About Rukmini Devi Temple
The Rukmini Devi Temple stands on its own about 2 km north of Dwarka town in Gujarat, away from the main Dwarkadhish temple. It is dedicated to Rukmini, the chief queen of Lord Krishna, who is regarded as a form of Goddess Lakshmi. Local tradition holds that a pilgrimage to Dwarka is not complete until one has visited Rukmini here, so most pilgrims include it in their round of the holy town. The temple is also a protected monument and is admired for its carving.
A legend linked to the Skanda Purana explains why Rukmini's temple stands apart from Krishna's. Krishna and Rukmini are said to have invited the sage Durvasa to their home and pulled his chariot themselves. On the way, Rukmini grew thirsty, and Krishna brought up Ganga water from the ground for her; she drank without first offering water to the sage. Offended, Durvasa cursed her to live apart from her husband. In memory of this story, devotees here offer water (jal daan) as a gift. Historians date the present structure to around the 12th century, though tradition holds that the shrine is far older.
The temple is a compact, east-facing structure on a raised platform, with a tall spire and a small hall. Its outer walls are covered with sculptures of gods, goddesses and celestial figures, and bands of carved elephants and human figures run around the base of the tower. Inside, the sanctum holds a marble image of Rukmini with four arms holding the conch, discus, mace and lotus. The weathered stone and open surroundings make it a quiet contrast to the busy main temple.
Rukmini Devi Temple timings & aarti
Usually open from early morning to evening, with a break in the afternoon at many times of the year. Check locally before visiting.
| Aarti / ritual | Time |
|---|---|
| Morning aarti | Early morning (approx.) |
| Evening aarti | At sunset (approx.) |
Timings change on festivals, eclipses and special days. Please confirm locally before you travel.
How to reach Rukmini Devi Temple
By air
Jamnagar Airport is about 135 km away; Porbandar Airport is about 100 km away.
By train
Dwarka railway station is about 3 km away.
By road
Auto-rickshaws and cabs run from Dwarka town; the temple lies on the road towards Nageshwar and Okha.
Festivals at Rukmini Devi Temple
- HoliFeb/Mar
- JanmashtamiAug/Sep
- DiwaliOct/Nov
Visitor tips
- Dress code
- Modest, traditional clothing is recommended.
- Entry
- Free entry. Devotees may offer a donation for the water offering (jal daan) if they wish.
- Visit it along with Nageshwar and Bet Dwarka, which lie in the same direction from town.
- Listen to the priests' account of the legend, which explains the water-offering custom.
- Midday sun is strong; visit in the morning or late afternoon.
- Photography of the sanctum may be restricted; follow the notices.
Places to visit near Rukmini Devi Temple
- Dwarkadhish TempleMain Krishna temple of Dwarka, about 2 km away
- Gomti GhatBathing ghat where the Gomti meets the sea, about 2 km away
- Nageshwar JyotirlingaJyotirlinga shrine of Shiva, about 15 km away
- Bet DwarkaIsland with Krishna temples, about 30 km away via the Okha bridge
Frequently asked questions
Why is the Rukmini temple away from the Dwarkadhish temple?
Tradition says the sage Durvasa cursed Rukmini to live apart from Krishna after she drank water without offering it to him first.
How far is Rukmini Devi Temple from Dwarka?
It is about 2 km from Dwarka town and the Dwarkadhish temple.
What is jal daan at Rukmini temple?
It is the custom of donating water, recalling the legend of Rukmini's thirst. Devotees offer it as an act of merit.
How old is the Rukmini Devi Temple?
The present structure is usually dated to around the 12th century, while tradition holds the shrine to be much older.
What is the aarti time at Rukmini Devi Temple?
Morning aarti: Early morning (approx.); Evening aarti: At sunset (approx.). Times can change on festivals and special days, so please confirm locally before you go.
What are the Rukmini Devi Temple timings?
Usually open from early morning to evening, with a break in the afternoon at many times of the year. Check locally before visiting.
Is there a dress code at Rukmini Devi Temple?
Modest, traditional clothing is recommended.
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