Nageshwar Jyotirlinga, located in Dwarka, Gujarat, is one of the 12 sacred Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. It holds immense religious significance for Hindus as it is believed to be the first Jyotirlinga on earth. According to Hindu mythology, the lingam at Nageshwar is known to protect devotees from all poisons and hence is also called 'Nageshwar Mahadev'. It is a revered pilgrimage site, attracting thousands of devotees year-round to seek blessings and offer prayers.
Nageshwar Jyotirlinga is situated approximately 18 km from Dwarka, in the state of Gujarat, India. Visitors can reach Dwarka by train, with the nearest railway station being Dwarka Railway Station. By air, the nearest airport is Jamnagar Airport which is about 137 km away. From Dwarka, one can hire taxis or take local buses to reach Nageshwar Jyotirlinga.
The best time to visit Nageshwar Jyotirlinga is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and conducive for sightseeing and temple visits. Winters in Gujarat are mild and enjoyable, making it an ideal time for tourists to explore the area.
No, there is no entry fee to visit Nageshwar Jyotirlinga. However, visitors may opt for special poojas or rituals which may have charges associated with them.
Nageshwar Jyotirlinga usually opens to devotees from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM. However, timings might vary on special occasions and festivals, so it's advisable to check the latest timings before planning your visit.
Tourist facilities at Nageshwar Jyotirlinga include basic amenities like drinking water, shops selling religious paraphernalia, and small eateries. There are also accommodations available in nearby Dwarka, which range from budget to luxury for overnight stays.
Yes, various Hindu festivals are celebrated with great fervor at Nageshwar Jyotirlinga. Maha Shivaratri is the most important festival, witnessing a large congregation of devotees. Festivals like Janmashtami, Navratri, and Diwali are also celebrated with enthusiasm.
Nearby tourist attractions include the ancient city of Dwarka, renowned for Dwarkadhish Temple (also known as Jagat Mandir), Rukmini Devi Temple, Gopi Talav, and Bet Dwarka Island. The Dwarka lighthouse and the scenic Dwarka beach are also popular spots among tourists.
Photography inside the main temple premise is usually not allowed to preserve the sanctity of the site and to avoid disturbance during the worship. However, visitors may take photos outside the temple and in the surrounding complex.
Visitors to Nageshwar Jyotirlinga are advised to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, out of respect for the religious nature of the site. It is also expected to remove footwear before entering the temple premises. Silence and decorum should be maintained inside the temple to not disrupt the peaceful ambiance.
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