Bet Dwarka: Following the construction of ‘Sudarshan Setu’ in Bet Dwarka, the number of pilgrims has increased significantly. Given the religious and mythological significance of Bet Dwarka, the Gujarat Tourism Corporation has prepared a master plan to develop the temple premises, beach, and surrounding areas in three phases. The state government has allocated Rs. 150 crore for the development of the first phase of this island, and the tendering process is currently underway. In the future, the development of phases 2 and 3 of this island will begin, said the Gujarat Tourism Corporation, Gandhinagar.

As per the Tourism Corporation, the Bet Dwarka Development Project Phase I will include the development of the Dwarkadhishji Temple, street beautification, heritage street development, Shankhnarayan Temple and lake development, north beach development (public beach), tourist visitor center, Haat Bazaar, and Hillock Park with a viewing deck.

Phase II will include the development of Dandi Hanuman Temple and beach, Abhay Mata Temple and sunset park, nature and marine interpretation center, skill development center, community lake development, and road and sign construction.

Phase III will focus on solid waste management systems, community lake development, and a lake arrival plaza. In the future, a shuttle service from the beach to the temple, vehicle ferry service for dolphin viewing, audio-visual exhibitions, skill development, and guide training will be established for pilgrims visiting Bet Dwarka.

Key Attractions of Phase I of Bet Dwarka Island Development:

The development of the temple premises and surrounding areas will be carried out according to the master plan for Bet Dwarka Development. Entrance gates will be constructed in four directions to allow pilgrims easy access to the temple premises. The road from Sudama Setu towards Bet Dwarka village will serve as the gateway from the sea route to the main entrance.

Temple pooja-related items, food and drink stalls, shops promoting local art and crafts, and stores providing essential goods will be set up for pilgrims. Additional facilities will include mobile and shoe locker services, a Prasad distribution center, and public restrooms. A canteen with state-of-the-art facilities and two multipurpose halls for meetings and bhajan-kirtan sessions will also be constructed.

This master plan has been designed so that separate darshan lines for men and women are created to prevent crowding in the temple and to ensure that people with disabilities do not face any inconvenience. The temple premises will feature signboards informing pilgrims, a water parlor, garbage bins, and benches for seating. To make the pilgrimage memorable, an exhibition of biographical pictures or idols of Lord Shri Krishna is also planned.

North Padam Beach: This north beach of Bet Dwarka is famous for dolphin watching during the winter season. A unique shell called ‘Padam’ is found here, which is why this beach is also referred to as ‘Padam Beach.’ According to the master plan, facilities such as parking, food stalls, sports equipment for children, seating areas, and toilets will be built on this beach. At North Beach, tourists can enjoy entertainment and a beautiful view of the sunset.

Tourist Visitor Center: According to the Bet Dwarka Development Plan, a Tourist Visitor Center will be constructed along the road from Sudama Setu to the temple premises. Here, visitors will receive historical information about the temple and details about various activities taking place in Bet Dwarka. The center will also feature a waiting area, toilets, a locker facility, a restaurant offering Gujarati cuisine, and a Haat Bazaar.

Heritage Street Development: The master plan includes the development of Heritage Street, which will connect several historical temples in Bet Dwarka, primarily Dwarkadhish Temple, Shankhnarayan Temple, and Hanuman Dandi Temple. The roads connecting these temples will be developed with a heritage theme, featuring murals, landscaping, lighting, and seating facilities.

Hillock Park: From Hillock Park, pilgrims will be able to enjoy picturesque views of the sunrise and sunset. According to the master plan, this area will be developed as a public park, offering beautiful views of Sudama Setu. Facilities such as food stalls, special landscaping, boardwalks, walkways, and public restrooms will also be created.

Thus, with the efforts of the state government, through the smooth integration of religion and tourism, abundant employment opportunities will arise in the area, along with further promotion of local production, said the Tourism Corporation.