Somnath Temple, located in Prabhas Patan near Veraval in Gujarat, is one of the most important Jyotirlinga shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. Known for its long and powerful history, the temple has been destroyed and rebuilt several times, standing today as a proud symbol of faith and strength. Facing the Arabian Sea, Somnath offers a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere for all who visit. Whether you’re a devotee, a history lover, or a curious traveler, this temple promises an experience that is both meaningful and memorable. It’s a must-visit destination on any temple tour of India.
History & Mythology of Somnath
The history of Somnath Temple goes back thousands of years. It is believed to be the first among the twelve Jyotirlingas, where Lord Shiva appeared as a divine pillar of light. According to legend, the Moon God (Chandra Dev) built the original temple in gold to seek Lord Shiva’s blessings and regain his glow after being cursed by Daksha. Over the centuries, the temple faced several invasions and was destroyed multiple times—most famously by Mahmud of Ghazni. Yet, each time, Somnath was rebuilt, stronger and more magnificent than before. The current temple was completed in 1951 under the leadership of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, standing today as a proud symbol of India’s spiritual strength and cultural revival.
Best Time to Visit Somnath
– October to March – Pleasant weather, ideal for temple visits and sightseeing.
– Maha Shivratri (Feb/March) – Celebrated with devotion, rituals, and large gatherings.
– Kartik Purnima (November) – A vibrant festival marked by cultural events and fairs.
– Avoid April to June – Coastal heat during summer can be intense and uncomfortable.
How to Reach Somnath Temple
✈️ By Air
– Nearest Airport: Diu Airport (80 km)
You can hire a taxi (₹1,500–₹2,500) or take a direct bus to Somnath. Rajkot Airport (200 km) is another major option with better connectivity.
🚆 By Train
– Nearest Station: Veraval Railway Station (7 km)
Well connected to Ahmedabad, Rajkot, and other cities in Gujarat. Auto-rickshaws and taxis are easily available from the station.
🚌🚗 By Road
– Regular GSRTC and private buses run from Ahmedabad, Rajkot, Junagadh, and Diu.
The scenic coastal highway makes a road trip to Somnath both beautiful and memorable.
Estimated Travel Cost (Per Person)
| Departure City | Travel Mode | Cost Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Rajkot (200 km) | Bus / Train / Taxi | ₹400 – ₹2,500 |
| Ahmedabad (410 km) | Train / Bus / Taxi | ₹700 – ₹3,500 |
| Mumbai (900 km) | Train / Flight + Taxi | ₹2,500 – ₹9,000 |
| Delhi (1,300 km) | Flight + Taxi | ₹4,500 – ₹12,000 |
| Bangalore (1,800 km) | Flight + Taxi | ₹5,000 – ₹15,000 |
Temple Timings & Rituals of Somnath Temple
Temple Timings: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Daily Pujas: Morning Abhishekam, Aarti, and Shringar rituals
Special Rituals: Rudrabhishek, Maha Rudra Yagna, and Somnath Darshan Aarti
Sound and Light Show: The “Jay Somnath” show in the evening narrates the temple’s history through visuals and sound effects.
- Vist the link for online pooja bookings and donations https://somnath.org/online-donation
Nearby Attractions to Somnath Temple
Triveni Sangam: The sacred confluence of three rivers—Hiran, Kapila, and Saraswati. (4 km from Somnath)
Bhalka Tirth: The site where Lord Krishna was accidentally struck by an arrow from a hunter. (5 km from Somnath)
Panch Pandav Gufa: A historic cave temple associated with the Pandavas. (7 km from Somnath)
Diu Island: A charming coastal getaway, known for its Portuguese architecture and beautiful beaches. (80 km from Somnath)
Recommended Trip Duration to Somnath
1-Day Trip: Visit Somnath Temple and Triveni Sangam.
2-Day Trip: Explore Bhalka Tirth and Panch Pandav Gufa.
3-Day Trip: Add a visit to Diu for beachside relaxation and sightseeing.
Accommodation & Food in Somnath
Stay Options:
Budget Hotels: Hotel Somnath Atithigruh (₹500–₹1,200/night)
Mid-Range: Lords Inn, The Fern Residency (₹1,500–₹3,500/night)
Luxury: Sarovar Portico, Safari Hotel & Resort (₹4,000–₹7,000/night)
Temple Guest Houses: Available for booking at somnath.org
Food Recommendations:
Temple Prasadam: Sattvic meals served to devotees, known for their purity and simplicity.
Local Gujarati Thali: A must-try! Savor dishes like dhokla, thepla, and farsan.
Street Food: Delight in gathiya, jalebi, and fafda from local vendors around the temple.
Essential Travel Tips
Dress Modestly: Traditional attire is preferred when entering the temple.
No Cameras or Mobiles: These are not allowed inside the main temple.
Best Time for Darshan: Visit early in the morning or late in the evening for a peaceful experience.
Advance Bookings: Ensure you book your stay ahead of time, especially during festivals.
Stay Prepared: Carry a water bottle and sunscreen to stay comfortable in the coastal weather.
Final Thoughts
Somnath Temple is more than just a place of worship; it stands as a symbol of India’s spiritual resilience and rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re a devotee seeking divine blessings or a traveler uncovering ancient marvels, Somnath offers a profound and fulfilling experience. Use this guide to plan your visit and immerse yourself in the spiritual grandeur of one of India’s most revered shrines!
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