Shri Nageshwar Jyotirling, Gujarat
History
The Nageshwar Temple, situated in Dwarka, Gujarat, stands as one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India, revered by devotees of Lord Shiva. Positioned along the route between Gomati Dwarka and Bait Dwarka Island on the Saurashtra coast, it is also known as the Nagnath Temple. The principal deity worshipped here is Lord Shiva, revered as Nageshwar Mahadev. According to the Shiva Purana, seeking blessings at the Nageshwar Jyotirlinga grants liberation from poisons, snakebites, and worldly desires.
Unique among Nageshwar Temples, the Linga or statue at this site faces south. A prominent feature of the Nageshwar Temple is the towering 80-foot-tall statue of Lord Shiva. The temple exhibits traditional Hindu architecture, with the Nageshwar Shiva Linga crafted from Dwarka Shila, a stone adorned with small chakras, resembling a 3 Mukhi Rudraksha.
Significantly, the Nageshwar Jyotirlinga is believed to be the first among the twelve Jyotirlingas in India. Constructed according to the principles of Vaastu Shastra, the temple’s layout mirrors the Sayanam (sleeping) posture of the human body. The festival of Maha Shivaratri is celebrated grandly at the Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, attracting devotees from across the globe to partake in the festivities.
Legend of Nageshwar Jyotirlinga
In the narrative from the Shiva Purana about the Nageshvara Jyotirlinga, a demon named Daruk imprisoned a devotee named Supriya and others in his underwater city of Darukavana. Urged by Supriya, the prisoners chanted the holy mantra of Shiva, prompting Shiva to appear and defeat the demon, subsequently residing there as a Jyotirlinga. Daruk’s wife, Daruka, earned Parvati’s favor through devotion, enabling her to control the forest renamed ‘Darukavana.’ Daruka moved the forest under the sea to evade divine punishment, where they continued their malevolent deeds. Supriya’s arrival sparked a revolution; he set up a lingam and led chants to Shiva, leading to the defeat of Daruka and the demons. The lingam became the Nageshvara Jyotirlinga, with Shiva and Parvati revered as Nageshwar and Kankeshwari, guiding worshippers on the right path.
Architecture of Nageshwar Temple
The Nageshwar Jyotirlinga, built in the western architectural style and adhering to Vaastu Shastra principles, is structured to represent the human body’s Sayanam (sleeping) posture. It comprises five main sections: Mahadwar (feet), serving as the main entrance to the temple; Entrance Porch (hands), positioned between sacred idols of Lord Hanuman and Lord Ganesh symbolizing hands; Sabha Mandapa (abdomen and chest), the primary prayer hall symbolizing the human abdomen and chest with prayer seats; Antarala, the worship place of Nandi, Lord Shiva’s vehicle; and Garbhagriha (head), housing the main Shiva Linga, symbolizing the head in the human body. Remarkably, the temple faces south, while the Gomugam faces east. According to legend, devotee Naamdev’s query about the direction without Lord Shiva’s presence led to the miraculous movement of the Shiva Linga toward the south while the Gomugam remained facing east.
Why is Nageshwar Temple famous?
The Nageshwar Temple is renowned for its imposing idol of Lord Shiva, towering at a height of 125 feet and measuring 25 feet in width. Mentioned in the revered scriptures of the Shiva Purana, this holy temple holds significant spiritual importance. According to the sacred Rudra Samhita, it is believed that the temple possesses the power to protect worshippers from various forms of poison, particularly snake venom. This distinctive feature, along with its mention in ancient texts, enhances the temple’s fame and attracts devotees seeking divine blessings and protection.
How much time it takes for darshan in Nageshwar jyotirlinga?
The time required for darshan (worship) at the Nageshwar Jyotirlinga temple can vary depending on factors such as the crowd size, the individual’s pace, and any special rituals or ceremonies taking place at the time of visit. On average, it may take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour to complete darshan, including the time spent in prayer and offering respects to the deity. However, during peak times or festival seasons, the duration may be longer due to increased footfall and waiting times.
How to Reach Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple?
By Flights:
Nearest Airport: The closest airport to Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple is Jamnagar Airport (IATA: JGA), situated approximately 130 kilometers (80 miles) away. Jamnagar Airport is well-connected to major cities across India.
Transportation Options: Travelers can easily find taxis or cabs at Jamnagar Airport to directly reach Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple. Additionally, private car rental services are available for a more personalized travel experience.
Connecting Flights: In case there are no direct flights to Jamnagar, alternative options include flying to major airports like Ahmedabad Airport (AMD) or Rajkot Airport (RAJ), both of which are well-connected to various cities in India.
Distance from Ahmedabad Airport: Approximately 440 kilometers (273 miles) from Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple.
Distance from Rajkot Airport: Approximately 283 kilometers (175 miles) from Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple.
By Trains:
Nearest Railway Station: Dwarka Railway Station (Code: DWK) serves as the closest railway station to Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, located about 18 kilometers (11 miles) away. Dwarka Railway Station has good connectivity with major cities in India.
Transportation Options: Auto rickshaws and taxis are readily available outside Dwarka Railway Station for travelers to reach Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple. Alternatively, public buses operate at regular intervals between the station and the temple.
From Other Major Railway Stations: If direct trains to Dwarka are not available, travelers can opt for trains to major railway stations such as Ahmedabad Railway Station or Rajkot Railway Station and then proceed to Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple by road.
Distance from Ahmedabad Railway Station: Approximately 440 kilometers (273 miles) from Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple.
Distance from Rajkot Railway Station: Approximately 283 kilometers (175 miles) from Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple.
By Buses:
State Transport Buses: Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation (GSRTC) operates buses connecting various cities in Gujarat, including Dwarka. Travelers can take a bus to Dwarka and then proceed to Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple.
Distance from Ahmedabad: Approximately 440 kilometers (273 miles) from Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple.
Distance from Rajkot: Approximately 283 kilometers (175 miles) from Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple.
Private Buses: Additionally, private bus operators offer services to Dwarka from major cities, providing a comfortable journey for pilgrims visiting Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple.
Best Time to Visit Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple?
The optimal period to visit Nageshwar Jyotirlinga is during the winter season, spanning from October to February. During these months, the weather remains pleasant, alleviating any discomfort caused by heat while waiting in queues to catch a glimpse of the revered Shiva Linga.
For those unfazed by large crowds, visiting Nageshwar temple during the Maha Shivaratri festival offers an unparalleled experience. This auspicious occasion brings forth a vibrant and deeply spiritual atmosphere, allowing visitors to immerse themselves fully in the festive ambiance of the temple.
What are the timings of Nageshwar Temple?
| Activity | From | To |
| Darshan | 6:00 AM | 12:30 PM |
| Abhishekam | 6:00 AM | 12:30 PM |
| Morning Aarti | 5:30 AM | – |
| Afternoon Aarti | 12:00 PM | – |
| Evening Aarti | 7:00 PM | – |
| Shringaar | 5:00 PM | 9:30 PM |
Best Hoteles in Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple
Shree Giriraj Farm
- Address-Kalyanpur, Dwarka, Gujarat 361335
- Phone-097666 18461
- Check-in time: 11:00
- Check-out time: 10:00
| Category | Facilities |
| Popular amenities | |
| Parking | Free |
| Breakfast | Free |
| Air conditioning | |
| Fitness centre | |
| Internet | No Wi-Fi |
| Policies & payments | |
| Credit cards | |
| Debit cards | |
| Cash | |
| Parking & transport | |
| Parking | Free |
| Wellness | |
| Fitness centre | Extra charge |
| Treadmill | |
| Weight machines | |
| Free weights | |
| No spa | |
| Rooms | |
| Air conditioning | |
| Coffee maker | |
| Food and drink | |
| Breakfast | Free |
| Services | |
| Front desk | 24-hour |
| Full-service laundry | |
| Pools | |
| No pools | |
| No hot tub | |
| Accessibility | |
| Accessible parking | |
| Pets | |
| Pet-friendly | |
| Free | |
| Dogs allowed | |
| Bathrooms | |
| Private bathroom | |
| Shower |
Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham Dwarka
- Address-BARADIA, ROAD, Dwarka, Gujarat 361335
- Phone-02892 674 444
- Check-in time: 14:00
- Check-out time: 12:00
| Category | Facilities |
| Popular amenities | |
| Spa | |
| Pool | Outdoor pool |
| Wi-Fi | Free |
| Parking | Free |
| Internet | Wi-Fi (Free) |
| Wi-Fi in public areas | Public Internet workstation |
| Policies & payments | |
| Smoke-free property | |
| Credit cards | Accepted |
| Debit cards | Accepted |
| NFC mobile payments | |
| Cash | Accepted |
| Services | |
| Front desk | Available (24-hour) |
| Baggage storage | |
| Concierge | |
| Full-service laundry | |
| Lift | |
| Wake up calls | |
| Housekeeping | Daily |
| Parking & transport | |
| Parking | Free (Self parking, Valet parking) |
| Airport shuttle | Available (Extra charge) |
| Private car service | Available (Extra charge) |
| Car rental onsite | |
| Local shuttle | |
| Accessibility | |
| Accessible | |
| Accessible parking | |
| Pets | Not allowed |
| Languages spoken | English, Hindi |
| Bathrooms | |
| Private bathroom | |
| Shower | |
| Food and drink | |
| Restaurant | |
| Table service | |
| Buffet dinner | |
| Room service | Available (24-hour) |
| Breakfast | Available (Extra charge, Breakfast buffet) |
| Activities | |
| Bicycle hire | Free |
| Games room | |
| Children | Child-friendly, Activities for kids, Kids’ club |
| Pools | |
| Pool | Outdoor pool |
| Wellness | |
| Fitness centre | Available (Free, Elliptical machine, Treadmill, Weight machines, Free weights) |
| Massage | Available (Sauna, Spa) |
| Doctor on call | |
| Business & events | |
| Business centre | |
| Meeting rooms | |
| Rooms | |
| Air conditioning | Available |
| Microwave in some rooms | |
| Minibar | |
| Sustainability | |
| Energy efficiency | Energy conservation programme, Energy from carbon-free sources, Energy-efficient lighting, Energy-saving thermostats |
| Waste reduction | Recycling programme, Food waste reduction programme, Composts excess food, Safely handles hazardous substances, Safely disposes of electronics, batteries and lightbulbs |
| Water conservation | Water-efficient taps, toilets and showers, Towel and linen reuse programme |
| Sustainable sourcing | Responsible purchasing policy, Organic food and beverages, Locally sourced food and beverages, Responsibly sourced seafood, Organic cage-free eggs, Vegetarian and vegan meals, Eco-friendly toiletries |
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