Best things to do in Dwarka

Admire the contemplative atmosphere and ceremonial design of Shree Dwarkadhish Temple, an interesting and prominent Hindu place of worship. Tradition has it that Krishna's grandson built the temple, while archeologists have dated the main shrine as far back as 2,000 to 2,200 years ago. Greatly expanded in the ornamental Chalukya style in the 15th or 16th century CE, the temple features five stories and rests on 72 tall pillars. The 78.3 m (256.9 ft) spire dominates the surrounding urban area, and photographs particularly well from the main street of the adjoining market.

An island near the mouth of Gulf of Kutch, Beyt Dwarika once formed part of the ancient city described in the epic "Mahabharata." While taking a boat from Okha, you will see seagulls and spot fish, and, possibly, dolphins. On the island, monkeys roam around Dwarkadish Temple, a major shrine dedicated to Krishna. Water sports and picnic areas area are also available here.

At Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, witness one of the 12 Jyotirlinga shrines (dedicated to the god Shiva) mentioned in the Shiva Purana. Believed to be the first temple of its kind, it features the lingam typical of this style, representing the beginningless and endless nature of Shiva. The main attractions at the temple include a pond, which adds to the serene atmosphere of the complex, as well as a 25 m (82 ft) tall sitting statue of Lord Shiva with serpents wrapped around his neck, which is the most visible structure in the area.

Take in the intricately carved facade of Rukshamanee Mandir, a temple dedicated to one of Lord Krishna's 16,108 wives--and reputedly his favorite--Devi Rukmini. Behold the incredible craftsmanship of the architecture, and look out for the 12th-century painted murals portraying Rukmini and her husband's past times on the internal walls.

Get splashed by the waves and take a holy dip at Gomti Ghat, a stairway leading into the holy waters at the mouth of the Gomti River flowing into the Gulf of Kutch. Serving a large temple dedicated to Lord Krishna and a number of smaller ones, the ghat has been a popular place for Hindu pilgrims for about a 100 years. Hop in a boat and get a sweeping view of Dharka from the water. Enjoy a view of the Arabian Sea and buy some sea shell jewelry from local women selling them on the waterfront.

Visit a birthplace of Gopi’s religious myths and legends and find out about the unconditional love of Lord Krishna’s maidens at Gopi Talab. The waters of this pond are considered as holy, with legends telling that when Lord Krishna left for heavens, the Gopi could not bear the separation so they became one with the soil. Have a tour of the place and witness the yellow clay of the pond which is said to be equivalent to the sandalwood, and is called ‘Gopi Chandan’ by devotees. See also the floating stone with etched Krisha’s name. Buy the Gopi Chandar which serves in religious rituals for low cost.

Sudama Setu is a pedestrian suspension bridge in Dwarka, Gujarat, India. It is named for Sudama, a childhood friend of Krishna. Proposed in 2005, the bridge was opened in 2016.

Dedicated to an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Dwarka exudes a peaceful atmosphere that inspires visitors to meditation and spiritual uplifting. Both exterior and interior of this modern temple are meticulously executed with great attention to detail. You can spend hours admiring the intricate stone carvings and colorful idols.

Set within a city known for its many sanctuaries, Siddheshwar Mahadev Mandir is one of the rare devoted to Lord Shiva. Exuding a peaceful and serene atmosphere, the old temple boasts several distinguishing features, including the lingam in the shape of a white stone, a deep well in the interior yard, and an old banyan tree.