Somnath Temple is among the oldest and well-known temples of India that is found in the city of Prabhas Patan close to Veraval in the state of Gujarat. It is also the first of the 12 holy Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. The meaning of the name is that of Somnath which is translated as the Lord of the Moon. Legends state that this temple has been demolished and restructured several times in the history owing to invasions yet it continues to be a monument of faith and strength. This structure that can be seen today was reconstructed in 1951 with the Chalukya style of architecture and it looks towards the Arabian sea that has a scenic and serene beauty to it.
The temple becomes famous because of rich carvings, silver doors, and the famous Jyotirlinga. Visitors make pilgrimage to it to get blessings across the nation. The specialty here is the arrow pillar and this gives evidence that a straight line between Somnath and Antarctica does not have any land in between. Light and sound show is also provided in Somnath Temple, the history and myths, memories of Somnath Temple are narrated. The temple is open all through the year and major festivities such as Mahashivratri are accompanied with attendance of millions. Somnath does not only narrate spiritual significance but also historical relevance, hence a place to visit by any tourist and followers.
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History of Somnath Temple
While there are 12 Jyotirlingas in India and Somnath Ji is the foremost among them no one knows exactly who built this temple or when. However, according to the Rigveda this temple was constructed by Chandradev (the Moon God). this temple has been destroyed multiple times.
Exact figure it has been demolished about 17 times by outsider but virtuous souls rebuilt it each time. The present temple was constructed after India’s independence under the guidance of the revered Iron Man, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. That’s why you’ll also see a statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in the temple complex today.
An Overview of the Somnath Temple
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Prabhas Patan, Veraval, Gujarat, India |
| Significance | First of 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva |
| History | Built by Moon God; rebuilt multiple times after invasions |
| Architecture | Chalukya style, 15m spire, intricate carvings |
| Darshan Timings | 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily |
| Aarti Timings | 7:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 7:00 PM |
| Light & Sound Show | 7:45 PM to 8:45 PM, Rs. 30-50 tickets |
| VIP Darshan | Rs. 50-200, book online or at counter |
| Special Puja | Bilva Pooja, Rs. 25; includes Rudraksha, Bhasma, Naman |
| Festivals | Maha Shivratri, Shravan Mahotsav, Kartik Purnima |
| Accessibility | Wheelchairs, golf carts, lift for senior citizens/disabled |
| Restrictions | No photography, mobiles, or disrespectful attire |
| Nearby Attractions | Bhalka Tirth, Triveni Sangam, Ahalyabai Temple, Sasan Gir |
| Booking | Online at somnath.org for darshan, puja, accommodation |
| Best Time to Visit | October to February for cooler weather |
Mythological Significance
According to the Puranas the story goes that Prajapati Daksha a son of Lord Brahma had 27 daughters. Daksha married all 27 daughters to Chandradev but Chandradev loved and respected only one of them named Rohini. When Daksha learned of this he became furious and cursed Chandradev that his radiance and beauty would gradually fade away.
To seek relief from this curse Chandradev worshipped Lord Shiva near the Triveni Sangam at the present-day Somnath. Pleased with his devotion Lord Shiva alleviated the curse. Afterward Chandradev also known as Somdev established a Jyotirlinga here. Since it was established by Somdev this Shivalinga is called Somnath Mahadev.
Interesting Facts About the Temple
-  The height of the temple’s spire is 150 feet. The kalash (urn) placed at the top weighs 10 tons, and the flagpole here is 27 feet tall.
- The temple is divided into three parts: the Garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum), Sabha Mandap (assembly hall), and Nritya Mandap (dance hall).
- Aarti of Lord Shiva is performed three times a day here at 7:00 AM in the morning, 12:00 PM in the afternoon and 7:00 PM in the evening.Â
- there is also a Baan Stambh (Arrow Pillar) in the temple complex.
- The arrow on this pillar points toward the south, indicating that there is no landmass between the temple and the South Pole meaning it’s an unobstructed sea route.
- The Somnath Temple is mentioned in the Rigveda, Shiva Purana, Skanda Purana, and Shrimad Bhagavat Katha, which shows how ancient this temple is.
Temple Activities and Rules
- There is also a light and sound show at night in the temple. The cost is 200 rupees for adults and 100 rupees for children above 10 years.
- If you want to take prasad (offering) blessed by Somnath Ji you can get it here.
- You cannot take any digital items inside the temple so you’ll need to deposit your mobile phones, electronic keys, batteries and digital watches here.
- Apart from electronic items you also cannot carry handbags, luggage or any other bags inside, so you will need to deposit those as well.
- There’s a help desk here and for senior citizens and differently-abled individuals, free golf cart services are provided.
- Once you’ve deposited your mobile and belongings, you need to come here for entry. First, a security check will be conducted.
- There are separate entries for males and females, and you should dress appropriately half-pants are not allowed here.
Dining and Facilities
If you’re visiting during the afternoon or evening and want to have lunch or dinner after darshan, the Somnath Trust provides free meals (prasad). A little ahead from the entry, you’ll find the dining hall.
Historical Significance: Hamar Ji Gohil
There’s also a statue here of Hamar Ji Gohil. When the Mughals attacked the Somnath Temple, Hamar Ji fought them and was martyred, which is why his statue is installed here. You can see the Somnath Temple in the background, and this is the statue.
Exploring Somnath Beach and Walkway
If you go to this side from the statue, you’ll reach the beach. You’ll find the Somnath Walkway. You’ll need to buy an entry ticket here. There are some rules for visiting Somnath, which you can read. Make sure to follow these rules when you visit.
Somnath Promenade
- The Somnath Promenade was inaugurated by the Honorable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji on August 20, 2021.
- This walkway built by the Somnath Trust, stretches from the Samudra Darshan Guest House to the Triveni Sangam and is about 1.5 km long.
- It was constructed at a cost of around 50 crores. From one side of the walkway, you get a view of Somnath Mahadev and from the other side, you see the Arabian Sea a truly beautiful sight.
- If you’ve been to Mumbai, it’s similar to Marine Drive. You can take a long walk on this walkway, rent a bicycle for cycling, or simply sit on a bench and enjoy the serene sound of the sea and its beautiful view.
