Somnath Temple Gujarat – History, Timings, and Travel Guide

The Somnath Temple in Gujarat is one of the most famous and revered temples in India, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is the first among the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, making it a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus worldwide. Situated on the western coast of Gujarat, near Prabhas Patan in Gir Somnath district, the temple is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of rich Indian heritage, devotion, and resilience.

Somnath Temple History

The history of Somnath Jyotirlinga is fascinating and dates back thousands of years. According to Hindu mythology, the temple was originally built by Lord Moon (Chandra) to honor Lord Shiva. Over centuries, the temple was destroyed and rebuilt multiple times by rulers such as Mahmud of Ghazni, Alauddin Khilji, and later restored by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in 1951. Today, the temple stands as a magnificent architectural marvel overlooking the Arabian Sea.

Architecture of Somnath Temple

The temple is built in the Chalukya style of architecture with intricate carvings, grand shikhara (spire), and a beautifully designed sanctum housing the Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva. The temple’s positioning is also unique, as it is said that no landmass exists between Somnath and the South Pole in a straight line. This fact is mentioned on an inscription at the temple site, highlighting its geographical and spiritual significance.

Spiritual Significance of Somnath Jyotirlinga

The word Somnath means “Protector of the Moon God.” As per legends, Lord Shiva cured the Moon God from a curse, and hence devotees believe that worshipping Somnath Jyotirlinga brings peace, health, and prosperity. Pilgrims from across India and the world visit Somnath to seek blessings and experience the divine energy of this ancient shrine.

Somnath Temple Timings

• Darshan Timings: 6:00 AM to 9:30 PM

• Aarti Timings:

  • Morning Aarti: 7:00 AM
  • Afternoon Aarti: 12:00 PM
  • Evening Aarti: 7:00 PM

• Light and Sound Show (Jay Somnath): Every evening from 8:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Best Time to Visit Somnath Temple

The ideal time to visit Somnath is between October to March, when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing and darshan. Festivals like Maha Shivratri and Kartik Purnima are celebrated with grandeur, attracting thousands of devotees.

Tourist Attractions Near Somnath Temple

Apart from visiting Somnath Temple, travelers can explore:

• Bhalka Tirth – The place where Lord Krishna was accidentally hit by an arrow.
• Triveni Sangam – Confluence of three holy rivers: Hiran, Kapila, and Saraswati.
• Somnath Beach – A serene and peaceful spot near the temple.
• Gir National Park – Home of the Asiatic lions, located about 65 km away.

How to Reach Somnath Temple

• By Air: Nearest airport is Diu Airport (85 km) and Rajkot Airport (200 km).
• By Train: Somnath Railway Station is well connected to major cities like Ahmedabad and Rajkot.
• By Road: Regular buses and taxis are available from Ahmedabad, Junagadh, and other nearby cities.

Somnath Temple – A Journey of Faith and Heritage

A trip to Somnath Temple Gujarat is more than just a pilgrimage—it is a journey into India’s glorious past, spiritual traditions, and architectural brilliance. Whether you are a devotee of Lord Shiva or a traveler interested in history and culture, Somnath promises a divine and memorable experience.

Jyotirlinga Temples in India

India, a land rich in spiritual heritage, is home to the sacred pilgrimage of the 12 Jyotirlinga Temples. These revered shrines are dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism. Embarking on a pilgrimage to these twelve temples is a profoundly transformative and spiritually enriching experience.

1. Somnath Temple (Gujarat):
Known as the “Protector of Moon God,” Somnath Temple in Gujarat is the first Jyotirlinga. Its captivating architecture and seaside location make it a significant pilgrimage destination.
2. Mallikarjuna Temple (Andhra Pradesh):
Situated on the sacred Shri Shaila Mountain, Mallikarjuna Temple in Andhra Pradesh is where Lord Shiva is worshipped as Mallikarjuna, a form of the deity representing compassion.
3. Mahakaleshwar Temple (Madhya Pradesh):
Guardian of the city of Ujjain, Mahakaleshwar Temple is renowned for the Bhasm Aarti, a unique ritual where sacred ash is applied to the Shiva Lingam.
4. Omkareshwar Temple (Madhya Pradesh):
Perched on an island in the Narmada River, Omkareshwar Temple is shaped like the symbol “Om.” The serene surroundings add to the spiritual aura of the temple.
5. Kedarnath Temple (Uttarakhand):
Nestled in the breathtaking Himalayan range, Kedarnath Temple is a destination of profound spiritual significance. Pilgrims trek through scenic landscapes to reach this sacred abode.
6. Bhimashankar Temple (Maharashtra):
Beyond lush greenery in the Sahyadri range, Bhimashankar Temple is where Lord Shiva is worshipped in the form of Bhimashankara, the source of the Bhima River.
7. Kashi Vishwanath Temple (Uttar Pradesh):
Located in the ancient city of Varanasi, Kashi Vishwanath Temple is a symbol of spiritual enlightenment. The ghats of the Ganges River add to the sacred ambience.
8. Trimbakeshwar Temple (Maharashtra):
Situated at the source of the Godavari River, Trimbakeshwar Temple is known for its unique lingam adorned with three faces symbolizing Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Shiva.
9. Vaidyanath Temple (Jharkhand):
Also known as Vaijnath Temple, it is dedicated to Lord Shiva, the “Lord of Physicians.” The temple attracts devotees seeking healing and well-being.
10. Nageshwar Jyotirlinga (Gujarat):
Located on the scenic Dwarka coast, Nageshwar Temple is home to the “Aadi Jyotirlinga,” symbolizing the eternal and infinite nature of Lord Shiva.
11. Rameshwar Temple (Tamil Nadu):
Situated on the island of Rameswaram, this temple holds immense significance as it is believed to be where Lord Rama worshipped Lord Shiva.
12. Grishneshwar Temple (Maharashtra):
The last of the twelve Jyotirlinga Temples, Grishneshwar Temple, is dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of a healer. It boasts intricate architectural details and spiritual serenity.