Discovering Dwarka: Unraveling the Mysteries of an Ancient City
One of India’s holiest pilgrimage places is Dwarka. The city has a rich history and is engulfed in mythology. occupies a vital place in India’s cultural fabric. This city is situated on the Arabian Sea’s western coast in the state of Gujarat. Dwarka is a destination of great religious and archaeological significance, in addition to being a contemporary metropolis. The city of Dwarka is a major tourist place in the state of Gujrat.
Historical Background:
Jam Shri Ravalji, head of the Jadeja clan Rajput (Kshatriya) migrated from Kutch to Halar, established himself & set his throne at Khambhalia in V.S.1582 for some years it was his capital & new city in V.S. 1596 was named "Navanagar.”.
On August 15, 2013, the Jamnagar district was divided into the newly formed Devbhumi Dwarka District, with Jam Khambhalia serving as its headquarters. There are four talukas in the district: Khambhalia, Kalyanpur, Dwarka, and Bhanvad. Derived from the renowned Dwarkadhish Temple in Dwarka city—one of the four sacred sites in Hindu mythology — Devbhumi Dwarka gets its name.
Gujarat’s first capital is thought to have been Dwarka. Since Dwar means “gate” and ka refers to “Brahma,” the city’s name literally translates as the “portal to heaven” in Sanskrit. Throughout its history, Dwarka has also gone by the names “Mokshapuri,” “Dwarkamati,” and “Dwarkavati.” It is mentioned in the Mahabharata’s ancient prehistoric epic period. Legend has it that after defeating and killing his uncle Kansa at Mathura, Krishna made his home here. Gujarati culture is strongly linked to this mythical story of Krishna moving from Mathura to Dwarka.In order to build Dwarka, Krishna is also credited with reclaiming 12 yojanas, or 96 square kilometres (37 sq mi) of land, from the sea.
Archaeological Marvels:
The well-known ancient port of Dwarka is located on India’s west coast and is said to have been drowned. Three temple remnants were found during the 1979 excavations in the Dwarkadhish Temple Complex. At Dwarka, eight distinct settlements can be identified. Both the first, established in the 15th century B.C., and the second, established in the 10th century B.C., were submerged or washed away. The third settlement occurred in the first century B.C./A.D. after a protracted interval, as indicated by the Red Polished Ware and the copper coins known as Karshapanas.
Religious Significance:
One of the four sacred Hindu pilgrimage sites known as the Chardham, which was founded by Adi Shankaracharya (686–717 CE) at the four corners of the nation, is the Dwarkadhish Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna. It was established as a monastic centre and is a part of the Dwarka temple complex.
Submerged City:
One of the seven holy towns in Hinduism, present-day Dwarka is frequented annually by pilgrims who come to adore Krishna. The 1930s saw the start of the search for its submerged portion, and 1963 saw the first archaeological excavation. During the following excavation, which was overseen by an underwater archaeologist, a number of antiquated antiquities were discovered in addition to the underwater remnants of the old Dwarka.
The best places to visit Dwarka:
There are many beautiful and unique tourist spots here. Wherever you go will make your heart very happy. Some of the notable places in this city are the Dwarkadish Temple, Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, Bhadkeswar Mahadeb Mandir, Nageswar Shiva Temple, Rukshamanee Temple, beyt Dwarika, Dunny Point, Gomit Ghat, Dwarka lighthouse etc. You can visit all of these locations at no cost to you and your family. Every single one of these locations will charm you if you are spiritual. This extraordinary feeling you have with him will go on in your memories forever.
How to reach:
The closest airport is located 137 kilometres from Dwarka City in Jamnagar. With trains linking it to all important towns, like Jamnagar, Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Surat, Mumbai, Goa, Howrah, etc., Dwarka boasts its own railway station. Additionally, Dwarka has excellent road connectivity.
Nearest Hotel Recommendations:
- Hotel Gomit:
Located close to the Dwarkadhish Temple, this budget-friendly property offers an elevator, high-speed Wi-Fi, & AC rooms. Enjoy easy connectivity as Dwarka Railway Station is only 2.7 km from the hotel. Pay your respects at the renowned Dwarkadhish Temple, which is just a 1-minute walk from the hotel. Satiate your cravings with scrumptious delicacies from multiple cuisines at the Gomti Restaurant.
Price: 2300
2. Hotel Dwarka Residency:
Dwarka Beach and Dwarakadheesh Temple are 1 km away from Hotel Dwarika Residency, which offers facilities like a travel desk and restaurant. Hotel Dwarika Residency is a budget property, located in proximity to the Dwarakadheesh Temple- the most revered shrine in the holy city of Dwarka. The hotel lies close to the bus stand, which works favourably for travellers. For accommodation, the hotel offers well-furnished rooms that are classified as Non-AC, Standard AC, Deluxe AC and Super Deluxe AC. These rooms are appointed with amenities like television and telephone. The is a perfect abode for pilgrims or leisure travellers visiting the city of Dwarka, thanks to the presence of a travel desk that makes arrangements for sightseeing.
Price: 1306
3. Hotel City Palace:
Hotel City Palace is situated in Dwarka which is a great pilgrim center with much religious significance. Hotel City Palace is an earmarked property that offers splendid comfort to its guests. For easy access, guests can arrive at the hotel by the nearest transportation facility available at Jamnagar Airport and Dwarka Railway Station (2 km). The hotel facilitates with modern amenities like parking, a lift facility, taxi service on request, a front desk, a fax service and many more to make stay comfortable. In case of a medical emergency doctor on-call facility is also provided by the hotel.
Price: 1899
Conclusion:
The combination of spirituality, rich history and cultural heritage attracts travellers to Dwarka. You are bound to be drawn to its sacred temples, ancient ruins or serene beaches. This pilgrimage is a magic of wonder that will pull you in a magical way again and again. Adventure this city on the west coast of India on the shores of the Arabian Sea with devotion and capture your heart.