Porbandar is a holy city with several temples around it. This place has mythological importance as it has been the home of Sudama who is extremely popular as the childhood friend of Lord Krishna. Following are some eminent temples in Porbandar that are worth a mention:
Vishwakarma Prabhuji Temple in Porbandar
This temple is devoted to Shri Vishwakarma who was the great architect. This temple has a magnificent architecture which enthralls all and sundry. The temple remains open daily between 8 AM to 9 PM.
Sudama Puri(or Sudama Temple)
One of the holy and respected temples constructed in the heart of
Porbandar
is the Sudamapuri or Sudama Temple. It was constructed by the royal members of Jethwa dynasty between 1902 and 1907. It was built in reverence of the friendship of Lord Krishna and the Brahmin named Sudama. The most auspicious festival celebrated here is Janmasthami.
Bhutnath Mahadev Temple
Beside the Government hospital, the Bhutnath Mahadev Temple is located. It is a temple where countless number of worshipers of Lord Shiva visit every day. The most significant is the Sandhya-Aarti, which is the longest ritual done every evening and looks spectacular.
Jalaram Temple
The Jalaram Temple near Sita Chowk in Porbandar is the only temple which allows the entry of every person irrespective of caste, creed and religion. The temple also organizes the Madhyahan Bhojan (lunch) and Ratri Bhojan (dinner) for poor and deserted children, handicapped and the needy. Thursday is the day of Jalaram Bapa when sandhya aarti is also performed.
Hari Temple
Located in Sandipani Vidyaniketan, which is merely 5 kilometers away from Porbandar, the Hari Temple was built by Bhai Shri Rameshbhai Oza. This entire mandir was constructed by the use of Pink Stone of Rajasthan. The temple comprises the deities of Radha-Krishna, Janki Vallabh, Ganesha, Laxmi Narayan, Hanuman, Karunamayi Ma and Sri Veda.
Bhaveshwar Mahadev Mandir
This temple is in reverence to Lord Shiva. It is a very holy pilgrimage spot with an elaborate compound. There are small temples of Lord Ganesha, Suryanarayana, Lord Vishnu and Hanuman within the compound. The grand celebration of Mahashivratri is spectacular. There are fairs organized on this occasion. There is also a grand celebration of Navaratri.
Satyanarayan Mandir
Just beside the Bhaveshwar Mahadev Mandir, the Satyanarayan Mandir is situated. The famous Satyanarayan Katha is held here.
Khimeshwar Temple
Located at the entrance of Dwarka, this temple is mythologically famous as it has been the home of Pandavas. Every year during the month of June or July a very famous fair is organized at the Khimeshwar temple.
Rokadia Hanuman Temple
Very near to the Gayatri temple, the temple of Lord Hanuman is situated. Saturday is the day when most of the worshipers visit this temple with their desires.
Bharat Mandir
This temple is dedicated to ‘Bharat' of "Ramayan" and was constructed in reverence of the Hindu epics and the Puranas. The wonderful carvings of brass and the pictures hanged add to the beauty of the place. It acts as a mirror of Indian traditions.
