How to Reach Bet Dwarka from Dwarka – Travel Guide
Learn how to reach Bet Dwarka from Dwarka by ferry, road, and local transport with practical tips for a smooth journey.
Dwarka is a historic city located on the western coast of Gujarat, famous for its ancient temples and spiritual significance. Bet Dwarka is a small island situated just off the coast of Dwarka, known for its religious sites and serene beaches. Many travelers visit Bet Dwarka as a day trip from Dwarka to explore its unique charm and heritage.
This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Dwarka to Bet Dwarka. You will learn about ferry services, road options, and local transport, along with useful tips to plan your trip efficiently and comfortably.
Getting from Dwarka to Bet Dwarka – Main Options
Ferry
Ferry is the most popular and direct way to reach Bet Dwarka from Dwarka. It is suitable for most travelers and offers a scenic ride across the sea.
The ferry departs from the Dwarka port near the old city area and takes about 15 to 20 minutes to reach Bet Dwarka island, covering approximately 6 to 7 kilometers by sea.
Fares are affordable, usually ranging from ₹20 to ₹50 per person for a one-way trip, making it economical for solo travelers and families alike.
Ferries operate frequently from early morning around 7 AM until evening 6 PM, but timings can vary during monsoon season due to rough sea conditions.
The ferry can get crowded during weekends, festivals like Janmashtami, and peak tourist seasons, so arriving early is advisable to secure a spot.
Basic seating is available on the ferry, but it is recommended to carry water and light snacks, as there are no food services onboard.
Bus
There is no direct bus service from Dwarka to Bet Dwarka since Bet Dwarka is an island. However, local buses can help you reach the ferry terminal easily.
State transport buses operated by GSRTC run regularly within Dwarka city and connect to the ferry jetty, costing around ₹10 to ₹20 per trip.
Buses are frequent during the day but may be less reliable early morning or late evening, so plan accordingly.
Bus stops near the Dwarka railway station and city center provide easy access to the ferry point, making last-mile connectivity convenient.
During festival seasons, buses can be crowded, so consider alternative transport like auto-rickshaws for comfort and speed.
Car / Self-Drive
Driving your own vehicle or hiring a taxi is a comfortable option to reach the ferry terminal in Dwarka, especially if you carry luggage or travel in a group.
The ferry terminal is located about 3 to 4 kilometers from Dwarka city center and can be reached via the NH51 highway or local roads, taking around 10 to 15 minutes by car.
Parking facilities near the ferry jetty are limited but available; it is advisable to arrive early to find a spot without hassle.
Taxi fares from Dwarka city to the ferry point typically range from ₹100 to ₹200, and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber operate in the city.
Self-driving gives flexibility to explore Dwarka before or after your Bet Dwarka visit, but be prepared for narrow roads and occasional traffic near the temple areas.
Toll plazas are not present on this short route, but watch for local traffic rules and pedestrian zones near religious sites.
Flight
There are no direct flights between Dwarka and Bet Dwarka as Bet Dwarka is an island without an airport. The nearest airport to Dwarka is Jamnagar Airport, about 130 kilometers away.
Travelers coming from distant cities can fly into Jamnagar and then take a taxi or bus to Dwarka, which takes around 3 to 4 hours by road.
From Dwarka, the ferry remains the only option to reach Bet Dwarka, so plan your onward journey accordingly.
Flights to Jamnagar operate daily from major cities like Mumbai and Ahmedabad, offering convenient connections.
Booking flights in advance during festival seasons is recommended to avoid last-minute price hikes and seat unavailability.
Step-by-Step Travel Plan
This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers from Dwarka to Bet Dwarka, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free journey.
Start by reaching Dwarka city center or Dwarka railway station, where you can find local transport options to the ferry terminal easily.
Take a local bus, auto-rickshaw, or taxi to the Dwarka ferry jetty; this ensures you arrive at the right departure point for Bet Dwarka.
Purchase your ferry ticket at the counter or from authorized agents; carrying exact change helps as digital payments may not always be accepted.
Board the ferry early to get a good seat and avoid standing during the 15 to 20-minute sea crossing; this also helps during busy seasons.
Upon arrival at Bet Dwarka, use local shared autos or walk to visit temples and beaches; the island is small and easy to explore on foot.
For your return, check ferry timings in advance and plan to leave Bet Dwarka before sunset to avoid last-minute rush or cancellations due to weather.
Practical Travel Tips
Carry bottled water and light snacks as food options on the ferry and Bet Dwarka island are limited and may not suit all tastes.
Wear comfortable footwear and light clothes, especially during summer, as you will walk on uneven paths and sandy areas on Bet Dwarka.
Book ferry tickets early during festivals like Janmashtami and Navratri to avoid long queues and sold-out trips.
Use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs in Dwarka for safer and fixed-price travel to the ferry terminal, avoiding haggling with local drivers.
Keep your luggage minimal and secure, as ferry space is limited and you will need to carry your bags on and off the boat.
Be cautious during monsoon months (July to September) as ferry services may be suspended or delayed due to rough seas and heavy rains.
Best Time & Travel Conditions
The best time to travel from Dwarka to Bet Dwarka is during the cooler months from October to March when the weather is pleasant and sea conditions are calm. This period also coincides with many festivals, adding cultural vibrancy to your visit.
Avoid traveling during the monsoon season from June to September, as heavy rains and strong winds can disrupt ferry services and make sea travel unsafe. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for smoother journeys with less crowd.
Avoid peak festival days like Janmashtami when the ferry and island become extremely crowded, leading to long waits and limited accommodation.
Summer months (April to June) can be hot and humid, so carry sun protection and stay hydrated during your trip.
Early morning ferry rides are less crowded and offer cooler temperatures, making the journey more comfortable.
Check local weather updates before planning your trip during the monsoon to avoid cancellations or delays.
Arrival at Bet Dwarka & What to Expect
When you arrive at Bet Dwarka, you will disembark at a small jetty with basic facilities. The island is peaceful and less commercialized, offering a spiritual atmosphere with several temples and quiet beaches.
Local transport on Bet Dwarka mainly consists of shared auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws. Walking is also a good option as the island is compact. Accommodation options are limited, so many travelers prefer day trips from Dwarka. Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are not available on the island, so plan your return ferry timing carefully.
Conclusion
The most efficient way to reach Bet Dwarka from Dwarka is by ferry, offering a quick and scenic route that connects the mainland to the island directly. Combining local transport or taxis to the ferry terminal makes the journey smooth and convenient.
Plan your trip by checking ferry timings, booking tickets early during festivals, and preparing for seasonal weather conditions. With these practical tips and clear travel options, you can confidently explore the spiritual and natural beauty of Bet Dwarka without any hassle.