Somnath Temple

The Somnath temple is a Hindu temple located in the town of Veraval in Gujarat, India. It is one of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines of Lord Shiva and is considered one of the most sacred places of worship in Hinduism. The temple has been destroyed and rebuilt several times in its history, with the current structure dating back to 1951. The temple is visited by thousands of pilgrims every year and is known for its intricate carvings and beautiful architecture.

Temple History

The Somnath temple has a rich history dating back to ancient times. According to Hindu legend, the temple was built by Lord Soma, the Moon God, in honor of Lord Shiva. The temple is believed to have been built in several different eras, with the earliest structure dating back to the 7th century AD.

Over the centuries, the temple has been destroyed and rebuilt several times. The temple was first destroyed by the Arab invader Muhammad of Ghazni in the 11th century, then by the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb in the 17th century.

In the early 20th century, the temple was rebuilt by the then President of India Dr. Rajendra Prasad, and other leaders in 1951.

Today, the temple is considered one of the most important pilgrimage sites in India and is visited by thousands of devotees every year. It is also a major tourist attraction for its intricate carvings and beautiful architecture. The temple is also a symbol of India’s rich cultural heritage and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The temple is also known as “the Shrine Eternal,” as it is believed to be the first among the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines of Lord Shiva.

Somnath Temple Facts

• The Somnath temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines of Lord Shiva and is considered one of the most sacred places of worship in Hinduism.
• The temple is located in the town of Veraval in Gujarat, India.
• The temple has been destroyed and rebuilt several times in its history, with the current structure dating back to 1951.
• According to Hindu legend, the temple was built by Lord Soma, the Moon God, in honor of Lord Shiva.
• The temple is believed to have been built in several different eras, with the earliest structure dating back to the 7th century AD.
• The temple has been destroyed by invaders several times in its history, including by the Arab invader Muhammad of Ghazni in the 11th century and the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb in the 17th century.
• The temple is visited by thousands of pilgrims every year, and is known for its intricate carvings and beautiful architecture.
• The temple is also a major tourist attraction and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• The temple complex also includes a museum and a research center that showcases the history of the temple and its various renovations.
• The temple is open for visitors from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM, and there are certain dress codes for the visitors to follow.
• The temple also has a “Somnath Trust” which manages the temple and the surrounding areas.

Note: The information provided may vary from time to time and please check the official website of the temple for any updates.

Major Attractions in Somnath Temple

The Somnath temple is known for its intricate carvings, beautiful architecture, and rich history. Some of the major attractions of the temple include:

1. The Main Temple: The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is considered one of the most sacred places of worship in Hinduism. The temple is known for its intricate carvings and beautiful architecture and is a major tourist attraction.
2. The Jyotirlinga: The temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines of Lord Shiva, and is considered one of the most sacred places of worship in Hinduism. The Jyotirlinga is a sacred linga that represents the cosmic pillar of light and is considered to be the manifestation of Lord Shiva.
3. The Museum and Research Center: The temple complex also includes a museum and a research center that showcases the history of the temple and its various renovations. The museum displays the artifacts and antiques recovered from the temple and the surrounding areas.
4. The Sound and Light Show: The temple complex also includes a sound and light show that showcases the history of the temple and its various renovations. The show is held every evening and is a popular attraction among visitors.
5. The Surrounding Area: The temple is located in the town of Veraval, which is known for its beautiful beaches and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can also explore the surrounding area and visit other nearby temples and historical sites.
6. The Aarti: The Aarti is a Hindu ritual of worship, in which light from wicks soaked in ghee (purified butter) or camphor is offered to one or more deities. Aarti is performed every day at the temple and is a popular attraction among visitors.
7. The Bhasma Aarti: The Bhasma Aarti is a special ceremony that is performed at the temple every evening. The ceremony involves the offering of holy ash to Lord Shiva and is a popular attraction among visitors.

Note: Some of these attractions may be closed or suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic, please check the official website of the temple for any updates.

Light and Sound show with timing

The light and sound show at the Somnath temple is a popular attraction among visitors. The show is held every evening and showcases the history of the temple and its various renovations. The show is conducted in Hindi and English and usually starts at 6:30 PM and ends at 7:30 PM. However, please note that the timings of the show may vary and it is best to check the official website of the temple or inquire at the temple’s information center for the latest timings.

It’s important to note that some of these shows may be closed or suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic, please check the official website of the temple for any updates.

How to reach Somnath Temple

The Somnath temple is located in the town of Veraval in Gujarat, India. There are several ways to reach the temple:

1. By Air: The nearest airport to the temple is the Diu Airport, which is about 70 kilometers away. From there, one can take a taxi or bus to reach the temple.
2. By Train: The nearest railway station to the temple is the Veraval Railway Station, which is just 2 kilometers away. From there, one can take a taxi or bus to reach the temple.
3. By Bus: There are regular bus services from major cities in Gujarat to Veraval, and the temple is well connected by road.
4. By Car: The temple is well connected by road and can be reached by car from major cities in Gujarat. Visitors can also hire a taxi or rent a car to reach the temple.
5. By Bike: For those who wish to travel on a bike, the temple is well connected by road and can be reached from major cities in Gujarat.

Please note that the mode of transportation may vary depending on the current COVID-19 pandemic situation and restrictions. It’s always best to check the official website of the temple or inquire at the temple’s information center for the latest information and availability.

Best Time To Visit Somnath Temple

The best time to visit the Somnath temple is between October and March when the weather is pleasant and comfortable for sightseeing. The temperature during these months ranges between 10-20 degrees Celsius, which makes it ideal for visiting the temple.

During the monsoon season, which is from June to September, the temple remains closed due to heavy rainfall and flooding. It’s also not advisable to visit the temple during this time as the surrounding area may not be accessible.

The temple also hosts a number of festivals and events throughout the year, such as Maha Shivratri, Navaratri, and Diwali, which are considered auspicious times to visit the temple. Visitors can also attend the evening aarti ceremony which is held every day at the temple.

Please note that the best time to visit the temple may vary depending on the current COVID-19 pandemic situation and restrictions. It’s always best to check the official website of the temple or inquire at the temple’s information center for the latest information and availability.