Dwarkadhish Temple

• Location- Dwarka Gujarat

• Known as – Dwarkadeesh Mandir

• Built around- 400 BC

• Built by- Varanabhij.

• Architecture- Chalukyan style of architecture

• Dedicated- Lord Krishna

• Best time to visit- All through the year

• Principal Feats celebrated- Janmashtami

• Darshan Timings-

• Mornings- 07:00 am to 12:30 am

• Evenings- 05:00 pm to 09:30 pm

This temple dedicated to the Lord Krishna is dedicated to Dwarkadeshwar or the King of Dwarka. This city modeled on the Lord terrestrial kingdom of Dwarka which submerged under water is one of the most sacrosanct places of worship and is also a revered part of the Char Dhams (Four Dhams). Thousands of pilgrims flock to the temple much like the many who flocked to the Lord Krishna during his reign. Revered as the Moksha Dam for centuries by the lay faithful this monument is a testament of the recourse of the both king and commoners since its inception.

Dwarkadish Temple history

Dwarkadish Temple history dates back to ancient times and finds mention both in the sacred scriptures of the Mahabharata. The original city of Dwarka was subject to torrents and elements and was submerged under water. However parts of the city have been excavated during various archeological expeditions.

Dwarkadish Temple Architecture-

Dwarkadish temple architecture is a perfect example of Chalukyan architecture and style of building. Also known as the Jagat Mandir this temple has two shikaras of which the Niji Shikara or the long shikkara as it is called denotes the place where idol of the Lord is installed. The temple also consists of 60 exquisitely carved pillars that have a distinctive resemblance to the various dynasties that ruled the land like the Pandavas, Pallavas and Chavdas. The main entrance that is the northern enternace of the temple is Mokshdwar or the door of salvation. It is believed that this door was constructed within a day by lord Vishwakarma that is the Lord of construction. The sanctum of the temple is adorned by 2.25 feet diety of Lord Dwarkadish fashioned in black stone. The four hands of the diety carry a conch, a lotus, a mace and the Sudarshana chakra. The original idol of this temple is said to be installed during the 16^th century. The flag post of the temple shows both sun and the moon. The flag is changed five times a day. The other architectural features of the temple are the tall tower and the hall of audience. The temple constructed in limestone is still perfectly intact in pristine fashion. The other temples in Dwarkadish include Trikamji temple, Kalyanrai temple, and Patrani temple and temples of Durva.

Dwarkadish Temple festival- Janmashtami is celebrated with great pomp and fervor and the celebration are umpteen compared to any part of India.