Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple

Lord Nageshwar (Shiva)

near Dwarka, Gujarat

Folktale & Sacred Story

One of the temple's core legends tells of a demon named Daaruka who imprisoned a devout Shiva worshipper, Supriya, along with other captives in a forest region then known as Daarukavana. Supriya continued chanting in devotion even in captivity, and her unwavering faith summoned Lord Shiva, who appeared and vanquished Daaruka to free the prisoners. A second, related tradition holds that Shiva and Parvati resided in this forest and granted a boon that any linga established here would forever bear the name 'Nageshwar,' Lord of the Serpents, protecting devotees from poison and venomous harm.

Most Revered Practice

The most revered ritual at Nageshwar is the Rudrabhishek, a ceremonial bathing and worship of the Shiva linga performed in the morning hours, along with the evening Aarti that draws large numbers of pilgrims. Mahashivratri is observed here with particular fervor.

Prasadam & Offerings

Prasadam details not independently verified -- confirm locally.

Temple Speciality

Nageshwar is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Shiva described in the Shiva Purana, and its meaning -- 'Lord of Serpents' -- is tied to its forest legend of protection from poison. The temple grounds are dominated by a giant seated statue of Lord Shiva, cited by tourism sources as roughly 25 metres tall, visible from a considerable distance.

Why Pilgrims Visit

Pilgrims visit Nageshwar to complete the Jyotirlinga circuit and seek protection from poison, illness, and negative influences, a blessing closely associated with this shrine.

History & Legend

One of the twelve Jyotirlingas, associated with a Puranic legend of Shiva protecting a devotee named Supriya from a demon named Daruka; a large modern statue of Shiva marks the approach.

Divine Significance

Believed to grant protection from poison and negative influences, and is a key stop on the wider Dwarka pilgrimage circuit.

Darshan Timings

Generally open for darshan from around 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM, with a midday gap between morning and evening darshan sessions and an evening Aarti around 7:00 PM (please confirm exact timings with the temple before visiting, as they vary by season and festival).

How To Reach

Nearest airport: Jamnagar (~130 km) or Porbandar. Nearest railway station: Dwarka (~17 km).

Where To Stay

Guesthouses near the temple and extensive hotels in nearby Dwarka town.

Local Food Nearby

Nearby Dwarka town offers typical Gujarati vegetarian fare -- thalis, dhokla, khaman, and farsan -- served at pilgrim dharamshalas, guest-house canteens, and local eateries.

Contact & Official Info

Contact Gujarat Tourism.

Location Map

View on Google Maps → (22.3358, 69.0869)