Located on the route between the holy city of Dwarka and Bet Dwarka in Gujarat, the Nageshwar Jyotirlinga is a powerful shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Here, he is worshipped as Nageshwar – the Lord of Serpents, and the temple is believed to protect devotees from all types of poisons, physical and spiritual.
The Legend & History
The Shiva Purana states that a fierce demon named Daaruka imprisoned a highly devoted Shiva worshipper named Supriya in an underwater city. Supriya taught all the other prisoners to chant the holy mantra “Om Namah Shivaya”. Enraged, the demon rushed to kill Supriya. Instantly, Lord Shiva appeared through a blazing pillar of light, shielding his devotees and defeating the demon. He chose to stay there as a Jyotirlinga to protect the righteous.
Temple Architecture & Unique Features
As you approach the temple, you are greeted by an absolutely massive, breathtaking 25-meter (82-foot) tall statue of Lord Shiva sitting in a meditative posture. This towering idol can be seen from miles away and is one of the most photographed features of the temple.
Unlike most Jyotirlingas, the Lingam here is made of a unique stone called Dwaraka Shila, which contains natural chakra marks. Furthermore, the Lingam faces south, while the main temple entrance faces east, a unique architectural orientation steeped in local legend.
Practical Information for Pilgrims
- Temple Timings: 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM, and 5:00 PM to 9:30 PM.
- Abhishek: Devotees are permitted to perform Jalabhishek (pouring water) directly on the Lingam, though a specific dress code (dhoti) is enforced for men entering the sanctum.
- The Dwarka Circuit: A visit to Nageshwar is almost always combined with a pilgrimage to the nearby Dwarkadhish Temple and a boat ride to Bet Dwarka.
How to Reach Nageshwar Jyotirlinga
- Nearest Airport: Jamnagar Airport (approx. 135 km).
- Nearest Railway Station: Dwarka Railway Station is just 18 km away.
- By Road: The temple is an easy 30-minute drive or auto-rickshaw ride from Dwarka city center.
- Base your stay in Dwarka to explore the entire region. Check the best-rated Dwarka hotels on MakeMyTrip here.
Connect your spiritual trails: Nageshwar is a vital stop on the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva Route, located just outside one of the Saptapuri Holy Cities.