Dwarkadhish Temple in Dwarka,Dwarkadhish temple

The Dwarkadhish temple is also popular as Jagat Mandir. It is often spelled as "Dwarakadheesh". This is a Hindu temple dedicated to Sri Krishna. Lord Krishna here is worshiped as the 'King of Dwarka" or Dwarkadhish.

About the structure

The actual shrine is about 5 stories tall, and it is supported by 72 pillars. It is known as Ninja Mandir or Jagat Mandir. According to archaeological research findings, the temple is nearly 2,000 years old.

It was in the 15th and 16th centuries that this temple was enlarged. This is a Pushtimarg temple and thus abides by the rituals laid down by Shree Vitheleshnathji and Shree Vallabhacharya.

Mythology and history

Located on the banks of the Gomti River, this town is known to be a big capital of Lord Krishna.

Mythologically, this temple was built by Vajranabha, the grandson of Lord Krishna, over the hari griha. In the 8th century, philosopher and reformer Adi Shankaracharya visited the shrine.

The other three are Puri, Badrinath, and Rameshwaram. The memorial inside the temple is dedicated to his visit even today.

The Dwarkadhish temple is popularly known to be the 108th Divya Desam of Lord Vishnu. The temple has been glorified highly in the sacred texts of Divya Prabandha.

Main Attraction

Several archaeological excavations to explore the hidden treasures have uncovered several underwater structures made of stone.

These structures have been defined as settlements of the pre-historic era. Evidence of stone blocks with script and dresses, and examination of anchors suggest that the harbor site dates back to the old historical days.

Some of the underwater structures are also believed to be from the medieval era.

What makes it unique

There is a flight of stairs that would take you to the main entrance of the temple in Dwarka.
You can find a flag showing the moon and sun on top of the temple.
The flag is changed 5 times every day, even though the symbol remains the same. Devotees and pilgrims view to buy the flag.
The temple is five stories tall and supported by 72 pillars.
The temple is 78.3 m high.
The temple is made of limestone and remains in pristine condition.
The temple exhibits detailed scriptural works done by the succeeding dynasties that once ruled the place.
Vajranabha, the grandson of Lord Krishna, built the original temple of Dwarkadhish over hari-griha.
The temple has two entrances. The entrance in the north is called "Moksha Dwara", which means the door to salvation. This entrance takes you to the market. The entrance in the south is called the Swarga Dwara or door to heaven.
There are 56 steps in total outside the doorway that leads to the Gomati River.