The Shree Somnath Jyotirlinga Temple, located in Prabhas Patan near Veraval, Gujarat, is the first among the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. This ancient temple holds immense spiritual and historical significance, having been destroyed and rebuilt 16 times due to invasions. The current structure, reconstructed in 1951, showcases Chalukya-style architecture with intricate carvings and a towering shikhara (spire).

You can read : Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple

According to legend, the temple marks the spot where Lord Shiva appeared as Somnath (Lord of the Moon) to bless the moon god Chandra. The temple faces the Arabian Sea, offering breathtaking views of the sunrise and sunset. The sound and light show in the evening narrates its glorious history.

Somnath is especially crowded during Maha Shivaratri, Kartik Purnima, and Shravan month (July-August). The temple's Aarti ceremony, performed with Vedic chants, creates a divine atmosphere.

How to Reach Somnath Temple

• By Air: Nearest airports – Diu (90 km, 2-hour drive) or Rajkot (200 km, 4-hour drive).

• By Train: Nearest railway station – Veraval (5 km, 10-minute drive).

• By Road:

  • From Ahmedabad: Regular buses and taxis (7-hour journey).

  • From Mumbai: Drive via NH48 (10-12 hours).

Rituals & Aarti Timings

• Mangal Aarti (Morning): 7:00 AM

• Shringar Darshan: 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM

• Sandhya Aarti (Evening): 7:00 PM

• Shayan Aarti (Night): 9:00 PM

Major Festivals:

• Maha Shivaratri (Feb-Mar) – Grand celebrations with night-long prayers.

• Shravan Month (Jul-Aug) – Special Rudrabhishek and fasting rituals.

Things to Do

1. Attend the Aarti ceremony for a divine experience.

2. Visit the Somnath Museum to explore ancient artifacts.

3. Walk along the Triveni Sangam (confluence of three rivers).

4. Enjoy the sound and light show in the evening.

5. Meditate at the temple’s serene seaside location.

Nearest Tourist Places

1. Triveni Sangam – Holy confluence of rivers (1 km).

2. Bhalka Tirth – Where Lord Krishna was struck by an arrow (5 km).

3. Diu – Portuguese-era beaches and forts (90 km).

4. Gir National Park – Asiatic lion sanctuary (100 km).

5. Junagadh – Historical sites like Uparkot Fort (85 km).

FAQs

Q1. What is the best time to visit Somnath?

• Winter (Oct-Feb) for pleasant weather, avoid monsoon (Jun-Sep) due to heavy rains.

Q2. Are there accommodation options near the temple?

• Yes, budget lodges, dharamshalas, and luxury hotels in Veraval and Somnath.

Q3. Is photography allowed inside the temple?

• No, photography is restricted in the sanctum.

Q4. Why is Somnath Jyotirlinga significant?

• It is the first Jyotirlinga and symbolizes resilience, having been rebuilt multiple times.

Q5. Can non-Hindus visit the temple?

• Yes, but only Hindus are allowed near the main deity.

🚩 Travel Tip: Don’t miss the sunset view from the temple’s seaside location! 🙏