Bapa to the pilgrims reaches the doors of heaven. In fact, until today, there are thousands of visitors who are provided free food in this temple and it never runs out of stock.

Festivals celebrated at the Jalaram Bapa Mandir

Celebration in Jalaram Bapa Mandir Virpur — The festivals celebrated in Jalaram Bapa Mandir at Virpur.

Jalaram Jayanti: is the most important festival that is observed in this temple. On the 7^th day Shukla Paksha of the Hindu month of Kartika, this celebration is enjoyed by the pilgrims. This festival is celebrated here on the 7^th day after Diwali. A huge fair is organized to mark this occasion.
Makar Sankranti: is another huge festival that is celebrated in this temple on 14^th January every year.
Pilgrims also gather to pray in this temple on a yearly basis to mark the death anniversary of Sri Jalaram Bapa who died on 23^rd February 1881.
Some other festivals that are observed here with much pomp and enthusiasm consist of Ram Navami, Hanuman Jayanti, Janmashtami, Diwali, and Maha Shivaratri.

How to Reach Jalaram Bapa Mandir: Road, Rail, and Air

By Air– Rajkot is the nearest airport that connects Virpur with all the leading cities in India. There are many direct flights available and pilgrims can take an auto-rickshaw from the airport to reach the famous shrine.
By Train– The Rajkot Junction is well connected with different towns of Gujarat and cities in India. It is almost 6 km away from the Teen Batti triple gateway and is a junction on the Western Railway Ahmedabad-Hapa broad gauge line. There are many express trains that are available from this station.
By Road– It has good transportation system with all the neighboring states. There are many State buses from Rajkot to different parts of Gujarat. The ST bus stand is 2 km, west of Bedi Gate on the other side of Ranmal Lake.

Where to stay near Jalaram Bapa Mandir in Virpur

Temple trust provides a nice arrangement for devotees to get free food and free accommodation called ‘Dharamshala’ without any cost.
Hotel Madhav is basically located in Virpur close to the temple and is the best choice for rooms that are cheap and at affordable prices.

Where to eat near Jalaram Bapa Mandir in Virpur

Virpur offers a lot of options to explore when it comes to fulfilling your appetite. The traditional food is vegetarian in nature and is rich in nutrition. Mostly, the Gujarati Thali comprises rice, roti, dal, sabzi, and sweets.
There are many famous restaurants in the city that offer fine dining options at a competitive price range. The local eating joints also offer fantastic delicacies at lesser costs.
Some of the must-have dishes that a traveler needs to taste refer to Khaman, Dhokla, Puran Poli, Shrikhand, Farsi Falafel, Khakra, Muthia, and Meethi Kadhi. However, alcohol is banned here and is not served at restaurants.
Also, the Morning Tea, Lunch & Dinner are provided free for the Yatris in the Dharmshala run by the temple trust where free food is provided for the devotees staying there.

Nearby Temples in Jalaram Bapa Mandir Virpur

Apart from the famous Jalaram Bapa Mandir, there are some religious places in Virpur that tourists can pay a visit to. These consist of:

Virpara Nath Mandir– Every tourist who visits Jalaram Bapa definitely pays a visit to this shrine too. Sadhus sing Hymes during the evening in this temple premises.
Samadhi of Jalaram Bapa– It is a sacred place of worship as devotees come to pay their respect to Jalaram Bapa here. After Bapa passed away, he was laid to rest here.
Samadhi of Jetha Bapa– This is another famous shrine that stands close to the Jalaram Bapa Mandir. There are many pilgrims who visit the samadhi and seek blessings from Jetha Bapa.
Virbhai Maa Mandir at Triveni Sangam– It is a temple that is dedicated to Virbhai and celebrates the commitment and sacrifice provided by Virbhai.
Khodiyar Mandir at Mavatar Vridhdharshram- Being located in Mavatar Vridhdharshram, this mandir is highly popular and considered sacred among the natives.
Gala vada Hanuman– It is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and worships his strength and commitment to Lord Ram.

If you have any questions related to Jalaram Bapa Mandir Virpur, please leave a comment below and we will reply within an hour.

Frequently Asked Questions about Jalaram Bapa Mandir –

Till when does the Jalaram Bapa Mandir remain open?

The temple remains open for all days of the year for devotees, sometimes close due to renovation work.

What is the visit duration for Jalaram Bapa Mandir?

It will take 1 hour to fully explore the Jalaram Bapa Mandir.

What is Jalaram Bapa Mandir famously known in the locality?

It is famously known in the locality as Jay Jaliyaan Mandir.

What is the location of Jalaram Bapa Mandir?

Jalaram Bapa Mandir is located 60 km from Rajkot and 280 km from Ahmedabad in Virpur near Rajkot, Gujarat, India.

What are the temple activities done by the temple trust?

The temple trust does regular activities like Bharatnatyam, Tabla classes and Yoga classes for devotees and interested individuals.

What is the climate temperature at Virpur in Gujarat?

The climate temperature st Virpur in Gujarat stays between 25-31°C.

Is donation allowed at the Jalaram Bapa Mandir?

Yes, devotees can donate as per their facilities to the temple trust through an online portal in Jalaram Bapa Mandir.

Dwarkadhish Temple Guide – Timings, Poojas, and History

January 24, 2023, Sasidhar Darla 30 Comments Filed Under: Dwarka Somnath Temple, Gujarat Temples Tagged With: Krishna Temples

Dwarkadhish Temple, one of the Char Dham pilgrimages, is situated in the city of Dwarka in Gujarat. Dwarka lies on the banks of river Gomti, in Saurashtra. It is historically considered as the capital of Lord Krishna. The city eventually submerged under the sea except for Temples.

Planning to visit The Dwarkadhish Temple? Have a look at our Dwarka – Somnath Tour Package and our Pancha Dwarka Tour.

Dwarkadhish Temple – Facts

Deity	Lord Dwarkadhish (Lord Krishna)
Location	Dwarka, Gujarat
Significance	Char Dham
Tours	Dwarka – Somnath Tour, Pancha Dwaraka Tour
Entry Fee	Free
Darshan Timings	6:30 AM to 9:30 PM
Poojas	Abhishek Snan, SHringar Bhog
Best Time to Visit	March and October
Festivals	Janmashtami, Rath Yatra, Tulsi Vivah
Jyotirlingas in Gujarat	Somnath Jyotirlinga, Nageshwar Jyotirlinga

Dwarkadhish Temple Video

The Somnath Temple and the Nageshwar Temple are the famous Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva in Gujarat.

What are the timings of the Dwarkadhish Temple?

The Dwarkadhish Temple opens at 6:30 AM and closes at 9:30 PM. The temple also performs various rituals during this time. The devotees can be a part of these rituals, such as the morning, afternoon, and evening poojas. The temple remains closed from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM.

The timings of the Dwarkadhish Temple are:

Ritual	From	To
Darshan	6:30 AM	9:30 PM
Mangal Aarti	6:30 PM	–
Mangal Darshan	7:00 AM	8:00 AM
Shringar Aarti	10:30 AM	–
Sandhya Aarti	7:30 PM	7:45 PM

What are the sevas and poojas performed at Dwarkadhish Temple?

The temple performs the following daily poojas and sevas:

Rituals
Abhishek Snan
Uthapan (at 5 PM)
Offering of bhogs: Mangal Bhog, Makhan Bhog, Snan Bhog, and Shringar Bhog.
Offering sevas: Palna, Shayan Bhog, Paan Seva, Milk Seva, Vegetable Seva, Flower Seva, Fruit Seva and Misri Seva

What is the significance of Dwarkadhish Temple?

The significance of Dwarkadhish Temple is that Dwarka is one of the Sapta Puris in India. According to popular belief, the Dwarkadhish Temple stands over the original place of Hari – Graha, the home of Krishna. Mahabharata states that the castle of Lord Krishna was built in Gold.

The Pandavas played and spent their childhood there. This temple is also a part of the famous Pancha Dwaraka Tour.

Archaeologists have unearthed copper coins, boulders, pillars and pottery samples from the underwater excavations in Dwarka. Hence, they have concluded that a well-established city existed there in the 2nd Millennium.

Also, explorations between 1983 and 1990 show that the city consisted of six sectors. They were extended about a mile from the shore. Offshore investigations have found evidence of stone slabs, ports and other construction materials dating back to 15th Century. Hence, it supports the existence of an ancient city at the time of Lord Krishna. Further, the layout of the city mentioned in ancient manuscripts matches that of the city unearthed by The Marine Archaeology Unit of India.

The Dhwajaji – The Mast Flag atop the main Temple is unique and sacred. It is Aadhi Bhoutik in nature. The Dhwaja or the Flag is made of 52 yards of cloth. 52 small flags are woven individually in each yard of cloth. Each Yard symbolizes the entrances to the ancient city of Dwarka.

According to scriptures, 56 administrators ran the administration of Dwarka. Four of them were Lord Krishna, Balram, Pradyuma, and Anirudhji. These 4 are still worshipped in temples that are untouched by the sea. However, for the rest of the 52 people, the flag acts as a remembrance. The colours of the Dhwajaji are changed every day.

Kusheshwar Mahadev Temple

In the premises of the Dwarkadhish Temple, a small temple called Kusheshwar Mahadev Temple is present. According to a legend, Kush was a demon who lived in Kushasthali. People prayed to Lord Krishna to save them. So, Lord Krishna fought and crushed the demon. Krishna buried him completely into the ground. Hence, he set up a temple of Lord Mahadev there. The Shiva Linga lies almost 20 feet below the ground.

Dwarka Mutt

The Dwarka Mutt is one of the four mutts established by Sri Adi Shankaracharya. The others are Sringeri, Jagannath Puri, and Jyotirmath. Another name for Dwarka Mutt is Shanti Peeth. It is sacred to take a dip at the Gomati Ghat opposite to the Dwarkadhish Temple. Genuine worship at this temple washes away one’s sins.

What is the history of Dwarkadhish Temple?

The history of Dwarkadhish temple is that according to Brahmi script, the temple’s first renovation was done around 100 BC. Later, Shri Adi Shankaracharya visited the temple in 800 BC and renovated it. He established the shrine of Adyashakti on the fourth floor of the temple.

Muhammad Shah attacked and destroyed the temple in 1241 AD. Five Brahmins fought with them and died. So, the shrines near the Dwarkadhish Temple are for them. Local merchants and rulers enlarged the temple in the 15^th – 16^th century. And in 1965, the Pakistan Navy tried to attack the temple but failed to do so.

Another interesting legend associated with Dwarka is that of Gopi Lake. According to mythology, after leaving Mathura, Lord Krishna never went back. The Gopis of Mathura came to Dwarka to meet Krishna. After several Ras Leelas with Lord Krishna, they offered their lives to the land. Hence the name of the lake is “Gopi Talav”.

What is the story of the origin of Dwarka?

Lord Krishna’s uncle Kansa was the ruler of Mathura. His father-in-law, Jarasandha influenced him greatly. Also, Kansa terrorized and tortured the people of Mathura. Due to cruelty towards people, Krishna eventually killed him. When Kansa died, Jarasandha was furious. So, he invaded Mathura several times.

However, he was unsuccessful in annexing it. But the Yadava clan suffered huge losses and Lord Krishna decided to move them elsewhere.

Further, the story of how Krishna formed the city of Dwarka has two versions. One states that Lord Krishna flew on the Garuda and reached the Saurashtra peninsula. However, in the other version, Lord Krishna invoked Vishwakarma (Lord of Construction). He asked him to build a new city.

Vishwakarma said that it is possible to build the city if the Samudra Deva (God of Sea) gives them land. Lord Krishna worshipped the Sea God who eventually gave him 12 Yojanas of land. Consequently, Vishwakarma built the city of Dwarka for Lord Krishna.

What is the legend of Jagannath Temple?

According to the legend of Jagannath Temple, during the cremation of Lord Krishna at Dwarka, Balram and Subhadra were overcome with grief. So, they took the half-burnt body of Krishna and ran into the ocean. At the same time, King Indradyumna in Puri had a dream.

It encouraged him to visit the ocean in search of the remains of Lord Krishna.

Later, he built a gigantic temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. It is famous as the Jagannath Temple. There, he established the three wooden idols of Krishna, Balaram, and Subhadra. Also, he placed the ashes of Lord Krishna inside the wooden deity.

According to the Archeological Survey of India, the main shrine of the building is 2000 to 2200 years old. There is an umbrella-like monument in the memory of Lord Krishna to the East of Harimandir.

What is the architecture of Dwarkadhish Temple?

It has five storeys and stands on 72 limestone pillars. Also, it consists of three parts – the Prakashgarh (Nijmandir), Sabahgrah and the Shikhar. The total height of the Shikhar is 157 feet.

Furthermore, there are two Shikhars present in the Temple – the Nij Shikhar and the Ladwa Shikhar. The Nij Shikhar is five-storeyed. It houses the main deity, Lord Krishna. There are two main gates to the Dwarkadhish Temple – The Moksha Dwaar (entrance for pilgrims) and the Swarg Dwaar (Gate to Heaven).

What are the festivals celebrated at Dwarkadhish Temple?

Some of the festivals celebrated at Dwarkadhish temple are:

Janmashtami: The birth of Krishna is celebrated in a very grand and spiritual way. The celebration includes a series of Poojas and rituals. It starts right from Mangal Aarti in the morning to the Parna Rom the next day. They also perform Abhishekams throughout the day with Tulsi and Chandan.
Annakut Utsav: This festival is celebrated on the first day of the Kartik month. It includes preparing and offering a variety of sweets to God.
Tulsi Vivah: This day signifies the marriage of Lord Vishnu with Tulsi Devi. The festival starts on the 11th day of the Kartik month. It continues for 4 days.
Holi: The festival of colours is the favourite festival of Lord Krishna.
Akshaya Tritiya: The third day of the Vaisakh month is popular as the Akshaya Tritiya. The day marks the beginning of the summer season. The Idol of Lord Krishna is dressed in flowers and Chandan instead of the usual dress. Finally, the festivities end on the 11th day of the month. This day is Bhima Ekadashi.
Rath Yatra: On the 2nd of the Ashadh month, a representation of Lord Krishna is kept in a chariot. This chariot is then taken around the city. On this day Krishna and Balram departed to Mathura on a chariot sent by Kamsa. Also, on the same day, Krishna decided to become the Sarathi (Driver) of Arjuna’s chariot in Mahabharatha.

What is the dress code of Dwarkadhish Temple?

One should prefer formal and decent dresses while visiting the Dwarkadhish Temple. Avoid shorts, bermudas, and mini skirts.

How to reach the Dwarkadhish Temple?

Here’s how to reach Dwarkadhish temple:

By Air: The nearest airport is Jamnagar which is 137 km away from the temple.
By Rail: Regular trains are available from major cities such as Jamnagar, Rajkot, Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Surat, Mumbai, Goa, Bangalore, and Kochi.
By Road: Direct State Buses are available from Jamnagar, Gandhinagar, Porbandar, Rajkot, and Ahmedabad.

Where to stay near Dwarkadhish Temple?

The government runs many guest houses in the city. Some of them are Circuit House, Gayathri Athithi Grah and Birla Dharmshala where one can stay. The temple trust runs several Dharamshalas. These include Kokila Niraj Dham, Patelwadi Dharamshala, and Jay Ranchhod Dharmashala. Several private hotels are available to stay in Dwarka.

Where to eat near Dwarkadhish Temple?

Several hotels and restaurants are available near the Temple and in other parts. Mainly vegetarian cuisine is available.

What are some temples near Dwarkadhish Temple?

Some of the temples near Dwarkadhish temple are:

Shri Nageshwar Temple: The Nageshwar Temple (Nagnath Temple) is 12 km away from the Dwarkadhish Temple. It is an important Shaivite pilgrimage site. This is because it is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, the temples of Lord Shiva spread all across India. The temple is unique as the Shiva Lingam faces south and the Nandi faces east. 5 of the 12 divine Jyotirlingas are in Maharashtra.
Rukmini Mandir: It is 2 km away from The Dwarkadhish Temple. The Temple is for Devi Rukmini, wife of Lord Krishna. The idol of Devi Rukmini has “Chaturbhuj” or four hands. Further, each hand holds a Shanka, Chakra, Gada, and the Padma. This is so because Devi Rukmini was a reincarnation of Goddess Mahalakshmi.
Beyt Dwarka: The island is 30 km away from Dwarka. Also, it houses a 500-year-old temple built by Sri Vallabhacharya. The white pristine beaches at the Island are very popular for water sports and picnics.
Gomati Sangam Ghat: One can reach the Sangam Ghat by descending 56 steps opposite to Swarga Dwar. Also, this place signifies the junction of River Gomati with the ocean. Also, one can visit several smaller shrines dedicated to Lord Krishna and his friend Sudama.
Gita Mandir: The Birla family built the temple in 1970 and dedicated it to the teachings of The Bhagavad Gita. The walls of the temple contain hymns from the Bhagwad Gita.

Frequently Asked Questions about Somnath Temple

Is the Dwarkadhish Temple open throughout the year?

Yes, the Dwarkadhish Temple is open all 365 days of the year.

What is the entry fee?

The entry to the Dwarkadhish Temple is free of cost.

Is there any facility for specially-abled and senior citizens?

Wheelchair facilities for disabled and senior citizens are available at the gate of the temple. Lift facilities are also present inside the temple.

What is the weather like during summer?

The summers at Dwarka start from March and continues until June. The summers here can be very hot. Temperatures during the daytime often go up to 42 º C.

What are winters like in Gujarat?

In Dwarka, winters start in November and continue until February. The temperatures during this time range from around 12 º C to 24 º C. The weather during this time is cool and pleasant.

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