Rukmini Devi Temple

This temple stands about two kilometres from Dwarka and is dedicated to Rukmini, chief queen of Krishna and regarded as a form of Lakshmi. Its origins are claimed to go back to the 5th century BC, while the form seen today is attributed to the 12th century. Local custom holds that a pilgrimage to Dwarka is not complete without praying here.

The outer walls are thickly carved with gods and goddesses, and panels at the base of the tower show rows of human figures and elephants. The sanctum holds a marble Rukmini with four arms bearing conch, discus, mace and lotus. A story from the Skanda Purana explains why she lives apart from Krishna: the sage Durvasa cursed her after she drank Ganges water before offering him any. Devotees still make a water offering, or jal daan, here.