Greetings, fellow nomads! I’m Dhriti, a Delhi-born student on a spiritual search, and I’m excited to tell you the magical story of our four-day family trip to Dwarka. Come with me as we explore the centre of this holy city, where stories of Lord Krishna resound with every step we take.
Day 1: The Travels Commence
We set out on our trip with visions of Dwarka dancing through our imaginations throughout our evening train travel from Delhi to Surat. Anticipating an exciting trip, we decided to take a picturesque 12-hour drive to Dwarka after arriving in Surat the following morning.
We saw the breathtaking panoramic beauty of Dwarka’s beaches after making a quick halt at the holy Somnath Temple. The city’s vibrant streets, adorned with traditional attire and the occasional cow, painted a vivid picture of its connection to Lord Krishna.
Our ashram stay that night prepared us for the exploration that lay ahead. As Dwarka was enveloped in golden light at the morning, we embarked upon an exciting day.
Day 2: Darshan and Beyond Dwarkadhish
Awaiting our excited footsteps was the Dwarkadhish Temple, an architectural marvel dedicated to Lord Krishna. As we wandered along the calm Gomti River in the centre of the city, the streets were alive with activity. The Bhadkeshwar Shiva Temple, which offers a stunning view of the ocean meeting the sky, came into view later in the evening.
The banks of the Gomti River became our haven as night fell, a peaceful place to enjoy tea and observe the passing scenery. With every passing moment, Dwarka engraved its spiritual allure more deeply into our spirits.
Day 3: Sacred Traditions and Island Adventures
We began the day with a boat excursion to Bet Dwarka, a tiny island with a close relationship to Lord Krishna. Once we returned to the mainland, we followed the holy custom of offering rice to Lord Krishna, just as Sudama had done.
At the holy home of Lord Shiva, the Nageshwar Temple, we resumed our spiritual trip. The beaches of Dwarka called, promising a cool swim and a leisurely afternoon.
The Dwarkadhish Temple drew nearer as twilight approached, this time for the moving aarti. Our spiritual symphony gained a pleasant note from the street food.
Day 4: The View from Rukmani and Farewell
We started our last day at the Rukmani Temple, which offered a special viewpoint to observe Lord Krishna’s realm. We relished every second of our Dwarka voyage as we retraced our steps to Surat, and our journey came to an end.
Traveller Advice:
- Accommodations: Try one of the many ashrams for a cosy stay, and check out the cheaply priced vegetarian food at the neighborhood eateries.
- Essentials: Bring comfortable clothes, cash, and a power bank. When visiting a temple, clothing should fall to the knees.
- Budget Distribution:
- Train fare of 1500 INR from Delhi to Surat
- 10,000 INR for a car rental from Surat to Dwarka
- Stay at a hotel in Surat: 2000 INR
- The Somnath Temple costs INR 1000.
- Stay at Dwarka Ashram: 1500 INR
- 500 INR for a boat journey to Bet Dwarka
- Temple donations: 1000 INR
- Other costs (meals, local travel): INR 6000
- The dress code: wear clothes that cover the knees, as shorter apparel is not permitted inside the temples.
Dwarka left a lasting impression on our hearts with its pure beaches, spiritual ambiance, and rich history. I encourage every soul to embark on this magical journey, where divinity intertwines with the beauty of life.