Location of Krishna's Capital Dvaravati
Summary
This article attempts to locate Dvaravati (Dvaraka), the legendary capital of Krishna. The author surveys literary sources such as the Mahabharata, Harivamsa and Puranas, noting descriptions of a fortified city with sea access and bridges. Archaeological evidence from the Saurashtra coast is reviewed, including submerged structures off modern Dwarka, Bet Dwarka and Pindara. Inscriptions and coins mentioning Dvaraka are also discussed. Correlating textual descriptions with coastal geography, the author concludes that Dvaravati stood near present‑day Dwarka in Gujarat. Alternative theories locating the city inland or in eastern India are rejected because the literature emphasises maritime connections. The article suggests that Dvaravati may have been a peninsular or island city that gradually submerged due to changing sea levels. It stresses that while archaeology can provide clues, literary evidence remains crucial in identifying Krishna’s capital.
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Conclusion
By synthesising textual and archaeological data, the article argues that Krishna’s capital Dvaravati was located near modern Dwarka on the western coast of India. The city’s maritime setting, fortifications and eventual submergence align with ancient descriptions. Further underwater exploration may clarify details, but the available evidence strongly supports the Saurashtra location.