Bhadkeshwar Mahadev Temple
Bhadkeshwar Mahadev Temple is an ancient Shiva temple in Dwarka, Gujarat. It is one of the most enchanting Shiva temples in Dwarka and among the major tourist places in Dwarka.
Built on a small hillock on the Arabian Sea, the Bhadkeshwar Temple is dedicated to Chandra- Moulishwar Shiva. This temple enshrines a Shivalinga in the sanctum which was found at the confluence of Gomati, Ganga and Arabian Sea by the Jagadguru Shankaracharya himself. This revered temple is situated near Geeta Mandir and Rukmini Temple. In addition, there are 1200 Saligramshilas, 1300 Shiva Lingas, metal forms of 75 Shankaracharyas in the temple premises.
There is a unique legend associated with the temple. It mentions the abhisheka of the Shivalinga done by the sea itself. Each year in June/July, there comes a day when the Arabian Sea slowly rises and enters the temple. For a shorter period of time, the whole temple submerges in the water till the abhisheka of the Shivalinga is done. After the prayers by the sea, it returns back to its normal stage.
Due to the narrow size of garbh-grah, it is possible to find limited devotees for Jalabhishek.Worship in the temple is being carried out by priests over generations.
A fair takes place here on the day of Mahashivratri and thousands of devotees throng to pay respect to Lord Shiva.