|
STD Code: 02892
Population: 54,000
Located on the
extreme western tip of the Kathiawar Peninsula, the town of Dwarka
is one of the four most holy Hindu pilgrimage sites in India, and is
closely related to the Krishna legend. It was here that
Krishna is said to have set up his capital after fleeing from
Mathura.
Dwarkanath Temple,
is dedicated to Krishna. Non-Hindu can enter, after filling
out a form, thought the exterior, with its tall five-storey spire
supported by 60 columns, is actually far more interesting than the
interior.
Also worth a look
are the carvings of Rukmini Temple, about 1km to the east, the many
pillared Sabha Mandapa, reputed to be over 2500 years old, and the
Nageshwar Mandir with its underground chamber.
Dwarka's lighthouse
is open to the public between 4 to 6 pm, and affords a beautiful
panaoramic view and is a restful place (Rs. 1).
Archaeological
excavations have revealed five earlier cities at the site, all of
which are submerged. Dwarka is the site of the important
Janmashthami Festival which falls in August/September and celebrates
Krishna's birthday.
A little north of
Dwarka a ferry crosses from Okha to the Island of Bet, where Vishnu
is said to have slain a demon. There are modern Krishna
temples on the island, and a deserted beach on the northern
coast. Beware of unfriendly dogs. |
