Sunday, April 17, 2016

Beyt Dwarka and Rukmini Mandir, Gujarath

Beyt Dwarka is an island believed to be the original abode  Lord Krishna.
The idol here was worshipped by Rukmani and the temple was established by Sri Vallabhacharya.
This is the place where Krishna met ( Bett) his friend Sudhama and hence came to be  known as Beyt Dwarka.

 One has to take a ferry  from Okha Port Jetty to reach Beyt Dwarka.
Okha port is at a distance of 32 Kms from the main Dwarka city .
The boat ride takes about 20-30 minutes . The enchanting view of the deep blue sea ,picturesque surroundings and company of sea gulls which fly above the boat makes the ride mesmerising.

The temple is situated at a distance 1.5 -2 Kilometers  from the jetty.Main deity is Krishna and there is also a shrine for Krishna and Rukmani.

No electronic gadgets are allowed and there is total ban on using cameras.

Matterns of concern-
No safety  measures are in place for the boat ride. No one to regulate the crowd.
The boat carried 150-200 people and not even a single life jacket in the boat.
Though I enjoyed the ride ,I shudder to think what would happen in case of a mishap.
Authorities must take steps to make the trip a safe one for the devotees.

Rukmani Mandir is situated at a distance of  2 Kms from the Jagat mandir - Dwarkadeesh temple.
The temple dates back to 12th century and is an architectural marvel The temple has richly carvings on the  spire and walls .
 I have included pictures of the boat ride and Sea birds and that of Rukmani Mandir.


                                                                          Rukmani Mandir





Pictures below of Boat ride to Beyt Dwarka.