The epitome of engineering excellence
Venture 56 steps up the small hill, and you will see the Dwarkadhish temple in all its glory. There is a reason why this temple was named Trilok Sundar. When you finally reach, you'll be awe-struck by the grandeur of its towering, five-story edifice, meticulously fashioned from limestone and sand. Resting upon a foundation of 72 pillars, the temple is topped by a magnificent spire soaring to a breathtaking height of 78 meters. At its zenith, a flag dances in the breeze, made from 52 yards of cloth that’s changed five times a day. Notice the flag, and you will spot the sun and the moon on it, which are believed to indicate that Krishna will be here until the sun and moon exist.
Bearing the imprints of the 16th-century Chalukya style of architecture, the temple has intricately carved walls with mythical characters and legends on them, welcoming you through its doors. Speaking of doors, the temple has two of them (entry and exit), which are called ‘dwars’ in Sanskrit. The entry is known as ‘swarg’ (gate to heaven), and the exit is named ‘moksha’ (gate to liberation). Within the sanctum lies the idol of Swarna Dwarkadhish, a resplendent statue of Lord Krishna. Sculpted from black marble, his flute is poised in his hand, adorned with finery and precious jewels that gleam with divine radiance.
Originally built in 200 BCE, the Dwarkadhish Temple has endured both destruction and resurrection through the ages, ultimately achieving its current grandeur that dates to the 16th century.
Steeped in ancient lore
Visiting the Dwarkadhish Temple feels like opening a window into India's mythical past. One such legend talks about how Sage Durvasa once visited Lord Krishna and his wife, Rukmini, and asked them to accompany him to his palace. After a long journey, Rukmini was thirsty and asked Krishna to help. Krishna prodded the ground with his bow, and the river Ganga appeared. But as Rukmini forgot to offer water to the sage, he became furious and cursed Rukmini. This incident is believed to have inspired the construction of the Dwarkadhish Temple.
