Gandhinagar: Situated in the state of Gujarat, the ancient city of Dwarka holds profound religious significance, making it a captivating destination for pilgrims and history enthusiasts alike. Renowned for its association with Lord Krishna, Dwarka is believed to be the ancient capital of Gujarat, situated on the Saurashtra peninsula. It is an integral part of the Char Dham pilgrimage and holds a distinguished status as one of the seven ancient cities (Sapta Puris).
The name Dwarka, derived from ‘dwara’ (door) and ‘ka’ (referring to Brahma), translates to the “gateway to Brahma” or the path to Moksha (liberation). After departing from Mathura, Lord Krishna established his kingdom along the banks of the Gomti River in Dwarka. Legend holds that the city, submerged under the sea following Lord Krishna’s death, was reconstructed six times, with the present city standing as the seventh one.
Archaeological excavations carried out by the Archaeological Survey of India between 1983 and 1990 revealed the existence of an ancient city dating back two centuries. The excavation revealed a well-planned township with six sectors and a formidable fortified wall extending over half a mile. Today’s Dwarka is a pilgrimage site adorned with several shrines, with the 2000-year-old Dwarkadheesh Temple taking centre stage.
Apart from its religious importance, Dwarka offers enchanting beaches and opportunities for scuba diving to explore the underwater remnants of the ancient city.
Accommodation in Dwarka caters to various preferences, ranging from budget options to mid-range hotels. Some establishments even offer guided tours to archaeological wonders, while economical options like Dharamshalas are available for those seeking a modest stay. Dwarka’s markets are renowned for Patola silk sarees, ghagra cholis, and dress materials, providing a delightful shopping experience for visitors.
As a temple town, Dwarka’s culinary landscape predominantly offers vegetarian cuisine. Gujarati, South Indian, and North Indian dishes, with the famed Gujarati thali, Khamman Dhokla, and sweet buttermilk, are among the local culinary highlights.
The months from October to June are deemed ideal for a visit to Dwarka, offering a pleasant climate for exploration. While summers are not overly harsh, occasional rain and hot winds may occur.
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