Somnath Temple, also known as the “The Shrine Eternal,” is one of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines of Lord Shiva and holds immense religious significance in Hinduism. It is located in the Prabhas Kshetra near Veraval in Saurashtra on the western coast of Gujarat, India. The temple is a symbol of faith and spirituality and attracts pilgrims and tourists from around the world.
Brief History: The history of Somnath Temple is rich and ancient. It is believed to have been originally built by the Moon God, Soma, out of gold, followed by Ravana in silver, and then by Lord Krishna in wood. The temple has faced destruction and reconstruction several times due to invasions and historical events. The present temple was reconstructed in 1951, after it was destroyed by invaders in 1024 CE.
Architecture: The current structure of Somnath Temple reflects a blend of Chalukya and Solanki styles of architecture. The temple is adorned with intricate carvings, sculptures, and impressive spires. The main sanctum houses the Jyotirlinga, which is a representation of Lord Shiva. The temple complex also includes a large Sabha Mandap and a central spire rising to a height of 155 feet.
Things to Do:
- Attend Aarti: Witness the divine atmosphere during the Aarti ceremony, which takes place several times a day.
- Explore the Temple Complex: Admire the architecture and explore the various shrines and sculptures within the temple complex.
- Visit the Museum: The temple complex also houses a museum that showcases artifacts and exhibits related to the history of Somnath.
- Take a Holy Dip: Pilgrims often take a holy dip in the nearby Triveni Sangam, the confluence of three rivers – Kapila, Hiran, and Sarasvati.
- Attend Light and Sound Show: Experience the captivating light and sound show that narrates the history of Somnath Temple.
How to Reach: By Air: The nearest airport is Diu Airport (90 km away), and the nearest international airport is Ahmedabad Airport (400 km away).
By Train: The nearest railway station is Veraval Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities.
By Road: Somnath is well-connected by roads, and buses and taxis are available from nearby cities like Veraval, Junagadh, and Ahmedabad.
Location: Somnath Temple is located in Prabhas Patan, near Veraval in Saurashtra, Gujarat, India.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Somnath Temple is during the winter months (October to March) when the weather is pleasant. Avoid visiting during the monsoon season (June to September) due to heavy rainfall. The temple also attracts a large number of devotees during festivals like Mahashivratri.