Somnath Temple

1 Temple Overview

Somnath Temple, the first among the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, stands majestically on the shores of the Arabian Sea in Prabhas Patan, Gujarat — a site of immense historical and spiritual significance.

Significance: First and foremost of the 12 Jyotirlingas

2 Why Is It Famous?

Somnath is famous for its extraordinary history of destruction and reconstruction — destroyed and rebuilt at least six times due to repeated invasions, most notably by Mahmud of Ghazni in 1024 CE who plundered its immense wealth. Its modern reconstruction after Indian independence, championed by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, symbolizes national resilience and faith.

3 Story and Legends

Legend connects Somnath to the Moon god (Soma/Chandra), who built a golden temple here after being cursed with waning light by his father-in-law Daksha; worshipping Shiva at this spot restored his glow, hence the name "Somnath" (Lord of the Moon). The Skanda Purana also references this as one of the earliest Jyotirlinga sites established by celestial beings themselves.

4 History

Somnath has been destroyed and rebuilt many times throughout history. The most famous destructions were by Mahmud of Ghazni in 1024 CE. The present temple was rebuilt in 1951 by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel after Indian independence. The reconstruction symbolized India's national resurgence.

Renovations: Destroyed and rebuilt at least 6 times historically — by Mahmud of Ghazni (1024), and subsequently by Mughal and other rulers. The current temple, in Chaulukya style, was inaugurated in 1951 after independence, with President Rajendra Prasad presiding over its consecration — symbolizing the temple's rise from historical destruction.

5 Spiritual Significance

Somnath means "Lord of the Moon" — Lord Shiva in his form as the protector of Chandra (Moon god). The temple stands on the seashore and the sea view from the Baan Stambh (Arrow Pillar) inscription stating that there is no land between Somnath and the South Pole is breathtaking.

6 Architecture

Built in the Chaulukya (Solanki) style of temple architecture, the current structure features intricate stone carving, a tall shikhara, and the distinctive Sapphire-tipped golden flag (Dhwajadand) atop. The temple is dramatically positioned with the Arabian Sea as its backdrop.

7 Main Deity Information

The presiding deity is Lord Shiva worshipped as the Somnath Jyotirlinga, representing the infinite cosmic form of Shiva.

8 Festivals and Celebrations

Maha Shivaratri is the grandest celebration with the temple remaining open through the night. Kartik Purnima draws devotees for the holy dip combined with temple darshan.

9 Best Time to Visit

October to March for pleasant coastal weather.

Coastal Gujarat climate; summers (March-June) are hot, monsoon brings moderate rain, winters (Nov-Feb) are most comfortable.

10 Darshan and Temple Timings

Aarti Schedule: Morning Aarti: 7:00 AM | Afternoon Aarti: 12:00 PM | Evening Aarti: 7:00 PM

11 Pujas and Rituals

The famous "Sound and Light Show" each evening narrates the temple's history. Special abhishekam can be arranged through temple authorities.

12 How to Reach

The nearest airport is at Keshod (55km) or Diu (90km). Veraval is the nearest railway station (6km). Regular buses connect Somnath with major Gujarat cities.

13 Accommodation

Hotels and guest houses available in Veraval and Somnath town, ranging from budget to mid-range.

14 Food and Prasadam

Gujarati vegetarian thali available widely nearby. Temple prasad typically includes traditional sweets.

15 Entry Fees and Costs

Free entry. The on-site museum has a nominal entry fee.

16 Rules and Dress Code

Modest traditional attire recommended.

17 Nearby Attractions

Bhalka Tirth (where Krishna was struck by an arrow), Triveni Sangam, Junagadh's Girnar hills, Gir National Forest (lion sanctuary).

18 Interesting Facts

The Baan Stambh (Arrow Pillar) at the temple has an inscription stating there is no land between Somnath and the South Pole along that longitude — a fact verified by modern geography. The temple's historical destruction by Mahmud of Ghazni remains one of the most documented instances of medieval temple plunder in Indian history.

19 Visitor Tips

Don't miss the evening sound and light show detailing the temple's dramatic history. Visit the adjacent museum to see archaeological remnants from earlier temple structures.

20 Frequently Asked Questions

21 Quick Summary

22 Ratings