Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple

One of India’s twelve Jyotirlingas is the Nageshwar Temple, which is located in Dwarka. It is situated on the Gujarati coast of Saurashtra, halfway between Gomati Dwarka and Bait Dwarka Island. The primary deity here is Lord Shiva, often referred to as Nageshwar Mahadev, and is occasionally referred to as Nagnath Temple. Those who pray at the Nageshwar Jyotirlinga become free from all poisons, snake bites, and worldly attractions, according to the Shiva Purana.

In contrast to other Nageshwar Temples, this one has a statue of the Linga facing south. The enormous 80-foot-tall statue of Lord Shiva is one of the main attractions of the Nageshwar Temple. Hindu architecture is characteristic to the temple itself. The Dwarka Shila stone, which is used to make the Nageshwar Shiva Linga, has tiny chakras all around it. It resembles a three-mukhi Rudraksha.

Because it is thought to be the first of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India, Nageshwar Jyotirlinga is significant. The temple’s design is based on the Sayanam (sleeping) position of the human body, according to Vaastu Shastra. The Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple hosts a lavish celebration on the occasion of Maha Shivaratri, which attracts throngs of devotees from all over the world.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

October through February is the best time of year to see the Jyotirlinga at Nageshwar. The nice weather in these months guarantees that pilgrims will not have too much trouble in the heat while waiting in sometimes very lengthy lines to see the Shiva Linga.

The most joyful and spiritual atmosphere of the Nageshwar temple can be experienced during the Maha Shivaratri festival, for those who don’t mind large crowds.

Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple Timings or Schedule

Devotees of the Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple arrange their visits in accordance with the set timetable, which is strictly adhered to. The temple typically opens early in the morning, stays open all day, and closes in the evening. On holidays, during religious events, and on special occasions, the precise times may change.

Darshan: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Shringar Darshan: 4:00 PM – 4:30 PM
Shayan Aarti: 7 PM – 7:30 PM
Aarti Nightly: 9.00 PM – 9:30 PM

Festivals and Special Events

Festivals and other significant occasions bring the Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple to life and draw a greater number of pilgrims. Major celebrations held at the temple include Kartik Purnima, Mahashivaratri, and Shravan Mas, which is the holy month devoted to Lord Shiva.

Mahashivaratri: For those who are devoted to Lord Shiva, this festival is very important. On Mahashivaratri, the temple hosts a remarkable influx of pilgrims who fast, pray nonstop through the night, and take part in rites conducted by the temple priests.

Kartik Purnima: Honoring Lord Shiva, this festival is observed on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Kartik. After receiving the blessings of Nageshwar Jyotirlinga, pilgrims visit the temple after taking a sacred plunge in the neighboring Gomti River.

Shravan Mas: The whole month of Shravan is lucky for worshiping Lord Shiva. In order to obtain Lord Shiva’s heavenly grace, devotees go to temples, keep fasts, pray, and meditate. During this holy month, there is a spike in pilgrim activity at the temple.

ATTRACTIONS

Dwrkadhish Temple: Vajranabh, the great-grandson of Lord Krishna, is thought to have founded the Dwarkadhish Temple (Jagat Mandir) more than 2500 years ago. Numerous renovations have been made to the ancient temple, with the 16th and 19th centuries leaving their mark in particular. The temple has elaborately carved walls that enclose the sanctum containing the primary Krishna deity, and it is perched on a tiny hill that is reachable by more than fifty steps. There are many little shrines scattered over the complex. Mythical figures and traditions are deftly etched on the walls. A 52-yard-long flag, which flutters in the gentle Arabian Sea breeze behind the temple, atop the majestic 43-meter-tall tower. The temple has two doorways (swarg and moksh) for entry and egress. An

Rukmini Devi Temple: Situated somewhat in the periphery, the Rukmini Mata Temple honors the queen of Lord Krishna. Although the temple may have undergone reconstructions throughout time, its estimated age is approximately 2500 years. The current temple is thought to date from the twelfth century. Though its architecture and sculptures are far more subdued than those of Dwarkadhish, it yet arouses the same intense devotion. The sanctum contains the primary Rukmini statue, while the exteriors are adorned with carvings of gods and goddesses. The panels at the platform’s base are decorated with carved images of gajatharas (elephants) and naratharas (human figures).

Beyt Dwarka: The eponymous temple is located on a small island off the shore of Dwarka, which is reachable by Okha. It is said that Lord Krishna lived here when he first came. Guru Vallabhacharya is credited with the temple’s founding. Other temples in the complex honor Hanuman, Vishnu, Shiva, Lakshmi Narayan, Jambavati, Devi, and other deities in addition to the main temple.

Where to Stay

Travelers and devotees who intend to visit the Nageshwar Jyotirlinga have access to a variety of hotels, guest rooms, and dharamshalas.

HOW TO REACH

On the Gujarati coast of Saurashtra, the Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple is situated along the path that connects Gomati Dwarka and Bait Dwarka Island. To get to the temple, take a train or plane to Dwarka first.

By Flight

Jamnagar, about 137 kilometers distant, is home to the closest airport to Dwarka. Regular flights connect Mumbai and the Jamnagar Airport. It is possible to take a taxi from the airport to Dwarka; the fare is usually around INR 2000.

By Train

Regular daily trains travel from Dwarka railway station to many locations across the nation.

By Road

About 18 km, or a 25-minute journey, separate Nageshwar from Dwarka. From Dwarka, autorickshaws are easily accessible and cost between INR 300 and 400 each trip. Taxis are also easily accessible and run about INR 800-1200 for a round trip.