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Steeped in legend, Dwarka is considered as one of the seven most ancient cities in India, and has actually been submerged for no less than six times by the sea during the course of its history. Found in the state of Gujarat, it holds a special place in the Hindu belief for supposedly being the dwelling place of the Lord Krishna. As such, it is a popular pilgrimage destination for many devotees, as well as being a veritable tourist attraction because of its rich cultural heritage.
An undisputed highlight in Dwarka is the impressive Dwarakadheesh Temple, renowned as the most sacred Hindu shrine in all of India. Said to be more than 2,500 years old, its main shrine was built by the Lord Krishna's grandson himself, Vajranabha, in around 400 BC. Then, in the 16th century, the present temple was erected over it, displaying a distinct Chalukyan-style architecture. Standing five stories tall, it is supported by an amazing 72 intricately-carved pillars and is made almost entirely out of limestone. In fact, its importance and pristine condition have resulted in its consideration by UNESCO as a potential World Heritage Site.
The Rukmini Devi Temple, on the other hand, is dedicated to one of the Lord Krishna's 16,108 wives, Rukmini. Believed to date back to the 12th century, it is adorned by masterful paintings that portray the couple's pastimes together. Legend has it that the temple was made in order to house Rukmini after she was cast away by the Durvasa Muni for eating before a guest was fully satisfied. Another attraction, especially for the devotees, is the Bhalka Tirth, said to be the place where the Lord Krishna was killed by a hunter's arrow after being mistaken for a deer.
Tourists may also be enticed to travel to the nearby city of Porbandar, situated along a beach. A former capital of the Rajput Kingdom, it boasts of a suitable location that had once made it a bustling trading post as well as a strategic fortress during its heyday. Thus, visitors may be able to catch a glimpse of its numerous historic ruins, which include high walls, imposing gates, and a smattering of temples. It is also famed for being the birthplace of the great leader Mahatma Gandhi.
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