According to the Mahabharata and Puranic tradition, the hunter Jara, mistaking Krishna’s foot for a deer as he rested beneath a tree, shot an arrow that fatally wounded him, marking the end of his earthly life and the start of the Kali Yuga in Hindu cosmology. A shrine beneath a tree at the site, along with a nearby temple, commemorates the event and is typically visited alongside Somnath Temple and the neighbouring river confluence. Bhalka Tirth sits at an elevation of 6 m and is typically explored in about 30-60 minutes. The most favourable months to visit are January, December, November, and February, when conditions are best suited for sightseeing. Other notable highlights include white marble Krishna statue with arrow mark, triveni sangam of three holy rivers, and ancient banyan tree sheltering the shrine. It falls within Gir Somnath district and Gujarat, India.
State: Gujarat
Ideal Duration: 30-60 Minutes
January, December, November, February
The complex has ramps and smooth walking paths, making it accessible for wheelchairs or walkers. There are shaded rest areas, clean washrooms, and a small cafeteria serving snacks and water. Additionally, you can hire a local guide or wheelchair assistance at the entrance for a small fee.
Bhalka Tirth is located about 5 kilometres from the Somnath temple, near the Triveni Sangam where the Hiran, Kapila, and Saraswati rivers meet. You can take a short auto-rickshaw or taxi ride, which takes around 15 minutes. For group travellers, hiring a private vehicle for the day is comfortable, as the road is well-maintained.
Yes, you can easily plan a half-day trip combining Bhalka Tirth with the Triveni Sangam (just a short walk away) and the Gita Mandir, which is dedicated to the Bhagavad Gita. Many tour packages also include the Somnath temple, its light and sound show in the evening, and the nearby beach. For a relaxed pace, start at Bhalka Tirth in the morning, then visit the sangam, and end at the main temple for the evening aarti.
Bhalka Tirth is the sacred spot where Lord Krishna was mistakenly shot by a hunter’s arrow, ending his earthly life. It is one of the four main pilgrimage sites associated with Krishna’s life, along with Dwarka, Nathdwara, and Dakor. For senior travellers, it offers a peaceful, contemplative atmosphere to understand the final chapter of Krishna’s story.
The site is open from sunrise to sunset, typically 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and there is no entry fee. However, if you wish to take a guided tour or use the audio guide, there may be a nominal charge. It is best to visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat, especially for senior travellers.