Narayan Sarovar and Koteshwar, Narayan Sarovar
A sacred lake and a Shiva temple by the sea at the western tip of India
- Type
- Pilgrimage site
- Location
- Narayan Sarovar, Kutch
- Time needed
- 2 to 3 hours for both
- Best time to visit
- October to February
About Narayan Sarovar and Koteshwar
Narayan Sarovar is a holy lake in western Kutch, counted among the five sacred lakes, or Panch Sarovar, in Hindu tradition. Around the lake are temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu as Narayan and to Lakshmi. Pilgrims come to bathe, perform rituals and offer prayers, and the place is busiest during festivals.
A few kilometres away, Koteshwar Mahadev stands on the edge of the sea at Kori Creek. The Shiva temple is linked to the story of Ravana and a lingam he was given by Lord Shiva. From the temple grounds you look out over the water towards the border, and at sunset the setting is calm and open.
The surrounding area is sparse and dry, with a small village and a few stalls. Most visitors combine the two temples with Lakhpat Fort on a long day trip from Bhuj, or stay a night nearby in simple pilgrim accommodation. Families with older members should plan for the long drive and limited facilities on the way.
Things to do at Narayan Sarovar and Koteshwar
- Visit the temples around Narayan Sarovar lake
- See the Koteshwar Mahadev temple by the sea
- Watch the sunset over Kori Creek from Koteshwar
- Combine the trip with Lakhpat Fort
How to reach Narayan Sarovar and Koteshwar
- By road from Bhuj: about 150 km, about 3 hours by car.
- Koteshwar is a short drive of a few kilometres from Narayan Sarovar.
Tips before you go
- Dress modestly. Shoes are left outside the temples.
- The area is close to the border. Carry a photo ID for every traveller.
- Food options are limited, so carry water and snacks for the drive.
Nearby places to visit
Lakhpat Fort
An old walled port town on the western edge of Kutch, with fort walls, a gurudwara and old tombs, now almost empty.
Time needed: 2 to 3 hoursRead more →Mata no Madh
The temple of Ashapura Mata, the main goddess of Kutch, visited by large numbers of pilgrims, especially during Navratri.
Time needed: 1 to 2 hoursRead more →Bhuj
The main town and base for Kutch, with the Aina Mahal and Prag Mahal palaces, Hamirsar lake and the Smritivan memorial.
Time needed: 1 dayRead more →Narayan Sarovar and Koteshwar: FAQs
How far is Koteshwar from Narayan Sarovar?
Only a few kilometres. Most visitors see both on the same trip, along with Lakhpat Fort.
Why is Narayan Sarovar important?
It is one of the five sacred lakes, or Panch Sarovar, in Hindu tradition, and an important pilgrim site in Gujarat.