Dwarkadhish Temple is situated at
Dwarka in
Jamnagar District of
Gujarat. This majestic temple is dedicated to
Lord Krishna, who is worshipped here by the name Dwarkadhish. The complex houses a shrine called Jagat Mandir (also called Nija Mandir), which is believed to be the original temple dating back about 2500 years. According to legend, this shrine was built by Vajranabha, the grandson of Lord Krishna. Excluding the shrine, the surround structures are believed to be built around the 15th century.
The Dwarkadhish temple complex represents one of the finest and magnificent examples of temple architecture in Gujarat. It is a 5-storied building supported by 72 pillars. It boasts of finely sculpted sandstone walls. The main tower measures about 78 m in height. Its dome is decorated with a majestic multicolored flag measuring 84 ft in length. The flag contains the symbols of the sun and moon.
The Jagat Mandir shrine is made up of a tall tower and a hall. The main entrance, situated in the north, is called ‘Moksha Dwara’ (Door to Salvation). The other entrance, situated in the south, is known by the name ‘Swarga Dwara’ (Gate to Heaven) and it contains a stairway of 56 steps leading to the Gomati River.
Other places of interest in the temple include a memorial dedicated to
Adi Shankaracharya, who paid a visit here during the 7th century. A wall painting in the temple traces the family lineage of Lord Krishna.
