Bet Dwarka, also known as Shankhodhar, is an island located off the coast of Dwarka in Gujarat, India. It is believed to be the original home of Lord Krishna during his ruling years and is a sacred pilgrimage destination for Hindus.
Getting there
Bet Dwarka is located 33 km from Dwarka railway station. You can reach the island by taking a ferry from Okha, a port town situated 2 km away. There is currently a bridge under construction that will connect Okha to Bet Dwarka in the future.
Things to do
- Visit the Bet Dwarka Temple, the main attraction of the island. The temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is believed to have been established by Guru Vallabhacharya. The temple complex also houses shrines dedicated to Hanuman, Vishnu, Shiva, Lakshmi Narayan, Jambavati, and Devi. Bet Dwarka Temple, Dwarka
- Explore the other temples on the island, such as the Rukmini Temple, the Sudama Temple, and the Lakshmana Temple.
- Visit the holy site of Shankhodhar Teerth, where pilgrims take a holy dip.
- Relax on the beaches of Bet Dwarka. The island has several beautiful beaches, including Shivrajpur Beach and Dunny Point.
- Go birdwatching. The island is home to a variety of birds, including flamingos and pelicans.
- Take a boat tour around the island. This is a great way to see the island's coastline and marine life.
Where to stay
There are a few guesthouses and homestays on Bet Dwarka, but the selection is limited. Most visitors choose to stay in Dwarka and make a day trip to Bet Dwarka.
What to eat
There are a few restaurants on Bet Dwarka that serve Gujarati cuisine. You can also find street food vendors selling snacks and drinks.
When to visit
The best time to visit Bet Dwarka is from October to March. The weather is pleasant during this time, and there are fewer crowds.
Here are some additional tips for your trip to Bet Dwarka:
- Dress modestly when visiting temples.
- Remove your shoes before entering temples.
- Photography is not allowed inside temples.
- Be aware of your surroundings and take care of your belongings.
- Bargaining is expected at shops and markets.