What’s the first place that comes to mind whenever you plan a summer getaway? Most probably, it’s either Goa or, if you’re thinking outside of India, the Maldives. But, there is a place that remains relatively unexplored, offering the pure vibes of Goa on a smaller budget and with fewer crowds: Dwarka. Yes, you read that right. Apart from its temples and spiritual places, Dwarka now boasts a stunning blue water paradise known as Shivrajpur Beach.
In this article, I will cover everything you need to know about this hidden gem to make your visit unforgettable. Having visited this place numerous times, I can recommend what to do, how to do it, and when to do it. Let’s start exploring one of the most beautiful beaches in Asia.
1. What makes Shivrajpur Beach special?
It was only after the 2020 pandemic that Shivrajpur Beach came into the limelight. Tourists began flocking to this destination, and it quickly became one of the trendiest and most visited places in Gujarat. The beach is named after the village of Shivrajpur, located just a short 10 km drive from Dwarka. Until recently, Dwarka was primarily known for its holy temple and nearby spiritual locations, being one of the four sacred temples for Hindus. Shivrajpur Beach became a favorite spot for children after it went viral during the COVID lockdown in India, leading many to include it in their travel itineraries.
One significant advantage of visiting this beach is that it’s not like Goa, where not all family members might feel comfortable in beach attire and playing in the waves. Situated in such a divine location, Shivrajpur Beach is part of Dwarka, a place many families want to visit for its holy sites. Parents are more likely to agree to their child’s request to visit this beach because Dwarka offers numerous spiritual sites for elders, while children can enjoy their afternoons on the beach.
I hope this gives you a glimpse of why families love to visit this place. Now, let’s delve deeper and explore the reasons that make Shivrajpur Beach stand out from other beaches in India, and even Asia.
Easy to Reach :
One of the most compelling reasons to visit Shivrajpur Beach is its easy accessibility. You don’t need extensive planning or a large budget to explore this beautiful destination. People from Mumbai, Delhi, and Rajasthan can easily travel to Gujarat and plan a trip to Dwarka. Naturally, if you are visiting Dwarka, you will have the opportunity to explore the Shivrajpur beach as well.
For those living within Gujarat, it’s even simpler—just step out of your home, and you’re good to go.
Less Crowd, Less Explored
Compared to other beaches in India, Shivrajpur Beach is less crowded, allowing you to spend peaceful and quality time with your loved ones. As I mentioned earlier, it is still relatively unexplored, which is an advantage for those looking to enjoy the tranquility. Shivrajpur Beach offers a variety of rides for all ages, so you don’t have to be a kid to enjoy them—just hop on and have fun with the waves.
I highly recommend avoiding weekends (Saturday and Sunday) as you may encounter more locals, which could impact your experience. Instead, visit the beach early in the morning after your rituals in Dwarka and enjoy until the afternoon. This way, you can also explore other beaches and sights in Dwarka, ensuring you don’t miss anything.
Crystal Clear and Blue Water:
I don’t know how many of you will notice this thing and take time to appreciate it, and that’s totally fine because everyone is so busy to enjoy and experience different things on beach. However, its one of the important thing to add for this beach. Shivrajpur beach is certified ‘” 2nd Blue Flag beach of Asia “ after the one of the famous beach of Goa, its 2nd blue-water beach of Asia. You can see many small fish swimming because the water is so clear—you can literally see beneath the surface from above.
There are plenty of solid reasons to convince you to visit this blue paradise of the Arabian Sea in the divine place of Dwarka. I have so much more to share about this destination, so without further ado, let’s put on our life jackets and dive into the adventure awaiting us.
2. Things to do at Shivrajpur Beach:
Shivrajpur Beach offers more than you might expect from a typical beach. From thrilling water sports to night camping, it has everything you need for an unforgettable experience. Instead of listing each activity in detail, I’ll focus on sharing the most important highlights that will ensure you have the ultimate fun.
Have you ever tried parasailing or a banana boat ride at a beach? If not, don’t worry—this is your chance to enjoy these exciting activities here. Let’s uncover just how much fun you can actually have at Shivrajpur Beach
1. Swimming:
Ah dude, you can’t leave Dwarka without taking a refreshing swim and soaking up some sun at Shivrajpur Beach. This beach, with one of the longest coastlines in India, offers a truly aesthetic experience. Don’t be shy—take a deep breath and jump into the sea. You’ll thank yourself later for this decision. Swimming at Shivrajpur Beach is a must-do activity, and you should start your day here with a short swim.
2. Parasailing:
If you’re not familiar with parasailing, let me explain. It’s similar to paragliding, but instead of jumping off a cliff, you’ll be towed by a boat or a 4×4 vehicle on the sand while you fly high in the sky with your parachute. Parasailing at Shivrajpur Beach is one of the coolest activities you can experience.
3. Grab a yummy Maggie
Done with swimming and parasailing? Now,it’s time to satisfy your hunger with some delicious Maggie. We all know that Maggie tastes different and better at beaches and mountains. There are plenty of vendors on the beach offering noodles and other instant food options.
Make sure to have a good breakfast before heading to the beach, as there aren’t many proper food and stay options nearby since the area is still developing.
4. Scuba Diving:
Scuba diving is a must-try activity at Shivrajpur Beach, offering a chance to explore the underwater life of the Arabian Sea. I highly recommend planning this in advance and dedicating at least an afternoon to this unforgettable experience.
You can book your slot at the beach, where there are camps and instructors available to guide you.
5. Night-camping at beach:
Have you ever spent a night under a sky full of stars, with the sound of waves and a bonfire beside you? Shivrajpur Beach offers this magical experience. However, the beach management doesn’t allow you to set up your own camp or stay on the beach after 7 PM unless you have a booking for night camping.
They have limited camps and space, so make sure to book in advance if you want to enjoy this unique experience. If you have extra time, night camping at Shivrajpur Beach is one of the best things to do.
These are some essential and must-do activities at Shivrajpur Beach. In addition to these, there are plenty of other rides and experiences to enjoy, such as the Banana Ride, Water Blast, and Camel Ride. Plan your day in advance and make the most of your visit by experiencing as many activities as possible.
3. Best Time to Visit Shivrajpur Beach
I know, the best time to plan a beach trip is usually during the summer. However, in Dwarka, you need to be mindful of a few things. The summer weather is moderate and bearable for locals, but it might not be for you, as temperatures can rise to 40-42 degrees Celsius. I suggest visiting this place between January and April, as summer is not at its peak during these months and it’s almost time to say goodbye to winter.
Make sure not to plan your itinerary during the rainy season, as it’s not safe. Gujarat Tourism keeps Shivrajpur Beach closed between July and August every year for this reason. It’s not just about Shivrajpur Beach; you should avoid planning a trip to Dwarka during the monsoon if possible, as the sea and its waves are at peak levels and it can be dangerous to be around these places.
4. Nearby Tourist Places to Explore:
I am assuming that you are done with Shivrajpur beach. Now its time, to explore the surroundings and cultural side of Dwarka. Dwarka is a place steeped in history and natural beauty, offering much more beyond its stunning beaches. Besides Shivrajpur Beach, Dwarka boasts a treasure trove of attractions that cater to everyone, from children to the elderly. Highlights include the Ghomati River, Sudama-Setu Bridge, and numerous other captivating sights. Let’s delve into some truly remarkable places in Dwarka that are definitely worth your visit.
Dwarkadhish Temple
Dwarkadhish Temple stands as a revered symbol in Hindu mythology, serving as the focal point of Dwarka. The city derives its name from this temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, known as the Dwarkadhish Temple. This magnificent five-storied edifice, also called Jagat Mandir or Nija Mandir, boasts an impressive structure supported by 72 pillars. Archaeological excavations trace its origins back to at least 200 BCE, highlighting its profound historical significance.
Dwarka is revered as the hometown and divine abode of Lord Krishna, drawing devotees from across India who come to witness the temple’s rituals and participate in the sacred Aarti ceremonies daily.
Bet Dwarka Island
Located a short drive from Dwarka city center, Bet Dwarka is a revered group of islands steeped in Hindu mythology. What adds to its allure is the boat ride to the main island, a scenic journey lasting approximately 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, you can now access it by your own vehicle, thanks to the Sudarshan Setu (also known as Signature Bridge), recently inaugurated to connect the entry gate of Bet Dwarka to the main island.
Upon arrival, local auto-rickshaws are available for convenient transportation around the island. Highlights include visits to the Hanuman Dandi Temple, Dwarkadhish Temple, Haji Kirmani Dargah, and the popular Okha Beach, known for its serene ambience. For those seeking a unique experience, night camping options are also available here.
Bhadkeshwar Mahadev Temple
Bhadkeshwar Mahadev Temple is a sacred and highly revered place in the heart of Dwarka. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this divine temple attracts a large number of visitors daily. Situated in the middle of the Arabian Sea, the temple offers a mesmerizing view of the sea and its surroundings.
Please ensure the safety of yourselves and especially children when taking pictures or exploring around the temple, as it is located amidst the sea.
Light House
What better way to conclude your day than by enjoying an evening at the Dwarka Lighthouse, watching a stunning sunset? While visiting hours are limited, the area around the lighthouse, known as the “Streets of Gayatri Mandir,” provides a perfect spot to sit back, relax, and witness the sunset with a hot cup of chai. Isn’t it a dreamy experience?
Well, these are some of my favorite tourist attractions worth visiting in Dwarka. While this list isn’t exhaustive, if you’re eager to explore more, here’s a comprehensive list of places to visit in Dwarka.
5. How to Reach Shivrajpur Beach
Reaching Shivrajpur beach is not so difficult, every mode of transport is possible to reach the Dwarka. Let’s talk in bit more details:
By Air:
The nearest airport is Jamnagar, although it may NOT have flights from all domestic locations. If you plan to travel by air, consider Ahmedabad as the nearest major airport. From Ahmedabad, you can reach Dwarka by bus or train, which is approximately an 8-9 hour journey. Alternatively, you can hire a private taxi for more convenience.
By Rail:
Traveling to Dwarka by train is the most convenient and efficient option, often faster than flights because Dwarka has its own direct railway station. Almost all major trains pass through Dwarka. I recommend traveling in 1st Tier AC Class on any train for a comfortable and swift journey compared to flying to Ahmedabad.
By Road:
Traveling by road in your own vehicle or car is also a viable option as Gujarat has well-connected and maintained roads. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition and properly maintained, especially for long journeys to Dwarka.
6. Practical Tips for Your Trip to Shivrajpur Beach
You folks, have shown great interest in this section where I share straightforward and essential tips. Its always changing depending on various factors, anyway, let me give you some crucial and on point tips, as I have visited this place so many times.
1. Avoid Restricted Areas:
While Dwarka is a great place to visit, it’s important to respect boundaries and avoid restricted areas such as military bases and the area around Sudama Setu bridge. Standing too close to sea waves or boundaries can be risky and potentially life-threatening.
2. Book Your Stay in Advance:
It’s advisable to book your accommodation before arriving in the city, as prices can fluctuate depending on weather conditions and pilgrimage numbers. Booking online ensures a safe and hassle-free experience without the need to visit hotels in person.
3. Start Your Day Early:
Dwarka is a heritage-rich city, and starting your day early offers the advantage of covering more places. Begin with the morning aarti at Dwarkadhish temple followed by breakfast nearby. You can explore the city on foot as it’s compact and manageable to cover everything within 2-3 hours without needing an auto or cab.
4. Carry an Extra Pair of Chappals/Slippers:
It may seem basic, but it’s often overlooked. Carrying an extra pair of lightweight footwear like chappals or sliders can be highly beneficial, especially at places like Shivrajpur beach where walking in heavy shoes on sand can be uncomfortable and irritating when sand gets into your socks.
These essential tips are meant to help you relax and simplify your trip, without any strict rules to follow
Conclusion:
So folks, that was something unique to share with you all. I’m really eager to hear your thoughts about Shivrajpur beach. Are you planning to visit this place soon, or opting for Goa again this year? Whatever your choice, let me know in the comments below. Happy travels!
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