Somnath & Dwarka Divine Yatra
Complete Darshan Guide & Sacred Insights
Why Plan a Tour to Somnath & Dwarka?
Discover the spiritual confluence of Gujarat at Somnath and Dwarka, where the divine presence of Lord Shiva and Lord Krishna transforms faith into a living experience. Both tirths form two of India’s most important pilgrimage circuits: the Jyotirlinga Yatra and Char Dham.
Somnath Temple (Jyotirlinga, Prabhas Patan)
Temple Timings & Aarti
| Temple Open | Main Aarti | Light & Sound Show |
|---|---|---|
| 6:00AM – 9:00PM | 7:00AM, 12:00PM, 7:00PM | 8:00PM – 9:00PM |
History
Known as the eternal shrine, Somnath is the first and most ancient Jyotirlinga. Ancient texts reveal that the original temple was built by the Moon God Soma to absolve his curse, and rebuilt successively by Lord Krishna, King Bhimdeva, and others. Repeatedly destroyed by invaders, it was always resurrected, symbolizing the never-ending spirit of Sanatan Dharma. Today’s marble temple, with its breathtaking coastal setting, was inaugurated in 1951 by Dr. Rajendra Prasad.
Importance
Performing darshan and abhishek here is said to grant mukti (salvation) and freedom from the cycles of birth and death. Somnath stands at the ‘Triveni Sangam’—the confluence of the Hiran, Kapila, and Saraswati rivers—making every prayer potent.
Nearby Tirth Places
- Bhalka Tirth – The spot where Lord Krishna departed from earth.
- Triveni Sangam – Ritual bathing site for ancestral peace.
- Gita Mandir and Panch Pandav Gufa – Legends and tranquil settings near the main temple.
Dwarkadhish Temple (Jagat Mandir, Dwarka)
Temple Timings & Aarti
| Morning Darshan | Evening Darshan | Major Aarti |
|---|---|---|
| 6:30AM – 1:00PM | 5:00PM – 9:30PM | 8:00AM, 12:00PM, 5:30PM, 8:00PM |
History
Dwarka is known as the gateway to heaven, where Lord Krishna ruled after leaving Mathura. Established over 2,000 years ago, the temple's present form dates to the 16th–18th centuries but is deeply rooted in Puranic tradition. Archaeologists have discovered submerged remains, supporting the city’s mythic origins.
Importance
Dwarkadhish is one of the Char Dham, the four holy abodes. Devotees say darshan here liberates one from sins and fulfills wishes, especially during Janmashtami and Holi. The town is suffused with Krishna’s presence—from every rangoli-adorned lane to the rhythmic sea breeze.
Nearby Tirth Places
- Bet Dwarka – Krishna’s ancient “home”, accessible by boat.
- Rukmini Devi Temple – 2km from town, associated with Krishna’s consort.
- Nageshwar Jyotirlinga – Famed Shiva temple around 17km away.
- Gopi Talav – A legendary pond with fragrant sand.
How To Plan Your Somnath & Dwarka Tirth Yatra?
- Start at Somnath (nearest airport: Diu or Rajkot; nearest station: Veraval).
- After darshan and visiting local tirths, proceed to Dwarka (231km, 4-5h by road). En route, stop at Porbandar (birthplace of Gandhiji).
- Visit Nageshwar, Bet Dwarka, and take a holy dip at Gomti Ghat in Dwarka.
- Plan your trip for 3–5 days for a complete religious circuit.
Expert Travel Tips for Darshan:
- Arrive early morning or late evening for peaceful darshan.
- Traditional Indian attire is preferred. Footwear, leather goods, mobiles, cameras are not allowed inside sanctum.
- Book darshan passes/facilities online especially during festive seasons (Janmashtami, Mahashivratri).
- Try prasad and attend evening aarti at both shrines for a soul-stirring experience.
- Explore local eateries for authentic Gujarati thali.
Frequently Asked Questions
A: October to March (pleasant weather) and major festivals like Mahashivratri or Janmashtami.
A: It’s possible but extremely rushed. 2–3 days are ideal for meaningful darshan and local sightseeing.
A: Yes, both towns offer plenty of dharamshalas, budget hotels, and premium stays.