Rukmini Temple, Dwarka - Timings, Festivals, History, Darshan, Pooja Timings

About Rukmini Temple

At a distance of 5 Km from Dwarka Railway Station, the Rukmini Devi Temple is an ancient Hindu shrine located in the town of Dwarka, Gujarat. Positioned along the Dwarka-Okha Highway, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Rukmini, who is revered as Lord Krishna's principal queen, cherished consort, and the embodiment of Devi Mahalakshmi during the Dwapara Yuga. The temple is one of the important places to visit as part of the Dwarka family packages. The pilgrimage to Dwarka is believed to be incomplete without a visit to Rukmini Maharani for darshan. Additionally, the temple is recognized for its jal daan (water offering) practice, where devotees are encouraged to contribute water to the temple.

History of Rukmini Temple

The Rukmini Temple is situated outside the main city limits of Dwarka likely in an area that was once forested. This temple is believed to be over 2500 years old; however, its domed mandapa and stepped sanctuary date back to the 12th century, possibly around the same time as the Dwarkadhish Temple. Although it is significantly simpler in design and ornamentation compared to the Dwarkadhish Temple, it evokes a similar sense of devotion.

Mythology of Rukmini Temple

Rukmini Devi Temple is situated 3 Km away from the main Dwarkadhish Temple on the banks of Bhagirathi River. According to the legend, once Lord Krishna and his wife Rukmini went to the sage Durvasa, known for his fiery temper, to invite him for dinner at Dwarka. He agreed on the condition that Krishna & Rukmini would have to pull his chariot instead of any animal. While pulling the chariot, Rukmini became thirsty so Lord Krishna struck the earth with his foot and Ganga gushed forth. Rukmini took a sip without offering Durvasa. Annoyed by her impoliteness he cursed Rukmini that she would be separated from her beloved husband. Hence Rukmini temple is situated away from Jagat Mandir, or Dwarkadhish Temple.

Architecture of Rukmini Temple

The Rukmini Temple located in Dwarka exemplifies the Nagara architectural style, distinguished by its tall, vertical Shikhara. The temple's exterior features elaborate carvings and sculptures of deities, showcasing the exceptional skills of ancient craftsmen. At the base of the impressive structure, panels depict intricately carved naratharas (human figures) and gajatharas (elephants), enhancing its charm. The mandapa, a hall supported by pillars, boasts a domed roof and square latticed windows, which is an unusual characteristic for the Nagara style.

Inside the sanctum, there is a stunning marble idol of Devi Rukmani, depicted with four arms holding a Shanka, Chakra, Gada, and Padma. The goddess is honored as Raj Rajeshwari. A distinctive practice at the Rukmini Devi temple is the jal daan, or water donation, which holds significant spiritual meaning. Visitors are invited to contribute water to the temple as a sacred gesture, and the temple subsequently offers the water as prasad after it has been presented to the deity.

Festivals of Rukmini Temple

Janmashtami is the most important festival celebrated at Rukmini Temple held in August/September every year during which thousands of devotees throng to this temple in order to witness the grand festivities. Rukmini Ashtami, Rukmini Vivah, Holi and Navratri, celebrated for nine nights, are the other significant festivals celebrated at the temple.

Rukmini Temple Dress Code & Other Restrictions

Although the Rukmini Temple in Dwarka does not enforce a strict dress code, it is advisable to wear modest attire that covers the upper arms and legs as a mark of respect. Men are suggested to don a dhoti or pajama with an upper garment, or alternatively, formal trousers and shirts. Women may choose to wear a saree, half saree, or chudidhars. It is recommended to avoid modern clothing such as mini-skirts, shorts, and sleeveless tops while visiting the temple.

Non-Hindus are generally permitted to visit the Rukmini Devi Temple in Dwarka. They may enter and pay their respects to the goddess.

Rukmini Temple Timings

Monday: 6 AM - 12 PM & 1 PM - 8 PM
Tuesday: 6 AM - 12 PM & 1 PM - 8 PM
Wednesday: 6 AM - 12 PM & 1 PM - 8 PM
Thursday: 6 AM - 12 PM & 1 PM - 8 PM
Friday: 6 AM - 12 PM & 1 PM - 8 PM
Saturday: 6 AM - 12 PM & 1 PM - 8 PM
Sunday: 6 AM - 12 PM & 1 PM - 8 PM

Rukmini Temple Entry Fee

Entry is Free

Best Time to Visit Rukmini Temple

The optimal period for visiting Rukmini Temple is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant, and ideal for sightseeing. If you specifically want to participate in the grand festivities of the Janmashtami festival, visiting the temple during August and September will be eventful. The entire town comes alive during this time and thousands of people visit the temple and participate in the festivities. Conversely, the summer months from April to June can be quite severe due to elevated temperatures, while the monsoon season from July to September is characterized by heavy rainfall and strong winds, which may not be conducive for travel.

How to Reach Rukmini Temple

Jamnagar Airport is the nearest airport which is about 126 Km from Dwarka and has direct flights from Mumbai. Dwarka Railway Station is well connected by trains with Okha, Tuticorin, Guwahati, Gorakhpur, Rajkot, Ahmedabad, Somnath, Allahabad, Varanasi, Puri, Rameswaram, Jaipur, Bhavnagar, Kochi, Howrah, Nathdwara, and Viramgam. Dwarka has well road connectivity with Rajkot, Ahmedabad, Amreli, Porbandar, Somnath, Gandhidham, Bhuj, Gandhinagar, Baroda, Bhavnagar, Surat, Jamnagar, and Junagadh. From these places, one can reach Rukmini Temple by taking a bus, or by hiring a cab or an auto-rickshaw.