Jyotirlinga #1 of 12

Somnath Temple

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First among the 12 Jyotirlingas, believed to be the shrine where the moon god Soma was cured of a curse

Prabhas Patan, Veraval, GujaratLord Somnath (Shiva)
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Temple Timings

6:00 AM to 9:30 PM

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Best Time

October to March

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Location

Gujarat

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Dress Code

Traditional

📖 About Somnath Temple

Somnath Temple, located on the western coast of Gujarat at Prabhas Patan, is the first among the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines of Lord Shiva. This magnificent temple stands as a symbol of resilience, having been destroyed and rebuilt numerous times throughout history. The current structure, built in Chalukya style of architecture, showcases the rich cultural heritage of India.

đŸĸ History & Legend

The temple has been destroyed by various invaders including Mahmud of Ghazni (1026 CE), Alauddin Khilji (1296 CE), and Aurangzeb (1706 CE). Each time, it was rebuilt by devoted Hindus. The present temple was reconstructed in 1951 under the guidance of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and inaugurated by the first President of India, Dr. Rajendra Prasad.

Temple Architecture

Built in Chalukya style of temple architecture, the temple features a shikhara (spire) that rises to 155 feet. The temple is built on a platform facing the Arabian Sea and features intricate carvings depicting scenes from Hindu mythology.

How to Reach Somnath Temple

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By Air

Nearest airport is Diu Airport (63 km) or Rajkot Airport (164 km). Ahmedabad Airport is 400 km away with better connectivity.

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By Train

Veraval Railway Station is the nearest (7 km). Direct trains available from Ahmedabad, Mumbai, and other major cities.

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By Road

Well connected by road. State buses and private taxis available from Ahmedabad (400 km), Rajkot (190 km), and Junagadh (85 km).

Major Festivals

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Mahashivratri (Feb/Mar)
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Kartik Purnima (Nov)
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Shravan Month (July/Aug)
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Som Pradosh Vrat

Nearby Places to Visit

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Bhalka Tirth (5 km)
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Triveni Sangam (3 km)
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Panch Pandav Gufa
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Gir National Park (65 km)
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Diu Island (90 km)
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Junagadh (85 km)

Tips for Visitors

1

Book accommodation in advance during Mahashivratri

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Attend the spectacular Sound and Light Show in the evening

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Visit during Shravan month for special celebrations

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Keep ID proof handy for darshan

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Mobile phones and cameras not allowed inside main shrine

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:What is the significance of Somnath Temple?

A:Somnath Temple is the first among the 12 Jyotirlingas. According to legend, the Moon God (Soma) built this temple in gold after being cured of a curse by Lord Shiva.

Q:What are Somnath Temple timings?

A:The temple is open from 6:00 AM to 9:30 PM. Aarti timings are 7:00 AM (morning), 12:00 PM (afternoon), and 7:00 PM (evening).

Q:Is there online booking for Somnath darshan?

A:Yes, you can book VIP darshan online through the official Somnath Trust website or Book My Mandir platform.

Plan Your Somnath Temple Pilgrimage

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