Bhadkeshwar Mahadev Temple, Dwarka
Bhadkeshwar Mahadev Temple is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in Dwarka, Gujarat. It is uniquely situated on a small hill surrounded by the Arabian Sea, making it one of the most scenic and spiritually significant temples in Dwarka.
1. History & Significance
The temple houses a self-manifested (Swayambhu) Shivling that is believed to be over 5,000 years old. According to legends, this Shivling was discovered in the Arabian Sea and later enshrined here. Devotees believe that Lord Shiva protects the holy city of Dwarka from natural calamities.
During high tide, the temple gets partially submerged in seawater, and devotees see this as a divine act of Lord Shiva accepting the offerings of the sea.
2. Location & Accessibility
- Location: Near Sunset Point, Dwarka, Gujarat
- Distance from Dwarkadhish Temple: About 1.5 km (5-minute drive)
- Nearest Railway Station: Dwarka Railway Station (3 km)
- Nearest Airport: Jamnagar Airport (130 km)
3.How to Reach
- By Road: Well-connected by buses and taxis from Dwarka and nearby cities.
- By Train: Regular trains to Dwarka from major cities like Ahmedabad, Rajkot, and Mumbai.
- By Air: Jamnagar Airport is the nearest, from where taxis/buses can be taken to Dwarka.
4. Temple Timings
- Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning or evening for a peaceful darshan and scenic beauty.
5. Unique Features of Bhadkeshwar Mahadev Temple
🌊 Submersion During High Tide
- The Arabian Sea engulfs the temple during high tide, and devotees wait until the waters recede to offer prayers.
- This natural event is considered a blessing from Lord Shiva.
🌅 Sunset & Sunrise Views
- The temple is near Sunset Point, offering breathtaking views of the sun setting into the ocean.
- The morning sunrise darshan is equally mesmerizing.
🚩 Annual Shivratri Festival
- Celebrated with great devotion, attracting thousands of devotees.
- Rudrabhishek, special poojas, and night-long bhajans take place.
6. Best Time to Visit
- October to March: Pleasant weather, perfect for temple visits and sightseeing.
- Avoid Monsoon (June-August): The temple may not be accessible during high tides.
7. Nearby Attractions
- Dwarkadhish Temple (2 km) – Main temple of Lord Krishna in Dwarka.
- Rukmini Devi Temple (3 km) – Dedicated to Rukmini, Krishna’s consort.
- Gomti Ghat (2 km) – Holy bathing ghat on the banks of the Gomti River.
- Bet Dwarka (30 km) – An island believed to be Lord Krishna’s kingdom.
- Nageshwar Jyotirlinga (17 km) – One of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva.
8. Tips for Visitors
- Visit during low tide to ensure accessibility.
- Carry extra clothes if planning to get wet due to tides.
- Best time for photography – sunrise or sunset.
- No entry fee, but donations are accepted.
- Respect temple traditions – remove footwear before entering.