Friends, welcome to Gujarat Top Blog. Today we will know: Bet Dwarka, the holy island of Gujarat
Bet Dwarka, or Shankhodhar, is an important pilgrimage site located off the coast of Devbhoomi Dwarka in the state of Gujarat. Located roughly 30 kilometers from the city of Dwarka and reached by short ferry ride from Okha, this small island is at once historically and mythologically significant. It is a nearby site relating to Lord Krishna and is equally an important place of pilgrimage for Hindus.
Table of Contents
Mythological Significance
According to beliefs, Bet Dwarka is the place where Lord Krishna first resided as the king of Dwarka. As per the Hindu texts, this island was where Krishna ruled and had set his home. Other references to the island exist in the Mahabharata and Puranic literature.
Legend has it that Sudama, an old friend of Krishna, brought a simple offering of poha here when he was badgered and needed assistance. Krishna received and blessed him immensely. It is here that the love of divine friendship is commemorated—Bet Dwarka, the beautiful land of devotion and piety.
View More: Dwarkadhish Temple
Historical Importance
A port and trade center in ancient times, Bet Dwarka was a thriving place. Several excavations near the site found evidence of a bustling maritime civilization, including Indus Valley Civilization pottery, artifacts and coins.
Because of its location in the Arabian Sea, the island also has a strategic history during medieval times.
View More: Somnath Temple
Key Attractions at Bet Dwarka
Dwarkadhish Temple (Bet Dwarka Temple)
The principal temple located on the island is devoted to Lord Krishna who is worshipped as Dwarkadhish here.
With its exquisite Chalukya architecture, the temple has intricate carvings and sculptures that date back to over 500 years.
A large number of devotees come here to seek the blessings and visit here regularly for performing aarti daily and participating in the festivals.
Rukmini Devi Temple
This temple is a very important place to worship for Krishna wife, Rukmini Devi.
It is said that a visit to this temple shall complete the pilgrimage to Dwarkadhish Temple.
Hanuman Dandi Temple
Hanuman Mandir, alongwith his son Makardhwaja
Located about 6 km from the main Bet Dwarka Temple, this unusual shrine is shrouded in mythology.
Sudama’s Shrine
The connection between Krishna and Sudama is represented by a small shrine. Reminding of the humility and friendship on the part of Krishna.
Shankh Talab
A sacred pond where devotees take conch shells depositing in the belief that it will bring good luck and prosperity
Marine Life and Beaches
Nature Beauty of Bet Dwarka has clean beaches and blue sea waves. It is the perfect island for travellers who want peace and love nature and also have some good gaze towards see marine life too.
How to Reach Bet Dwarka
By Ferry
Ferry is the most used means of reaching Bet Dwarka from Okha Port, which is 5 km away from the island. It costs 40 SAR per person for a ferry ride, which takes around 15-20 minutes and is very picturesque.
By Road
Dwarka is also well connected with roads from other major cities in Gujarat. Visitors can take a bus, taxi, or private vehicle to Okha and ferry across.
By Train
Okha is the nearest railway station, which links with other important Indian cities.
By Air
The nearest airport is 137 km from Dwarka in Jamnagar.
Festivals and Rituals
Janmashtami
Lord Krishna, the birth of whom is celebrated with much fanfare at Bet Dwarka, which sees thousands of devotees thronging it.
Holi
Holi is popular all over India for its vibrant celebrations, but here, Holi signifies the playfulness of Krishna.
Annakut Festival
This is a festival with offering range of foods to lord krishna, which is celebrated during diwali
Best Time to Visit
To visit Bet Dwarka, the best time of year is winter (October to February), as during this season the weather remains pleasant for both pilgrimage and sightseeing. Do not visit during monsoon season, as ferries may be cancelled
Tips for Visitors
Remember to dress modestly and respectfully, as this island is an important pilgrimage site.
Do check the ferry timings and take some cash back, as you are not going to find a digital payment option on the island.
Keep traveling environment-friendly and do not litter the place so you can contribute to creating environmental beauty from a pocket-like island; it is of nature.
