Sailing from Dwarka to Bet Dwarka: A Guide to a Divine Pilgrimage

Dwarka, considered one of the seven holiest cities in India, is the abode of Lord Krishna. Bet Dwarka, located just 30 kilometers from Dwarka, is an island temple dedicated to the same deity. While the journey from Dwarka to Bet Dwarka is relatively short, it is filled with spiritual significance and breathtaking views. This comprehensive guide will provide you with everything you need to know to plan your pilgrimage and make the most of your experience.

Historical Significance of Bet Dwarka

According to Hindu mythology, Bet Dwarka was the original capital of Lord Krishna's kingdom. After the flooding of Dwarka, Krishna moved his kingdom to Bet Dwarka, where he ruled for 36 years. The island is now home to a number of temples, including the main temple of Lord Krishna, also known as the Bet Dwarkadhish Temple.

Planning Your Trip

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Dwarka and Bet Dwarka is during the winter months (October to March) when the weather is pleasant.

Getting There: To reach Dwarka, the closest airport is Jamnagar Airport (JGA), located around 130 kilometers away. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to Dwarka. To get to Bet Dwarka, you can take a ferry from Dwarka. The ferry ride takes approximately 30 minutes.

Accommodation: There are several hotels and guesthouses in Dwarka and Bet Dwarka to choose from. For a comfortable stay, consider booking in advance, especially during peak season.

Ferry Services from Dwarka to Bet Dwarka

Dwarka Ferry Terminal: The ferry terminal in Dwarka is located at Nagar Chowk.

Bet Dwarka Ferry Terminal: The ferry terminal on Bet Dwarka is located near the main temple.

Ferry Timings: Ferries operate from Dwarka to Bet Dwarka throughout the day, with the first ferry departing around 8:00 AM and the last ferry leaving around 5:00 PM.

Fares: The fare for the ferry ride is approximately INR 100 per person.

Ferry Schedule

Note: The ferry schedule may vary depending on the season and weather conditions.

Exploring Bet Dwarka

Bet Dwarkadhish Temple: The main attraction on Bet Dwarka is the Bet Dwarkadhish Temple. The temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is believed to have been built by him. The temple is a beautiful example of Gujarati architecture and is adorned with intricate carvings.

Sudama Setu: According to Hindu mythology, Sudama, a childhood friend of Lord Krishna, visited him on Bet Dwarka. To welcome his friend, Lord Krishna himself built a bridge of gold, known as Sudama Setu. The bridge still exists today and is a popular spot for pilgrims to visit.

Harsiddhi Mata Temple: The Harsiddhi Mata Temple is dedicated to the goddess Harsiddhi, who is believed to be the sister of Lord Krishna. The temple is located on the beach and offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea.

Stories and Learnings

The Story of Sudama: The story of Sudama teaches us the importance of friendship and devotion. Even though Sudama was poor, he was a true friend to Lord Krishna. When he visited Lord Krishna on Bet Dwarka, Lord Krishna welcomed him with open arms and gave him a priceless gift.

The Power of Faith: The temples on Bet Dwarka are a testament to the power of faith. Pilgrims come from all over India to visit these temples and seek the blessings of Lord Krishna. The faith and devotion of the pilgrims is truly inspiring.

The Importance of Pilgrimage: Pilgrimage is an important part of the Hindu religion. It is a way for devotees to connect with their gods and goddesses and to seek their blessings. The pilgrimage to Bet Dwarka is a particularly special one, as it is believed that visiting the island will bring good fortune and prosperity.

Effective Strategies for Planning Your Trip

• Book your ferry tickets in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak season.
• Arrive at the ferry terminal at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time.
• Bring a camera to capture the beautiful scenery.
• Be prepared for crowds, especially during festivals and holidays.
• Respect the sanctity of the temples and follow the temple rules.
• Carry a small backpack with essentials such as water, snacks, and a first-aid kit.
• Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against theft.
• Stay informed about the weather conditions before you travel.

Tips and Tricks

• Consider visiting Bet Dwarka during the off-season to avoid the crowds.
• If you are short on time, you can take a day trip to Bet Dwarka from Dwarka.
• There are several restaurants and cafes on Bet Dwarka where you can grab a bite to eat.
• Be prepared for the heat and humidity, especially during the summer months.
• Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking.
• Learn a few basic Hindi phrases to communicate with the locals.