Beyt Dwarka: A Tale of Krishna and Sudamas friendship

Beyt Dwarka, also known as Shakodhar, is an island renowned for being a large source of conch (शंख). Beyt Dwarka was the living abode of Lord Krishna during his ruling period in Dwarka.

Once, Sudama, Krishna's childhood friend, visited him amidst the severe poverty he was enduring. Sudama's wife, Susheela, urged him to seek help from Lord Krishna, given their close friendship. As a token of goodwill, she handed him a bag of rice. Upon arriving, Sudama asked the servant to convey his visit, and upon hearing the news, Krishna eagerly rushed to welcome his dear friend.

Krishna took great care of him, treating with a sumptuous meal, and Sudama stayed overnight. Sudama offered the rice he had brought for Krishna, who graciously accepted and, with affection, began consuming the humble meal. With each handful of rice, Krishna was moved by Sudama's poverty and offered him opulence. Rukmini, Krishna's queen, intervened questioning whether he intend to give away everything to his friend, leaving nothing for them.

The next day, as Sudama prepared to leave, he anticipated Krishna's gesture in return for the gift. However, Krishna did not offer anything. Disappointed, Sudama expressed his feelings on the journey back home. To his astonishment, upon reaching Porbandar (Home of Sudama), he found his modest hut transformed into a palace, beautiful clothes & jewels, the storage filled with grains and pulses.

It is believed that when a pilgrim is visiting the holy abode they should offer rice to Dwarkadhish.

How to reach?

Beyt Dwarka is situated 2 KM's off the coast from Okha town. Drive from Dwarka to Okha Takes 1 hour to reach, 30 KM's. After reaching, there are two ways to reach Beyt Dwarka:

1. Take a ferry ride from Okha port to Beyt Dwarka which takes 15-20 Minute and costs Rs. 20PP for 2 way ride. Sailing in the Arabian is dreamy, and witness the most astonishing view of the sea.

Photo of Beyt Dwarka: A Tale of Krishna and Sudama's friendship by Priyal

2. Sudarshan Setu, a cable-stayed bridge of 2.3 KM's, inaugurated on 25 Feb, 2024. Pilgrims can either walk or cycle or drive to reach Beyt Dwarka.

Beyt Dwarka timings are from 9 AM to 1 PM and 3 PM to 6 PM. It is recommended to reach the temple atleast an hour before the closing time during peak season from November to February. It is highly crowded with long queues.

The temple premises doesn't allow bags, wallets, food items, Leather and mobile phone. They offer free locker service where pilgrims has to submit their belongings.

Beside the holy abode, few more attractions to visit are, Sone ki Dwarka Pawan Dham, Hanuman Dandi Beach & few small temples.